Plan Your Day
What's Happening in Discovery Bay?
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Renovations to Discovery Bay have begun, and the area will remain open during this long-term (11 month) project. However, there may be planned, short periods of time, where the building will close. The project also includes concrete demolition of the first 3-5 rows of the stadium seating−weakened by years of salt water exposure. There is no way to demolish concrete quietly, so noise may be a factor once in a while during your February-March visits. Mortenson Construction is taking every precaution to keep disruption at a minimum, and we will provide updates as this exciting project progresses. Learn more.
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You'll never run out of things to do at the Minnesota Zoo, but you may have trouble figuring out what to do first. Here are some ideas to help you plan your next visit. Printable map of the Zoo or take a look at our interactive map.
Check out the Zoo's Calendar.
Shows and Presentations
World of Birds Show
No Bird Show, training for outdoor show, shows start May 25.
Soaring hawks, talking parrots, majestic owls, and many more rare and beautiful feathered creatures delight and amaze Zoo guests.
Tropical Reef Dive Show
Our spectacular floor-to-ceiling underwater viewing allows you to watch aquarium staff SCUBA dive with the sharks and tropical fish of the Coral Reef. Dive shows are daily at 10:30 a.m. (limited capacity)
Cow Milking Demonstration (seasonal)
The dairy barn at the Well’s Fargo Family Farm features daily cow milking demonstrations at 11, 1, and 3, April through November. (limited capacity) Watch video.
Monorail
Catch a birds-eye-view of the Northern Trail and Russia’s Grizzly Coast! Trains run daily throughout the year.
Shark Feedings
Watch the savage beauty of our sharks and other marine life during their scheduled feedings. Discovery Bay shark feedings are at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
Penguin Feedings
Come watch our newest additions get fed at 10am and 2:30pm
Seasonal Attractions
Aveda Butterfly Garden
Opening June 15
Experience a kaleidoscope of color featuring 40 different species of butterflies and moths, fluttering in a beautiful landscaped environment. Open daily from 10-5, weather permitting.
Wells Fargo Family Farm (March 29-November 30)
Experience a working farm and learn how food gets from farms to tables. This popular exhibit offers families a chance to see and touch domestic animals like cows, goats, pigs, and more.
Splash Pad (summer)
Cool off under life-sized animal sculptures in our new interactive water fountain on the Central Plaza.
Woodland Adventure
An interactive, nature-based play area located off the Zoo’s Central Plaza.
FOR A PLEASANT VISIT
Zoo volunteers and staff are available to assist you throughout the Zoo.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility. Thank you for your compliance.
For re-entry please use hand stamp available at each exit or your corporate picnic wristband.
Restrooms/Diaper Changing Areas
- Central Plaza (seasonal)
- Russia’s Grizzly Coast Mammoth Dig
- Call of the Wild Food Court
- Minnesota Trail
- Discovery Bay
- Replay Park
- Caribou exhibit (seasonal)
- Farm house basement (seasonal)
- Farm granary classroom (seasonal)
Family Restrooms
- Central Plaza (seasonal)
- Target Learning Center
Nursing Areas
- The reading corner of the Bee Hive is a favorite spot for nursing Mom’s – especially those with other children to keep occupied.
- The nursing area located at the indoor hub of the Zoo near the entrance to the Tropics and Minnesota Trails, on the side of the Target® Learning Center is quiet and comfortable.
- For those Mom’s who prefer a completely private experience, the Family Restroom, with chair and changing table, is right outside the Target Learning Center.
First Aid
Near Guest Services desk
ATM Locations
- Call of the Wild Food Court
- Wells Fargo Family Farm
Stroller Rental and Wheelchairs
Available at each entrance, cost of $5 for a single and $8 for a double.
Strollers, Food, and Beverage are not permitted in the following locations:
The Minnesota Zoo is not responsible for items left unattended.
Wheelchairs
Available at each entrance, limited supply on a first-come basis. Although there is no rental fee, both a driver's license and a credit card imprint are held as a deposit.
Rental of Motorized Carts
Limited supply on a first-come basis. $10 per hour rental fee and both a driver's license and a credit card imprint are held as deposit.
Zoo Safety Wristbands
Zoo Safety Wristbands are available at each entrance for the safety of our guests. Please see a cashier or the Guest Services Desk for details. Questions please call the Guest Services Department at 952-431-9213.
During your visit at the Zoo you may be filmed, videotaped or photographed by a Minnesota Zoo employee or contract service professional. Your admission serves as your permission for use of your image.
Zoo Manners
- Zoo animals are wild—stay behind guardrails and do not feed them.
- Please don’t tap on the glass, make excessive noise, or harass the animals.
- No climbing on barrier walls or in flower beds.
- Coins in water are harmful—please don’t toss into exhibits, pools, or streams. Instead, donate your change to a conservation wishing well.
- The Zoo is a smoke-free facility. Thank you for your compliance.
- Photography: you are welcome to take photos and video for personal use only; commercial photography is prohibited without written permission from our Marketing department.
