Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo is on a mission to connect people, animals and the natural world to save wildlife. Open year-round in Apple Valley, just minutes south of Mall of America, the Zoo features more than 4,700 animals in immersive, award-winning exhibits like the Tropics Trail, Russia’s Grizzly Coast and 3M Penguins of the African Coast. The Minnesota Zoo is one of the State’s premier cultural attractions, serving 1.2 million visitors annually, and a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
Hawaiian monk seals are the focal point of a new inspiring experience in Minnesota Zoo’s Discovery Bay that connects guests with the ocean. The Zoo is the only place outside Hawaii where the public can see these endangered animals on exhibit. The Zoo is offering a sanctuary for these highly endangered, non-releasable animals and is committed to providing them with the highest possible quality of life. Our Hawaiian monk seals are serving as ambassadors for their species in the wild to the only species that has the power to save it. Learn more at mnzoo.org or by calling 952.431.9500.
Events
Rediscover Discovery Bay: Opens May 23
Say “aloha” to our newest residents – five critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals! Join us in welcoming these amazing animals into our newly renovated Discovery Bay, the only place outside Hawaii where the public can see them in human care. Come see them, then learn how to protect them in the wild through daily demonstrations with our marine mammal trainers.
Fish Bites: June 17, 2015, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Join Twin Cities’ top chefs as they prepare delicious and sustainable gourmet ocean and freshwater dishes paired with a variety of new and sustainable wines. mnzoo.org/events/fish-bites-2/
Military Family Week: July 1 – July 7, 2015
The Zoo salutes our troops with special discounts this week, including free admission for military personnel (active, retired, and civilian) as well as half-priced admission for family members. Plus, food and retail discounts within the Zoo. (Proof of military service is required.)
Hanifl Family Wild Woods Opening Celebration: July 25 and 26
Our new outdoor nature-based play will provide kids climbing, crawling, digging, and discovery in a “please touch” natural environment. Hanifl Family Wild Woods grand opening weekend festivities culminate with the Okee Dokee Brothers concert on July 26, part of the Subway Music in the Zoo series. For ticket information go to suemclean.com.
Brew at the Zoo: August 7, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Raise your glass to conservation and join us for the sixth annual suds sipping’ safari “Brew at the Zoo.” There’s nothing better than cold, frothy beer on a warm summer evening. Guests will enjoy a wide variety of refreshing local domestic/microbrews, complimentary appetizers, and live music; non-alcoholic beverages and water will also be available. The beer tasting will take place outdoors on the Central Plaza. Proceeds support the Zoo’s conservation programs.
Tiger Tracks 5K and Kids’ Run: August 22, Shady Oaks Pavilion
5K–8:00 a.m.; Kids’ Run—8:45 a.m.
Lace-up your shoes and make tracks to the Minnesota Zoo. This wild run will start at the Puma Pavilion and weave into the Zoo and out around the Northern Trail. Bring the whole family for a brisk morning run and then slow down the pace and enjoy a day at the Zoo. Proceeds support the Zoo’s conservation programs. Pre-registration is required at mnzoo.org.
