Come in and discover our Natural Wonder. All it takes is a curiosity and willingness to explore. We are committed to serving ALL Minnesotans and ensuring that economic circumstances are not obstacles to experiencing everything that the Minnesota Zoo has to offer.
How does it work?
Free to Explore provides free daytime admission for a qualifying guest and their dependents. All Minnesota Zoo admission tickets must be reserved ahead of time for the selected date and time. After confirming eligibility, select the button below and complete the online reservation process. Parking and fees for any special programs, events, or exhibits are not included. EBT cards are not accepted as payment for parking or fees at the Minnesota Zoo. If you need assistance completing a reservation, please email [email protected] or call 952.431.9200.
Groups up to 25 that qualify for Free to Explore can reserve tickets online using the website link below. For Free to Explore groups larger than 25 or questions on about Free to Explore groups please email [email protected] or call 952-431-9585 or 952-431-9200.
Do you qualify for FREE Minnesota Zoo admission?
To qualify for Free to Explore, you must be enrolled in one of the programs listed below and be able to show the approved documentation along with photo identification and proof of Minnesota residency. All adults will need to show proof that they live at the same address as the benefit recipient by showing a photo ID with the same address. Anyone unable to provide required documentation will not be allowed free entry.
| Program | Approved Documentation |
| TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) | MN EBT Card |
| MFIP (Minnesota Family Investment Program) | MN EBT Card |
| SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) | MN EBT Card |
| MFAP (Minnesota Food Assistance Program) | MN EBT Card |
| General Assistance | MN EBT Card |
| MN Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare | MN MHCP Card |
| MN WIC (Women, Infants & Children Program) | MN eWIC Card |
| MN HeadStart | MN HeadStart Acceptance Letter |
Free to Explore admission cannot be used with other discounts, special offers, or group programs and is valid only during regular daytime Zoo hours. Proof of Minnesota residency and current enrollment in qualifying programs is required. Without verification the Minnesota Zoo reserves the right to decline free admission. Free to Explore is valid only for qualified individuals and their immediate family who live at the same address and while visiting the Zoo with the qualified individual. This program and its benefits are not transferable, redeemable for cash, or exchangeable for any other products or service. The Minnesota Zoo may change, modify, or eliminate the Free to Explore program without notice.