ZooMinnesota, US

Hemker Park & Zoo

Hemker Park & Zoo offers unique, intimate wildlife encounters in central Minnesota.

About

Hemker Park & Zoo offers unique, intimate wildlife encounters in central Minnesota. Nestled in Freeport, Minnesota, Hemker Park & Zoo is a beloved family-owned and operated seasonal destination dedicated to connecting visitors with the animal kingdom. This charming zoo showcases over 200 animals representing more than 50 species from around the globe, providing an engaging and educational experience that emphasizes conservation and wildlife appreciation. The visitor experience is marked by its interactive nature, allowing guests to go beyond observation and participate in memorable animal encounters. Imagine standing eye-to-eye with a giraffe as you hand-feed it, or getting the chance to offer a snack to Tio, Minnesota's only rhino. The Budgie Buddy House offers an immersive aviary where colorful budgies may land directly on you, creating a joyful, unforgettable moment. Beyond these unique interactions, the zoo is home to fascinating creatures like playful red pandas, agile black-and-white ruffed lemurs, and exotic Bactrian camels, each housed in environments designed to mimic their natural habitats. Hemker Park & Zoo is more than just an attraction; it's a place where every visit supports a legacy of love and a commitment to wildlife preservation. The intimate setting, combined with daily educational programs and special seasonal events, makes it a truly special place to spend a day. Whether exploring the diverse animal exhibits, enjoying a leisurely tram tour, or participating in a unique animal encounter, guests leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the animal world. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Hemker Park & Zoo began its journey in 1977 as the Hemker Game Farm, founded by Mark and Joan Hemker in Freeport, Minnesota. The initial collection started modestly with various waterfowl. Over the years, the animal family grew, introducing white-tail deer and a black bear in 1980, followed by a pronghorn antelope and reindeer in 1985. The venue rebranded to Hemker Wildlife Park in 1992, adding six black-footed penguins to its collection, and officially opened to the public in 1994. New exhibits like the African Safari were introduced around the turn of the century. After Mark Hemker's passing in 2006, his family continued his legacy, transforming the park into Hemker Park & Zoo in 2008. This expansion included a new picnic area and a farm petting zoo, with penguins returning in 2010 and the addition of New Guinea singing dogs in 2012. Today, the zoo remains family-owned and operated, continuing its mission of conservation and education.

What to do here

Engage in various animal feeding experiences (giraffe, rhino, otters, flamingos, budgies, koi fish). Explore educational programs, and consider the "Zoo Keeper Experience Day" for a behind-the-scenes look.

Seasonal info

Weather: During early May and late September/October, some warmer climate animals might not be available for viewing if the weather is cold or rainy. Animal Activity: Animals tend to be more active during cooler parts of the day, like mornings and late afternoons, especially during peak summer heat. Seasonal Events: The zoo hosts several popular events including Brew at the Zoo (June), Summer Party (July), Fall Zoo Fest (September), Zootoberfest (September), Boo at the Zoo (October), and Santa Days (November).

Accessibility

Pathways throughout the zoo are packed gravel, and bathroom facilities are handicap accessible. The Discovery Safari Tram is wheelchair accessible, with a dedicated slot for wheelchairs, though it cannot accommodate strollers or motorized scooters. Service animals are permitted in the zoo.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: A typical visit to Hemker Park & Zoo lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the exhibits and participate in activities.
Best time to visit: The zoo is open seasonally from May 1st to October 31st. The warmer summer months (June-August) generally offer the best animal viewing opportunities, as some warmer-climate animals may not be out during colder periods in early May or late September/October due due to weather conditions.
Location: Minnesota, US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With Young Children: The Zoo's Intimate Size, Interactive Animal Encounters, And Family Friendly Atmosphere Make It Perfect For Kids Of All Ages, Including Toddlers.Animal Lovers Seeking Interactive Experiences: Visitors Who Enjoy Direct Engagement With Animals Through Feeding Opportunities And Close Up Views Will Find The Zoo Particularly Appealing.Conservation Enthusiasts: The Zoo Actively Participates In Conservation Efforts And Species Survival Plans, Providing An Educational Environment For Those Interested In Wildlife Preservation.Those Seeking A More Intimate Zoo Experience: Unlike Larger, Sprawling Zoos, Hemker Park & Zoo Offers A More Personal And Manageable Visit, Allowing For Deeper Connections With The Animals And Staff.

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Giraffe Feeding Station

Get up close with giraffes and offer them a snack.

Rhino Encounter

Meet Tio, the state's only rhino, and participate in a feeding experience.

Budgie Buddy House

An immersive aviary where you can feed colorful budgies.

Red Pandas

Observe these captivating creatures, unique to this zoo in Minnesota.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Giraffes

Red Panda

North American River Otter

Budgerigar

Flamingos

Gibbon

Snap map for this place

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

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Good to know before you go

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The pathways are packed gravel, so comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the entire park.

Bring Your Own Snacks/Lunch

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, with picnic areas available for use. This can be a great way to save money and enjoy a meal amidst nature.

Plan for Animal Encounters

Popular interactive experiences like giraffe, rhino, and otter feedings have specific times and often an additional cost. Check the daily schedule upon arrival or online and consider purchasing tickets in advance.

Take the Tram Tour

For a relaxing overview of the zoo and to cover more ground, especially with young children or those with mobility concerns, consider taking the Discovery Safari Tram Tour.

Check the Weather

Especially during the shoulder seasons (May, late September, October), cooler temperatures or rain might mean some warm-climate animals are kept indoors. Plan your visit during pleasant weather for optimal viewing.

Visit in the Morning or Late Afternoon

Animals are often more active during the cooler parts of the day, making these times ideal for observing their natural behaviors.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, Hemker Park & Zoo offers several unique animal feeding experiences, including opportunities to hand-feed giraffes, Tio the rhino, otters, flamingos, budgies in the Budgie Buddy House, and koi fish. These encounters are typically available at specific times for an additional fee.
: Yes, the zoo is designed to be wheelchair accessible. Pathways are made of packed gravel, and all bathroom facilities are handicap accessible. Additionally, the Discovery Safari Tram features a special slot to accommodate wheelchairs, offering an accessible way to tour the grounds.
: Hemker Park & Zoo is notable for being home to Tio, the only rhino in the state of Minnesota. Visitors can also see red pandas, which are not commonly found in other Minnesota zoos, along with fascinating creatures like Bactrian camels and Sichuan takins.