One of the nation's most visited zoos with over 4,000 animals in 84 acres of naturalistic habitats, including an acclaimed African wildlife exhibit, Colorado native species area, and diverse global wildlife. The zoo is consistently ranked among America's best.
The Denver Zoo, situated in City Park in northeast Denver, Colorado, is one of the most visited zoological parks in the United States, welcoming approximately 2 million visitors annually to its 84 acres of naturalistic animal habitats. Founded in 1896 with a single orphaned bear cub gifted to the city by the son of President Ulysses S. Grant, the institution has grown to house over 4,000 animals representing more than 600 species within a collection spanning terrestrial and aquatic environments from six continents.
The zoo is organized into themed geographic and ecological areas. Toyota Elephant Passage, the largest elephant habitat at any zoo in the United States at four acres, recreates an Asian river system housing Asian elephants, hippos, Malayan tapirs, clouded leopards, and a variety of bird species in a single connected environment. Predator Ridge houses African lions, Cape hunting dogs, and hyenas in adjacent enclosures designed to reflect natural predator coexistence dynamics. The Primate Panorama complex is one of the largest indoor primate facilities in the country, housing western lowland gorillas, Bornean orangutans, bonobos, and multiple monkey species.
Colorado native wildlife is represented in a dedicated habitat area covering gray wolves, elk, bison, and pronghorn. The Northern Shores exhibit houses polar bears, sea lions, and Arctic-adapted species. Bird World provides indoor habitat for tropical species requiring climate control, while an outdoor free-flight section houses raptors and wading birds.
The Denver Zoo maintains an active conservation program participating in AZA Species Survival Plan breeding programs for endangered species including black-footed ferrets, Mexican wolves, and black rhinos. The institution holds accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Families with children find the zoo well-designed for extended visits; a carousel, miniature train, and concession stands are distributed throughout the grounds. Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available at the main entrance on Steele Street. City Park provides free adjacent parking. The zoo is also accessible via Denver's RTD bus system on multiple routes.
Good to know
- Hours
- 9AM-5PM daily (6PM summer)
- Best time
- Morning when animals are active
- Best for
- families, children, animal lovers, all ages
Location
2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205
39.7497, -104.9617 View on map
Highlights
- Toyota Elephant Passage — largest elephant habitat in the US at four acres with Asian elephants, hippos, and tapirs
- Primate Panorama — one of America's largest indoor primate complexes with gorillas, orangutans, and bonobos
- Predator Ridge housing African lions, Cape hunting dogs, and hyenas in adjacent naturalistic enclosures
- Active Species Survival Plan conservation programs for black-footed ferrets, Mexican wolves, and black rhinos
- Colorado native wildlife habitat with gray wolves, bison, pronghorn, and elk alongside the international collection
Tips for visiting
- Buy tickets online to save 20%
- The African wildlife exhibit and elephant area are highlights
- Mornings are best as animals are more active
When to visit
Weekday mornings from 9 AM to noon offer the most active animal behavior and the smallest crowds. Animals are most active in morning before midday heat sets in during summer. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide comfortable walking temperatures and good animal visibility. Summer weekends are the most crowded period, particularly on holidays.
Accessibility
The Denver Zoo is wheelchair accessible throughout, with paved paths connecting all major exhibit areas. Wheelchair and ECV (electric convenience vehicle) rentals are available at the main entrance. Accessible restrooms are distributed across the grounds. The miniature train and carousel have accessibility accommodations. Service animals are welcome; call ahead for any specific accommodation needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is purchasing tickets online recommended?
Yes — online advance tickets are available at a discount compared to gate prices and guarantee entry on popular summer days when the zoo can reach capacity. Purchasing online also speeds up entry. Memberships, which include unlimited visits, are available through the Denver Zoo's official ticketing system and offer significant savings for families planning multiple visits.
How long does a full zoo visit take?
Most families with children spend 3 to 4 hours covering the major exhibits. Visitors who want to see every section of the 84-acre grounds thoroughly should plan 4 to 5 hours. The Toyota Elephant Passage, Primate Panorama, and Predator Ridge consistently receive the most time from visitors.
Is the Denver Zoo suitable for very young children?
Yes — the zoo is among the best family attractions in Colorado for children under 10. Animal feeding presentations, the children's train, carousel, and proximity of animal enclosures to viewing areas make it highly engaging for young visitors. The Denver Zoo Foundation's educational programs run throughout the year for school groups and families.