Discover the Wonders of Blank Park Zoo
Explore Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa - a family-friendly destination with diverse wildlife, interactive exhibits, and beautiful gardens.
Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a captivating experience for families and animal lovers. With a diverse collection of wildlife and interactive exhibits, it’s a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and education.
A brief summary to Blank Park Zoo
- 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, Iowa, 50315, US
- +1515-285-4722
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and make the most of your experience.
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings and keeper talks to enhance your visit.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas for a relaxing break.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking through the expansive zoo.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible moments with the animals.
Getting There
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Public Transit
Start at any location in Ankeny and head to the nearest bus stop. You will want to take the DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus route that goes south towards Des Moines. Check the DART schedule for the specific bus number and timing. Once you board the bus, ride until you reach the 'SW 9th St & Bell Ave' stop. From there, walk south on SW 9th Street for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach Blank Park Zoo, located at 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, locate a bike path that leads south towards Des Moines. Follow the bike paths until you reach SW 9th Street. Continue biking south on SW 9th Street for about 3 miles. Blank Park Zoo will be on your left at 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315. Make sure to use appropriate biking lanes and follow traffic rules.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, start from your location in Ankeny and head south towards Des Moines. Use a map application to navigate to SW 9th Street. Once you reach SW 9th Street, walk south for approximately 3 miles. Blank Park Zoo will be on your left at 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315. Ensure to wear comfortable walking shoes, and take breaks if necessary.
Discover more about Blank Park Zoo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Polk County Historic Courthouse
7.1 km
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Court District
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Herndon Hall
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Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden
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Temple Theater
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The Des Moines Building
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Saint Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
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Witmer House
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Japanese Bell of Peace & Friendship
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Mahnke House
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Senator William B. Allison Memorial
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Center Street Neighborhood Historical Marker
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S-36 Submarine Memorial
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Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Des Moines Museum & Education Center
0.9 km
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Fort Des Moines Park
1.2 km
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South Des Moines Sculpture Park
2.2 km
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Ashley Okland Star Playground
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Gray's Lake Park
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Rose the mannequin
6.2 km
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Des Moines Water Works Park
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Dragoon Trail
6.6 km
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Fort Des Moines II - Birthplace of Des Moines Memorial Cabin
6.8 km
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Science Center of Iowa
6.9 km
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Brown's Woods
7.0 km
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Giant Garden Trowel
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Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market
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Pappajohn Sculpture Park
7.2 km
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Terrace Hill Historic Site
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Essential places to dine
Johnny's Italian Steakhouse
1.8 km
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Skip's
3.5 km
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Angry Goldfish Pub & Eatery
5.0 km
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Tumea & Sons Restaurant
6.2 km
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Mullets Restaurant
6.4 km
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Hessen Haus
7.0 km
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Malo
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Bubba
7.0 km
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The Walnut
7.0 km
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Proudfoot & Bird
7.1 km
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Django
7.1 km
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Americana
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Mulberry Street Tavern
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The Stuffed Olive Des Moines
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RoCA
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blank Park Zoo Gift Shop
0.2 km
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Southridge Mall
1.8 km
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Mystic Moon Gifts & Beauty
5.6 km
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Vzz Vintage
6.6 km
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Funky Finds Vintage & Retro
7.2 km
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Shop33
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The Plaza Shoppe
7.6 km
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Goldeneye Curations
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MARNe
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Janes - Family Shop
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May Eleven
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She Home & Gift
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Aimee
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
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KIN
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
300 Craft & Rooftop
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El Bait Shop
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The High Life Lounge
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Revival House
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
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The Copper Cup
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Tonic Court Ave.
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the LiFT
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Hello, Marjorie
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Juniper Moon
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
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Black Sheep
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The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
7.5 km
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Carl's Place
7.6 km
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