Tucked into the heart of Saint Paul, Minnesota, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory stands as one of the last free zoos in the United States. This beloved public park has welcomed visitors for generations, offering an incredible collection of animals, stunning indoor gardens, and beautiful outdoor spaces without charging admission. Whether you're planning a family day trip or exploring things to do in St. Paul, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory delivers an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Minnesota's commitment to accessible recreation and conservation.
TLDR:
- Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is one of the few remaining free zoos in America, operating on donations
- Features world-class exhibits, including Polar Bear Odyssey, Gorilla Forest, and the stunning Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
- Located in Saint Paul with easy access from Minneapolis, offering year-round indoor gardens and outdoor attractions
- Perfect for families with attractions like Cafesjian's Carousel, Lake Como, and miles of paved paths
Ready to Experience St. Paul?
Make Como Park Zoo and Conservatory the centerpiece of your Twin Cities adventure. After a day exploring the zoo, gardens, and Como Lake, retreat to a spacious Roami rental where your whole group can relax together. Our St. Paul properties offer the comfort and space your family needs, with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and amenities that hotels simply can't match. Book your St. Paul stay with Roami and discover why our guests love having a home base for their Minnesota adventures.
What Makes Como Park Zoo and Conservatory Special?
A Historic Gem in Saint Paul
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory holds a special place in Minnesota history as the first zoo established in the region. Since its founding, the attraction has been driven by a mission to connect visitors with wildlife while promoting conservation efforts that protect endangered species around the globe. The zoo's dedication to education and animal welfare has made it a model for other institutions, proving that world-class experiences don't require hefty admission fees.
The conservation programs here extend far beyond the exhibits you'll see. From breeding programs for endangered primates to partnerships with international wildlife organizations, Como Zoo demonstrates that even free zoos can make meaningful contributions to global conservation. Staff members and volunteers work tirelessly to create enriching environments for the animals while educating the public about the challenges facing wildlife today.
Free Admission for All Visitors
In an era when many attractions charge premium prices, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory remains committed to its founding principle: everyone should have access to nature, regardless of their financial situation. As one of the last free zoos operating in the country, Como relies on voluntary donations from visitors who appreciate the experience. This donation-based model ensures that families from all backgrounds can explore, learn, and create lasting memories without worrying about the cost.
The free admission policy makes Como an incredible value for visitors planning their trip to the Twin Cities. Whether you're a local looking for regular weekend activities or a tourist exploring downtown St. Paul and beyond, you can visit as often as you like without breaking your budget.
Exploring Como Zoo's Amazing Animal Exhibits
Polar Bear Odyssey and Aquatic Animals
One of Como Zoo's most impressive exhibits, Polar Bear Odyssey, immerses visitors in the Arctic world. This state-of-the-art habitat features underwater viewing areas where you can watch polar bears dive and swim with remarkable grace. The exhibit also showcases the zoo's commitment to educating the public about climate change and its impact on polar environments.
Beyond the polar bears, the aquatic animals section features playful sea lions that delight crowds during daily feedings. Harbor seals bask on rocky outcroppings while demonstrating their swimming prowess in the crystal-clear pools. The Como Harbor area extends this aquatic theme, featuring several other aquatic animals, including various fish species and amphibians. Watch for the charming frog pond where lily pads float peacefully, and you might spot frogs sunning themselves on warm summer days.
Gorilla Forest and Primate Kingdom
The Gorilla Forest exhibit ranks among the most popular attractions at Como Park Zoo. This carefully designed habitat allows visitors to observe these magnificent primates in an environment that mimics their natural forest home. Large glass viewing areas provide incredible opportunities to watch gorilla families interact, play, and demonstrate the complex social behaviors that make them so fascinating to study.
The primate section extends well beyond gorillas. Como Zoo houses an impressive array of primates, including orangutans whose intelligence and gentle nature captivate visitors of all ages. These endangered apes spend their days climbing, foraging, and interacting with enrichment activities designed by the zoo's expert care team. The building that houses the primates maintains comfortable temperatures year-round, making it an ideal room to visit during Minnesota's colder months.
