Great Plains Zoo

The Great Plains Zoo is an iconic natural and educational complex located in Sioux Falls, USA. Combining a spacious zoo with the unique Delbridge Museum of Natural History, this destination offers visitors an exciting journey across various corners of the globe without ever leaving South Dakota.

The complex covers approximately 45 acres, where hundreds of animals live in habitats designed to closely mimic the wild. The zoo emphasizes biodiversity conservation and the ecosystems of the Great Plains region, functioning as both an entertainment center and a serious scientific resource.

With a 4.4 rating and thousands of glowing reviews, this site is rightfully considered one of the region's most popular tourist destinations. It is perfect for both curious travelers and families looking to spend a day outdoors surrounded by fascinating wildlife.

For current information on events and special offers, you can contact the administration by phone or visit the official website. Staff members are always ready to answer questions regarding tickets and group tours.

At this zoo, guests can encounter some of the world's most exotic wildlife: you can see majestic giraffes, tigers, rhinos, and lions. The modern lion and meerkat exhibit, which opened in the summer of 2024, is particularly popular, allowing visitors to observe these animals in spacious, detailed habitats.

For those interested in science, the Delbridge Museum of Natural History is a must-visit. Its halls showcase a rich collection of taxidermy, fossils, and educational exhibits telling the story of flora and fauna from the past and present. It is an excellent place to broaden your horizons and learn more about the region's ecology.

Families with children will appreciate the interactive opportunities, such as animal feedings under professional supervision and special educational workshops. Well-maintained trails and rest areas make for a pleasant stroll, while photography enthusiasts will find plenty of excellent vantage points for capturing wildlife in natural settings.

The attraction is located in the southern part of the city at 805 S Kiwanis Ave. For travelers arriving by car, it is most convenient to take I-229 or local city roads—the drive from downtown Sioux Falls takes only about 10-15 minutes. Free parking is available for visitors on the zoo grounds.

If you are using public transportation, look for the Sioux Area Metro (SAM) buses running along Kiwanis Avenue; the nearest stop is just a few minutes' walk away. Taxis and Uber are also readily available. For those arriving in the region by air, the trip from Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) is approximately 15 kilometers, taking about 20 minutes by car.

The roots of this amazing place go back to the 1880s, when Senator Richard F. Pettigrew began assembling a private collection of wild animals, which he displayed for the public in city parks. In 1930, management of this collection was transferred to the city park system, allowing for the expansion of exotic animal exhibits at Sherman Park.

A major turning point came in 1957 with the creation of the Zoological Society of Sioux Falls (ZSSF). Thanks to the efforts of local patrons and city support, the Great Plains Zoo officially opened its doors to the public on June 30, 1963, on a 32-acre site.

In the following decades, the complex continued to grow: in 1984, the Delbridge Museum of Natural History opened, becoming an important addition to the live animal exhibits. Since 1985, management has been fully handled by the ZSSF, and in 1991, the zoo received prestigious AZA accreditation, confirming the highest standards of animal care.

To tour all the animal enclosures and explore the Delbridge Museum exhibits at a relaxed pace, you will typically need 3 to 5 hours. This allows enough time not only to see rare predators but also to participate in educational programs or simply relax along the shaded pathways.

Families traveling with young children are recommended to plan for a half-day visit. The large 45-acre territory and abundance of interactive zones can keep young explorers engaged for quite a while, and the presence of picnic areas makes for a comfortable day out.

The Great Plains Zoo welcomes guests every day. The operating schedule remains consistent throughout the week, making it easy to plan a visit for any day that suits you.

Hours of operation:

• Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Please keep in mind that operating hours may be adjusted during holidays or due to seasonal changes, so it is recommended to check the zoo's website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Exploring the area surrounding the zoo can significantly enrich your visit to the region. Nearby, you will find both nature parks and historical sites that are well worth a visit for travelers of all ages.