Plan Your Visit



Kenai Brown Bear

Kenai Brown Bear

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a picnic lunch into the Zoo? What about a portable grill?
Yes, you may bring in a picnic lunch. We have picnic tables outside that you may use. Grills are not allowed.
Are bikes, skateboards, or roller blades allowed in the zoo?
Bikes, skateboards, and roller blades are NOT allowed at the Minnesota Zoo. We do have bike racks in the parking lot that you may use.
Are pets allowed in the Zoo?
Only working dogs (guide dogs for the blind, service dogs for people with disabilities) or working dogs in training are permitted at the Zoo. Pets are not allowed.
Do you have any discounts?
  • We offer a military discount. Show your military identification and receive $2.00 off an adult admission and $1.00 off a child admission for you and your family.
  • Group rates are available for groups of 20 or more. Learn more.
  • We participate in the MELSA/Library Museum Adventure Pass. Learn more.
  • Community Action Councils throughout Minnesota have free tickets for economically disadvantaged Minnesota citizens. Please contact the council in your area.
  • Occasionally we offer special promotions or discounts. Check our website for current information.
  • We do not give a discount or refund due to inclement weather (e.g. rain, snow, or storms). We have plenty of indoor exhibits and most outdoor exhibits can be viewed by riding the Monorail.

Is picture taking allowed in all of the exhibits? Can I use the flash on my camera?
You are welcome to take photos and video of any of our exhibits for your personal use. Flash photography is ok. Read our photo tips. Commercial photography is allowed only with prior written permission from our Marketing department.
Do you have a lost and found department?
Please contact the Guest Services department if you have lost or found an item. There is also a lost and found at the Great Clips IMAX Theatre.
What about strollers or wheelchairs?
Strollers are permitted throughout the Zoo except in the indoor theater, the Weesner Family Ampitheater, and the Dolphin Stadium. All buildings and facilities are wheelchair accessible including the Monorail. Learn more about renting strollers and wheelchairs.
Is there a place to store my belongings or lockers?
There are lockers for personal use located just past the main entrance and at the base of the Tropics Trail ramp and are available on a first come, first served basis. Each locker costs 50 cents and will only accept quarters.
Can I leave and re-enter the Zoo?
Yes, please get your hand stamped at the Guest Services desk.
Do you have ATM’s?
There are five ATM’s on-site.
What is your smoking policy?
The Zoo is a smoke free facility. Smoking is not allowed on the Zoo grounds, except in the parking lots.
Are sleds or snowshoes allowed?
We do not allow sleds or snowshoes in the Zoo.
Do you have skiing at your Zoo?
We do not have skiing at the Zoo.
Can you help me with a school assignment? Can I interview a keeper or vet?
Due to the large volume of requests, the Minnesota Zoo is unable to help with school projects or offer job shadowing opportunities. If the zookeepers accommodated all inquiries the animals would be very hungry! Check out our animal pages to learn about some of the species at the Zoo. We also offer Career Days for more in-depth exploration of zoo careers, including opportunities to speak with a zookeeper in person.
Can I donate my pet to the zoo?
No, we do not allow pet donations.
What payment methods to you accept?
The Zoo accepts cash, credit card, and personal checks (with a valid driver’s license). Food service, gift store, and Great Clips IMAX Theatre do not accept checks.