If you’re on the hunt for a weekend trip that blends fun, learning, and plenty of fresh air, the Minnesota Zoo is such a win.
The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley, MN offers engaging adventures and irresistible charm, perfect for a weekend outing.
Our family recently attended a day at the zoo, and we left with memories we’ll talk about for years. Here’s what stood out most for us:
The Minnesota Zoo
Treetop Trail
We started with the Treetop Trail, a 1.25-mile elevated path that winds 32 feet above the ground. My kids felt like explorers walking through the treetops, pointing out birds and pretending they were in a jungle.
It’s fully stroller-friendly, so even with littler ones, it’s a stress-free adventure. This was my personal favorite, as it offers a way to see the zoo from above.
Conservation Carousel
The Conservation Carousel was an instant favorite. With 56 animals to choose from, each child had their pick. My kids loved riding on this classic ride. The ride costs $4 per ride for guests 42 inches and taller.
Llama Trek
The Llama Trek was another fun highlight. The kids enjoyed the trail as the llamas strolled right by us. You truly feel as though you are in a desert landscape, as you wander through.
We didn’t splurge on feeding them this time, but honestly, being that close was enough to have my two talking about llamas all afternoon.
Wild Woods Play Area & Dino Hideout
The Wild Woods Play Area & Dino Hideout was another must stop attraction at the Minnesota Zoo.
If your kids need to burn off energy, this play area is a must. Mine ran, climbed, and laughed their way through the playground while being “watched” by life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that moved and roared. It felt like part playground, part Jurassic Park adventure.
Inside, Discovery Bay was pure magic. The tide pools let the kids touch sea stars and they were mesmerized watching rays glide by. We spent about 30 minutes exploring here but could have stayed longer. Be sure to take time touching the fish through the attraction’s interactive estuary and tide pool.
Next, we ventured into the rain forest on the Tropics Trail and right away the green foliage and vibrant environment surrounded us along the winding path. My kids were captivated by the playful lemurs and curious gibbons at every turn, stopping many times to take it all in.
We stopped to watch the Amur tigers along the Northern Trail. We loved watching them interact with each other and explore their habitat. Other animals along the Northern Trail include, the Asian wild horse, red panda, moose, pronghorn, takin, and many more.
Medtronic Minnesota Trail
We also explored the Medtronic Minnesota Trail and loved seeing raccoons, coyotes, and gray wolves, along with long beavers, otters, pumas, and lynx. Also, the kids especially enjoyed the “trailhead” lodge with turtles and frogs, which felt warm and inviting.
Walking along the trail, we got to experience a variety of Minnesota landscapes, from a beaver pond to a northern forest glade and even a treetop bird-watching perch!
Other must-see attractions, that we didn’t have time for include:
- The Hanifl Nature Center to explore stunning wildlife photography.
- Animal Encounters and shows, which includes daily programming for some temporary exhibits, such as the Sea Lion Discovery, World of Birds, Wings & Things, and spontaneous keeper chats.
- The Wells Fargo Family Farm is also open daily. Showing a variety of farm animals, visiting the family farm is sure to keep your little ones engaged! For more information on exhibits visit mnzoo.org
By the end of the day, my children were happily exhausted, still talking about the day’s adventures.
For me, it was the perfect balance of fun, learning, and those sweet family moments that make you want to do it all again.
If you’re planning a family day of adventure the Minnesota Zoo checks all the boxes: kid-friendly, stroller-accessible, and packed with enough variety to keep everyone entertained.
Tips for Moms Visiting the Minnesota Zoo
- Go early: Arrive right when the zoo opens, animals are most active in the morning, and you’ll beat the crowds.
- Pack snacks & water: While there are food options onsite, bringing your own saves time and money (plus, you know what your picky eaters will actually eat).
- Bring a stroller or wagon: Even if your kids are “big” like mine, the zoo is huge, and little legs tire out fast.
- Check the schedule: Look up showtimes for sea lions, bird shows, or keeper chats ahead of time, so you don’t miss them. Be sure to snag tickets early, as they can go quick!
- Dress in layers: Minnesota weather changes quickly, so having jackets or sweatshirts keeps everyone comfortable as you move from indoors to outdoors.
Admission
- General Admission: Children (ages 3–12) are $19.95, adults (13–64) are $25.95, and seniors (65+) are $23.95. Those under 2 enter for free.
- Parking: $10 per car
- Show Tickets: Purchase timed, online tickets in advance at the Minnesota Zoo website.
To learn more about other zoos in our region, see Zoos Near Fargo That Are Worth the Drive.
