11 Bucket List Family Safari Adventures, Zoos, and Animal Encounters in Minnesota
We found the Best Zoos around Minnesota if you are looking for unforgettable family adventures!
Take your kids to one of Minnesota’s best zoos, safari parks, or animal encounters! From thrilling safari zoos across the state to up-close animal encounters near the Twin Cities, Minnesota offers a variety of experiences that will delight both kids and adults alike. Whether exploring the wild wonders of a local zoo, embarking on a safari-style adventure, or discovering unique animal encounters, this guide has something for every animal lover. These bucket-list activities aren’t just fun—they’re educational, too. Your family can also learn about wildlife and conservation in exciting, hands-on ways at each destination.
Get ready to explore and make memories with these 11 must-do family safari adventures, zoos, and animal encounters in Minnesota!
Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley
Plan your next family outing to the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley, where over 5,000 animals and 500 species await you. As the largest and one of the best zoos in Minnesota, it offers nine distinct walking trails and indoor exhibits across its sprawling 485-acre campus. Dedicated to conservation, the Minnesota Zoo is also actively working to protect local wildlife, including prairie butterflies, bison, and freshwater turtles. The Minnesota Zoo is open year-round.
Every step is an adventure, from the locally-inspired Northern Trail, featuring bison and moose, to the lush Tropics Trail, home to playful lemurs and red pandas. Then, don’t miss Russia’s Grizzly Coast, where you can meet the zoo’s resident brown bears. In addition to exploring the exhibits, families can also opt into camel rides, spinning around the carousel, and embarking on a llama walk and feeding.
With endless options to learn about animals across the planet, the Minnesota Zoo is a fantastic option for families searching for the best zoos near Minneapolis.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Saint Paul
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in Saint Paul is a must-visit for families. As the oldest zoo in Minnesota, it offers a mix of local history and adventure for all ages. Explore outdoor exhibits featuring zebras, polar bears, and giraffes. Afterward, head inside to discover tropical frogs, a sloth, and beautiful indoor gardens. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is also open year-round.
The zoo’s beautiful grounds also include the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, where you can immerse yourself in stunning botanical displays. For added fun, visit the nearby Como Town amusement park or take a spin on the historic Cafesjian’s Carousel.
Como Zoo is free, making it an affordable option for families seeking the best zoos in Minnesota!
Hemker Park and Zoo, Freeport
Located in Freeport, Hemker Park & Zoo offers a delightful escape for families seeking adventure and close encounters with wildlife. Its location near Saint Cloud makes it one of the best zoos within 2 hours of the Twin Cities. Founded in 1977 by Mark and Joan Hemker, this family-owned zoo is home to over 200 animals from 50 species worldwide.
Open from May through October, Hemker Park & Zoo combines family-friendly fun with a mission of conservation, making it an ideal spot for a memorable family day out.
In addition to walking the zoo paths, kids will love the additional interactive experiences, where they can feed giraffes, otters, or even a rhino. They can get up close with creatures like Cookie the boa constrictor and Ruby the penguin.
The spacious park is perfect for a picnic, making it a full day of fun at one of the best zoos in Minnesota.
Safari North Wildlife Park, Brainerd
Discover a world of wildlife at Safari North Wildlife Park in Brainerd, where you and your family can embark on an unforgettable adventure together. Founded in 2014, this private zoo and conservation center features animals from around the globe, including giraffes, tigers, zebras, and lemurs.
With over 50 years of combined experience in exotic animal care, the Safari North Wildlife Park team has created a sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education. Guests can feed giraffes, ride camels, and even mine for gemstones!
Named the best summer family fun spot in the Brainerd Lakes Area, Safari North Wildlife Park offers experiences that are not only fun but also foster a deeper respect for wildlife, making it one of the best zoos and safari parks in Minnesota.
Sustainable Safari, Maplewood
Sustainable Safari in Maplewood Mall offers Minnesota’s most interactive wildlife experience, perfect for families looking to get up close with animals. Located on the mall’s second floor, this family-owned attraction features over 100 species, including capybaras, kangaroos, armadillos, and African crested porcupines.
Your admission ticket allows you to view, feed, and pet many of the animals, with optional extras like holding or entering exhibits under the guidance of a Safari Guide. With affordable all-day admission and free educational wildlife shows, Sustainable Safari provides a unique and accessible adventure for all ages (some age limits do apply to various experiences).
For a more profound experience, consider the additional 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour for exclusive animal interactions.
Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo, Byron
Offering plenty of outdoor adventure and wildlife discovery, Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo in Byron is nestled in a scenic valley along the South Fork Zumbro River. The zoo is located northwest of Rochester, just 90 minutes from Minneapolis. This 634-acre park is a haven for animal lovers. Zollman Zoo focuses on Minnesota’s native wildlife. The zoo has over 30 species, including eagles, foxes, and bison. Many of the animals here are unfit for release into the wild.
