Dinosaurs Are Coming to Iowa’s Blank Park Zoo This Summer!

Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines is home to all sorts of different animals, but this summer, they're adding some new ones that you'd never expect... DINOSAURS!

Dino Park Zoo 2025

On Wednesday, April 16th, Blank Park Zoo announced that they will be transforming into Dino Park Zoo this July! The attraction will feature 15 life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs that guests can interact with, including:

• Tyrannosaurus Rex
• Triceratops
• Quetzalcoatlus
• Styracosaurus
• Deinonychus
• Gallimimus
• Tenontosaurus
• Deinosuchus

According to the zoo's official website, "these scientifically accurate animatronics don’t just move, they breathe, roar, and some even fart and pee, creating a truly immersive, prehistoric experience." They were actually created with the help of Don Lessem, who is one of the world's leading experts on dinosaurs. In fact, he was an advisor for the original Jurassic Park movie, AND there's a dinosaur named after him... the Lessemsaurus!

In addition to the dinosaurs, which will be placed all throughout the zoo, there will also be dinosaur-themed exhibits and activities, as well as some fun additions to existing events like Zoo Brew and Night Eyes.

When Will We Be Able to See the Dinosaurs?

Dino Park Zoo will debut this July, and the dinosaurs will be on display through the end of October. And, there is no additional cost to check them out. They're included with regular zoo admission!

For more information about Dino Park Zoo 2025, visit Blank Park Zoo's website HERE.

Blank Park Zoo's Wild Lights Festival is happening right now through Memorial Day! You can read more about that HERE.