More Wildlife to Discover
Como Park Zoo showcases a wide array of animals from around the globe. The giraffe exhibit allows you to get up close with these towering creatures, and during special feeding times, you might even have the chance to hand-feed them. Watching giraffes' graceful movements and observing their unique behaviors provides insight into why these animals have captured human imagination for centuries.
The large cat exhibits demonstrate the power and beauty of apex predators, while the wolf habitat showcases these misunderstood animals in a setting that honors their role in North American ecosystems. Don't miss the flamingo exhibit, where these vibrant pink birds create stunning photo opportunities, or the penguin area where these tuxedoed birds waddle and swim in their specially designed habitat. July through summer offers the best weather for exploring all these outdoor exhibits, though the zoo remains open year-round for intrepid visitors.
Discover the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
Indoor Gardens Year-Round
Adjacent to the zoo, the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory transports visitors to tropical paradises regardless of the weather outside. This historic glass structure houses an extraordinary collection of plants from around the world, creating distinct climate zones that showcase botanical diversity. The indoor gardens provide a warm, humid escape during Minnesota winters and a cool retreat during hot summer days.
Walking through the conservatory feels like traveling between continents. The palm dome features towering tropical plants that reach toward the glass ceiling, while the fern room creates a lush, green sanctuary filled with delicate fronds. The collection includes rare orchids, carnivorous plants, colorful bromeliads, and exotic flowers that bloom throughout the year. Each room within the conservatory offers something different, making every visit a new discovery.
The Stunning Sunken Garden
During warmer months, the sunken garden becomes the crown jewel of the conservatory grounds. This formal garden features meticulously maintained flower beds arranged in stunning geometric patterns that change with the seasons. Spring brings tulips and daffodils, while summer showcases a riot of annuals in every color imaginable. The several outdoor spaces surrounding the sunken garden include quiet sitting areas, tree-lined paths, and ornamental gardens that demonstrate different landscaping styles.
The outdoor spaces complement the indoor gardens beautifully, offering visitors the full spectrum of horticultural artistry. Whether you're a serious gardener seeking inspiration or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, the gardens at Como Park create an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities at Como Park
Cafesjian's Carousel and Recreation
No visit to Como Park is complete without a ride on Cafesjian's Carousel, a beautifully restored vintage carousel featuring hand-carved animals and traditional carousel music. This charming attraction delights children and nostalgic adults alike, offering an affordable bit of old-fashioned fun that connects generations. The nominal fee for carousel rides helps support park maintenance while providing family entertainment.
The broader park offers extensive recreation opportunities beyond the zoo and conservatory. The golf course attracts players of all skill levels, while sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas provide options for active families. Como Park truly functions as a comprehensive recreation destination where you can easily spend an entire day without running out of things to do.
Como Lake and Como Harbor
Lake Como (also known as Como Lake) serves as the scenic centerpiece of the park. This peaceful body of water offers opportunities for leisurely strolls along its shores, and during warmer months, visitors can rent a canoe or paddleboat to explore from the water. Como Harbor provides easy access for launching your watercraft and enjoying the serene pond environment.
The lake area attracts local wildlife as well, creating unexpected moments of natural discovery. Great blue herons fish along the shoreline, turtles sun themselves on logs, and ducks paddle through calm waters. The frog pond near the shore becomes particularly active in spring and summer when you can hear the chorus of amphibians calling across the water.
Exploring the Grounds
Como Park's extensive grounds invite exploration, with a paved path system that makes the entire park accessible to strollers, wheelchairs, and casual walkers. These well-maintained paths wind through the public park, connecting the zoo, conservatory, lake, and various gardens. The visitor center near the main entrance provides maps, information about current exhibits, and answers to any questions you might have about the park.
The park's design encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate their surroundings. Benches placed at scenic viewpoints offer spots to rest and reflect, while the building architecture throughout the park blends historic charm with modern accessibility. Even the lily pads floating in various ponds throughout the grounds add to the peaceful ambiance that makes Como Park such a special place.
Planning Your Visit to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
Best Times to Visit
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory welcomes visitors year-round, but each season offers distinct experiences. Summer brings warm weather perfect for exploring all the outdoor exhibits and enjoying Lake Como, though July can also bring crowds of families on vacation. Spring showcases the gardens coming to life and baby animals at the zoo, while fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage that makes photography spectacular.
