A quick look at the experience
If you’re heading to South Dakota and love animals, the Great Plains Zoo offers a pleasant, family-friendly day out for just $17 per person. It’s a compact but thoughtfully designed zoo that packs in over 1,000 animals from around the world. Expect to spend about one day exploring diverse exhibits like the African Savannah, Primate Paradise, and the adorable Zoo Farm. Guided by knowledgeable keepers, you’ll get a chance to learn a bit more about the animals and their habitats.
Two things we especially appreciate are the up-close views of the animals, including majestic tigers and towering giraffes, and the opportunity to support conservation efforts simply by visiting. We also liked the family-friendly vibe, with interactive spots like feeding goats and petting sheep. On the downside, some visitors noted that not all animals are always visible, which is common at most zoos, so patience might be needed.
This experience suits families with kids, animal enthusiasts, or anyone looking to learn about wildlife without breaking the bank. If you’re curious about global species and enjoy seeing animals in engaging environments, the Great Plains Zoo might just make your list.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable Entry: At $17, it offers good value for a full day of animal viewing and activities.
- Diverse Exhibits: From Asian tigers to African zebras, the zoo covers multiple continents.
- Educational Focus: Keeper chats and exhibits enhance understanding of animal behavior and conservation.
- Family-Friendly: Features like the Zoo Farm make it perfect for kids to pet and feed farm animals.
- Conservation Support: Your visit helps fund programs that save animals from extinction.
- Limited Animal Visibility: Some reviewers mention that not all animals are out at all times, which could be a minor disappointment.
Exploring the Great Plains Zoo in Detail
Arrival and Entrance – Setting the tone
Starting your visit, parking is included in your ticket, so there’s no fuss over parking fees or finding a spot. The entrance is welcoming, with clear signage guiding you to exhibits and amenities. Once inside, you’ll notice the zoo’s layout encourages a natural flow, making it easy to spend several hours wandering from one exhibit to another without feeling rushed.
The African Savannah – Giraffes, Zebras, and Meerkats
One of the most striking areas is the African Savannah. We loved seeing the giraffes stretching their long necks, munching on leaves, and the zebras grazing nearby. The open design offers good viewing angles and makes you feel like you’ve been transported to the plains. You can also visit meerkats, which are endlessly entertaining with their upright posture and social antics.
More Great Tours NearbyPrimate Paradise – Swinging and hooting
The Primate Paradise is a highlight for many visitors. As Bethany pointed out in her review, the animals look healthy and happy, and their exhibits allow for close-up viewing. Watching Snow Monkeys lounge around is a treat, and the primates’ lively behavior is engaging for both kids and adults. If you’re lucky, keeper chats might be scheduled, adding valuable insights into primate care and behavior.
Asian Cat Exhibit – Tigers and more
The Asian cat exhibit features majestic tigers. We appreciate the effort to create spacious, naturalistic habitats that give visitors a sense of the animals’ environment. Seeing a tiger up close can be a powerful experience, especially when the animals are active. It’s worth noting that some visitors have expressed a desire to see more animals out and about, so timing your visit for during the day may help.
Face-to-Face Farm – Petting and feeding
The Zoo Farm offers a charming break from the larger exhibits. Here, you can feed and pet goats and even get a kiss from a sheep. It’s a delightful hands-on experience that makes the zoo especially appealing for children. The farm emphasizes interactivity, which helps kids connect with farm animals and learn about early agricultural life.
Conservation and Education – Why your visit matters
Every ticket at Great Plains Zoo supports animal care, educational programs, and conservation efforts. Knowing that your visit contributes to saving animals from extinction can make your experience more meaningful. Keepers often host chats that deepen your understanding of the animals and the zoo’s role in wildlife preservation.
Practical considerations – What’s included and what’s not
Your ticket includes entry to the zoo and the zoo farm, plus keeper chats and parking. However, extras like food, drink, rentals (strollers, scooters, wheelchairs), zoo tours, carousel rides, train rides, and animal encounters are not included. If you’re planning a full day, bringing your own snacks or planning for nearby dining options makes sense.
Accessibility and visitor tips
The zoo is wheelchair accessible, and the layout is manageable for most visitors. We suggest arriving early or later in the afternoon to potentially see more animals out, as some reviews noted that not all animals are visible throughout the day. Also, avoid trying to see everything in one go; prioritize your favorite exhibits and enjoy a relaxed pace.
Authentic insights from visitors
Bethany’s review highlights the zoo’s beauty and family-friendly environment, noting that animals look healthy and happy. Conversely, some visitors, like the reviewer from GetYourGuide, mention that not all animals are always visible, which is something to keep in mind. This is common at zoos—some animals prefer hiding or resting during certain times—so patience and flexibility can enhance your visit.
The guided keeper chats are often praised for their knowledgeable guides—they can turn an ordinary visit into a fascinating learning experience. If you’re fortunate, you might get insights into animal behaviors or conservation stories that deepen your appreciation.
The Sum Up
Visiting the Great Plains Zoo offers a cost-effective and educational outing, especially suited for families and animal lovers. Its diverse exhibits and interactive farm area create opportunities for engaging, hands-on experiences with animals from across the globe. While some visitors have noted that not every animal is always on view, this is a common challenge at most zoos and doesn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.
The zoo’s focus on conservation and education, paired with the friendly atmosphere and stunning animal sightings, makes it a worthwhile stop. It’s a great choice if you want a relaxed, family-friendly day that combines wildlife watching with meaningful support for animal preservation.
Overall, Great Plains Zoo provides good value, memorable encounters, and a chance to learn about animals in a setting that promotes both fun and conservation awareness. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply want to enjoy a scenic, animal-filled day, this zoo ticks many boxes.
FAQ
Is the ticket price of $17 per person good value?
Yes, considering it includes entry to both the zoo and the farm, plus keeper chats and parking, it offers a solid value for a full day of activities.
How long should I plan to spend there?
Most visitors spend about a day exploring, but you could spend more or less depending on your pace and interest in specific exhibits.
Are all animals always visible?
Not necessarily. Some visitors have noted that not all animals are out at all times, so it’s worth visiting during peak animal activity hours.
Are there guided tours or animal encounters?
Not included in your ticket, but keeper chats are available and provide valuable insight into the animals and conservation efforts.
Is the zoo accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for families or visitors with mobility needs.
Can I feed or pet the animals?
No, feeding animals or touching them is not allowed, but the farm area allows you to pet goats and sheep in a controlled environment.
Is food available inside the zoo?
Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price. You might find options nearby or bring your own snacks.
What is the best time to visit?
Arrive early or later in the afternoon, as some animals may be more active or visible during these times.
Would this experience suit children?
Absolutely. The farm, primate exhibits, and engaging animals make it particularly appealing for families with kids.
Visiting the Great Plains Zoo promises a day of discovery, fun, and support for wildlife. It’s an experience that balances education and entertainment, leaving you with memories of animals from around the world right in South Dakota.
You can check availability for your dates here: