Great Plains Zoo
About GPZ
Great Plains Zoo (GPZ) is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), and is home to animals from seven continents - plus seasonal attractions, including a splash pad, carousel, and train.
In September 2022, the board of directors for the Butterfly House & Aquarium and Great Plains Zoo voted unanimously to merge our two organizations.
As of January 1, 2023, the merger is in effect as we operate on our two campuses. Over the next several years, major renovations at the Zoo's current location will give us one consolidated campus, creating a remarkable destination for our community featuring animals from land, sea, and sky.
GPZ Admission & Hours
We are excited you're looking to visit Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium's Great Plains Zoo campus. Every visit helps us to support hundreds of animals each day, provide educational programs, and work on conservation efforts that save animals from extinction!
Hours of Operation: 10 am - 5 pm (last admission at 4 pm)
Note: Africa area closes at 4 pm daily (species including lions, giraffes, and zebras may not be viewable after 4 pm). All animals have access to indoor areas, dens, and other habitat features that may hide them from view at any time.
Purchase Tickets
Pricing
Admission
All children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult- Adults (Ages 13-59): $15.50 + Tax
- Youth (Ages 2-12): $11.50 + Tax
- Infant (Under age 2): Free
- Seniors (Ages 60+), Military, or Student (with valid student ID): $14.50 + Tax
Attractions
- Carousel Tickets: $3/each (open weekends only in September)
- Ride Pass (6 Rides): $15