The Red River Zoo opened in May 1999 on 22 acres located at 4255 23rd Avenue in Fargo, ND. Featuring 89 species of animals, the zoo focuses on animals mainly from North America, Northern Europe, and Northern Asia with their climates being comparable to the climate of North Dakota. Attractions include many indoor and outdoor exhibits as well as a children’s area. Another highlight at the zoo is the historic carousel donated by Warren Diederich in 1998, just before the zoo’s opening. The zoo is located just off I-94 roughly 12 minutes south of Hector International Airport.
Rental Options
The Carousel Pavilion is the zoo’s largest area to hold a wedding reception and can hold 150 people inside with dinner seating. The outdoor areas surrounding the pavilion are also available for your use. For an additional fee, you may rent a large tent to ensure that your outdoor reception is covered in case of rain. For smaller receptions, the zoo also rents out various other indoor and outdoor locations on the premises including the Discovery Barn and Asian Gardens.
Food and Drink
The zoo provides a suggested list of caterers for your reception, however, other caterers may be used with approval before the event. Alcohol may be served at the zoo but must be served by a licensed vendor.
Pricing
Pricing for an event at the Carousel Pavilion is based on the number of guests in attendance for the first hour and then charged by the hour for the time rented after that. For a reception of around 200 people, the cost for the first hour would be about $1,000. Subsequent hours are an additional cost. Included in the rental fee is zoo admission for your guests, as well as carousel rides. Tables and chairs are also provided. Other items such as a dance floor, sound system, table linens, and tents for outdoor reception areas can be rented for an additional cost. There are animal experiences that can be included as well. Pricing for the smaller areas of the zoo can be obtained by getting in touch with the zoo directly. The zoo offers a unique experience for you and your guests as you celebrate your wedding. Animal lovers and anyone looking for something fun and different for their reception might find just the right place in the Red River Zoo! 
