
Great Plains Zoo Sioux Falls
A charming zoo in Sioux Falls featuring diverse wildlife, a butterfly house, and family-friendly attractions like a splash pad.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals

Great Plains Zoo Sioux Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming zoo in Sioux Falls featuring diverse wildlife, a butterfly house, and family-friendly attractions like a splash pad.
"Great little zoo! It is under construction currently, but it was a nice set up & there are some unique species available."

🎟️ Check for Coupons
Look for 'great plains zoo sioux falls sd coupons' online for potential savings on admission.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the zoo.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Snow Leopard Encounter
Arctic Passage
Marvel at the elusive snow leopard, a stunning feline known for its beautiful coat and agility. A must-see for any wildlife enthusiast.

African Painted Dogs
African Savanna
Witness the vibrant energy of African painted dogs, a highly social and endangered species. Their unique hunting strategies are fascinating.

Pallas's Cat (Manul)
Asian Highlands
Get a glimpse of the adorable Pallas's cat, also known as the manul. These small wild cats are known for their grumpy expressions and fluffy fur.

Giraffe Feeding
African Savanna
An interactive experience where you can feed the gentle giants. A memorable moment for all ages, especially kids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Great Visit
Navigating Zoo Construction
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Check for Coupons
Look for 'great plains zoo sioux falls sd coupons' online for potential savings on admission.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the zoo.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles or purchase them there, especially on hot days. The splash pad is a great way to cool off!
📸 Capture the Moments
Don't forget your camera or phone to snap photos of the animals and family fun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check for Coupons
Look for 'great plains zoo sioux falls sd coupons' online for potential savings on admission.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the zoo.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles or purchase them there, especially on hot days. The splash pad is a great way to cool off!
📸 Capture the Moments
Don't forget your camera or phone to snap photos of the animals and family fun.
📅 Plan Around Construction
Check the zoo's website for any ongoing construction that might affect exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe the Great Plains Zoo as a nice, family-friendly place with a good variety of animals for its size. While some note ongoing construction and higher food prices, the interactive exhibits and the splash pad are frequently praised, making it a worthwhile outing for a half-day of fun.
"Great little zoo! It is under construction currently, but it was a nice set up & there are some unique species available to learn more about. Seems very family friendly & there is a little splash park inside the zoo to help littles cool off on hot days.
As a zoo aficionado, I would visit again. It is definitely sized so that you can see just about everything in half a day without feeling rushed & stopping to interact with exhibits or keepers."
Chelsea Eikmeier
"Nice, little zoo! Came here with the kids & they loved it! Not too big nor too small! Was able to walk the whole place in about an hour and a half with littlest! Lots of animals, photo statues, etc! Not too expensive, they have wagons you can borrow/rent & a cafe!"
Stormie
"Fare admission price, little bit expensive food, but the food was really good. Many different kinds of animals living in the zoo. I love the fact that the zoo has a splash pad for kids. They have a petting zoo with many cute baby animals 😍. My baby also enjoyed merry go around ride!"
Stacy Kim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Great Plains Zoo is located at 805 S. Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57105. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the zoo.
Yes, there is parking available at the zoo. It's generally sufficient for visitors, but can fill up on busy days or during special events. Arriving earlier can help secure a good spot.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Sioux Falls and can drop you off at the zoo's entrance. This can be a good option if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
From I-29, take exit 77 for I-90 East. Continue on I-90 East and take exit 402 for SD-42 East toward Sioux Falls. Turn right onto S. Kiwanis Ave, and the zoo will be on your left.
The zoo is generally accessible, with paved pathways throughout. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent, and accessible restrooms are provided. It's always a good idea to check their website for the most current accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Great Plains Zoo hours typically vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit, as they can change.
Admission prices for the Great Plains Zoo can vary. Look for 'sioux falls zoo prices' and 'great plains zoo sioux falls sd coupons' online for potential discounts. They often have different pricing for adults, children, and seniors.
Yes, purchasing 'sioux falls zoo tickets' online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events. This can save you time at the entrance.
