Zoos in North Dakota

North Dakota features 4 exceptional zoos showcasing over 1,000 animals representing diverse species from across six continents. With 2 AZA-accredited facilities (Dakota Zoo and Roosevelt Park Zoo), the state offers world-class animal care, conservation programs, and family-friendly experiences year-round despite the northern climate.

4

Zoos Statewide

2

AZA-Accredited

1,000+

Animals

90

Years History

North Dakota's Zoos

Dakota Zoo AZA

Location: Bismarck, ND (Missouri River banks)

Size: 90 acres

Hours: Summer 10am-6pm daily (late April-Sep), Winter 1pm-5pm Fri-Sun (Oct-late April)

Admission: Contact zoo for current prices; Train ride $6; Groups 20+ save $1

North Dakota's largest zoo housing over 600 animals representing 125 species including alligators, bison, and mountain lions. AZA-accredited since 1991 through September 2028. Founded in 1961, operates solely on admissions, concessions, memberships, and donations without tax support. Features scenic train tours through riverside woodland exhibits. Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day.

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Roosevelt Park Zoo AZA

Location: 1219 Burdick Expy E, Minot, ND 58701

Hours: Summer 9am-8pm daily, Fall 9am-6pm (starting September), limited winter hours

Admission: Contact zoo for current prices

North Dakota's oldest zoo featuring 160+ animals representing 50+ species. AZA-accredited facility (fewer than 10% of zoos worldwide). Home to 4 critically endangered Amur tiger cubs born May 2025 (Buffy, Afkai, Brogan, Koshmar). Features African Plains exhibit with hand-feeding giraffes, lion pride, red pandas, sloth. Accessible entrances, wheelchair/wagon rentals, sensory bags for sensory-sensitive visitors.

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Red River Zoo

Location: 4255 23rd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104

Hours: 10am-6pm daily; Members 9am early admission

Admission: Adults $14.95, Seniors 60+ $13.95, Children 2-14 $12.95, under 2 free, Members free

Award-winning 34-acre zoo opened 1999 housing 600+ animals representing 89 species. Specializes in breeding world's rarest cold climate species including red pandas. Features restored 1928 carousel donated by Diederich family. SNAP discount program available (show SNAP card + photo ID for reduced admission). Groups 10+ must book advance. Holiday adjusted hours December. Phone: (701) 277-9240.

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Chahinkapa Zoo

Location: 1004 RJ Hughes Dr, Wahpeton, ND 58075

Size: 29 acres along Red River

Hours: May-Aug 10am-6pm daily, Sep-Oct Thu-Sun 10am-4pm, winter by appointment

Admission: Approximately $10-11, Prairie Rose Carousel rides $3

North Dakota's first zoo, opened 1933, celebrating 90+ years. Home to 300+ animals representing 100 species from six continents including orangutan, white rhinos (only in ND, arrived 2018), Bengal tigers, snow leopards, grizzly bears, river otters, kangaroos. Features petting zoo, nature center, restored 1926 Prairie Rose Carousel with 20 hand-carved wooden horses. Bike rentals available. Located in scenic Chahinkapa Park. Phone: (701) 248-0812.

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Zoo Highlights by Location

Bismarck - Dakota Zoo

Key Features:

  • 600+ animals, 125 species on 90 acres
  • AZA-accredited since 1991 (gold standard)
  • Scenic train tours through riverside woodland
  • Self-supporting through admissions and donations
  • Missouri River location provides natural habitat
  • Year-round operation with seasonal hours
  • No smoking facility, credit/debit cards accepted

Notable Animals: Alligators, bison, mountain lions, bears, primates, reptiles, fish

Minot - Roosevelt Park Zoo

Key Features:

  • Oldest zoo in North Dakota
  • AZA-accredited (top 10% worldwide)
  • 2025: 4 critically endangered Amur tiger cubs born
  • African Plains exhibit - hand-feed giraffes
  • Immersive big cat exhibits with lions and tigers
  • Accessibility: wheelchairs, wagons, sensory bags
  • Conservation focus on endangered species

