Your Next Family Adventure Starts Here: Snake Discovery Reptile Experience
Address: 831 Century Ave N, Maplewood, MN 55119
About the Snake Discovery: A Reptile Experience
Looking for a wild adventure the whole family will love? Snake Discovery: A Reptile Experience in Maplewood is a must-visit for Minnesota parents with curious kids. This hands-on educational zoo is packed with over 75 exhibits featuring snakes, lizards, turtles, amphibians, and even invertebrates, offering an up-close look at some of nature’s most fascinating creatures.
Guided Tours & Animal Encounters
The moment you step inside, the interactive fun begins. Kids can crawl through the alligator tunnel, shine flashlights into the Invert Cave to spot hidden critters, and even hold a snake! Every 20-30 minutes, staff bring out an animal for visitors to touch or hold, using special reptile-holding tickets included with admission. Options might include snakes, geckos, or other friendly creatures, making each visit a unique experience.
One of the biggest highlights? The guided tours! Led by knowledgeable zookeepers, these engaging tours (included with admission) offer numerous opportunities to interact with reptiles while learning fascinating facts about them. Kids might even get their hands licked by a tegu! Tours are offered:
- Sundays through Fridays at 12, 2, and 5 pm.
- Saturdays at 12, 2, 4, and 6 pm.
It’s easy to plan your visit around them!
No trip to Snake Discovery is complete without meeting their most famous resident, Rex, the alligator. Her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Taken illegally from the wild and kept in a small cage for years, she never reached her full size. Now, thanks to Snake Discovery, she has a spacious enclosure with a pool and plenty of enrichment. Kids love popping into her space through the observation tunnel for a closer look!
Additional Experiences & Opportunities
Beyond the exhibits, families can test their reptile knowledge with scavenger hunts designed for different age groups, complete with prizes at the end. Puzzles, sensory boxes, and plenty of fun facts are posted throughout the zoo to keep kids engaged. Keep an eye out for Sharon, the friendly resident turtle, who often roams the zoo during visits.
If your kids love the popular Snake Discovery YouTube channel, they might even get the chance to meet Emily and Ed in person! They’re often available on Saturdays and Sundays from 1–4 pm, but schedules may change, so check the Snake Discovery Facebook page for updates.
No reservations are needed—show up, explore, and learn! Whether your little adventurer wants to hold a snake, learn about conservation, or marvel at these incredible creatures, Snake Discovery offers a fun and educational outing that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
For an extra-special experience, consider booking a birthday party at Snake Discovery. The private classroom features an educational program and includes full zoo admission for the entire group, making it a memorable way to celebrate.
Experience Highlights
- Open daily
- Guided tours are available with admission.
- 75+ exhibits featuring a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates
- Animal interaction experiences are regularly offered throughout the day.
- Three reptile programs to choose from during the visit: Leapin’ Lizards, Reptiles Around the World, and Snake, Rattle, and Roll
- Private events (like birthday parties) are available.
Know Before You Go
- Website
- Hours: Open daily, 11 am – 8 pm & 6 pm on Sundays)
- Admission: Adults: $10, Kids (3 – 12) & Seniors (65+): $8 8 Kids 2 & under: Free
- Parking is available on-site in a dedicated parking lot.
- Upcoming Events & Programs
- Birthday Parties
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.
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