For the best overall experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting during weekday mornings or planning your trip for early fall. To learn more about seasonal considerations and events throughout the year, check out our guide to the best time to visit St. Paul, Minnesota.
Getting There and What to Know
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is located in the Como neighborhood of Saint Paul, just minutes from downtown and easily accessible from Minneapolis. The park offers ample free parking, making it convenient for visitors driving from anywhere in the Twin Cities metro area or beyond. If you're staying in St. Paul, many of our guests find the zoo makes an excellent addition to a 3-day vacation itinerary that explores the best of Minnesota.
The city of St. Paul (often shortened to Paul by locals) takes pride in maintaining Como Park as a world-class attraction. MN residents and out-of-state visitors alike appreciate the park's accessibility and the way it reflects Minnesota values of community, education, and environmental stewardship.
Nearby Amenities
The Como neighborhood offers plenty of dining options before or after your zoo visit. For comprehensive recommendations on where to eat, browse our guide to the best restaurants in St. Paul. The area also features shopping opportunities, local cafes, and other attractions that make it easy to spend a full day in this charming part of the city.
If you're looking for quick vacation ideas, Como Park perfectly anchors a weekend getaway to the Twin Cities. The park's central location means you're never far from other Saint Paul and Minneapolis attractions.
Make the Most of Your Trip
To plan your perfect Como Park experience, think about what interests your group most. Animal lovers might spend hours watching the various exhibits, while plant enthusiasts could easily lose track of time in the conservatory. Create a flexible itinerary that allows you to explore at your own pace, and don't forget to bring a camera to capture memories of your visit.
The park's grounds invite you to explore beyond just the main attractions. Take time to wander the paths, discover hidden garden corners, and simply enjoy being outdoors in one of Minnesota's most beautiful green spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Visit Como Park Zoo and Conservatory?
You can visit Como Park Zoo and Conservatory year-round, with the zoo typically open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM (extended hours in summer) and the conservatory open from 10 AM to 4 PM daily (6 PM on Thursdays). The park grounds themselves remain accessible from dawn to dusk. While the zoo and conservatory close on major holidays, the outdoor park areas are always available for walking and recreation.
Where Can I Find More Information About the Zoo's Page?
The official Como Park Zoo and Conservatory website maintains an updated page with current hours, special events, animal news, and conservation programs. You can also follow their social media accounts for daily updates, behind-the-scenes content, and announcements about new arrivals or exhibit changes. The website includes interactive maps to help you plan your route through the zoo and gardens.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Como Park?
September offers excellent conditions for visiting Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. The weather remains pleasant with cooler temperatures than summer, crowds thin out as school returns to session, and the gardens showcase late-season blooms. Fall colors begin appearing in the trees throughout the park, creating beautiful photo opportunities. The animals also tend to be more active in the cooler September weather compared to the hot summer months.
How Can I Become a Member of Como Zoo?
While admission to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is free, member programs offer additional benefits and support the zoo's mission. Como Friends membership provides perks like discounts at the gift shop, early entry to special events, and free admission to reciprocal zoos nationwide. Membership fees directly fund animal care, conservation programs, and facility improvements. Visit the visitor center or the zoo's website to learn about different member levels and their benefits.
What's Happening at Como Park Throughout the Year?
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory hosts special events happening year-round. Winter brings Bentleyville-style light displays, spring features baby animal celebrations, summer includes conservation education programs and evening concerts, and fall showcases harvest festivals. The conservatory hosts special flower shows throughout the year, including a spectacular spring flower show and winter poinsettia display. Check the events calendar online or at the visitor center to see what's happening during your visit.
Can Volunteers Work at Como Zoo?
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory relies heavily on dedicated volunteers who contribute thousands of hours annually. Volunteer opportunities include working as docents who educate visitors, helping with gardening and grounds maintenance, assisting with special events, and supporting administrative tasks. The zoo offers training programs for volunteers interested in learning about animal care, conservation, and horticulture. If you're interested in becoming part of the Como community, contact the volunteer coordinator through the zoo's website to learn about current opportunities and requirements.
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