A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Explore Saint Paul’s free, year-round urban oasis, home to exotic animals, stunning gardens, and family-friendly fun, welcoming over 1.9 million visitors annually.
Welcome to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Tucked in the heart of Saint Paul, Minnesota, the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a beloved destination that combines the thrill of a world-class zoo with the tranquility of a Victorian-style botanical conservatory. Established in 1897 with a modest donation of three deer, this 384-acre park, owned by the City of Saint Paul, has grown into Minnesota’s most visited cultural attraction, drawing families, nature lovers, and curious travelers. Whether you’re dreaming of a fun day trip or planning a detailed visit, this guide offers everything you need to make your experience unforgettable.
With free admission, diverse exhibits, and a commitment to conservation and accessibility, Como Park is a must-visit gem in the Twin Cities. Read on to discover its iconic animals, lush gardens, and insider tips for a perfect day out.
Plan Your Visit: Essential Information
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is open 365 days a year, offering free admission to all. Below is a detailed breakdown of key information to help you plan your visit, presented in a format that’s easy to scan for both you and search engines.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location & Address | 1225 Estabrook Drive, Saint Paul, MN 55103 |
| Admission | Free, with a suggested donation of $4 for adults and $2 for children to support animal and plant care. |
| Seasonal Hours | May 1 – Labor Day: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Day after Labor Day – April 30: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. |
| Parking & Directions | Free parking available on-site. Find maps and directions on the official website. Metro Transit bus routes provide public transit access. |
| Rentals | Wheelchairs ($10) and electric scooters ($30) available at Garden Safari Gifts. Valid ID and a credit card (for scooters) required. Strollers are not available. |
| Pet Policy | No pets allowed, except service animals as defined by the ADA. See the Service Dog Guide. |
Visitor Policies and FAQs
Here are answers to common questions to help you prepare:
- Can I bring food and drinks? Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside zoo or conservatory buildings but are permitted in picnic areas.
- Are balloons or laser pointers allowed? No, both are prohibited to ensure animal safety.
- Is smoking permitted? Como is a smoke-free destination, banning cannabis, tobacco, hemp products, and e-cigarettes.
- What are the best times to visit? Weekday mornings are less crowded. Check schedules for special events like the Sparky Show.
- How long does a visit take? Plan for 2–4 hours, or longer if visiting Como Town or enjoying park activities.
Accessibility for All
Como Park is dedicated to inclusivity. In partnership with the Autism Society of Minnesota, it offers a Social Narrative guide for visitors on the autism spectrum and sensory-friendly early entry from 9–10 a.m. on select dates. Wheelchair and scooter rentals ensure the park is navigable for all guests.
Discover the Como Zoo: Animals & Exhibits
Como Zoo, one of the last free zoos in the U.S., houses over 1,700 animals across engaging exhibits. From polar bears to primates, here’s a look at the highlights.
The Polar Bear Odyssey
Opened in 2010, this expansive habitat is four times larger than the previous polar bear enclosure. Home to polar bears Buzz and Neil, it features water features and interactive displays about Arctic environmental changes, making it both educational and awe-inspiring.
Como Harbor & the Sparky Show
Como Harbor, launched in 2021, is home to harbor seals, gray seals, and California sea lions, including fan-favorites Subee, Poppy, and Wally. The Blaze Sparky Show at the KSTP Amphitheater (11:30 a.m. in summer) is a must-see, blending education with the playful antics of these pinnipeds. A visitor favorite since 1956, it’s described as a “highlight” by reviewers on Zoo With Us.
The Primate House & Gorilla Forest
Rebuilt in 1985, the Primate House boasts North America’s largest all-mesh gorilla enclosure, home to silverback gorilla Schroeder and his companions. The Gorilla Forest, opened in 2013, also features Sumatran orangutans and two-toed sloths, with signage highlighting conservation efforts.
Tropical Encounters
This immersive exhibit recreates a South American rainforest, complete with colorful birds, reptiles, and lush plants. It’s a sensory-rich experience that transports visitors to a tropical paradise.
More Zoo Highlights
- Giraffe Feeding Station: Get up close with giraffes during daily feeding sessions (check times on-site).
- Butterfly House: A seasonal favorite where butterflies may land on you, creating magical moments, as noted in visitor reviews.
- Big Cats & Wolves: See snow leopards, tigers, lions, and Minnesota timber wolves in habitats designed for their comfort.
