The Denver Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals representing 450 species, offers visitors a captivating journey through diverse habitats and engaging exhibits. From the historic Bear Mountain to the innovative Toyota Elephant Passage, this 80-acre wildlife park provides unique opportunities to observe and learn about animals from around the globe, while also hosting special events like the new “Glowing Wild” lantern festival that illuminates the grounds with handmade sculptures.
In this Denver Zoo Travel Guide, we’ll take a look at:
Denver Zoo Overview
The Denver Zoo, founded in 1896 with a single orphaned black bear cub named Billy Bryan, has evolved into a world-class wildlife conservation center. Located on 80 acres in Denver’s City Park, the zoo is easily accessible and draws over 1.9 million visitors annually, ranking it among the most popular cultural attractions in Colorado. The zoo’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its features:
- Wheelchair and electric scooter rentals available
- Accessible parking spaces in all parking areas
- Automatic doors in most buildings
- Wheelchair-accessible attractions like the Conservation Carousel and Stingray Cove™
As a leader in animal care and conservation, the Denver Zoo houses nearly 4,000 animals representing over 650 species, including rare and endangered animals like the Amur leopard and Siberian tiger.
Animal Habitats and Exhibits
The Denver Zoo’s diverse animal exhibits offer visitors a captivating journey through various ecosystems and habitats. The Toyota Elephant Passage, one of the largest and most complex elephant habitats in North America, features two miles of interconnected trails on 10 acres of varied terrain. This unique multi-species habitat houses Asian elephants, greater one-horned rhinos, and Malayan tapirs, along with clouded leopards, fishing cats, and small-clawed otters.
Tropical Discovery immerses guests in a vibrant indoor rainforest, showcasing nearly 300 species including Komodo dragons, green anacondas, and Linne’s two-toed sloths. The zoo is also home to unique species such as okapi, red pandas, and capybaras. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences like the Lorikeet Adventure, where they can hand-feed colorful Australian parrots in an open aviary. With its commitment to conservation and education, the Denver Zoo continues to provide engaging and informative exhibits that highlight the diversity of wildlife from around the world.
Events and Special Experiences
The Denver Zoo offers a variety of engaging events and activities throughout the year. In addition to the “Glowing Wild” lantern festival, visitors can enjoy behind-the-scenes experiences like the Up-Close Look: Animal Hospital tour, available on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. for guests 8 years and older. For younger animal enthusiasts, the Backstage Experience Junior Encounter provides a 30-minute interactive tour with some of the zoo’s most personable animals, suitable for all ages.
- Special events like Adult Nights offer a 21+ experience with exclusive menus, live music, and animal demonstrations
- The zoo occasionally hosts themed scavenger hunts, similar to those at other zoos, which allow visitors to explore exhibits while answering trivia and completing challenges
- Seasonal activities and educational programs are regularly organized to engage visitors of all ages
- While specific free admission days are not mentioned for Denver Zoo, many zoos offer such opportunities to increase community access
Glowing Wild Lantern Festival
The Denver Zoo’s “Glowing Wild” lantern festival transforms the park into a mesmerizing nocturnal wonderland from March 13th to May 4th, 2025. This immersive experience features:
- 60 unique scenes with over 145 handmade lantern sculptures
- Larger-than-life displays, including a 130-foot-long walk-through crocodile tunnel
- Interactive elements and surprises throughout the 80-acre campus
- Themed food offerings like banh mi sliders and piri piri chicken tenders
- Special Adult Nights on April 1 and May 3 for a 21+ experience
Visitors are encouraged to arrive later in the evening for the most impressive illumination, with the event running from 6:00-9:30 PM. Tickets start at $26 for adults and $19 for youth, with children under 2 entering for free.
Historic Bear Mountain Exhibit
Bear Mountain, opened in 1918, stands as a landmark in zoo design and animal care at the Denver Zoo. This pioneering exhibit was the first in North America to use naturalistic, bar-free enclosures with simulated concrete rocks cast from nearby Dinosaur Mountain. The innovative design, costing $50,000 at the time, featured hidden moats, native plants, and an artificial stream to create a more natural environment for the animals.
Originally housing polar and grizzly bears, Bear Mountain’s success sparked a nationwide movement towards more naturalistic zoo habitats. Although the exhibit no longer houses bears, who have moved to the new Harmony Hill area, Bear Mountain remains a cherished part of the zoo. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and underwent a $250,000 restoration between 1987 and 1989, preserving its significance for future generations.
