Zoos
Reptile Gardens
📍 8955 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702🕐 Hours
| Monday | 9 AM–4 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–4 PM |
About Reptile Gardens
Wild animal park with reptiles & more. Long-running zoo with many reptile exhibits, plus bird shows, giant tortoises & a greenhouse. Sky Dome houses the largest collection of reptiles in the world. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,004 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Best For
- All ages, families
- Notable Collections
- World's largest reptile zoo with one of largest reptile collections; houses Maniac (giant saltwater crocodile), Aldabra Tortoises, rare tropical plants
- Highlights
- Sky Dome tropical oasis, Prairie Dog Town, Gators & Crocs Arena, Avian Avenue, 40,000+ flowering plants
💡 Did You Know?
- Sky Dome houses the largest collection of reptiles in the world
- Maniac the giant saltwater crocodile measures nearly 16 feet long and weighs 1,250 pounds
- The facility features a 120-year-old Aldabra tortoise that visitors can pet and observe up close
- Reptile Gardens offers a unique photo pass promotion: visitors who photograph themselves with the title sign receive free admission for the rest of the season
- The botanical gardens contain over 40,000 flowering plants and feature attractions like Tortuga Falls and a Living Wall
💬 What Visitors Say
- Don't miss the live snake and alligator shows held 5 times daily throughout the day - they're educational, entertaining, and hosted by knowledgeable staff who allow visitors to pet the animals afterward
- Take a photo with the venue's title sign at entry to receive free admission for the rest of the season - a significant money-saver if you plan multiple visits
- Plan to visit when it's warmer to see the giant Aldabra tortoises in their outdoor enclosures where you can walk near them and pet them while they eat - a unique interactive experience
- Bring a camera as animals photograph exceptionally well at this venue, particularly the massive saltwater crocodile 'Maniac' and the interactive tortoise encounters
- Plan for several hours to fully explore the Sky Dome's largest reptile collection, the botanical gardens with Tortuga Falls and Living Wall, and the Prairie Dog Town's underground bubble viewing area
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