Blank Park Zoo Map (2024 – 2016)
Planning your visit?
Blank Park Zoo is a 49-acre zoological park located in Des Moines, Iowa. It is the only accredited zoo in the state and features over 1,000 animals from around the world. The zoo includes exhibits like the Discovery Center, African Boardwalk, and Australia Adventure, and offers conservation and education programs.
The most up-to-date Blank Park Zoo Map will guide you from the African Boardwalk to the Cave, where bats fly overhead and reptiles lurk nearby. Stroll past the Kid’s Kingdom splash area, grab a bite at Safari Grill, or stop for a carousel ride near the Discovery Center.
With animals around every corner, knowing your way saves time—and helps you catch scheduled feedings and keeper chats without missing a beat.
Blank Park Zoo Map 2024
The most significant Blank Park Zoo Map 2024 updates include an $18 million expansion featuring a new lion habitat three times larger than the previous space, relocation of the lions to the Jamaa Kwa Africa exhibit, and the conversion of the old lion area into a tiger conservation center. The new Wild Iowa exhibit will add species like bobcats and river otters, introduce a glass viewing tunnel for otters, and create expanded habitats for eagles, seals, and sea lions. These updates also include major sustainability improvements, such as a new saltwater filtration system that will significantly reduce water consumption.

Printable Blank Park Zoo Map PDF 2024
Blank Park Zoo Map 2023
Blank Park Zoo Map 2023 updates include the launch of a major $18 million expansion featuring a new Wild Iowa exhibit with river otters, bobcats, and eagles, as well as a glass viewing tunnel and deep-water viewing area for otters. The zoo is also adding a new lion conservation center that triples the size of the current habitat, upgrades the tiger exhibit, and introduces a new saltwater filtration system to reduce water consumption. Additional improvements include enhanced accessibility with new pathways, signage, and an accessibility map, plus new animal arrivals such as red river piglets, black and white ruffed lemurs, alpacas, and a young giraffe.

Blank Park Zoo Map 2016
Blank Park Zoo Map updates since 2016 include a major $18.1 million expansion featuring a new lion habitat three times larger than before, the addition of the Wild Iowa exhibit with river otters, eagles, and bobcats, and enhanced guest experiences such as interactive viewing platforms and improved accessibility. The zoo is also introducing new pathways, symbolic signage for easier navigation, and a new stage for educational programs and events. These changes aim to improve animal welfare, visitor engagement, and sustainability by reducing water usage through advanced filtration systems.

FAQ
How long does it take to go through Blank Park Zoo?
It typically takes 2 to 3 hours to go through Blank Park Zoo and see all the exhibits. If you are short on time, you can do a quick loop in about an hour. The zoo is designed to be walkable and manageable for families with young children.
How many animals does the Blank Park Zoo have?
Blank Park Zoo cares for approximately 1,484 animals representing 104 different species. The zoo spans 49 acres, with 22 acres developed into animal exhibits and facilities.
Does Blank Park Zoo have elephants?
Blank Park Zoo does not have elephants. Large animals at the zoo include Eastern Black Rhinoceros, African lions, tigers, and reticulated giraffes.
How much does it cost to get into Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa?
Admission to Blank Park Zoo is $20 for adults (ages 13–64), $15 for children (ages 2–12), and $19 for seniors (65+). Children under 1 year old are admitted free.