Here’s The Deal: Blank Park Zoo spans 49 acres and is a dedicated hub for fostering a love of nature through conservation, education, scientific exploration, and recreational activities. The Park Zoo is situated on the southern outskirts of Des Moines, Iowa. As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, it stands as the sole accredited zoo in Iowa, guaranteeing adherence to rigorous animal care and welfare standards. Upon entering the zoo, visitors are welcomed by the impressive Meredith Alpine Display, easily accessible from the central guest lobby. Moreover, the Discovery Center Aquarium showcases aquatic ecosystems from across the globe, providing an educational opportunity to explore various marine life forms. Blank Park Zoo oversees 49 acres, with 22 acres designated for animal exhibits and supporting facilities. Notably, the Discovery Center captivates visitors with its stunning representations of mountainous and tropical habitats. Through initiatives like Saving Animals From Extinction, the zoo leverages accredited zoos' and aquariums' combined expertise to contribute actively to species conservation efforts.
UNIQUE FACTS:
• Protects Threatened Animals.
3 Best Places To See in Des Moines, IA
Expert recommended Top 3 Places To Visit in Des Moines, Iowa. All of our places to see actually undergo a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!
TOP 3 BLANK PARK ZOO REVIEWS
Looking at this zoo from an aerial view, I didn’t expect there to be much at first. However, when I visited this zoo in person, I was awestruck at the diversity of animals on display within just a few acres! Every part of the zoo had some amazing creatures to marvel at, of which my favorites were the Red Panda, the Jamaican Fruit Bats, and the Cassowaries.
Went to NightEyes as a family night for Halloween. Seems to changes each year and it’s fun for the whole family. Staff are very friendly and the kids love it. Plenty of activities and fun stuff to do all the while kids getting candy.
I thought this zoo was so cool! I loved all their aquarium fish. I appreciated that you could feed goats! We had a blast, would 100% go back.
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Here’s The Deal: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden spans 14 acres and graces the vicinity of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, positioned on the eastern bank of the Des Moines River and to the north of I-235. This splendid destination promises visitors an unforgettable journey, accentuated by innovative architecture, diverse programs, and exhibits. With a mission dedicated to exploring, elucidating, and celebrating the botanical realm, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden ignites inspiration. The Botanical Garden captivates audiences through educational initiatives, immersive experiences, and adventurous exploration. Following its transformation into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2013, the garden underwent significant renovation and expansion. Guests can immerse themselves in the garden's myriad collections, which include the renowned Bonsai collection, rare botanical specimens such as the Corpse Flower, and seven acres of outdoor gardens. Whether one is a genuine gardening enthusiast or a casual observer, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers something of interest to all. This vibrant, twelve-acre public garden in downtown Des Moines is a testament to progressive design, innovative programming, and dynamic exhibits, ensuring an enduring and enriching guest experience.
UNIQUE FACTS:
• Art and Sculpture.
Specialty:
$Price:
Seniors (65+): $11
Active Military: $11
Children (2-12): $9
Discount:
Contact:
Working Hours:
Mon: Closed
TBR® Inspection Report:
TOP 3 GREATER DES MOINES BOTANICAL GARDEN REVIEWS
I feel so sad that we've lived in Iowa for almost 12 years and just discovered the Des Moines Botanical Gardens. At every turn, there is a postcard moment with a magical abundance of beautiful, healthy plants. The whimsical gnomes and decor were very inviting, and every location offered a perfect opportunity to enjoy the efforts of others who must surely love what they do. It was a delightful experience and well worth the entrance fee. We will surely return.
My parents, sisters, brother in-law, and niece came down on Sunday morning to visit. We decided to check out the Botanical Garden and eat at the cafe. We spent a few hours there and took our time walking around outside because it was a beautiful day. There was so much to look at and there are great views of downtown Des Moines. I admit I don't know much about flowers and plants but can appreciate their beauty and scents. It is definitely worth a visit and I feel like we will probably return in the future.
An afternoon well spent inside the greenhouse or wandering the gardens. Bonsai exhibit was just a great surprise. Traffic seems to be low when I go so it is almost always a private experience.
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![Science Center of Iowa Des Moines Places To See Science Center of Iowa Des Moines Places To See](https://threebestrated.com/images/ScienceCenterofIowa-DesMoines-IA.jpeg)
Here’s The Deal: Science Center of Iowa is a science museum in Des Moines, Iowa. initially opened its doors in 1970 under the name Des Moines Center of Science and Industry within Greenwood-Ashworth Park. It underwent a name change to the Science Center of Iowa in 1985, relocating to its current site in 2005. The center is driven by a noble mission: to engage and inspire lifelong science learning among Iowans. Achieving this goal involves offering special-format theaters and unique programming that draw locals and visitors from afar. Furthermore, the center's outstanding programming extends its reach to every county in Iowa through a statewide educational outreach program, fostering cultural understanding and delivering unparalleled experiences to Iowans. Welcoming over 300,000 visitors annually, the Science Center of Iowa is a premier attraction catering to diverse interests. As a center member, visitors can enjoy free admission, making it an accessible and affordable destination for families. With live science demonstrations, a 50-foot planetarium, and interactive experiences at every turn, there's always more to discover and explore.
UNIQUE FACTS:
• Themed Experience Platforms
• Live Programs and Demonstrations By the Sci Programs Team
• Free Entry For Children Under 2.
Specialty:
$Price:
Child (2–12): $13
Adults (13–64): $13
Senior (65+): $13
Contact:
Working Hours:
Mon-Wed: Closed
TBR® Inspection Report:
TOP 3 SCIENCE CENTER OF IOWA REVIEWS
This was so much fun for everyone, and not just for the kids. We all loved every minute there. They had an entire room for hands on experiments for kids, like egg drops and rocket launches. There was also a large nature exhibit which was full of taxidermy and ecosystem facts. A big highlight of the museum was the planetarium with hourly shows on black holes and stars. They also had hourly electricity shows featuring tesla coils and static electricity. There really isn't a way to put this place into words, so the only way to experience it is to see it for yourself.
The Science Center is great for all ages! I'm pretty sure every time I've come to Des Moines, I've come here. There's always new things, like this time new giant dinosaurs and fossils, and an updated space section. But plenty of classics remain, like an area to practice milking a cow, a huge room of various physics interactions like paper rockets, a giant Lego architecture room, and a nature walk room, where they were doing the local news weather broadcast live with kids from the room. Super cool.
We went to the science center when it was really cold outside. It was perfect for a chilly day! We learned so much and had so much fun!
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The ratings displayed on our website are derived from our own proprietary tool, incorporating a comprehensive 50-point inspection check that evaluates specific aspects of each business.
These ratings are independent and not influenced only by reviews found on any other online platforms or feedback received directly from customers.