- What is included in my rental fee?
All rentals include set up of tables, chairs, linens, reduced admission for guests, an on-site coordinator and many other great add-on options. Time for setup and cleanup is included within your rental time.
- How long are rental timeslots?
Rental timeslots for events are typically four hours or eight hours for an all-day rental. If your event requires additional hours or time frame adjustments, we can create a customized timeline for you. Additional hours are available upon request and availability and are $100 per hour.
- Are there a minimum number of guests needed to hold an evening event at the zoo?
Groups of all sizes are invited to enjoy Iowa’s Wildest Adventure! We offer rental spaces for intimate meetings, as well as opportunities for large company outings.
- How soon do we need to reserve one of your facilities?
It's never too early to plan your event as dates fill up quickly. All rentals are on a first come, first serve basis. A 50% deposit and signed contract is required to secure a date.
- Can we bring in our own caterer?
Blank Park Zoo offers catering through Army Post Hy-Vee or Baratta's Italian Restaurant.
- What parts of the zoo can we see during our event?
Discounted admission to the Zoo is included for any guests when a meeting space is rented. For evening events, individual exhibits as well as the whole Zoo are available to rent, exclusively for your group. There is no additional admission costs for evening events.
Blank Park Zoo is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
- Do I need to bring my own audio visual equipment?
Blank Park Zoo does offer various audio visual equipment for our guests to use. Projector and screen, microphone and speakers are available in most spaces. Additional costs may occur if equipment rental is needed.
- Can we decorate the room for our event?
Yes, with approval from your event coordinator. Flowers and plants may not be brought from home gardens or from farmers markets. Candles must be within a votive. Balloons, glitter, straws, swizzle sticks, plastic stirrers, rice, birdseed, pets, drones, and bubbles are not allowed in the indoor exhibits or outdoor zoo grounds. We also do not permit the use of nails, hooks, tacks, or screws on the walls of the indoor facility. Lighting within the Discovery Center may only be in the colors of white, blue, or green.
- Can we have a band or DJ?
Yes, you may have music at your event. The Event Coordinator will need to know the location of the music and any needs the band or DJ may have in advance.
