Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

About

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory sits in the heart of St. Paul, Minnesota, offering a rare combination: a quality zoo and stunning botanical conservatory, all completely free to visit. A suggested donation of $4 for adults and $2 for children helps support the animals and plants, but no one is ever turned away.

The zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals including polar bears, gorillas, giraffes, lions, and orangutans. Smaller exhibits feature seals, penguins, and a variety of tropical birds. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory houses lush gardens under glass, from the iconic Sunken Garden with its seasonal flower shows to the steamy Tropical Encounters exhibit where butterflies float freely around visitors.

Families will find plenty to enjoy. The Sparky the Sea Lion show is a crowd favorite, and the interactive Como Town amusement area offers rides and activities for younger children. The Japanese Garden provides a peaceful retreat, and rotating seasonal displays in the conservatory keep things fresh for repeat visitors.

The grounds are open every day of the week, typically from 10am to 6pm, though hours can shift seasonally. Reservations may be required during busy periods, but booking online takes just a few minutes. Parking is available in nearby lots, and the park connects to walking paths throughout the larger Como Regional Park.

What makes Como Park Zoo & Conservatory stand out is its commitment to being welcoming to everyone. There's no financial barrier to entry, and the compact layout means you can see a lot without exhausting yourself. Whether you're watching a gorilla up close, breathing in the warm humid air of the tropical greenhouse in the middle of a Minnesota winter, or just strolling the gardens, it's a destination that rewards a relaxed pace. Pack a lunch and make use of the picnic areas scattered around the grounds for a full day out.

Accessibility

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways connecting the major exhibits and buildings. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent at Garden Safari Gifts. A valid ID is required as collateral for wheelchairs, and electric scooters also require a major credit card. All rentals must be returned before closing.

Most areas of the zoo and conservatory can be reached by wheelchair. The paths are paved, though some sections have slopes that may be challenging for manual wheelchair users. Power chair users generally report good experiences across the grounds. The Sunken Garden in the conservatory has undergone accessibility improvements, with wheelchair ramps added to make it fully accessible.

Some older buildings have had intermittent accessibility challenges. The zoo's cat building, for example, has an elevator on one side but has experienced closures that temporarily limited wheelchair access. It's worth checking current conditions before your visit if specific exhibits are a priority.

The facility is free to enter, which removes a common barrier for visitors who may need to take shorter trips or return multiple times. Reservations may be required but can be made online quickly.

For the most current information on accessible restrooms, sensory accommodations, companion restrooms, or service animal policies, contact Como Park Zoo & Conservatory directly before your visit. Accessibility conditions can change with construction and seasonal updates, so a quick call or email will help you plan with confidence.

More accessible places in Minnesota

• Science Museum of Minnesota (St. Paul)
• Great River Water Park (St. Paul)
• Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (Minneapolis)
• Minnesota Zoo (Apple Valley)
• Mall of America (Bloomington)
• Minneapolis Institute of Art (Minneapolis)