Blank Park Zoo, Central Iowa Travel Guide

4.5 (5890)

Explore Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa - a family-friendly destination with diverse wildlife, interactive exhibits, and beautiful gardens.

Home
Travel Guides
Iowa
Central Iowa
Blank Park Zoo

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
Click to display
Click to display

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Blank Park Zoo.

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.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Pikes Peak State Park

Circle of Ash Haunted Attraction

Iowa's Largest Frying Pan

Amana Colonies

Johnson County Freedom Rock

Explore Blank Park Zoo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Blank Park Zoo, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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

Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Blank Park Zoo is a delightful tourist attraction that invites visitors to explore the wonders of wildlife in a beautifully landscaped environment. Spanning over 49 acres, the zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the globe, including endangered species, exotic birds, and playful primates. Families flock to this engaging destination for its interactive exhibits that allow guests to connect with wildlife in unique and educational ways. Children can enjoy the petting zoo area, where they can get up close and personal with friendly farm animals, while older children and adults will appreciate the informative talks and presentations held throughout the day.In addition to the impressive array of animal exhibits, Blank Park Zoo features a variety of lush gardens and pathways, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The well-maintained grounds are designed to enhance the visitor experience, making it a picturesque setting for family outings or romantic walks. Several picnic areas are available for those who wish to enjoy a meal amid the serene surroundings. With facilities that cater to all ages, including a gift shop and dining options, the zoo ensures that everyone leaves with unforgettable memories.The zoo operates daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, making it an accessible destination for a day of fun and education. As a highlight of Des Moines, Blank Park Zoo is not just a place to see animals, but a sanctuary dedicated to wildlife conservation and education. Visitors will leave not only entertained but also inspired to learn more about the natural world and the importance of protecting it.