Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is the only accredited zoo in the state. Established in 1963, the zoo spreads over 49 acres and houses over 100 different species of animals from across the globe. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, and recreation.

Visitors to Blank Park Zoo enjoy an array of engaging and educational experiences. From the opportunity to feed giraffes in the African Boardwalk area to watching sea lions play in Hub Harbor, there's something for everyone. The zoo's exhibit areas, such as the Australian Adventure, the Cave, and the Kids Kingdom, provide immersive environments where visitors can learn about animals and their natural habitats. The zoo also offers interactive activities, programs, and events encouraging learning and fun for all ages.

The Blank Park Zoo strongly emphasizes conservation, participating in over 230 conservation projects in 36 countries. It's involved in several Species Survival Plans, ensuring the survival of species such as the Eastern Black Rhinoceros, Amur Tiger, and Snow Leopard. The zoo is also dedicated to educating the public about the importance of biodiversity and the role zoos play in wildlife preservation.