8 Benefits to a Blank Park Zoo Membership

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Blank Park Zoo Membership

The Blank Park Zoo is a highlighted destination for Des Moines, Iowa. This small, but mighty zoo has been around since 1963. Today they have tons of aminals and experiences families can enjoy including African Lions, Penguins, Sea Lions, Wallabys, the Kids Kingdom, and so much more. Our family visits several times a year, all year round. If you are a family with young children there are many benefits of family membership. One common question I hear is “What does a Blank Park Zoo Membership include?”

Take a look below at all the details regarding a Blank Park Zoo Membership.

Membership Options

There are memberships of all sizes depending on your family or what attractions you would like to visit. If you want to save money on more than one attraction the Tri Memberships may be for your family! They have options where you can include the Science Center of Iowa, and/or Living History Farms. One of my favorite options is the Grandparent Membership. This allows a family to name a Grandparent and grandchildren to the membership. Such a fun gift for them! Take a look at all the amazing options on the Blank Park Zoo’s website.

If you are active military you can also receive a $10 military discount off your membership. This can only be purchased in person and a valid photo ID is required.

In addition, if the company you work for are corporate sponsors of the zoo you can receive $10 off your membership.

Member Monday

Every Monday you can ride the train for free from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is a big deal especially if you have train-loving children. Also on Mondays, you are able to bring one free additional guest.

Unlimited Daytime Admission

This is obvious, but when you have young children this is very important. How many times have you gone somewhere, arrive and after about an hour your child has a meltdown? Or it begins to rain? Or you have to leave for an emergency. You can leave, and come back. You can also go for an hour, play on the playground and leave without feeling like you are wasting money. Each time you enter the zoo, it is free admission!

Special Member Events

The Blank Park Zoo hosts popular and fun events every year including Story Time with the Easter Bunny, Endangered Species Night, and many more. These special events are created and hosted for only Blank Park Zoo membership holders.

Free Attendance to Fun Events

You can attend the Zoo Brew in the Summer, Adventure Days, Santa at the Zoo, and other popular Blank Park Zoo events for free.

Special Discounts

Your membership goes above and beyond perks at the zoo. As a member, you receive other member discounts including discounted admission to Night Eyes, a 10% discount at the WildThings Gift Shop, a 10% discount at the Safari Grill, 20% off at Spaghetti Works, and more. Planning a birthday party? Members also receive a 10% off of the base birthday party package.

Visit Other Zoos Across the Country

Traveling and want to visit other zoos and aquariums across the country? The Blank Park Zoo is a member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. As a member, you receive free or reduced admission reciprocity to about 200 zoos and aquariums including the Omaha Zoo! The list is pretty extensive and this is an amazing perk if you travel a lot.

Discounted Camps + Classes

The Blank Park Zoo offers fun early education classes, Summer camps, Spring camps, and more. If you have a Blank Park Zoo Membership you will receive discounts on classes and camps.

Zoo Tracks Newsletter

Your children will love this special mail delivery. When you become a member you will receive a free subscription to the Zoo Tracks Newsletter. A fun little treat to experience the zoo at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you visit the Blank Park Zoo at night?

The Blank Park Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (or 5 p.m.) depending on the season. The zoo does offer special events that happen in the evening such as Night Eyes and the Wild Lights Festival. These events cost additional money.

Are there ways to visit the Blank Park Zoo for free?

Yes! If you hold a library card at your local library they offer Adventure Passes. These allow you to check out admission to the zoo, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and more. Learn more about Library Adventure Passes!

Is it worth visiting the Blank Park Zoo in the winter?

Yes! There are many reasons to visit the zoo in the Winter. We have shared all of the reasons here.

Where is the Blank Park Zoo located?

7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

Can you gift a Blank Park Zoo membership?


Yes, and the zoo makes it super easy to do it. This is a great experience gift for families!

Is the Blank Park Zoo a great date option?

We love to attend Zoo Brew offered every summer. The perfect date night or girl’s night out.

What are your best tips for taking young kids?

We have created a whole guide for tips for taking young kids to the Blank Park Zoo. Take a look here!

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Erin Huiatt

Erin is a reliable resource and stepping stone for women and families to find support and make connections within our community. She wants families to feel confident to reach out and ask for help and advice to get pointed in the right direction. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her two children in tow!

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