Denver Zoo

From a City Park bear to a naturalistic zoo

Denver Zoo began in 1896 with a black bear cub named Billy Bryan, given to Denver’s mayor and housed in City Park. A later change in zoo design shaped the way visitors encounter animals here. In 1918, zoo designer Carl Hagenbeck developed Bear Mountain around the idea that people should see animals in settings that felt more like their habitats, without relying on the older bars-and-cages arrangement.

That approach is still part of the visit. Paths pass through themed habitats, with viewing areas designed to bring you close to the animals. The zoo’s work also includes conservation and education, so talks and presentations can add context to the exhibits. If you want to hear more about an animal, staff and volunteers may be able to answer questions as you walk through.

Exhibits to plan your walk around

Predator Ridge recreates an African savanna landscape, with lions among the animals to look for. At Primate Panorama, monkeys move through the trees and overhead spaces. Tropical Discovery takes you indoors among tropical plants, reptiles and fish; it can feel warm and humid, which makes it a useful stop on a cool day.

The elephant habitat is another distinctive stop. A bridge lets elephants cross above a walkway, giving you a view from below. Other exhibits mentioned across the grounds include penguins, gorillas, giraffes and birds. Some paths also lead through walk-in animal areas, such as the bird exhibit and Wallaby Way, where visitors can get a closer look at wallabies and red kangaroos.

Stingray Cove is an open-air exhibit with cownose and southern stingrays swimming in a large tank. The interactive experience includes touching the rays; feeding may also be available. Check the zoo’s current information before building a visit around a particular activity, since exhibits and experiences can change.

Making the most of your visit

The zoo covers a large area, so allow at least two hours and expect plenty of walking. If your time is limited, choose a few habitats in advance, then leave room for an animal presentation or feeding if one fits your schedule. Early morning and cooler weather can be good times to look for more active animals; during a hot afternoon, some may be resting.

Food and drinks are available at vendors and cafes around the grounds, and visitors can bring their own. There are places to sit, as well as a playground for younger children. The zoo also has a gift shop. Check the official website for current ticket arrangements and event details before setting out, and consider booking admission ahead of time.

Denver Zoo is at 2300 Steele St in City Park. Free parking is listed among the on-site amenities, including a parking garage. The nearby Denver Museum of Nature & Science is another attraction in the park, so the two can be paired if you have more time.