Dakota Zoo

About

Nestled along the Missouri River in Bismarck, the Dakota Zoo has been bringing people closer to wildlife since 1961. Home to more than 600 animals representing roughly 125 species, it's one of North Dakota's most popular family destinations - and one that takes accessibility seriously.

The zoo spans a manageable size that makes for a comfortable visit without the exhaustion of larger facilities. You'll find a mix of native North American wildlife and exotic species from around the world. Grizzly bears, snow leopards, red pandas, and river otters are among the favorites. The prairie dog exhibit is a hit with kids, and the aviary offers an immersive experience with birds from multiple continents.

One of the zoo's standout features is its guided bus tour, which offers a narrated ride through the grounds. It's a great option for visitors who want to see the animals without covering the full distance on foot. The tour accommodates wheelchair users, making it genuinely inclusive rather than just technically compliant.

Seasonal programs keep things fresh throughout the year. Summer brings extended hours and special feeding demonstrations, while educational programs run year-round for visitors of all ages. The zoo also hosts events that draw the community together, from conservation awareness days to holiday celebrations.

For practical planning, the zoo is open seasonally, typically from May through September, though hours can vary. Admission is reasonably priced, and children under two get in free. There's a gift shop near the entrance and concession areas within the grounds. Picnic areas are available if you'd rather bring your own lunch.

Parking is straightforward with a lot adjacent to the entrance. The zoo sits within Sertoma Park, so you can easily combine your visit with time along the river trail or at nearby playgrounds. It's the kind of place where you can spend a relaxed morning or stretch the visit into a full afternoon, depending on your pace and energy.

Accessibility

The Dakota Zoo is handicap accessible, with several features designed to support visitors with mobility needs. Wheelchairs are available in limited numbers at the admissions window on a first-come, first-served basis. The zoo's map indicates the best path of travel for wheelchair users, marked with blue dotted lines, helping visitors plan their route in advance.

The guided bus tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating one wheelchair per vehicle. This is a valuable option for visitors who may have difficulty covering the full grounds on foot.

According to the North Dakota Tourism Guide, the zoo offers an accessible entrance, passenger drop-off and pick-up areas, paved pathways, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and wheelchair-accessible seating. Service animals are allowed throughout the facility.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, the zoo is generally a lower-stimulation environment compared to larger metropolitan zoos, though animal sounds and seasonal crowds can vary. The outdoor setting allows visitors to move at their own pace and step away to quieter areas as needed.

Because the zoo is open seasonally, conditions can change from year to year. Contact the Dakota Zoo directly at (701) 223-7543 for the most current information on accessibility accommodations, wheelchair availability, and any temporary path closures that might affect your visit.

More accessible places in North Dakota

• North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum (Bismarck)
• SuperSlide Amusement Park (Bismarck)
• Fargo Air Museum (Fargo)
• Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site (Williston)
• Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site (Stanton)
• Bonanzaville USA (West Fargo)