Which Is Best: Minnesota Zoo Or Lake Superior Zoo. A Guide To Which Is The Best Zoo In Minnesota, USA

Size

The Minnesota Zoo and Lake Superior Zoo, both located in the state of Minnesota, USA, vary notably in size.

At 485 acres, Minnesota Zoo dwarfs the comparatively smaller 19-acre Lake Superior Zoo.

The spacious expanse of the Minnesota Zoo provides room for a much larger collection of animals, boasting 4,500 animals and 505 varieties of species.

The Lake Superior Zoo, on the other hand, houses over 200 animals.

As would be expected given their sizes, a visit to the Minnesota Zoo typically lasts 3-4 hours, rendering it a larger time commitment as opposed to the Lake Superior Zoo where visitors spend an average of 2 hours exploring all the attractions.

Regardless of size, both zoos offer ample opportunity for family fun, providing various species of animals to enjoy and learn about.

Price

When comparing the prices of the two zoos, Minnesota Zoo and Lake Superior Zoo, there are notable differences.

A ticket for an adult at the Minnesota Zoo costs $19.95, which is more than the adult ticket at the Lake Superior Zoo priced at $16.

For children’s tickets, the Minnesota Zoo charges $13.95, while at the Lake Superior Zoo the cost is slightly lower at $10.

As for concession tickets, both zoos have the same price, at $19.95 and $16 respectively.

It is, however, worth noting that both zoos allow children under the age of 2 to enter for free.

When it comes to the total cost for an average family of 4, the Minnesota Zoo comes to $67.8 which is more expensive than the Lake Superior Zoo where the cost for an average family of four sums up to $52.

Thus, in terms of pricing, the Lake Superior Zoo presents a more affordable option when compared to the Minnesota Zoo.

The cost of an average family of 4 at Minnesota Zoo is $67.8 compared to 52 at Lake Superior Zoo.

Popular Animals

When it comes to the range of animals, both the Minnesota Zoo and the Lake Superior Zoo offer a diverse array of creatures for visitors to see.

The Minnesota Zoo, located in Apple Valley, boasts an impressive number of 4,500 animals from 505 different species.

Their exhibits showcase notable animals like tigers, bears, and penguins.

On the other hand, the medium-sized Lake Superior Zoo situated in Duluth, while smaller in size with over 200 animals, offers an immersive experience with distinct animals such as kangaroos, barnyard animals, prairie dogs, and lemurs, along with tigers and bears, similar to what Minnesota Zoo offers.

While both zoos feature some same animal species like tigers and bears, the Lake Superior Zoo offers a unique opportunity for visitors to see animals that are exclusively present there, providing a different type of adventure for animal-loving guests. <div class=”overview” markdown=”1”id=”wyntk-lake-superior-zoo”>

More About Lake Superior Zoo

Information from https://lszooduluth.org/

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Accesibility

When comparing the accessibility accommodations for those in wheelchairs or those who have difficulty walking at Minnesota Zoo and Lake Superior Zoo, it’s obvious that both locations have taken considerable measures for their differently-abled guests.

However, there are a few notable differences.

Minnesota Zoo has a vast expanse covering 485 acres and families are advised that some trails may not be suitable for wheelchair users, indicating certain limitations of mobility.

There is always the possibility that those with difficulty walking or in wheelchairs may struggle with accessing some exhibits as a result of the challenging terrain.

In contrast, Lake Superior Zoo, while smaller with a coverage of 19 acres, states that their walkways are suitable for wheelchairs.

The zoo appears to ensure a more inclusive experience for all visitors with its fully wheelchair accessible pathways, allowing all guests, regardless of mobility, to enjoy their visit comfortably.

Pefect For

For an engaging family day out, both Minnesota Zoo and Lake Superior Zoo offer a host of attractions.

Geared more towards families with older children, each provides an adventure-packed exploration of wildlife and natural wonder.

With the Minnesota Zoo being a much larger attraction spread over 485 acres, it houses a spectacular collection of 4,500 animals spanning 505 species and a plethora of activities including llama treks and dolphin shows, making it suitable for families seeking a full day packed with varied activities.

It’s important to note that their trails may be unsuitable for wheelchairs, so it might not be the best choice for families with mobility concerns.

On the other hand, the Lake Superior Zoo, though smaller covering only 19 acres and hosting over 200 animals, is equally enjoyable and proportionally less exhausting, ideal for families preferring a shorter trip.

Their walkways are wheelchair-friendly, which makes it more accessible for families with individuals who have mobility issues.

Both zoos are a great choice for family fun, each offering a distinct experience depending on the extent and nature of the adventure preferred.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Minnesota Zoo and the Lake Superior Zoo offer unique and exciting experiences that wildlife lovers and families can enjoy.

While both are in the same state, their settings and offerings reflect their unique characteristics.

The Minnesota Zoo tops the scale in terms of size and diversity of species, providing a day-long adventure in its expansive 485-acre haven, with a special emphasis on conservation, llama treks, and exceptional dolphin shows.

However, participants may face challenges with disability access due to the nature of the trails.

On the other hand, the Lake Superior Zoo, despite being smaller in size, provides a more intimate and accessible experience for all, featuring behind-the-scenes experiences and fun for the entire family.

Its array of animals includes unique picks such as kangaroos, lemurs, and prairie dogs.

In terms of affordability, while the Minnesota Zoo charges a bit more for entry, it counters with the variety and volume of species.

Meanwhile, Lake Superior Zoo might be preferable for those looking for an enjoyable and more budget-friendly outing, even offering free parking.

Although each zoo presents its own set of regulations, they both allow you to bring your own food and beverage, a welcome provision that could enhance comfort and personal enjoyment of the visit.

You can’t, however, bring pets, while service animals are exempt from this rule.

In the end, whether your preference lies with the Minnesota Zoo’s commitment to conservation and vast array of exhibits or the Lake Superior Zoo’s behind-the-scene adventures and unique animal varieties, both represent the diverse and exciting world of Minnesota’s wildlife just waiting to be explored.