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    Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo

    79 Reviews
    #1 of 10 things to do in Independence
    Features Animals
    Outdoor Activities, Nature & Parks, Zoos & Aquariums
    Wells Dr, At the intersection of Oak Street and Park Boulevard, Independence, KS 67301
    +1 620-332-2512
    Website
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    All photos (14)
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    Certificate of Excellence
    Review Highlights
    “Perfect Park complete with Zoo.”

    Because Independence, Ks is a small town you would never guess it has such a wonderful park and... read more

    Reviewed 3 March 2018
    Nancy W
    via mobile
    “Grew up with this gem”

    We are so blessed to have this free zoo and awesome park in our area! Good variety of animals and... read more

    Reviewed 5 January 2018
    Michelle R
    ,
    Medford, Wisconsin
    via mobile
    Read all 79 reviews
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    Overview

    4.5
    79 reviews
    • Excellent73%
    • Very good17%
    • Average8%
    • Poor2%
    • Terrible0%
    Travellers talk about
    “merry go round” (14 reviews)
    “miniature golf” (8 reviews)
    “miniature train” (9 reviews)
    LOCATION
    Wells Dr, At the intersection of Oak Street and Park Boulevard, Independence, KS 67301
    CONTACT
    Website
    +1 620-332-2512
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    Reviews (79)

    Traveller rating
    Traveller type
    Time of year
    Language
    All reviews
    "merry go round"
    in 14 reviews
    "miniature golf"
    in 8 reviews
    "miniature train"
    in 9 reviews
    "tennis courts"
    in 8 reviews
    "train ride"
    in 6 reviews
    "small town"
    in 10 reviews
    "all ages"
    in 5 reviews
    "walking trails"
    in 3 reviews
    "aquatic center"
    in 3 reviews
    "spider monkeys"
    in 2 reviews
    "steam locomotive"
    in 2 reviews
    "wonderful place"
    in 2 reviews
    "drive thru"
    in 2 reviews
    "brown bear"
    in 2 reviews
    "something for everyone"
    in 2 reviews
    "carousel"
    in 20 reviews
    "playground"
    in 13 reviews
    Filter

    1 - 10 of 78 reviews

    Reviewed 3 March 2018 via mobile
    Perfect Park complete with Zoo.

    Because Independence, Ks is a small town you would never guess it has such a wonderful park and zoo. The area has everything you need for a full days adventure. Full playground that is modern and well kept. The zoo has many exhibits with my...More

    Ask Nancy W about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
    Thank Nancy W
    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 5 January 2018 via mobile
    Grew up with this gem

    We are so blessed to have this free zoo and awesome park in our area! Good variety of animals and easy to get to. Check out the mini train rides , miniature golf, and carousel - check website for hours.

    Ask Michelle R about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
    Thank Michelle R
    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 3 January 2018
    enjoyed the park

    always has clean look well taken care of i have been there many many times and have alway enjoyed the monkeys and zoo

    Ask rdt2000 about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
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    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
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    Reviewed 28 December 2017
    The Jewel of Independence!

    You will not expect what a great facility Riverside park and Zoo are. And best of all they are free with the exception of the Merry Go Round ($.05) Miniature Train ($.25) anf the Putt Putt Course. Super playground and zoo. Spend a couple of...More

    Ask Out Door Lover Us about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
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    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 23 December 2017
    lots to see and do

    so much fun for the kids to see and do ; train ride putt putt golf play grounds and a carosel ride then to see the animails playing and fighting lol a wonderful time for kids and adults

    Ask Robin W about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
    Thank Robin W
    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 11 October 2017
    Free zoo

    I met a friend in Independence. I got there early so I could go to the zoo (I love animals of all kinds). It was a beautiful day out, but most of the zoo was closed off. There weren't any signs saying why they were...More

    Ask Cinnder about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
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    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 9 September 2017 via mobile
    Nice place

    This is a very nice park with a SMALL but nice Zoo. Free admission and lots of enjoyment to be had. Great for inexpensive family entertainment. The lighted fountain is quite nice after dark. Check it out.

    Ask Dagwat about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
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    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 18 July 2017
    Very special place.

    I was born in Independence and loved this park as a kid. It has provided some of my most favorite childhood memories. Over the years I have returned with my children and my grandchildren. It is one of a kind!!! Monkey Island and the peacocks...More

    Ask Kimberly G about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
    Thank Kimberly G
    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 15 July 2017 via mobile
    You won't be disappointed !!!!!

    This place has it all and most of it is free! From Monkey Island to the Sister Bears!! Two play parks one your the younger kids and a larger one with larger attractions!! The Carousel is been a Nickel/ donation to ride and the Train...More

    Ask DemoA85 about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
    Thank DemoA85
    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
    Reviewed 21 June 2017
    A good family facility in SE Kansas

    This park and Zoo are a surprising find in rural SE Kansas. Independence is to be congratulated in still maintaining such a fine family and visitor friendly facility. The preserved ex Santa Fe steam locomotive is an added attraction.

    Ask Ruth5757 about Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
    1  Thank Ruth5757
    This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
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    Ask a question

    Questions & Answers

    Rkayleen
    26 July 2017|
    Answer
    Response from Kimberly G | Reviewed this property |
    I am not positive, best thing to do is call the park and find out.
    0
    Votes
    Shimree
    5 April 2016|
    Answer
    Response from Jnet1971 |
    Contact the City Clerk's office for reservations 620-332-2500 or 620-332-2512. The buildings rent for $25-40 per day depending upon which one you select. The website has pictures and specs on each option. Check out the... More
    0
    Votes