Visitors can explore miles of trails, enjoy the seasonal beauty of wildflowers, and even camp under the stars with the sounds of the river as a lullaby. With free admission, picnic shelters, and educational programs, Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo is an ideal spot for families to connect with nature and learn about local wildlife.
With so many unique opportunities, it’s unsurprising that this is one of the best zoos within 2 hours of the Twin Cities!
International Wolf Center, Ely
For a truly wild family adventure, visit the International Wolf Center in Ely, Minnesota, where you can get up close with a local wolf population. Home to a five-member ambassador pack—Grayson, Rieka, Blackstone, and Caz—the center offers an interactive “Discover Wolves!” exhibit that delves into these majestic creatures’ fascinating history and behavior.
Kids will love the hands-on displays and watching the wolves through observation windows. Take advantage of the daily programs, where knowledgeable staff share insights about wolf pack life, hunting techniques, and communication. For a deeper experience, join a field trip into the Superior National Forest to track wolves and learn research techniques.
The International Wolf Center is a must-visit for any family trip to Ely, offering education, excitement, and unforgettable animal encounters with one of Minnesota’s most iconic animals.
Sibley Farm and Park, Mankato
Smaller than other destinations on this list, Sibley Farm is one of the best zoos in Minnesota for those seeking a quieter experience focused on farm life. Located in Sibley Park in Mankato, Sibley Farm offers families a delightful array of farm fun and outdoor adventures. Established in 1893, this historic park features a charming petting zoo where kids can meet alpacas, goats, peacocks, and other friendly animals. Wander through red barn-style buildings, feed the animals, and enjoy the koi fish pond.
The park also boasts beautiful walking trails along the Minnesota and Blue Earth Rivers, stunning flower and stone gardens, and a playground recognized as one of the coolest in the state.
With activities year-round and a rich history, Sibley Farm and Park is a fantastic spot for family fun in Mankato (not to mention an excellent place for a day trip from the Twin Cities!).
North American Bear Center, Ely
For a unique and educational family outing, visit the North American Bear Center in Ely. This one-of-a-kind facility offers an immersive look into the lives of black bears, with three resident bears—Holly, Lucky, and Tasha—living in a spacious, natural habitat. The center, open from late April through October, provides indoor and outdoor viewing areas where you can observe these majestic animals up close.
During your visit, learn about the groundbreaking research and enjoy daily programs, including bear documentaries and interactive exhibits. The “Cub Room” is perfect for kids to play and learn about bears, while the interpretive nature trails and birding opportunities offer additional fun.
With a large gift shop and accessible facilities, the North American Bear Center is a must-visit destination that combines education with excitement for the whole family. No wonder it’s one of the best animal encounters near the Twin Cities (less than 4 hours)!
FAWN-DOE-ROSA Wildlife Educational Park, St. Croix Falls, WI
FAWN-DOE-ROSA Wildlife Educational Park in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, is a beloved summer destination for families seeking a fun, educational experience with nature. Just an hour from the Twin Cities, this family-owned park is undoubtedly one of the best safari parks within a quick drive of Minnesota.
Open from May to September, FAWN-DOE-ROSA offers a peaceful, immersive environment where kids can pet and feed deer, meet farm animals, and explore trails that wind through a wooded sanctuary. With various animals like elk, foxes, and badgers, the park encourages a slow-paced visit, perfect for soaking in the natural surroundings.
Remember to visit the gift shop and enjoy a picnic in the park. With free admission for children under 2 and affordable animal feeding opportunities, Fawn-Doe-Rosa is a must-visit for family fun near the Twin Cities.
Safari Country, Baldwin, WI
Just a short drive from the Twin Cities (less than 90 minutes), Safari Country in Baldwin, Wisconsin, offers an exciting wildlife adventure for the whole family. This seasonal park, open from June to Labor Day, lets you explore exotic animals from the comfort of your car, making it one of the best safari parks and animal encounters near Minneapolis.
Get up close with Brahma cows, Nilgai antelope, ostriches, and more as they roam freely in their natural habitat. Safari Country combines fun with education, providing fascinating facts about each animal and spontaneous educational events throughout your drive.
Perfect for a day trip from the Twin Cities, Safari Country promises memorable encounters and plenty of laughter for kids and adults alike. Buckle up and embark on a fun family safari adventure that will delight and educate all ages!
Have a Wild Time with Your Kids Exploring These Safaris + Animal Encounters in Minnesota!
We hope this list featuring the best zoos in Minnesota, including the top animal encounters near the Twin Cities, is helpful in planning a magical adventure for you and your family.
Whether you’re exploring the lush trails of Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo, meeting the friendly residents of Hemker Zoo, or embarking on a safari adventure at Safari Country, Minnesota, and neighboring Wisconsin, offer a wealth of family-friendly wildlife experiences.
Each destination provides a unique opportunity to observe animals, learn about conservation, and create unforgettable memories. Pack up the kids, grab your camera, and set out to discover the state’s best wildlife adventures!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
