ZooColorado, US

Pueblo Zoo

Pueblo Zoo offers an intimate journey into the natural world, showcasing diverse species in a historic setting.

About

Pueblo Zoo offers an intimate journey into the natural world, showcasing diverse species in a historic setting. This 25-acre accredited zoo, nestled within Pueblo's City Park, is home to over 400 animals representing more than 140 species, providing a manageable and engaging experience for all ages. Its unique blend of New Deal-era architecture and modern animal habitats creates a charming and educational environment perfect for a leisurely exploration.

Visitors can traverse continents within a single day, encountering endangered African Painted Dogs and playful African Penguins, or observing the elusive Pallas Cats and agile Red Pandas. The Serengeti Safari brings you face-to-face with majestic African Lions and striking Grevy's Zebras, while the Australian Outback features Red Kangaroos and Emus. Younger guests delight in the interactive Pioneer Ranch, where they can meet domestic animals and both Dromedary and Bactrian Camels, while the Tropical Discovery offers an immersive indoor experience with reptiles and amphibians.

The Pueblo Zoo provides an enriching experience, emphasizing conservation and education through its thoughtfully designed exhibits and dedicated staff. It's a place where memorable connections are forged between people and wildlife, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both fun and learning. The zoo's smaller size allows for a relaxed pace, ensuring that visitors can appreciate every animal encounter and the beautiful surroundings without feeling rushed. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

The Pueblo Zoo traces its origins to the late 1800s, initially with scattered animal collections across various city parks. It was consolidated and formally established between 1933 and 1940 during the Great Depression, with significant construction efforts funded by New Deal agencies such as the Public Works Administration (PWA), Civil Works Administration (CWA), and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Many of these original structures, built from native sandstone, are still in use today and contribute to the zoo's listing on the National Register of Historic Places as the Pueblo City Park Zoo. Since 1992, the zoo has been managed by the Pueblo Zoological Society and is proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), upholding high standards for animal care and conservation.

What to do here

Explore the diverse regional exhibits like Serengeti Safari, Asian Adventure, and Colorado Wetlands. Catch a keeper talk or feeding demonstration for animals such as otters, lions, and penguins. Enjoy a ride on the Zoo Train (seasonal). Check the calendar for special seasonal events like ElectriCritters during the holidays or Boo at the Zoo for Halloween.

Seasonal info

Summer (May-September) brings extended hours until 5 PM, but some animals might be less active in the shade during hotter afternoons. Winter (October-April) hours are 9 AM to 4 PM, and features the popular ElectriCritters light display. The zoo's moat is drained from late September and refilled in mid-April.

Accessibility

The zoo features paved paths and is considered stroller-friendly, with strollers and wheelchairs available for rent at the entrance. Service animals are permitted in accordance with ADA guidelines.

Don't miss

Don't miss the energetic African Painted Dogs, the charming African Penguins at Penguin Cove (especially during feeding demonstrations), the interactive Pioneer Ranch, the captivating Red Pandas, and the majestic African Lions. The Tropical Discovery indoor exhibit is a great stop for reptile and amphibian enthusiasts.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Osprey

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Duck

Widow Skimmer

American Robin

Double Crested Cormorant

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Animals are often most active during the cooler morning hours, offering prime viewing opportunities.

Wear comfortable shoes

With 25 acres to explore, comfortable footwear will make your visit more enjoyable.

Check keeper talk schedules

Inquire about daily keeper talks and feeding demonstrations upon arrival for African Penguins, African Lions, River Otters, and Pioneer Ranch animals to enhance your experience.

Utilize free parking

Free parking is available within City Park, where the zoo is located.

Bring a reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated, especially on warm days. You can also purchase beverages at the seasonal Safari Café.

Explore City Park

Consider combining your zoo visit with other amenities in the surrounding City Park, such as playgrounds or picnic areas, to make a full day of it.

Frequently asked questions

: Most families find that 2 to 3 hours is a sufficient amount of time to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the Pueblo Zoo at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed.
: Yes, the Pueblo Zoo offers paved and mostly level paths, making it stroller-friendly and accessible for wheelchairs. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the entrance for convenience.
: Picnics are welcome at the Pueblo Zoo, and there are picnic areas available. While a seasonal café operates with varying hours, outside food (excluding glass containers and alcoholic beverages) is generally permitted.