Behind the Scenes

Discover What Happens Behind the Scenes!

Reserve your spot in one of the Blank Park Zoo's exciting new Behind the Scenes tours. Each tour explores different animals and habitats. Spend one-on-one time with a zoo keeper and get up close with the animals. Choose from four opportunities. Tour sizes are limited to maintain an intimate feel. Call 515.974.2547 to schedule your private experience today! Tours must be booked at least a week in advance.

Tour Fees
Ages 12 years and older: $100/non-members, $50/members
Ages 3-11 years: $50/non-members, $25/members
Children 3 and under: Free

GREAT CATS 
Chat with the zoo keepers regarding care of the large cats and observe training sessions for the Snow Leopards, Siberian (Amur) Tigers, and African Lions.

Maximum Size of Tour:  4 people
Age Restrictions:   Must be 12 years or older
Availability:   Sunday - Tuesday (any day) at 9:30 am

SEA LION TRAINING
Work with the zoo keepers to prepare the fish for feeding, learn about animal training, and stand on the sea lion deck during a training session.

Maximum Size of Tour:  5 people
Age Restrictions:   Must be 12 years or older
Availability:   Everyday at 11:00 am or 3:00 pm

AFRICAN ADVENTURE
Join our zoo keepers in the African barn to learn about the kudu and giraffe and have the opportunity to feed the giraffe.  

Maximum Size of Tour:  8 people
Age Restrictions:   Younger children must be carried
Availability:   Everyday at 3:00 pm, November - March

DISCOVERY ADVENTURE
Tour the holding areas in the indoor rainforest, feed the finches, and walk above the coral reef. 

Maximum Size of Tour:  8 people
Age Restrictions:   Younger children must be carried
Availability:   Any day of the week at 1:00 pm or 2:00 pm