To get Dragonite, you basically have two main paths: evolve it yourself or catch it fully evolved in the wild. Both methods work well, but they feel very different depending on how you like to play. If you enjoy raising your own team from scratch, evolving is the safer plan. If you prefer jumping straight to the power spike, the wild Alpha hunt is the faster option.

Dragonite appears in Wild Zone 20, a late-game area you unlock after Main Mission 38. This zone is absolutely stacked with fully evolved Pokemon, so Dragonite does not show up often. When it does spawn, it usually appears as a red-eyed Alpha, typically Level 64+, so expect a tough fight.
A couple of player-friendly tips:
This loop is honestly pretty chill once you get used to it—more like a rhythm than a grind.
Yes. If you prefer a slower, more personal route, you can raise one from the very beginning:
This method takes longer, but using Dratini and Dragonair through the storyline can be really satisfying, especially if you're the kind of player who likes seeing a partner grow into a powerhouse.
If you want a shiny Dragonite specifically, some players choose to buy one instead of grinding for hours. U4GM is a reliable place to buy Shiny Pokemon Legends ZA, and their shiny Dragonite price is currently $2.49.
Buying isn't required at all, but for collectors or people who want a full shiny dex, it's honestly a big time-saver.
Dragonite sits in that classic pseudo-legendary slot—high stats across the board with a focus on power. Here's the breakdown:
That 134 Attack stat is the real star here. Even with the lowered Speed compared to some other fast sweepers, Dragonite hits incredibly hard and can tank more than you'd expect thanks to its double 100 defenses.
Dragonite has always been a “do-everything” Pokemon, and Z-A sticks with that identity. It's strong, bulky, and has a wide movepool. If you want a Pokemon that can anchor a team, break walls, or just feel reliable in tough fights, Dragonite fills that role nicely.
Plus, catching an Alpha Dragonite wandering around Wild Zone 20 feels like one of those classic Pokemon moments—big, intimidating, and super satisfying to snag.