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Minnesota Zoo

13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley, MN 55124 · Apple Valley, MN

Why you should go…

Set on 485 rolling acres south of the cities, the Minnesota Zoo feels more like a wildlife preserve than a zoo, tigers, moose, bears and a beloved Minnesota Trail of native critters. Don't miss the Treetop Trail, a 1.25-mile elevated walkway (the longest of its kind in the world) built on the old monorail track. Indoor tropics and aquarium exhibits make it a legit winter outing too.

  • #zoo
  • #animals
  • #treetop trail
  • #family
  • #wildlife

Good to know

General attractions guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Book the time slot, not just the ticket

    Timed entry is now the norm at big-draw attractions, and online tickets are often cheaper than the gate.

  • Grab the daily schedule on arrival

    Feeding times, keeper talks, and shows run on a posted timetable that changes day to day.

  • The first hour is the quietest

    Queues build through late morning and peak after lunch, so an early start buys you the shortest waits.

  • Budget past the ticket price

    Parking, lockers, strollers, and food inside the gates are common extras worth planning for.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Minnesota Zoo, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Eagan

    Free

    A Twin Cities suburb near Mall of America, home to the Minnesota Vikings' headquarters.

    4.7 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Shopping
    Iconic

    Mall of America

    Free

    America's biggest mall: 500+ stores plus an indoor Nickelodeon theme park, aquarium and mini golf, all under one roof.

    7.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Attractions
    Historic

    Historic Fort Snelling

    Under $25

    Restored 1820s stone fort at the Mississippi–Minnesota confluence, where costumed interpreters unpack centuries of layered history.

    9.5 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Minnehaha Regional Park

    Free

    A 53-foot waterfall tumbling through a leafy city park, Minneapolis's most photographed natural wonder.

    11 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Attractions
    Family favorite

    Valleyfair

    $25–$50

    Minnesota's big amusement park since 1976, 40+ rides, eight coasters, and the included Superior Shores Waterpark on the Minnesota River.

    13 mi awayMore like this

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

    Free

    St. Paul's beloved free zoo and glass-domed Victorian conservatory, gorillas, orchids and polar bears, no ticket needed.

    16 mi awayMore like this