Zoo open daily 10am-7pm (weather permitting).
The Dakota Zoo was founded in 1961 by Marc & Betty Christianson with the help of a host of dedicated volunteers. The Dakota Zoo opened its gates on June 3, 1961 on 15 acres of developed land, with 75 mammals and 23 birds, and 40,000 visitors passed through the gates that first year. Today, thanks to the continued support of members, visitors, donors and volunteers, the Dakota Zoo has grown to a 90 acre facility housing 600 animals, birds, reptiles and fish representing 125 species and visited by more than 130,000 people each year.
Join us for our 52nd year of operation as we present a fun filled schedule of events sure to please people of all ages!
Please support our Zoo and it's future by donating to the Dakota Zoo Continuation Fund. Your support is greatly appreciated. You can also support the Zoo by purchasing your annual membership online.