Notable Animals: Amur tigers, African lions, reticulated giraffes, Amur leopards, red pandas, sloth, penguins, brown bears

Fargo - Red River Zoo

Key Features:

  • 600+ animals, 89 species on 34 acres
  • Specializes in rare cold climate species
  • Award-winning living collection
  • Natural habitat exhibits for breeding programs
  • Restored 1928 carousel for families
  • SNAP discount program for food assistance recipients
  • Member early admission at 9am

Notable Animals: Red pandas, endangered cold climate species, exotic and native animals from similar climates to Red River Valley

Wahpeton - Chahinkapa Zoo

Key Features:

  • First zoo in North Dakota (1933)
  • 29 acres along scenic Red River
  • Only white rhinos in North Dakota (2 arrived 2018)
  • Prairie Rose Carousel (1926, restored by local artisans)
  • Petting zoo and nature center
  • Bike rentals - explore Chahinkapa Park
  • Seasonal operation May-October

Notable Animals: White rhinos, orangutan, Bengal tigers, snow leopards, grizzly bears, river otters, red kangaroos, spider monkeys, lemurs, gibbons, camels, zebras, bison

Featured Animals Across North Dakota Zoos

Big Cats

  • Amur Tigers: Roosevelt Park Zoo (4 cubs born 2025), Chahinkapa Zoo
  • African Lions: Roosevelt Park Zoo (full pride), Dakota Zoo
  • Snow Leopards: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Amur Leopards: Roosevelt Park Zoo (critically endangered)
  • Mountain Lions/Cougars: Dakota Zoo, Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Bengal Tigers: Chahinkapa Zoo

Primates

  • Orangutans: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • White-Handed Gibbons: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Spider Monkeys: Chahinkapa Zoo (black-handed)
  • Lemurs: Chahinkapa Zoo (ring-tailed, ruffed, crowned)
  • Cottontop Tamarins: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Red Pandas: Red River Zoo, Roosevelt Park Zoo

Unique Species

  • White Rhinos: Chahinkapa Zoo (only in ND)
  • Reticulated Giraffes: Roosevelt Park Zoo (hand-feeding available)
  • Sloths: Roosevelt Park Zoo
  • Penguins: Roosevelt Park Zoo
  • Grizzly Bears: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • River Otters: Chahinkapa Zoo

North American Wildlife

  • American Bison: Dakota Zoo, Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Elk: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Dall Sheep: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Bobcats: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Alligators: Dakota Zoo, Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Brown Bears: Roosevelt Park Zoo

African Animals

  • Plains Zebras: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Bactrian Camels: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Southern White Rhinos: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Giraffes: Roosevelt Park Zoo
  • Lions: Roosevelt Park Zoo
  • Fossa: Chahinkapa Zoo (Madagascar)

Australian & Exotic

  • Red Kangaroos: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Llamas & Alpacas: Chahinkapa Zoo
  • Cold Climate Species: Red River Zoo (specialized collection)
  • Rare Endangered Species: Red River Zoo (breeding programs)

Conservation & Education Programs

Conservation Leadership: North Dakota's 2 AZA-accredited zoos participate in Species Survival Plans for critically endangered species including Amur tigers (Roosevelt Park Zoo welcomed 4 cubs in 2025), Amur leopards, and red pandas. Red River Zoo specializes in breeding programs for the world's rarest cold climate species.

AZA Accreditation Benefits

Dakota Zoo and Roosevelt Park Zoo hold AZA accreditation, achieved by fewer than 10% of animal exhibitors worldwide. This ensures gold-standard animal care, professional veterinary services, conservation participation, and reciprocal admission benefits at 250+ AZA facilities globally. Dakota Zoo has maintained accreditation since 1991 (through September 2028). Members enjoy discounts and special benefits at partner zoos nationwide.

