This free zoo and park is perfect for a day out alone or with family, and we think it shouldn’t be passed on. Who wouldn’t love a day at the park and a free zoo? Ralph Mitchell Zoo and Riverside Park are here to make your adventures twice as wild.

Welcome to a beautiful scene out in Independence, Kansas that brings all sorts of fun to the whole family.
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo Facebook
First, we'll take a look at Riverside Park, where carousels, climbing activities, and a big playground.
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo Facebook
Taking photos and sitting on the front of this engine makes you feel like a kid again at any age. For the train lovers in your family, it's a highlight of the trip!
Kent Davis/Google

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In addition to the beautiful park that will tire out the kids, you'll also find animals here!
John Peterson/Google
This park also comes with a free zoo that was founded in 1914. It was designed to work naturally with the landscape, and now is a miniature zoo free to the public.
Torey Smart-Dewitt/Google
The main area of the zoo is Monkey Island, built in 1932. It's also the birthplace of Miss Able, a Rhesus monkey that successfully went to space in 1959.
Brittany Friend/Google
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
John Peterson/Google

If you’d like to learn more or keep an eye out for important announcements, check out the Riverside Park website or the Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo Facebook page.

If you’d like to nominate a cool spot in Kansas, just send all your ideas through this page here.

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Featured Addresses
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo, 400 Mickey Mantle Wy, Independence, KS 67301, USA