





Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers a vibrant, free-to-enter escape into nature and wildlife in Saint Paul.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers a vibrant, free-to-enter escape into nature and wildlife in Saint Paul. This beloved destination seamlessly blends a diverse zoo with a stunning botanical conservatory, providing an enriching experience for all ages. Visitors can embark on a global journey, encountering exotic animals in thoughtfully designed habitats and immersing themselves in lush, meticulously curated gardens. From the steamy rainforests of Tropical Encounters to the frosty realms of Polar Bear Odyssey, and the vibrant floral displays of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, there's a world of discovery awaiting around every turn. The zoo section is home to an impressive collection of animals, including majestic gorillas, towering giraffes, powerful Amur tigers, and playful sea lions, including the famous Sparky. Interactive exhibits like Tropical Encounters allow guests to observe free-flying birds, freshwater stingrays, and even the slow-moving Chloe the sloth in an immersive South American rainforest environment. Adjacent to the zoo, the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory invites visitors into a glass-encased oasis boasting a spectacular array of plant life from across the globe. Wander through the seasonally changing Sunken Garden, explore the serene Japanese Garden, or marvel at the intricate Bonsai Collection. More than just a collection of animals and plants, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory emphasizes conservation, education, and animal welfare, making it an ideal place to learn about biodiversity. The combination of engaging animal exhibits, breathtaking botanical displays, and family-friendly attractions like Cafesjian's Carousel and the Leonard Wilkening Children's Gallery ensures a memorable and educational outing. It's a place where you can connect with nature, witness the wonders of the animal kingdom, and find tranquility amidst exquisite horticulture, all while supporting a mission of preservation through voluntary donations. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.
The genesis of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory can be traced back to the late 19th century. Inspired by renowned landscape architect Horace Cleveland, the city of St. Paul designated 300 acres of farmland as Como Park in the 1870s. The zoo officially began in 1897 with a humble gift of three deer, which were housed in a fenced-in pasture. Over the ensuing decades, the animal collection expanded, notably receiving animals from the Longfellow Zoo when it closed in 1934. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, a significant architectural and horticultural landmark, first opened its doors in November 1915, with its design influenced by German landscape designer Frederick Nussbaumer. The Great Depression era brought substantial development through federally funded Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects in the 1930s. This period saw the construction of iconic structures such as the Art Deco Zoological Building, Monkey Island, and the bear grotto. The zoo received its first accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in 1985, recognizing its commitment to high standards of animal care. Continuing its evolution, recent additions include the Como Harbor exhibit, which opened in 2021, providing dramatically improved habitats for seals and sea lions.
Beyond animal and plant viewing, engage with zookeeper talks, participate in giraffe feedings (seasonal, for a fee), and explore the hands-on activities in the Leonard Wilkening Children's Gallery. Take a ride on the historic Cafesjian's Carousel or, in warmer months, enjoy the adjacent Como Town Amusement Park. Stroll around Lake Como or rent a paddleboat during summer.
Summer brings longer hours, outdoor concerts, and the full operation of Como Town Amusement Park and Cafesjian's Carousel. The Winter Flower Show in the Sunken Garden provides a burst of color when Minnesota is cold. Special events like the Japanese Obon Festival are held annually in the summer.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is committed to accessibility, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking. The Sunken Garden now boasts new wheelchair ramps for improved access, and an elevator is available. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent at the Garden Safari Gifts shop. Sensory-friendly information, including visual schedules and social narratives, is provided, and specific sensory-friendly early entry mornings are offered.
Tropical Encounters
Polar Bear Odyssey
Como Harbor
Sparky the Sea Lion Show
Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
Arrive Early
Especially on weekends and holidays, arriving shortly after opening at 10 a.m. can help you find parking more easily and experience exhibits with fewer crowds.
Pack a Picnic
Outside food and drinks are welcome in Como Park (though not inside zoo buildings), and there are numerous picnic tables and grassy areas available for lunch.
Check Daily Schedules
Consult the website or a map upon arrival for daily programs such as the Sparky the Sea Lion Show, zookeeper talks, and giraffe feedings to plan your visit around these engaging events.
Dress for Comfort and Weather
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. If visiting during Minnesota's colder months, bundle up for outdoor exhibits, but be prepared to shed layers in the warm, humid Conservatory and Tropical Encounters.
Utilize the Free Shuttle (Summer Weekends): During summer weekends, a complimentary shuttle service runs from an off-site parking lot to the Visitor Center, helping to alleviate parking stress.
Don't Forget the Conservatory
The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is a highlight year-round, offering a beautiful warm escape in winter and stunning seasonal flower shows.
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.

Michigan, US
You might spot African Lion, Komodo Dragon, and Brown Bear.
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Municipal District of Cobh, IE
You might spot Ring-Tailed Lemur, Giraffes, and Cheetahs.
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Nouvelle-Aquitaine, FR
You might spot Greater Flamingo, Giraffes, and Red Panda.
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Texas, US
You might spot Giraffes, African Lion, and Eastern Black Rhinoceros.
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