Amur Tiger Conservation

Roosevelt Park Zoo's 2025 birth of 4 Amur tiger cubs represents significant conservation success. With fewer than 500 Amur tigers remaining in the wild, captive breeding programs are critical to species survival. Cubs named Buffy, Afkai, Brogan, and Koshmar by Minot AFB 69th Bomb Squadron made public debut July 29th (World Tiger Day) in the Amur Tiger River Valley outdoor exhibit. Parents Zoya (mother) and Finn (father).

Red Panda & Cold Climate Species

Red River Zoo and Roosevelt Park Zoo house red pandas, vulnerable species with declining wild populations. Red River Zoo specializes in breeding endangered cold climate animals from regions with similar climates to North Dakota's Red River Valley. Award-winning living collection features natural habitat exhibits designed for species-appropriate breeding and welfare.

Educational Programs

All four zoos offer educational opportunities including guided tours, school field trips, summer camps, and conservation talks. Chahinkapa Zoo's 90+ year history provides unique perspective on zoo evolution and wildlife conservation. Dakota Zoo's riverside location offers habitat education. Roosevelt Park Zoo provides sensory-friendly experiences with sensory bags available. Group programs accommodate 10-20+ visitors with advance booking.

Planning Your Visit

Seasonal Considerations

Summer (Late April - September):

  • All 4 zoos open with extended hours
  • Dakota Zoo: 10am-6pm daily
  • Roosevelt Park Zoo: 9am-8pm daily
  • Red River Zoo: 10am-6pm daily
  • Chahinkapa Zoo: 10am-6pm daily (May-August)
  • Best weather for outdoor exhibits
  • Animals most active in cooler morning hours

Fall (September - October):

  • Roosevelt Park Zoo reduces to 9am-6pm closing
  • Chahinkapa Zoo: Thu-Sun 10am-4pm only
  • Pleasant temperatures, smaller crowds
  • Animals active preparing for winter

Winter (October - April):

  • Dakota Zoo: Fri-Sun 1pm-5pm only (weather permitting)
  • Roosevelt Park Zoo: Limited hours
  • Chahinkapa Zoo: By appointment only
  • Red River Zoo: Open daily with adjusted holiday hours
  • Indoor exhibits emphasized, outdoor exhibits limited
  • Dress warmly for frigid North Dakota winters

Membership & Discounts

Dakota Zoo Memberships:

  • Individual: $80 (1 named person unlimited admission)
  • Family: $125 (2 adults + children under 18 same address)
  • Grandparent: $125 (2 grandparents + grandchildren under 18)
  • AZA reciprocity at partner facilities nationwide

Discount Programs:

  • SNAP/Food Assistance: Red River Zoo offers Zoo Access for All - show SNAP card + photo ID for discounted tickets (in-person purchase only)
  • Group Rates: Dakota Zoo groups 20+ save $1 per person (book 5 days advance)
  • Group Booking: Red River Zoo requires groups 10+ book in advance
  • Seniors: Red River Zoo $13.95 (ages 60+)
  • Children: Under 2 free at Red River Zoo, Dakota Zoo train rides

Additional Experiences:

  • Dakota Zoo train ride: $6 per person (under 2 free)
  • Chahinkapa Zoo carousel: $3 per ride
  • Roosevelt Park Zoo: Hand-feed giraffes at African Plains
  • Red River Zoo: Early admission 9am for members

Accessibility & Amenities

  • Roosevelt Park Zoo: Wheelchair accessible entrances, wheelchair rentals, wagon rentals for children, sensory bags (noise-canceling headphones, fidgets) for sensory-sensitive visitors
  • Chahinkapa Zoo: Bike rentals available to explore surrounding Chahinkapa Park (proceeds benefit animal care, education, conservation)
  • Dakota Zoo: Parking lot at entrance with Membership Hut (open through late June), no smoking facility, credit/debit cards accepted (no personal checks)
  • All Zoos: Restrooms, concessions, picnic areas, shaded walking paths
  • Weather: All facilities weather-dependent, call ahead during winter

Contact Information

Dakota Zoo (Bismarck):

Roosevelt Park Zoo (Minot):

