Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the zoo?

Located only minutes from Canal Park in Duluth, it’s easy to find your way to the Zoo no matter where you’re coming from! Here are some directions to the Lake Superior Zoo.

From Canal Park/Downtown/North:

  • Get on I-35 S and follow it to MN-23 W/Grand Ave (Exit 251B – left exit).
  • Continue 1 mile to 2nd set of lights (71st Ave W).
  • Take a Right. Zoo is located 1 block on the left.

From Wisconsin:

  • Enter MN via the Blatnik or Bong Bridge. Get on I-35 S and follow it to MN-23 W/Grand Ave (Exit 251B – left exit).
  • Continue 1 mile to 2nd set of lights (71st  Ave W).
  • Take a Right. Zoo is located 1 block on the left.

From the South:

  • Take I-35 N to Cody Street (Exit 251A- right exit).
  • Continue on this long exit to 59th Ave W. Take a right. Go ½ mile to MN-23/Grand Ave.
  • Take a right and continue 1 mile to 2nd set of lights (71st Ave W).
  • Take a Right. Zoo is located 1 block on the left.
How much does it cost to park at the zoo?

The parking is FREE!

I am a member of the Minnesota Zoo/Great Lakes Aquarium/Duluth Children’s Museum. Do I get a discount on admission?

Yes. Members of the Minnesota Zoo and the Great Lakes Aquarium receive a 50% discount on our regular admission prices, but not on special events, such as Boo at the Zoo.

Can we bring/have a picnic at the zoo and bring our own food?

Yes. Please keep in mind that we do not allow straws at the zoo because it is a choking hazard for our animals. We encourage you to bring reusable containers for your food and drink. Fairmount Park, located directly adjacent to the zoo’s parking lot is also a great picnic spot.

Are you open in the winter?

Yes. The zoo in Duluth is open all year long. We are also closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Winter is a great season to visit the zoo because many of our large carnivores are more active when it’s cold.

Don’t the animals get cold in the winter?

Most of our animals are well-suited for Minnesota winters. They have large heated rocks in their exhibits and access to their holding areas. Our animals that are not well-adapted to winter, such as our red kangaroo, are housed indoors.

Will we be able to pet any of the animals?

There is a good chance you will. Our barnyard is a great place to get “up close and personal” with some of our animals. Also, we frequently have a docent in our Griggs Learning Center who can introduce you to some of our education animals.

Are there hiking trails at the zoo?

Yes. The zoo has a kid-friendly hiking trail that leads to a scenic overlook of Kingsbury Creek’s waterfalls. Just outside the zoo there is a hiking trail from Fairmont Park, with others nearby. For more information visit the Superior Hiking Trail’s website: http://www.shta.org/Trail/Duluth.php

Can we bike to the zoo?

Yes. We recommend using the Willard Munger State Trail. For more information visit the MN Department of Natural Resources website: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/willard_munger/index.html

Can I bring my dog with me to the zoo?

Pets are not allowed on zoo grounds. Only service animals, as permitted by law, are allowed.

Not finding an answer?

We’re always updating our FAQ so when you can’t find what you’re looking be sure to reach out. The Zoo staff is here to help.

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