What’s Happening

Helpful Tips to Plan Your Trip

Are you planning a trip to the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls, SD? You’ve come to the right place to find out what’s going on at the zoo right now. Browse the updates and schedules below to make the most effective use of your time at the zoo, and make sure you don’t miss out on any of our exciting events. You can pre-purchase carousel or train ride tickets or browse the menu at the Roar Café. Check back here often as we continually update this page with all the happenings and events planned at the zoo.

Note: Africa area closes daily at 4 pm (species that may not be viewable after 4 pm include African lions, zebras, and giraffes). All animals have access to indoor spaces, dens, and other habitat features that could hide them from public view, if that is their preference.

Plan Your Trip

Attraction Tickets Available Online!

Now offering the GPZ Ride Pass - 6 rides for $15!

Add it on when you purchase your tickets online or ask about it at the Admissions window on your next trip to the zoo!

Buy Tickets

ROAR Café

You’ll definitely work up an appetite during all the fun and excitement at the zoo.
View Menu

Wild Wednesday Nights Presented by Scheels

Stay tuned for next season's Wild Wednesday Night themes!

Vet Schedule

*Subject to change based on animal needs

Friday Bookworms

Fridays at 10:30 am. Join us in the classroom for an animal story, activity, and an animal encounter!

Upcoming Zoo Events

November 30

Creative Creatures Art Show (BHA)

December 7

Santa at the Zoo

December 14

Holiday at BHA (BHA)

All Events

Sanford Carousel

Open spring-fall. The custom-designed carousel consists of six horses, three zebras, an elephant, white rhino, gorilla, dolphin, deer, rooster, cheetah - and two panda bears! The carousel also has a handicap-accessible bench seat.