  • Address: 1219 Burdick Expy E, Minot, ND 58701
  • Website: rpzoo.com

Red River Zoo (Fargo):

  • Phone: (701) 277-9240
  • Address: 4255 23rd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104
  • Website: redriverzoo.org

Chahinkapa Zoo (Wahpeton):

Frequently Asked Questions

North Dakota has 4 zoos located in Wahpeton, Fargo, Bismarck, and Minot. Chahinkapa Zoo in Wahpeton is the oldest (opened 1933), Dakota Zoo in Bismarck is the largest (90 acres, 600+ animals), Red River Zoo in Fargo specializes in rare cold climate species, and Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot is home to critically endangered Amur tigers including 4 cubs born in 2025. Two facilities hold AZA accreditation: Dakota Zoo (since 1991) and Roosevelt Park Zoo.

Two North Dakota zoos hold AZA accreditation, representing fewer than 10% of animal exhibitors worldwide: Dakota Zoo in Bismarck (accredited since 1991, current accreditation through September 2028) and Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot. AZA accreditation ensures gold-standard animal care, professional veterinary services, participation in Species Survival Plans for endangered species, and reciprocal admission benefits at 250+ AZA facilities globally. Members of accredited zoos can receive discounts at partner facilities nationwide.

Four critically endangered Amur tiger cubs were born at Roosevelt Park Zoo on May 19, 2025 - the second litter for mother Zoya and first offspring of father Finn. Named Buffy, Afkai, Brogan, and Koshmar by Minot Air Force Base's 69th Bomb Squadron (who won naming auction), the cubs made their public debut on World Tiger Day, July 29, 2025 in the Amur Tiger River Valley outdoor exhibit. With fewer than 500 Amur tigers remaining in the wild, this birth represents critical conservation success. Visitors can observe the cubs at the zoo's immersive big cat exhibits.

Yes, but with limited hours and weather-dependent closures. Red River Zoo (Fargo) operates year-round daily 10am-6pm with adjusted holiday hours. Dakota Zoo (Bismarck) reduces to Friday-Sunday 1pm-5pm October through late April, weather permitting. Roosevelt Park Zoo (Minot) maintains limited winter hours. Chahinkapa Zoo (Wahpeton) operates by appointment only during winter months. All facilities are closed certain holidays: Dakota Zoo closes Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Winter visits emphasize indoor exhibits while outdoor exhibits may be limited due to frigid North Dakota temperatures. Always call ahead to confirm hours during winter months.

Red River Zoo specializes in breeding and exhibiting the world's rarest cold climate species - animals from regions with similar climates to North Dakota's Red River Valley. The award-winning 34-acre facility opened in 1999 (founded 1993) and houses 600+ animals representing 89 species. Natural habitat exhibits throughout the zoo support breeding programs for endangered species. Additional unique features include a fully restored 1928 carousel donated by the Diederich family in 1995, member early admission at 9am daily, and SNAP discount program (Zoo Access for All) providing reduced admission to food assistance recipients. The zoo's outstanding living collection has received multiple awards for conservation and animal care.

Chahinkapa Zoo houses 300+ animals representing 100 species from six continents on 29 acres along the Red River. Notable residents include North Dakota's only white rhinos (2 southern white rhinos arrived 2018), orangutan, Bengal tigers, snow leopards, grizzly bears, river otters, red kangaroos, white-handed gibbons, black-handed spider monkeys, multiple lemur species (ring-tailed, black-and-white ruffed, crowned), cottontop tamarins, fossa, Bactrian camels, plains zebras, American bison, Dall sheep, elk, bobcats, llamas, and alpacas. The zoo also features a petting zoo with domestic animals. Founded in 1933, Chahinkapa celebrates over 90 years as North Dakota's first zoo.

