ZooKansas, US

Great Bend Zoo

Discover a remarkable wildlife haven at the Great Bend Zoo, where animals from around the world thrive.

About

Discover a remarkable wildlife haven at the Great Bend Zoo, where animals from around the world thrive. This cherished, free-admission zoo provides an intimate and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Nestled within Brit Spaugh Park, the zoo boasts a diverse collection of over 60 species, ranging from majestic grizzly bears to exotic primates and a vibrant array of birds and reptiles. You can observe powerful grizzly bears in a naturalistic habitat, and get up close with North American bison. The renowned Raptor Center is a highlight, dedicated to the rehabilitation and education surrounding birds of prey like eagles and owls. The zoo's modern enclosures are designed to offer excellent viewing opportunities, ensuring that every visit is filled with memorable moments and fantastic photo opportunities. Beyond its impressive animal collection, the Great Bend Zoo emphasizes education and conservation. The welcoming staff are often available to share fascinating facts about the animals, enriching your understanding of wildlife. Whether you're marveling at the intricate patterns of a red-eyed crocodile skink, watching playful lemurs, or exploring the indoor reptile and amphibian exhibits, the zoo provides a captivating journey through the animal kingdom. It's a place where you can connect with nature, learn about conservation efforts, and enjoy a pleasant outing in a clean and well-maintained environment. The dedication to animal welfare and visitor experience makes the Great Bend Zoo a true gem in the heart of Kansas, offering a rewarding experience without an admission fee. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

The Great Bend Zoo, formally known as the Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo, traces its origins back to 1953, founded through the vision of Brit Spaugh, the city's first director of public lands. Initially named City Park, the establishment of the zoo faced some local resistance, particularly regarding the conversion of a baseball field for animal enclosures. Despite initial skepticism, Spaugh's dream prevailed, establishing a free zoo for the community. Early inhabitants included two black bears donated by the Montana Fish and Game Commission in 1953. The zoo soon expanded its collection, importing its first international animals in 1958 with the arrival of aoudads (Barbary Sheep) from North Africa. By 1959, four spider monkeys had made their home on "Monkey Island". A significant achievement came in 1965 when six rare Trumpeter Swan cygnets hatched at the zoo, a feat noted by the U.S. Department of the Interior as the first recorded captive breeding of the species in 100 years. The zoo was officially renamed Brit Spaugh Park in 1965 in honor of its founder. Over the decades, the zoo has undergone modernization, replacing old cages with more naturalistic enclosures, including a renovated space for grizzly bears in 2018.

What to do here

Stroll through the grounds and observe a diverse collection of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Spend time at the Raptor Center to learn about bird rehabilitation and see smaller creatures. Visit the Butterfly House for a colorful experience. Take advantage of the photo opportunities at the well-designed animal enclosures. Engage with staff who can provide interesting facts about the animals.

Seasonal info

Warm Weather: Animals may be less active during the hottest parts of the day. Mornings and evenings are ideal. Cold Weather: While outdoor animals might be less active or moved indoors, the Raptor Center's indoor exhibits provide a warm space to see many smaller animals. Special Events: The zoo occasionally hosts unique evening events like "Wild About Wellness" which can offer different ways to experience the venue.

Accessibility

The Great Bend Zoo is highly accessible, featuring accessible parking, restrooms, and trails. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for rent for a small fee, ensuring a comfortable visit for guests with limited mobility or parents with strollers.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: A typical visit to the Great Bend Zoo takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, allowing ample time to leisurely explore all the exhibits, including the Raptor Center and various animal enclosures. Families with young children might extend their stay to enjoy the playgrounds in Brit Spaugh Park or spend more time observing active animals.
Best time to visit: Mornings are generally the best time to visit the Great Bend Zoo, as many animals are most active during cooler temperatures and after their morning feeding. If the weather is hot, early mornings or late afternoons can be more comfortable for both visitors and animals. Special events, like "Wild About Wellness" evenings, offer unique after-hours experiences.
Location: Kansas, US
Species in this guide: 15

Best for

Families With ChildrenAnimal Lovers And Wildlife EnthusiastsConservation And Education AdvocatesBudget Conscious Travelers Due To Free AdmissionRoad Trip Travelers Looking For A Unique, Free Stop In Central Kansas

Open in Maps

Don't miss

Raptor Center

A unique facility focusing on the treatment and rehabilitation of injured birds of prey like eagles and owls, also housing a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.

Grizzly Bear Exhibit

A modern, naturalistic enclosure with a stream, pools, and an artificial cave, providing close-up views of these powerful animals.

North American Bison

Observe these iconic large mammals in their expansive habitat.

Butterfly House

A pleasant spot to see various butterfly species.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Grizzly Bear

Bison

African Lion

Arctic Fox

Trumpeter Swan

Golden Eagle

Owl

Axolotl

Crocodile

Tarantula

Chinchilla

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Animals tend to be more active in the mornings, especially during warmer months, offering better viewing opportunities.

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo grounds are extensive, and you'll want to be comfortable exploring all the exhibits.

Bring your camera

Many enclosures offer excellent vantage points for photography, especially the grizzly bear and raptor exhibits.

No outside food for animals

Feeding the animals is strictly prohibited to ensure their health and well-being.

Respect barriers and rules

For the safety of both visitors and animals, always stay behind barriers and follow all posted zoo rules, including not picking plants or disturbing wildlife.

Check for special events

The zoo occasionally hosts educational programs, keeper chats, or unique evening events that can enhance your visit.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, admission to the Great Bend Zoo is completely free for all visitors, a tradition upheld since its founding.
: Key animal highlights include grizzly bears, bison, African lions, African crested porcupines, Lar Gibbons, Ring-tailed Lemurs, and a variety of birds of prey like eagles and owls in the Raptor Center. The zoo also features a diverse collection of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
: Yes, the Great Bend Zoo is committed to accessibility. It offers accessible parking, restrooms, and paved trails throughout the park. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are also available for rent.