The Dakota Zoo stemmed out from the Marc and Betty Christianson Farm in Bismarck. Operating on 67 acres of land, it served as a kennel for housing animals like dogs, cats, and horses. There was even a time when minks were raised on the site. As time went by, the family had a reputation for loving animals which is why friends and neighbours stopped by to deliver stray and injured animals. More animals were taken in and, soon, visitors started stopping by to take a look at them.

After a series of events involving a petition and concept pitch to the Bismarck Park Board led by Marc Christianson, an 88 acre track in Sertoma Park was provided for the zoo. It opened on June 3, 1961 with 75 mammals and 23 birds on a 15-acre developed land. The zoo remains to be self-supportive as it raises funds through different campaigns and exhibits. It also takes pride for meeting the high standards of the American Zoo and Association of Zoos and Aquariums.