Yes, searching for 'great plains zoo sioux falls sd coupons' and 'sioux falls zoo coupon' can yield discounts. They may also offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, or through specific community programs.
General admission typically includes access to all animal exhibits, the Butterfly House & Aquarium, and the splash pad. Some special attractions or activities might have an additional fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the snow leopards, African painted dogs, and the adorable Pallas's cats. Don't miss the chance to see the giraffes and bears!
Yes, the Great Plains Zoo features a splash pad, which is a huge hit with kids on hot days. It's a great way for them to cool off and have some fun.
Yes, you can participate in giraffe feedings for an additional fee. This is a popular interactive experience for families.
Besides the splash pad, there's also a carousel and a small playground area, making it a fun outing for families with young children.
The zoo has merged with the Butterfly House & Aquarium, offering a chance to see a variety of butterflies and marine life. Volunteers can even help at the tidal touch pool!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a cafe on-site offering various food options. While some reviews mention prices can be a bit high, the food is generally considered good. They also sell popcorn and other treats.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed at most zoos, which can be a great way to save money. Check the zoo's specific policy on their website.
While specific menus can change, zoos often offer standard fare like salads, sandwiches, and snacks. It's advisable to check the cafe's menu on the day of your visit or call ahead if you have specific dietary needs.
Yes, besides the main cafe, there are usually smaller stands or kiosks selling snacks, ice cream, and beverages throughout the zoo.
Some visitors have noted that food prices can be on the higher side, with a small slushy costing around $10. Bringing your own snacks can be a cost-effective alternative.
📸 📸 Photography
The snow leopard enclosure, the African painted dogs, and the giraffes offer fantastic photo opportunities. Look for unique animal behaviors and interactions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, if you plan on conducting professional photo shoots, it's best to contact the zoo administration in advance to inquire about their policies and any potential fees.
While direct interaction with most animals is limited for safety, the giraffe feeding station offers a great chance for close-up photos. There are also photo statues around the zoo.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting conditions, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This is also when animals are often most active.
Standard camera equipment is usually permitted. However, tripods or large professional lighting setups might require special permission. Always check the zoo's visitor guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during special events like ZooBoo for added excitement. The zoo's size is manageable for little legs, and the variety of animals keeps them engaged. Don't forget to check for any family discounts or coupons to make the trip even more affordable.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid higher weekend crowds and prices. If you're a resident of Sioux Falls, inquire about any local discounts or membership options that might offer better value for frequent visits.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While personal photography is generally allowed, professional shoots might require prior arrangement. Look for unique animal behaviors and interactions to capture compelling shots. The giraffe feeding area also provides a great chance for close-up photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation Efforts at Great Plains Zoo
These programs involve breeding recommendations and the sharing of knowledge between accredited zoos. The zoo also uses its exhibits to educate the public about the importance of conservation and the threats these animals face in the wild. They aim to inspire visitors to become advocates for wildlife protection.
By supporting the Great Plains Zoo, visitors contribute to these vital conservation initiatives. The zoo's commitment extends beyond just housing animals; it's about actively participating in global efforts to save endangered species and their habitats.
Family Fun and Activities
Beyond the animals, the zoo features a carousel and a small playground, ensuring there's always something for little ones to enjoy. Special events like ZooBoo transform the zoo into a festive Halloween wonderland with trick-or-treating and themed activities, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
Interactive experiences like giraffe feedings add an extra layer of excitement. The zoo's manageable size also means it's not overwhelming for younger children, allowing them to see a good portion of the animals without getting too tired.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering at the zoo is a great way to give back to the community and gain hands-on experience with wildlife. It's also an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and become an integral part of the zoo's mission.
Organizations and groups also participate in volunteer days, contributing to the upkeep and beautification of the zoo grounds, demonstrating a strong community connection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit