ZooNorth Dakota, US

Roosevelt Park Zoo

Roosevelt Park Zoo offers an exciting wildlife experience in the heart of Minot, North Dakota.

About

Roosevelt Park Zoo offers an exciting wildlife experience in the heart of Minot, North Dakota. As the oldest zoo in North Dakota, it's a beloved community gem, accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), signifying its high standards in animal care, conservation, and guest experience. This inviting destination provides a unique opportunity to connect with over 160 animals representing more than 50 species from around the globe, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Visitors can explore immersive habitats, including captivating big cat exhibits featuring majestic African Lions, critically endangered Amur Tigers, and elusive Amur Leopards. The new African Plains exhibit stands out, offering the chance for guests to hand-feed towering Reticulated Giraffes, an experience that creates lasting memories. Other highlights include the playful African Penguins, the fascinating Two-toed Sloth named Helen, curious Red Pandas, and the impressive Brown Bears.

With its commitment to conservation and education, Roosevelt Park Zoo provides engaging experiences year-round, from interactive animal encounters to seasonal events. It's a place where families can learn about wildlife, witness the wonders of the animal kingdom up close, and contribute to vital conservation efforts, ensuring a memorable and inspiring visit for everyone. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

The Roosevelt Park Zoo began modestly on April 9, 1914, as Riverside Park Zoo, initially housing just 24 squirrels. The zoo acquired its first large mammal, an American Bison, in 1920 or 1921, and constructed its first permanent structure, the Zoological Building (now the aviary), in 1921. Following the death of former President Theodore Roosevelt, the park and zoo were renamed Roosevelt Park Zoo in 1922, honoring his legacy as a passionate conservationist. Over the decades, the zoo expanded its collection, bringing in animals such as lions, elephants, and monkeys. The zoo has faced significant challenges, including major floods in 1969 and 2011 from the Souris River, which flows through the property, necessitating the temporary relocation of all animals and leading to redesigns of the grounds. In 1970, the zoo became an independent entity from the city-owned Roosevelt Park, with the Greater Minot Zoological Society (GMZS) formed to support its operations and growth, including achieving AZA accreditation.

What to do here

Engage in daily "Wild Happenings," which include keeper chats, animal feedings (like the bears and penguins), and training sessions. Consider a unique animal encounter for an up-close experience with species like sloths, okapi, or tigers. Enjoy a ride on the Critter Caboose train during the summer months.

Seasonal info

Summer (June-August): The zoo operates with extended hours (9:00 AM to 8:00 PM) and all outdoor attractions, including the train ride, are typically available.

Winter (October-April): While hours are reduced (10:00 AM to 3:00 PM), many animals are still viewable, and North American species such as river otters and wolves can be particularly active and engaging in snowy conditions. The Visitor Center, Aviary, and Discovery Barn remain open.

Accessibility

Roosevelt Park Zoo is fully accessible, offering wheelchair-accessible doors, ramps, and restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for rent, and trails are paved or partially paved. Sensory-friendly resources, including sensory bags and noise-canceling headphones, along with Sensory Explorer Kits for those with visual impairments, are also available.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Plan for a leisurely 2 to 3 hours to explore all thematic zones and observe animals. If visiting with small children or planning to attend specific programs or animal encounters, allocate more time.
Best time to visit: Mornings are often ideal as many animals are most active and zookeepers conduct feedings and cleanings, providing opportunities for interaction and observation. The zoo is open year-round, offering different experiences; summer provides full access to all events and rides, while winter allows visitors to see North American animals like river otters and wolves actively enjoying the snow.
Location: North Dakota, US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With ChildrenAnimal Lovers And Conservation EnthusiastsPhotography And Nature ObservationEducational Outings And School Groups

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Don't miss the African Plains exhibit for giraffe hand-feeding, the big cat exhibits featuring African Lions and Amur Tigers, and the interactive African Penguin habitat. Seek out the elusive Amur Leopard, the fascinating Okapi, and the playful Red Pandas. The Discovery Barn and Children's Zoo are great for younger visitors.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Canada Goose

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

Arrive Early

Visit in the morning to see animals at their most active and to catch zookeepers during feeding and cleaning routines.

Check the Daily Schedule

Consult the zoo's website or check at the entrance for the "Wild Happenings" schedule, which includes free keeper chats, animal feedings, and training sessions that enhance your visit.

Experience an Animal Encounter

For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a unique animal encounter to get up close with a sloth, okapi, tiger, or penguin (additional fees apply, check age restrictions).

Rent a Wagon or Stroller

The zoo grounds are easy to navigate, but for families with young children, renting a wagon at the entrance can make exploring more comfortable.

Explore in All Seasons

Don't limit your visit to summer; many North American animals, such as river otters and wolves, are particularly playful and active in winter.

Utilize Accessibility Resources

If needed, take advantage of the available wheelchairs, sensory bags, or Sensory Explorer Kits to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors.

Frequently asked questions

: Roosevelt Park Zoo is home to a diverse collection of over 160 animals from more than 50 species. Key animals include African Lions, Amur Tigers, Reticulated Giraffes, African Penguins, Red Pandas, Two-toed Sloths, Amur Leopards, Brown Bears, and Okapi.
: Yes, Roosevelt Park Zoo is fully accessible. It features wheelchair-accessible doors, ramps, and restrooms. Both paved and partially paved trails ensure ease of movement, and wheelchairs are available for rent. The zoo also offers sensory-friendly resources like sensory bags and noise-canceling headphones, as well as Sensory Explorer Kits for visually impaired guests.
: Absolutely! Roosevelt Park Zoo hosts a variety of special events and educational programs throughout the year. These include daily "Wild Happenings" such as keeper chats, animal feedings, and training sessions. Educational programs like "Zoo Tots" for preschoolers, "School's Out Day Camp," and "Summer Camp" are popular. Seasonal events like "Easter at the Zoo" and "International Tiger Day" are also held.