Minnesota Zoo Plan a Visit

Public Transportation: The Minnesota Zoo is serviced by the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) 440 bus line. With the launch of the new Red Line bus service, routes to the Zoo have changed. You can connect the Red Line at the Mall of America to the Cedar Grove Transit Station and take a connecting bus (Route 440) to the Zoo. This service is offered seven days a week, on the hour. Please contact the MVTA for bus routes and time at (952) 882-7500, or visit mvta.com and use the Trip Planner.

Do I need to purchase my ticket in advance?

In order to ensure the best Zoo experience and limit waits on entry, we are implementing timed ticketing. All tickets must be reserved ahead of time online.

I’m a member, do I need to get tickets in advance?

Membership includes the cost of admission to the Minnesota Zoo. However, to help create an enjoyable experience and allow ample room to explore, tickets must be reserved ahead of time online for a specified date and time for each person in your party, and adult cardholders must show their membership card and photo identification when they check in. If members are unable to attend their reserved entry time, please notify the Zoo at 952-431-9200.

Can I buy tickets for a group?

For schools/youth field trip registration and pricing, please visit our Plan A Field Trip Page.

For all other groups, please visit our Groups Page.

Are face coverings required?

As of February 25, per guidance from the State of Minnesota, face coverings are optional. We encourage everyone to continue taking precautions for personal comfort and safety.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive within a half hour of the time printed on your admission ticket. Timed entry helps prevent crowding and ensures enough space for all guests to enjoy their visit.

How will I know where to go?

Signs, as well as occasional staff and volunteers, will guide you along the trails throughout the Zoo. You can also print a map of the trails here.

Are the playgrounds, splash pad, and carousel open?

Hanifl Family Wild Woods, Woodland Adventure, the splash pad and the carousel are closed for the season.

Are restaurants open?

Yes. Call of the Wild Food Court is open. Tasty treats at the Trek Kitchen include mac & cheese topped with crispy chicken or pulled pork. Sweet tooths will love Scoop’d, serving Sebastian Joe’s ice cream and Icees. Call of the Wild is open daily, 10 am - 3 pm. Plus, Penguin Café welcomes you with an updated menu and look.

Are stroller and scooters (ECVs- Electric Conveyance Vehicles) still available to rent?

Strollers are available to rent of a first come, first serve basis. Single strollers are $8.00 and Double strollers are $11.00.

ECV’s are $30 for the day. Manual wheelchairs are free on a first come, first served basis. We hold a photo identification for both ECV’s and manual wheelchairs.

What if the weather isn’t great?

The Minnesota Zoo is open rain or shine. However, in the event that the Zoo determines a severe weather evacuation is necessary, we will work with you to reschedule your tickets for an alternative date.

Can I apply my admission ticket towards a Membership?

Yes, you may apply your daily tickets to a membership the same day as your visit. Please call 952.431.9200 for assistance.

Will I be able to feed or pet any of the animals?

To ensure safety for all, feeding and touching of animals is currently limited. The Discovery Bay tide pool and estuary is now open on a limited basis and with additional safety measures in place.

Can I use discounted tickets, coupons, and other special ticket offers for admission?

All discounts, coupons, and other special offers will be applied on a case-by-case basis based on various criteria that meet strategic goals. If you are uncertain about any tickets, coupons, discounts, or other special offers, please contact us at 952.431.9200. For questions regarding the AZA reciprocal admission program, please click here.

Can I exchange or transfer my ticket for a different date or time?

Please plan to arrive at your purchased date and time. If you need to exchange your date and time please call 952-431-9200.

Can I still visit the Zoo if I qualify for the Free to Explore program?

Yes, the program will cover your visit. Advanced reservations by phone are required and a parking fee will be charged at the time of your reservation. Click here for more information.

I have a Good Any Day Ticket. How can I use it?

Click here to complete an online form to reserve your date and time slot using your Good Any Day ticket(s). Must be completed 3 days in advance of your planned visit. Call 952.431.9200 if you have any questions about your visit or reservation.

Exclusive Early Access for Members

Zoo members can get tickets for either 9am or 9:30am any day of the week and wake up with the Zoo. During this special hour, animals will begin getting ready for their day by moving from their behind-the-scenes habitat into their public ones. Some animals are more active in the morning than others, so you may not see everyone- but this hour is a perfect opportunity for you to enjoy a quiet escape into the natural beauty and wonder of the Zoo. Tickets required.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you can bring your own food and lockers are available for rent. The Zoo is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Please be mindful of allergy prone foods such as nuts when eating in public spaces.