APPLE VALLEY FARMINGTON ROSEMOUNT
COMMUNITY GUIDE | 2023
Treetop Trail opened in 2023
Apple Valley is home to the Minnesota Zoo , 13000 Zoo Boulevard , as the 485-acre site cares for about 500 different species of animals .
The Minnesota Zoo is a state agency , which differs from other zoos in Minnesota and most zoos in the United States , which are usually run by municipalities or private organizations .
When the zoo opened in 1978 , it was fairly revolutionary in its exhibit design . The zoo had more space to house exhibits and was one of the first zoos to organize its animals by their living environment as opposed to their species . Exhibits are arranged in several themed areas , including themed walking trails .
The zoo opened the Treetop Trail in late summer 2023 . The trail is the world ’ s longest elevated pedestrian loop , which was built on the old monorail tracks . The 1.25-mile walking path brings guests up to 32 feet above the ground and provides a year-round and accessible journey into nature for people of all ages , backgrounds , and abilities , the zoo says . The feature includes 22 bump-out overlooks to allow visitors new views of the zoo ’ s animals .
There is a wide variety of exhibits at the zoo , but some of the more popular sites are Russia ’ s Grizzly Coast , a part-indoor , part-outdoor exhibit featuring animals from Russia ’ s Far East and the Kamchatka Peninsula . In recent years , the
zoo has added a black bear exhibit , rennovated Discovery Bay , and improved the Wells Fargo Farm . Other new additions are the Conservation Carousel ride next to the Hanifl Family Wild Woods play area .
Shows and demonstrations often run throughout the day , including a coral reef dive show , cow milking demonstration at the Wells Fargo Family Farm , bird show and shark feedings . The zoo ’ s website , mnzoo . org , lists specific shows and times . Announcements about special events can be found at the entrance .
Visits to the zoo average three to four hours , but a person can easily spend an entire day at the zoo and still have more to see . There are indoor and outdoor exhibits that are open all year long . Even when the weather is cold , the indoor exhibits are warm , featuring animals from the Caribbean , South Pacific and rain forests .
As of September 2023 , online tickets are required for all guests , including zoo members ( free ) and children 2 and under ( free ). Face coverings are optional . Prices are $ 21.95 for ages 13-64 , free for ages 0-2 , $ 15.95 for ages 3-12 and anyone 65 or older . Parking costs $ 8 for cars , $ 12 for buses or motor coaches , but free for members . Annual zoo memberships run from $ 65 to $ 250 . Check the website mnzoo . org for hours as they vary by season or call 952-431-9213 .
Community Guide 2023 | APPLE VALLEY • FARMINGTON • ROSEMOUNT | 23