Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.
RSS Feed
- 2026 | 10 Posts
- 2025 | 60 Posts
- 2024 | 59 Posts
- 2023 | 48 Posts
- 2022 | 52 Posts
- 2021 | 54 Posts
- 2020 | 49 Posts
- 2019 | 48 Posts
- 2018 | 43 Posts
- 2017 | 15 Posts
- 2016 | 20 Posts
- 2015 | 6 Posts
- 2014 | 8 Posts
9
St. Paul's Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
One of the most lauded St. Paul landmarks for visitors of all ages is the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. It is one of America's foremost zoos in promoting the well-being of its animals.
No matter when you drop in throughout the year, you'll find plenty to see and do.
Here's a brief sample:
Amazing Animal Species
Como Park Zoo was originally known simply as Como Zoo and was established in 1897, making it the first zoo in the state of Minnesota. Since then, it's maintained its historic legacy as home to dozens of animal species including everything from bison and tigers to penguins and polar bears. Wolves, zebras, orangutans, and flamingos are just a few of the favorites.
Exotic Plants and Gardens
Throughout the Como Park Zoo, more than a dozen large gardens recreate conditions from all over the world. Each one has its own spectacular theme, like Tropical Encounters and the Orchid House. The Bonsai Collection is the largest exhibit of its kind in the Upper Midwest. You won't want to miss the historic Centennial Garden or serene Water Gardens, either.
Parks and Recreation Around the Zoo
Once you're done seeing animals, you'll find you can spend a whole day enjoying everything else Como Park has to offer. There are amenities to suit every need, including athletic fields, an 18-hole golf course, a lake for fishing and boating, and even a six-lane, 25-yard pool. Picnics are a popular pastime and Music in the Park events take place regularly.
Family Fun and Excitement
Naturally, kids are warmly welcomed at the Como Park Zoo and Observatory. In fact, it hosts a complete amusement park featuring more than a dozen rides. These range from the Frog Hopper suitable for tykes to thrill rides like the S.S. Swashbuckler Pirate Ship.
Between May and October, century-old Cafesjian's Carousel is another unforgettable kid-friendly attraction. Kids under age 1 – and adults 90+ – ride free; all others pay just $2. It's just south of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory.
If your little one is going through a frog phase, hop on over to the Ribbit Zibbit. Guests get to meet frogs face-to-face and observe the life cycle in enclosures designed to mimic wild conditions. You'll see just how important frogs are to the ecosystem!
An Unsurpassed Art Collection
Thanks to its long and colorful history, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory has amassed a truly breathtaking collection of art. That includes private donations from throughout the years as well as sculptures, murals, and other public works.
The collection currently includes favorites like the bronze Don the Gorilla outside the Primate House, the Granite Frog, and Toby the Tortoise. People come from all around to see the stone statue of St. Francis, patron saint of birds – always found watching over the North Garden.
Last but not least, there's the Leonard Wilkening Children's Gallery. This is where you want to go to find all the fun and exciting hands-on activities that kids will flip for. It's a great way to make sure the young ones absorb lasting lessons about the natural world.
Make a Home in St. Paul and Como Park Will Be Your Backyard
The Twin Cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis have been attracting new residents for years thanks to the strong economy, world-class education, and sights like Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Counselor Realty is here to help you make your big move.
View Saint Paul homes for sale.