Yes, Roosevelt Park Zoo offers hand-feeding experiences with reticulated giraffes at the African Plains exhibit - a highlight for visitors of all ages. Chahinkapa Zoo features a petting zoo where visitors can interact with domestic animals. Dakota Zoo's scenic train ride ($6 per person) provides close views of animals throughout the riverside woodland habitat, though direct feeding is not offered. Red River Zoo focuses on natural habitat exhibits for breeding endangered species without hands-on feeding. Check with individual zoos for current interactive animal experience availability, pricing, and safety guidelines. Feeding schedules and keeper talks may be available at all facilities.

Yes, multiple discount programs available. Red River Zoo offers Zoo Access for All program - show valid SNAP card and photo ID for discounted admission (must purchase in-person). Seniors 60+ receive reduced rates at Red River Zoo ($13.95 vs $14.95 adults). Children under 2 enter free at Red River Zoo. Group discounts: Dakota Zoo groups of 20+ save $1 per person (book 5 days advance, call 701-223-7543); Red River Zoo requires groups 10+ to book in advance for group rates. Annual memberships provide best value for frequent visitors: Dakota Zoo offers Individual ($80), Family ($125), and Grandparent ($125) memberships with unlimited admission plus AZA reciprocity at partner zoos nationwide. Check individual zoo websites or call for current pricing and discount eligibility.

North Dakota zoos offer multiple unique attractions. Dakota Zoo features scenic train rides ($6 per person, under 2 free) through 90 acres of riverside woodland exhibits along the Missouri River. Chahinkapa Zoo showcases the restored Prairie Rose Carousel, a 1926 treasure with 20 hand-carved wooden horses fully restored by local artisans ($3 per ride), plus bike rentals to explore surrounding Chahinkapa Park with proceeds benefiting animal care and conservation. Red River Zoo displays a fully restored 1928 carousel donated by the Diederich family in 1995. Roosevelt Park Zoo provides sensory bags including noise-canceling headphones and fidgets for sensory-sensitive visitors, plus wheelchair and wagon rentals. All facilities offer educational programs, conservation talks, and special seasonal events throughout the year.

Dakota Zoo is unique among major zoos in that it operates as a self-supporting facility without tax funding. Founded in 1961 by Marc and Betty Christianson, the 90-acre zoo raises all operating funds through admissions, concession sales, train rides ($6 per person), adopt-an-animal programs, annual memberships (Individual $80, Family/Grandparent $125), and private donations. This self-sufficient model requires strong community support but allows operational independence. The zoo has maintained AZA accreditation since 1991 (current through September 2028) while operating on this funding model - demonstrating that excellence in animal care and conservation can be achieved through visitor support and philanthropy rather than government funding. Consider becoming a member or donor to support this unique North Dakota institution.

Additional Resources

North Dakota Wildlife Beyond Zoos

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: 400+ free-roaming bison, 185+ bird species including golden eagles and great-horned owls, elk, bighorn sheep (500 animals - largest population in 150+ years), longhorn cattle, wild horses. Unique opportunity to see North Dakota wildlife in natural badlands habitat.

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge: Located in Pingree (20 minutes north of Jamestown), features diverse duck and waterfowl species. 5.5-mile auto tour route with observation deck overlooking James River providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Plan Your Zoo Visit

  • Check weather forecasts - North Dakota temperatures vary dramatically by season
  • Call ahead during winter for weather-related closures
  • Arrive early for best animal activity (especially summer)
  • Wear layers - indoor and outdoor temperature differences
  • Bring sunscreen and water in summer months
  • Plan 2-4 hours per zoo depending on size
  • Purchase annual memberships for multiple visits
  • Check websites for special events and keeper talks

Support Conservation

  • Become annual member for unlimited visits and conservation support
  • Adopt an animal through zoo adoption programs
  • Donate to support breeding programs for endangered species
  • Volunteer opportunities may be available - contact zoos directly
  • Attend special fundraising events and galas
  • Purchase from zoo gift shops - proceeds support operations
  • Spread awareness about AZA accreditation and conservation efforts
Note: Hours, admission prices, and programs subject to change. North Dakota weather can impact operations year-round. Always check zoo websites or call ahead before visiting, especially during winter months, for most current information, special events, and weather-related updates.

Last updated on November 27, 2025