Central Minnesota Zoo Named Among State’s Best

Hemker Park and Zoo in Freeport was named one of the top zoos in the state of Minnesota by Minnesota Parent. The top two ranked zoos in the state come as no surprise as they are the two biggest: the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley (#1) and Como Zoo and Conservatory in St. Paul (#2).

The Hemkers, Mark and Joan, founded the zoo in 1977. Hemker Park and Zoo has grown to house 200 animals from 50 different species from around the globe. Mark passed away in 2006 and the zoo is now run by Joan, their children and their children's families.

"The mission of Hemker Park & Zoo is to highlight and enhance animals’ species and encourage environmental conservation through integrated partnerships and practical approaches to wildlife management. We work hard to share the wonder and importance of conservation, as well as the critical importance of the role of animals within our ecosystem."

Some of the unique animals at Hemker include a red panda, a flamingo, buff-cheeked gibbon and a rhino.

Maple Grove had both the third-best playground and best swimming area. The Central Park Playground finished just behind Hyland Park in Bloomington and Shoreview Commons in Shoreview.

The Elm Creek Swimming Pond in Maple Grove was named the top swimming spot in the state.

Further north, Brainerd's Pirate's Cove was named the second-best mini golf course in the state, behind only St. Paul's Can-Can Wonderland.