Denver Zoo, Denver Travel Guide

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Discover wildlife from around the globe at Denver Zoo, a leading conservation and education center in the heart of Denver's City Park.

The Denver Zoo, an 80-acre zoological garden in City Park, Denver, is home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 600 species. Founded in 1896 with a single black bear, the zoo has evolved into a leading conservation and education center, offering immersive exhibits and a commitment to wildlife preservation.

A brief summary to Denver Zoo

2300 Steele St, Denver, Central, Colorado, 80205, US
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Monday 10 am-4 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Denver Zoo.

Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.
Check the daily schedule for animal feeding times and special events.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as much of the zoo is outdoors.
Consider purchasing a Denver CityPASS to save money on admission to multiple attractions.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Molly Brown House Museum

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver Art Museum

Denver Botanic Gardens

Big Blue Bear

Explore Denver Zoo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Denver Zoo, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From downtown Denver, take the RTD bus route 20 towards the Denver Zoo. The bus stops near the zoo's entrance on 23rd Avenue. A single ride costs $3.00 [https://www.rtd-denver.com/fares-passes/fare-information].
Ride Share

From Union Station in downtown Denver, a ride-share to the Denver Zoo takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The typical cost for a one-way trip ranges from $15 to $25.
Walking

From the Denver Museum of Nature & Science in City Park, the Denver Zoo is a pleasant 15-minute walk. Head west through the park, following the signs for the zoo. There are no additional costs for this approach.

Discover more about Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo, officially the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, invites visitors to explore a world of wildlife in the heart of Denver's City Park. Since its humble beginnings in 1896 with an orphaned black bear cub named Billy, the zoo has grown into a major attraction, drawing nearly 2 million visitors annually. The zoo is renowned for its naturalistic enclosures, including Bear Mountain, constructed in 1918, considered one of the first of its kind in the United States. Over the years, the zoo has continued to innovate with exhibits like Primate Panorama, Predator Ridge, and Toyota Elephant Passage, providing animals with enriching environments and visitors with unforgettable experiences. The newest exhibit, Down Under, opened in May 2024, and features animals from Australia, including wallabies and kangaroos in an immersive walk-through habitat.Denver Zoo is deeply committed to conservation, supporting over 600 projects in 62 countries. These initiatives range from protecting mountain gorillas in Uganda to preserving endangered species in Southeast Asia. The zoo also prioritizes sustainability, with efforts to reduce waste and promote responsible practices.Visitors can explore diverse habitats, from the tropical rainforests of Tropical Discovery to the arid landscapes of Predator Ridge. The zoo offers a variety of experiences, including animal encounters, feeding times, and a 4D Theater. In December, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with Zoo Lights, a spectacular display of illuminated animal sculptures.