Reptile Gardens

It all began in 1935, when 19 year old Earl Brockelsby discovered people’s innate interest in snakes. As a young tour guide at a local Rapid City attraction, this fearless snake enthusiast would often end his tours by removing his hat and revealing a live rattlesnake coiled on top of his head. They showcase and protect the rare, unusual, and beautiful. The collection features over 225 species and subspecies of reptiles and includes more of these cold-blooded creatures than any other zoo in the world.