Noted as the perfect pit-stop for families headed “Up North”, Safari North Wildlife Park in Brainerd continues to expand its offerings to maintain its reputation as an award-winning hangout for family fun in Minnesota. More than 150 Species Plus Expedition Safari, a Train Ride through 10 Acres, Amusement Rides and NEW This Year: Baby Animal Weekend!
The 43-acre property at Safari North Wildlife Park features more than 150 species from six continents. Included in the experience is Expedition Safari, which includes a locomotive train ride offering an up-close look at species-specific to the African Safari. Featured animals include lions, hyenas, monkeys, zebras, wildebeest, ostrich, Eland, buffalo, and more! Safari North is also one of few zoos in the Midwest with cheetahs (2 males and 1 female). Cheetahs are the fastest land animal in the world reaching speeds of up to 70 mph. Also NEW as of last year is the Amusement Ride area which features rides for all ages as well as fresh squeezed lemonade, mini doughnuts and funnel cakes.
Founded in 2014, Safari North Wildlife Park is the creation of Kevin Vogel and his wife Kelly. Together the two have more than 50 years of combined experience in the field of exotic animals. Prior to opening the park, the couple spent 20 years traveling the Midwest with their petting zoos, camel rides, pony rides, pig races, and wildlife educational shows. The couples’ love for animals and commitment to providing an excellent experience is getting noticed. Safari North Wildlife Park has been named #1 for Best Summer Family Fun in the Brainerd Lakes Area by the Brainerd Dispatch for 2018, 2019 and 2021. Also named #1 Spot for Relaxation in 2019.
The entire team at Safari North Wildlife Park is dedicated to promoting life-long learning, conservation and preservation through safe, affordable, and memorable experiences with animals of all types. The park specializes in up close and personal moments with the animals as well as important information about every animal including its history, care and the conservation needed to keep it thriving.
“Our dedication to our animals is second to none and we are very proud of the care they receive,” says Kevin Vogel, Owner. “We see families come back year after year because of the experience we provide them and the animals. We love spreading our vast knowledge so we can all appreciate each animal’s place and importance in our ecosystem.”
Safari North features Animals from North America, Asia, Africa, South America, Europe and Australia. Guests can also feed the giraffes, ride camels and mine for gemstones! Here is just a sampling of other species at the park: Black and Grizzly Bears, Sloth Bears, Tigers, Kangaroos, Leopards, Cougars, Cheetahs, Bobcats, Alligators (more than 30), Lynx, Lemurs, Monkeys (Spider, Howler, Olive baboon, Java, Vervet, Ringtail Lemurs, Ruff Lemur Capuchins, Mandrills, Patas), Otters, Zebras, Porcupines, Wart Hogs, Hyenas and Barnyard Petting Zoo animals.
Additional events this summer include:
June 10th & 11th – Junior Zookeeper Day
Bring your kids to enjoy animal enrichment workshops
June 17th & 18th – Baby Animal Weekend!
Come and experience a variety of baby animals (camels, goats and more!)
July 15th Shop Local Day with Flee Market, Crafters, Magic Shows and Face Painting
July 16th Chopper DJ Kids Dance
Safari North kicks off its 2023 season on Saturday, May 13th, which runs through Sunday October 1st.
For more details on exhibits, hours and admission, go to: www.safarinorth.com
Don’t forget the sunscreen! Our favorite sunscreen can be found here!
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