Pro Tip: Join the free Little Explorers program (Thursdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.) for kids, featuring story time and zookeeper talks to spark curiosity.
The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory: A Botanical Haven
The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, opened in 1915, is a 0.5-acre glass-domed wonder that offers a tropical escape year-round. Its gardens and seasonal flower shows are a highlight for visitors.
Seasonal Flower Shows & The Sunken Garden
The Sunken Garden hosts five seasonal flower shows, a tradition called “Gates Ajar” since 1894. Each show transforms the space with vibrant displays:
- Winter Flower Show (Jan 12 – Mar 16, 2025): Pink velthiemia, dark red pansies, crimson dianthus, hibiscus, poppies, sweet peas, and phlox. New ramps improve accessibility.
- Spring Flower Show (Mar 20 – Jun 7, 2025): Lavender, light blue, pink, and peach blooms, including hyacinth, daffodils, tulips, and snapdragons.
- Summer Flower Show (Jun 13 – Sep 14, 2025): Tropical annuals, bromeliads, hibiscus, and citrus in orange-red, coral, and purple hues.
- Fall Flower Shows (Sep 19 – Nov 30, 2025): Bright candy colors and lion-inspired hues with chrysanthemums, violas, and marigolds.
- Holiday Flower Show (Dec 5, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026): Poinsettias like ‘Prestige Maroon’ and ‘Jubilee Red’, with variegated foliage.
Featured Gardens
The conservatory’s gardens offer diverse experiences:
- Palm Dome: Over 150 palm species and rotating orchid displays create a lush tropical vibe.
- North Garden: Home to useful plants like bananas, cacao, and the iconic fig tree “Figaro.”
- Fern Room: A cool, moist space with over 100 fern species, including tree ferns.
- Japanese Garden: A serene sansui-style garden, a gift from Nagasaki, Japan.
- Ordway Gardens: Features a Bonsai Gallery and native grass terrace.
- Enchanted Garden: A butterfly-friendly space with perennials and shrubs.
Daily “Meet the Gardeners” sessions offer insights into plant care, making the conservatory a hub for horticultural learning.
The Broader Park Experience: Beyond the Zoo and Conservatory
Como Park, spanning 384 acres, offers a wealth of activities that make it a full-day destination.
Family-Friendly Fun
Como Town Amusement Park features over 20 rides, including the Soaring Zip Ride and Splash Zone, perfect for kids ages 2–12. The historic Cafesjian’s Carousel, built in 1914, offers a nostalgic ride with 68 hand-carved horses. The Leonard Wilkening Children’s Gallery provides hands-on learning for young explorers.
Outdoor Recreation
Enjoy Como Lake’s 1.67-mile paved path for walking or biking, paddleboat rentals, or a round at the 18-hole Como Golf Course. The Como Regional Park Pool offers seasonal swimming fun.
Art, History, and Sustainability
The park is rich in cultural landmarks:
- Public Art: Works like *Constructing Friendship* (2006) and the *Schiller Statue* (1907) dot the park.
- Historic Structures: The 1936 Art Deco Zoological Building and 1910 Frog Pond with its 1923 granite frog are iconic.
- Decarbonization Project: A $16 million initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Inflation Reduction Act, upgrades facilities with geothermal heat pumps and LED lighting. Learn more at the City of Saint Paul’s website.
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Supporting Como Park: Get Involved
Como Friends, the nonprofit partner, ensures free admission and funds conservation, animal care, and horticulture. Donations and memberships support new exhibits and programs. Members enjoy perks like event invitations and early access to attractions. Contact comomembership@comofriends.org to join.
Visitor Tips for a Memorable Day
- Timing: Visit weekday mornings for fewer crowds. Check schedules for the Sparky Show or giraffe feeding.
- Seasonal Planning: Time your visit for the conservatory’s flower shows or Como Town’s summer season.
- Budget-Friendly: Pack a picnic and donate to support the park’s mission.
- Preparation: Download the park map and Social Narrative guide for a smooth visit.
A Historical Journey
Como Zoo began in 1897 with three deer and grew with additions like Monkey Island in the 1930s and the Blaze Sparky Show in 1956. The conservatory, opened in 1915, added a botanical dimension. Community support and a 1976 Master Plan revitalized the park, leading to modern exhibits like the Polar Bear Odyssey and Gorilla Forest. This legacy of resilience makes Como a cherished institution.
