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How do I get into the Zoo?

We are handicap accessible--wheelchairs and strollers are available.

For your safety and the safety of our animals, only service dogs (guide dogs for the blind, working dogs for people with disabilities) are permitted in the Zoo.

Admissions:

Babies under 2: Free
Children ages 2-12: $4.00
Adults (age 13+): $7.00

Reduced winter rates.

For group rates call (701) 223-7543.

Gift Certificates

Dakota Zoo gift certificates are now available! They are available in any amount, redeemable for camps, admission, memberships, train rides, concessions and gift shop items. Visit the Antler Trading post for details.

Birthdays at the Zoo

Celebrate a birthday at the Zoo—call (701) 223-7543 to schedule.

  • Discounted birthday party rate.
  • Gazebo available free of charge.
  • Bismarck Tribune Discovery Center meeting room available for a fee.
  • Zoo meals are available.
  • You may bring in your own cake or birthday treat.
  • Balloons are not allowed for the safety of the animals.

Become a member of the wildest club in town:

A membership at the Dakota Zoo, not only provides you with free admission to our Zoo, but into 180+ other Zoos and aquariums throughout North America. Your membership is good for one year from date of purchase. Other benefits of membership include:
  • Ten free train tickets (valued at $25)
  • 10% off at the Antler Trading Post gift shop
  • Free picnic in July for members only
  • Discounted rates for selected special events

Please Note:

If you purchase your membership at the Zoo, you will receive your membership card and materials immediately.

If you purchase by mail, phone, fax, or online, your membership will be processed and your card and materials placed in the mail within 5 business days.  

 A reminder about online membership purchases:

Online membership purchases must be processed and entered into our system.  They do NOT onstitute  an “instant membership.”
 
If you are planning to visit the Dakota Zoo, your membership may not be active if purchased online the day of your visit.

If you are planning to visit other zoos, under the terms of our reciprocal agreement, you must present your valid membership card and photo ID to be granted reciprocal admission.

Membership options include:

$35 An Individual membership includes free admission for the person listed on the membership card.
$55 A Family membership includes free admission for parents and dependent children.
$55 A Grandparent membership includes free admission for grandparents and grandchildren under 18 years old—not the parents of the grandchildren.
$85 A Family Plus membership includes free admission for your immediate family (living in your household) plus a guest family. Someone in your immediate family must accompany the guest family. The member’s picnic is for your household only.

Click here for an online membership form.

You may also purchase your membership at the admissions window or by mailing your payment (indicating which membership you want in the memo of your check) to:

Dakota Zoo
Attention: Memberships
PO Box 711
Bismarck, ND 58502-0711