Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
A cornerstone of community life in the Twin Cities, Como Park offers a surprisingly comprehensive and completely free zoo and conservatory experience. Its charm lies in its intimate scale, historic glass-domed gardens, and commitment to accessibility, making it a perfect year-round destination for families and nature lovers. The Como Park Experience: š¦ The Zoo: Compact Yet Diverse Despite its smaller size, the zoo is thoughtfully designed and houses a remarkable collection of popular animals, including lions, giraffes, gorillas, and polar bears. The habitats are well-maintained, and the manageable layout means you can see a wide variety of species without the exhaustion of a massive mega-zoo. šø The Sparkling Conservatory: The true jewel is the historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Under its stunning glass domes, you can stroll through a tropical rainforest, see seasonal floral displays (especially spectacular at Christmas), and explore serene Japanese and orchid gardens. It's a warm, fragrant escape during Minnesota's long winters. šļø Free Admission (With Suggested Donation): The entire experience operates on a "pay-as-you-wish" model. While admission is technically free, a suggested donation (around $4 for adults, $2 for children) is crucial for the facility's operation and is greatly appreciated. This policy is central to its community mission. Practical Visitor Tips: š Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St. Paul, MN 55103 š Parking: Your note is critical. The free parking lots fill up extremely quickly on nice weekends and during special events. Arriving right at opening (10:00 AM) or considering street parking in the surrounding neighborhood is advised. š Timing: Weekday visits offer a significantly more relaxed experience. Mornings are best for both parking and seeing active animals. "Where world-class gardens and wild animals meet community spirit. šæ A cherished, free-admission zoo and conservatory that delivers big experiences on an intimate, family-friendly scale." #ComoParkZoo #ComoConservatory #StPaul #Minnesota #FreeAttraction #Zoo #Conservatory #FamilyFun #BotanicalGarden #TwinCities
