Ready to embark on a wildlife adventure? Then head to the Red River Zoo located in the heart of Fargo!
The Red River Zoo has welcomed guests since 1999 and has continued to grow over the years. Home to over 89 species, an antique carousel, and interactive children’s exhibits — there is plenty to explore during your visit.
Red River Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which means the animals are receiving the highest standard of care. Red River Zoo is also a leader in conservation education, meaning a visit is a great learning experience for the family.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seasoned zoo-goer, here are five tips for your next visit to Red River Zoo!
5 Tips for Visiting the Red River Zoo
1. Schedule Extra Time for Playground Fun
The Red River Zoo is home to several play areas, which are perfect for letting little ones run wild.
Outside the Carousel Pavilion, you’ll find a traditional playground with a pebble base ideal for digging, building, and sensory play. There are also plenty of slides, monkey bars, and a large play structure with a bridge for imaginative play.
Nature’s Legendary Playground is another interactive outdoor space where kids can play in the sand and climb on wooden structures. We particularly love this space due to its unique design — it feels like you’re playing in the middle of a forest!
And finally, the Children’s Zoo Farm houses an Interpretive Center where kids can learn about agriculture. Here, kids can scale the climbing wall to learn about soil health and play farmer behind the wheel of a real combine.
2. Refuel With a Picnic in the Park
Several areas in the Zoo make perfect picnic spots with comfortable seating, tables, and beautiful scenery. We particularly enjoy the quiet atmosphere in the Asian Gardens, where we can take in the beautiful flora and peaceful waterfall.
Outside food is not allowed at the zoo, but there are plenty of spots to pick up concessions. The Wild Things Gift Shop has several packaged snacks and drinks to kick off your Zoo exploration, while the Carousel Pavilion is the place to go for popcorn, cotton candy, and Dippin’ Dots ice cream.
The Dancing Crane Café is open daily during the summer months. Here, you’ll find hotdogs, taco in a bag, sloppy joes, Dippin’ Dots, Icees, popcorn, and more! There are also several picnic tables conveniently located next to the café to relax and refuel.
3. Treat Your Kiddos to a Spin on the Carousel
While visiting the Red River Zoo, a ride on the Diederich Family Carousel is a must! The 1928 Allan Herschell carousel was used in traveling carnivals during its heyday. It was fully restored by Warren Diederich as a gift to the community and donated to the Zoo in 1998.
Carousel rides are $3 and are suitable for all ages. Bench seats are available for those seeking a more relaxing spin.
In the summer months, the Carousel is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. In the winter months, the Carousel is open on weekends only.
4. Don’t Miss Year-Round Events at the Zoo
One of my favorite things about the Red River Zoo is that it’s open all year long. The Zoo’s focus is on cold-climate species, which can be observed in their habitats across the seasons!
The Zoo’s year-round operating hours mean there are a ton of fantastic events to attend in any season. The summer months kick off with the Safety Safari and School’s Out Celebration. Parents can also take advantage of free admission during the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day events at the Zoo.
In the fall, guests can trick-or-treat around the Zoo at the popular Boo at the Zoo event. Wintertime guests are treated to the snowy atmosphere at the Zoo while visiting Santa during Santa’s Snowfari. And when spring rolls around, guests can celebrate Earth Day at the Zoo during Party for the Planet!
5. Consider Becoming a Red River Zoo Member
The Red River Zoo offers several membership options with great benefits. First and foremost, Zoo members get free admission to Red River Zoo for a year, including special events.
For my family of five, the cost of membership is less than two visits in a year. So, membership is a no-brainer for us!
Other benefits include early admission at 9:00 a.m., 10% discount at the gift shop and concessions, and discounts on education programs.
Membership also includes free or reduced admission to over 150 zoos and aquariums across the country through their reciprocity program! We frequently take advantage of this perk at the Dakota Zoo and Minnesota Zoo.
A day at Red River Zoo is more than a fun outing, it’s a chance to connect with nature and encourage a lifelong commitment to conservation. I hope these tips help you make the most of your next visit to Red River Zoo and inspire a family tradition for years to come!
Looking for more zoos to explore in our region? Read Zoos Near Fargo That Are Worth the Drive for inspiration!
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