Interactive Lorikeet Adventure
The Denver Zoo’s Lorikeet Adventure offers visitors an immersive and interactive experience with these vibrant Australian parrots. Located in an open aviary, guests can observe and even hand-feed a variety of lorikeet species as they fly freely overhead. For a small fee of $3, visitors can purchase a cup of nectar to feed these colorful birds, creating an unforgettable opportunity as the lorikeets perch on their arms.
- Home to multiple lorikeet species, including the rainbow and scarlet-breasted lorikeets
- Designed to be fun and memorable for guests of all ages
- Provides educational opportunities to learn about lorikeet behavior, diet, and conservation from zoo staff and volunteers
- Offers a unique sensory experience, with the cheerful chirps of lorikeets filling the air
- Opened to the public on May 27, 2006, as one of the zoo’s interactive exhibits
Conservation and Education Hub
The Denver Zoo’s commitment to conservation extends far beyond its gates, with over 600 projects in 62 countries since 1997. The zoo invests more than $2 million annually in conservation programs, both locally and globally. Its efforts include:
- Expanding wildlife conservation to Africa, partnering with Conservation Through Public Health in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to protect mountain gorillas
- Collaborating with the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association to safeguard endangered grey crowned cranes
- Developing the Lembke Family Preserve, a 570-acre facility in Weld County for animal care and conservation breeding
- Implementing the Conservation Spotlight Species program, connecting visitors with threatened species to inspire conservation action
The zoo’s Wildlife Conservation Education Center serves as a hub for educational initiatives, offering interactive programs for students of all ages. These programs encourage outdoor learning and exploration of wildlife and natural resources, fostering a deeper understanding of biodiversity and climate change.
Visitor Information and Pricing
The Denver Zoo offers a range of ticket options and facilities to enhance visitor experiences. General admission prices for 2025 are $25.20 for adults (ages 16-64), $22.05 for seniors (65+), and $18.90 for youth (ages 3-15), with free entry for children 2 and under. During the “Glowing Wild” lantern festival, special event tickets start at $26 for adults and $19 for youth.
The zoo prioritizes accessibility with features such as trams to the beach, elevated boardwalks, and free beach wheelchairs available upon request. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as dining options at the Whiskey Creek Hideout restaurant. For adult visitors, special “Glowing Wild Adult Nights” on April 3 and May 1, 2025, offer exclusive experiences including a complimentary drink, live music, silent disco, and animal demonstrations for those 21 and older.
Denver Zoo: A Must-Visit
The Denver Zoo stands out as a premier wildlife destination, offering visitors a unique blend of education, conservation, and entertainment. With innovative exhibits like the Toyota Elephant Passage and the historic Bear Mountain, the zoo provides immersive experiences that connect guests with animals from around the world. The zoo’s commitment to conservation is evident in its global projects and the development of the Lembke Family Preserve, showcasing its dedication to protecting endangered species.
Special events like the “Glowing Wild” lantern festival and interactive experiences such as the Lorikeet Adventure add an extra layer of excitement to visits. Combined with its accessibility features, educational programs, and ongoing conservation efforts, the Denver Zoo offers a compelling and enriching experience for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit attraction in the Mile High City.
Key Facts Overview
The Denver Zoo offers a diverse range of exhibits, conservation efforts, and visitor experiences. Here’s a summary table highlighting key aspects of the zoo:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding | Established in 1896 with a single orphaned black bear |
| Location | 80 acres in Denver’s City Park, Colorado |
| Annual Visitors | Over 1.9 million |
| Animal Population | Nearly 4,000 animals representing over 650 species |
| Notable Exhibits | Bear Mountain (historic), Toyota Elephant Passage, Tropical Discovery, Predator Ridge |
| Conservation Efforts | Over 600 projects in 62 countries, $2 million annual investment |
| Special Events | “Glowing Wild” lantern festival (March 13 – May 4, 2025) |
| Education | Wildlife Conservation Education Center, interactive programs |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair rentals, accessible parking, automatic doors |
| Admission (2025) | Adults: $25.20, Seniors: $22.05, Youth: $18.90, Under 2: Free |
| Unique Experiences | Lorikeet Adventure, Behind-the-Scenes Tours, Adult Nights |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking available at the Denver Zoo?
Yes, the Denver Zoo offers free parking in its main lot located off 23rd Avenue1. For busy days, there’s additional parking available in nearby City Park.
Are there discounts available for admission?
The zoo offers several discount options. Seniors (65+) and youth (ages 3-15) receive reduced admission rates. Additionally, the zoo provides free admission for one aide or attendant accompanying a person needing assistance. The zoo also participates in the SNAP/EBT program, offering discounted admission for eligible visitors.
Can I bring my own food to the zoo?
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages into the zoo. There are picnic areas with tables available throughout the grounds. However, the zoo also offers various dining options for those who prefer to purchase food on-site.