Are you considering a visit to the zoos and aquariums in Iowa?
Iowa was established on January 29th, 1846. It is a landlocked Midwestern state in the United States.
This state is nestled between Missouri and the Mississippi River. Iowa’s rich history and scenic landscapes offer many activities for tourists.
You can walk down historic streets and window shop in peaceful towns or admire the natural beauty of farmlands, rolling hills, covered bridges, and streams.
An additional activity most travelers do when visiting Iowa is exploring wildlife, such as zoos and aquariums.
Here are some of the best zoos and aquariums in Iowa.
Zoos & Aquariums in Iowa
1. Blank Park Zoo (DeMoines, Iowa)
Blank Park Zoo
Blank Park Zoo is the last surviving Zoo in Iowa accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the only accredited Zoo in Iowa.
This 49-acre Zoo is open throughout the year except during bad weather and important holidays.
The Zoo was established in 1966. Its mission is to “inspire an appreciation of the natural world through education and entertainment. ”
Guests visiting the park can feed the giraffes and parakeets with food that the zoo staff provides.
The discovery center is the first place visitors will go when entering the complex.
They will view various plants and animals in this place, including red pandas.
After the discovery center, they will go to the cave exhibits to see many nocturnal animals, such as fruit bats, scorpions, and hissing cockroaches.
Blank Park Zoo also has an aquarium with various tropical fish and an aviary with many species of birds.
There is also an African boardwalk where guests can view giraffes, zebras, ostriches, rhinos, and other delightful animals from the continents.
Along the way, you will see penguins, big cats, seals, turtles, sea lions, and different reptiles.
For the little ones, there is a kid’s kingdom with a fossil dig, a colossal playground, and animals that can be gently petted.
Additionally, attractions include a carousel, a restaurant, a gift shop, and a train that runs through the Zoo.
There are picnic areas available for those visitors who bring their lunch. Set aside ample time to explore everything in Blank Park Zoo.
Address: 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, United States
2. National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
An outstanding Aquarium in Iowa is the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. It contains a science center and a museum.
This museum and aquarium encourage stewardship by designing educational experiences where rivers and history come alive.
Their 14-acre campus on the banks of the Mississippi River contains two divided two-story buildings and a vast outdoor plaza.
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium houses over 100 animal species and countless historical artifacts.
Some of the wildlife in the aquarium include otters, alligators, colossal catfish, eels, turtles, snakes, stingrays that can be fed and touched, and an old sturgeon from the Mississippi River.
There is a river center where visitors can learn about rivers and what it felt like to live and work on the Mississippi River.
The science center offers many hands-on learning activities for everyone, regardless of age.
The museum features numerous artifacts and exhibits illustrating life on the river and in neighboring states.
With so much to see, there is always an opportunity to explore something new.
Visiting The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is an ideal way for everyone to learn the history and wildlife of the Mississippi River and Iowa.
Address: 350 E 3rd St, Dubuque, IA 52001, United States
3. Sunrise Children’s Zoo (Waterloo, Iowa)
This cute Zoo is situated on the National Cattle Congress Grounds, with land presented by a local farmer.
It is operated entirely by volunteers. Guests cannot help but smile at how happy and healthy the animals are.
Sunrise Children’s Zoo is open from May to September; entry is free. Guests can buy feeds for the animals at a small fee.
Some of the adorable animals you will see are donkeys, goats, cows, ducks, chickens, cats, dogs, deer, pigs, and peacocks.
At the end of the seasons, the cats and dogs that were formerly stray are put up for adoption.
In addition to having a picnic area and many open spaces for kids to roam around, the Zoo also gives out its facilities for occasions, especially birthday parties.
Address: 250 Ansborough Ave #2134, Waterloo, IA 50701, United States
4. Storybook Hills Children’s Zoo (Dubuque, Iowa)
Storybook Hills Children’s Zoo was founded in 1976 in partnership with the Optimists Clubs of Dubuque to expand the knowledge and understanding of common animals among the residents of Dubuque.
The Zoo imitates an American farm from the 1940s and contains many animals, including horses, goats, and rabbits.
Among the cute animals, visitors will encounter include cats, peacocks, rabbits, ducks, chickens, pigs, llamas, sheep, and calves.
The Zoo also has a playground, pond, and lovely green space.
Storybook Hills Children’s Zoo also serves as a fantastic place for a picnic after seeing the animals.
Storybook Hills Children’s Zoo is open from May to Labor Day, and entry is free.
Address: 12201 N Cascade Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, United States.
5. Barn Stahl Children’s Zoo And Farm (Wellsburg, Iowa)
Barn Stahl Children’s Zoo And Farm is a family-owned and run Zoo and farm that has been in operation for over 35 years.
In 2007, after a rather wet season, the family established a corn maze to make some extra income.
They were stunned when the Stahls realized that the kids were more interested in the farm animals.
The family then realized there was a need for the kids to have better knowledge and education about wildlife.
During that realization, they founded a children’s Zoo on the property.
Today, visitors can see over 100 animals, including llamas, horses, bison, zebras, chickens, cows, porcupines, a mini highlander, and a camel.
There are many other features, such as an enormous jumper pad and play area, a corn box, and wagon rides.
Children and adults can go pumpkin picking during fall after viewing the animals.
For an extra charge, the Zoo has an “Up Close” program where children can hold and feed some of the animals.
Address: 16519 185th St, Wellsburg, IA 50680, United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the kid’s zoos not open throughout the year?
The weather conditions may require several animals to be moved to other areas.
How are some of the zoos able to offer free entry?
Most of the zoos are entirely operated by volunteers.
Money for animal foods and supplies is gotten from charitable donations and fundraisers.
Are there places in the children’s zoos where people can purchase food?
There are no places where people can buy food, but visitors are welcome to bring their own food.
Do private zoos in Iowa allow service animals?
Certified service dogs are permitted, but emotional support animals are not allowed.
Who has the best Zoo?
San Diego Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world.
San Diego Zoo, established in 1916, is home to over 3,500 animals across 650 varieties of species. It has frequently been awarded as one of the best zoos worldwide.
It was among the first zoos to feature an open-air, cageless exhibit.
Check out more cities in Iowa, here are guides on things to do in Des Moines. things to do in Iowa City, and things to do in Cedar Rapids for a fun time
Plan Your Trip to Iowa
Iowa is an incredible city to visit. There are several things to see and do. It can be challenging to pick the best ones for you.
If you love animals and sea creatures, you will enjoy visiting the Zoos and Aquariums mentioned above.
If you are excited to visit this great State, start planning your visit now.