- Attraction: Hemker Park & Zoo
- Location: 26715 County Road 39, Freeport, MN 56331
- Industry: Zoo
- Website: https://hemkerzoo.com/
Central Minnesota holds a remarkable secret that transforms any ordinary weekend into an extraordinary wildlife adventure.
Hemker Park & Zoo stands as home to over 200 animals from around the globe, featuring Tio, the only rhino in the entire state of Minnesota.
What began as Mark and Joan Hemker’s simple dream in 1977 has blossomed into one of the region’s most beloved family destinations, where you can literally come face-to-face with giraffes stretching their necks toward you for a snack.
This family-owned zoo has earned recognition as Best of Central Minnesota Out & About Family Recreation for five consecutive years from 2017 through 2021, proving that sometimes the most magical experiences happen in the most unexpected places.
Located just 90 miles north of the Twin Cities Metro and a short drive from the Alexandria Lakes area, this women-owned and family-operated sanctuary offers something you simply cannot find anywhere else in Minnesota.
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Keep Exploring →Incredible Animal Encounters
Giraffe Feeding Station: Three daily feeding sessions at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm give you the chance to stand face-to-face with these majestic creatures for just $5 per person.
You’ll watch their impossibly long tongues wrap around lettuce leaves as they tower above you, creating photo opportunities that will make your friends wonder if you secretly traveled to Africa.
Rhino Experience: Where else in Minnesota can you look eye-to-eye with a rhino? Currently, nowhere!
Hemker’s rhino feeding experience allows you to assist zookeepers in feeding these magnificent beasts while learning about worldwide rhino conservation efforts. The sheer size and gentle nature of these creatures up close creates an unforgettable moment.
Red Panda Encounters: The exclusive Red Panda Experience lets you get up-close and personal with bamboo-loving red pandas during a one-of-a-kind encounter with the Animal Care team.
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Discover MoreThey have two of these adorable creatures, and watching them munch bamboo while learning about their endangered status adds meaningful depth to the cuteness overload.
Budgie Buddy House: Experience squeals of delight as colorful budgies land directly on your shoulders and arms while you hold seed sticks. The flutter of wings and gentle chirping creates a magical moment that delights visitors of all ages, making you feel like a real-life Snow White.
Penguin Encounters: Private sessions with zookeepers allow you to actually touch one of their African Black-Footed penguins while learning fascinating facts about their adaptations and care. These charismatic birds are surprisingly social and seem to enjoy interacting with visitors.
Otter Feeding: Watch these furry aquatic acrobats splash and play as they swim right up to you for fishy treats. Their playful antics and obvious joy during feeding time never fails to bring smiles to faces.
Atmosphere & Natural Setting
Spacious Country Environment: With more than 50 acres in a serene country setting, families can easily spend an entire day exploring without feeling crowded. The zoo was specially designed to give animals ample outdoor space to feel comfortable and stay active, creating a more natural experience than typical cramped zoo exhibits.
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Keep Exploring →Farm-Turned-Zoo Charm: Visitors consistently mention the “farm-turned-zoo” atmosphere, which gives Hemker a unique, intimate feeling compared to larger commercial zoos. This creates a more personal connection with the animals and their caretakers.
Seasonal Beauty: The zoo continues to grow each year with new additions occurring throughout Minnesota’s breathtaking seasons. Spring through fall visits offer different experiences as animals adapt to changing weather and seasonal behaviors.
Educational Focus: Education remains a key component of daily experiences, with opportunities for learning about the natural world and conservation efforts woven throughout visits. You’ll leave feeling more connected to wildlife preservation efforts worldwide.
Other Considerations
Reasonable Pricing: Adult tickets reach a maximum of $20.25, with infants visiting free and add-on animal encounters priced very reasonably. When you consider the unique experiences offered, the value becomes exceptional compared to larger zoos charging similar or higher admission.
Seasonal Operations: The zoo operates May 1st through October 31st daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, rain or shine. This seasonal schedule allows for optimal animal comfort during Minnesota’s harsh winters while maximizing visitor enjoyment during pleasant weather.
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Discover MoreSpecial Events: Throughout the season, special events include Summer Parties, Royal Parties for kids, Fall Zoo Fest, Boo at the Zoo, and Santa Days. These themed celebrations add extra magic to already special visits.
Accessibility: The zoo’s compact size makes it perfect for visitors of all mobility levels, including children using walkers. Free parking eliminates additional costs, and picnic areas allow families to bring their own food.
Family-Friendly Focus: The manageable size allows families to see all animals without children becoming overly tired, making it ideal for visits with young kids or elderly family members. Multiple reviewers emphasize how perfectly sized the zoo is for quality family time.
Hemker Park & Zoo
📍 26715 County Road 39, Freeport, MN 56331
