Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
Minnesota
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a cherished urban attraction combining a well-maintained zoo and the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. The zoo features a variety of animals including polar bears, gorillas, seals, penguins, puffins, and tropical fish, with educational programs and keeper talks enhancing visitor engagement. The conservatory showcases beautiful botanical gardens and artistic elements such as sculptures and murals, providing a peaceful retreat for plant lovers. Situated within the expansive Como Park, which includes Lake Como, paved trails, an amusement park, and historic structures, the site offers a rich blend of natural beauty, recreation, and cultural heritage. Visitors enjoy free admission with suggested donations, making it accessible to all. The park's attractions extend beyond the zoo and conservatory, with amenities like paddleboat rentals, a golf course, and picnic areas. The combination of wildlife, horticulture, art, and recreational facilities makes Como Park Zoo and Conservatory a unique and vibrant destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Tip: Visit during spring through fall to enjoy the full range of outdoor activities and gardens in bloom. Take advantage of daily keeper talks and special animal programs for a more informative experience. Admission is free, but consider donating to support conservation efforts. Check the official website for event schedules and plan your visit around special programs like Polar Bear Odyssey or Gorilla Forest talks. Arriving early on weekends can help avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the park's varied attractions.
Interesting facts
- •Como Park receives more than 1.9 million visitors annually, making it a major urban attraction in Saint Paul.
- •The park includes two historic reinforced concrete bridges built in 1904, among the oldest of their kind in the U.S.
- •Cafesjian's Carousel, built in 1914 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, was rescued from auction and restored in 1988.
- •The park features a Global Harmony Labyrinth celebrating the sister city relationship between Saint Paul and Nagasaki, Japan.
- •The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Fireplace, erected in 1936, was refurbished and rededicated in 2011 after years of disrepair.
History
Como Park was established in 1873 when the City of Saint Paul acquired 300 acres around Lake Como to create a public park.
Over time, the park expanded to 384 acres, incorporating diverse recreational and cultural facilities.
The Como Park Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory developed as key attractions within the park, with the conservatory named after a prominent local horticulturist.
Historic structures such as early 20th-century reinforced concrete bridges and a 1914 Philadelphia Toboggan Company carousel reflect the park's long-standing heritage.
The site has hosted significant events, including the Winter Carnival Ice Palace in 1939 and multiple Winter Carnival Medallion hunts.
Continuous restoration and community efforts have preserved and enhanced the park's cultural and natural assets over the decades.
Place Guide
Polar Bear Odyssey
An educational program featuring the zoo's three polar bears, offering visitors insights into their care and conservation.
Gorilla Forest
A habitat showcasing gorillas with interpretive talks about their behavior and conservation challenges.
Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
A botanical conservatory housing diverse plant collections and artistic sculptures, murals, and architectural details.
Aquatic Animal Building
Exhibits aquatic animals such as seals, penguins, puffins, and tropical fish, featuring interactive educational encounters.
Contact
Phone: (651) 487-8201
