Denver Zoo: Complete Guide to Tickets, Hours, Attractions & Planning Your Visit
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an 84-acre wildlife destination in Denver's City Park, combining animal habitats, demonstrations, interactive experiences, conservation education and family-friendly activities.
Hero image: Sarbjit Bahga, “Denver Zoo 36,” Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
About Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, commonly called Denver Zoo, is one of Denver's major wildlife and family attractions. Its campus in City Park brings visitors close to animals from around the world while connecting the experience to wildlife conservation and education.
The zoo's large habitats include Asian elephants, greater one-horned rhinos, gorillas, orangutans, African carnivores, giraffes, reptiles, birds and many other species. Rather than treating every exhibit as a separate stop, the campus is organized into substantial habitat areas that reward visitors who plan a route.
Denver Zoo is also more than traditional animal viewing. Depending on the season and daily schedule, visitors can encounter animal demonstrations, interactive experiences, special events, feeding opportunities, educational programming and additional attractions such as the Denver Zoo Railroad and Conservation Carousel.
Because hours, demonstrations and seasonal experiences can change, the most reliable approach is to buy admission in advance, check the official daily schedule and review the map before arriving.
Denver Zoo at a Glance
These four planning points cover the essentials most first-time visitors need to know.
Location
Denver Zoo is at 2300 Steele Street in Denver's City Park area.
Admission
General admission currently requires an advance online timed-entry reservation.
Parking
Guest parking is currently free in adjacent lots and the zoo's four-level parking garage.
Accessibility
Accessible parking, mobility rentals, sensory resources and accessible spaces at several attractions are available.
Denver Zoo Tickets & Admission
Denver Zoo currently uses advance online timed entry for general admission. General-admission tickets go on sale 10 days in advance, and the zoo states that general-admission tickets are non-refundable.
| Guest | Current Published Price | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|
| Adults, ages 16–64 | $27 | General admission; select a timed entry window online. |
| Seniors, ages 65+ | $24 | Current published general-admission rate. |
| Youth, ages 3–15 | $19 | Current published general-admission rate. |
| Children age 2 and under | Free | Check the current reservation process when booking. |
Community Access Options
Denver Zoo offers seven Community Free Days during the year. Tickets are limited and are distributed through an online lottery system.
SNAP/EBT Explorer Card holders can currently receive $5 admission for up to 10 guests, with reservations required and eligibility verification needed onsite.
Memberships
Membership can make sense for visitors planning multiple trips. Compare the current membership terms with the cost of individual visits before purchasing.
Denver Zoo Hours
The currently published daily zoo hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Member Early Entry is listed as 8:00–9:00 a.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Normal Daily Schedule
- General zoo hours: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Member Early Entry: 8:00–9:00 a.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Denver Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
- Special events can operate outside normal daytime hours.
- Individual demonstrations and seasonal experiences can have separate schedules.
Before You Visit
- Confirm the day's opening hours.
- Check your timed-entry reservation.
- Review the daily animal-demonstration schedule.
- Check for weather-related or temporary exhibit changes.
- Allow extra time for parking during busy events.
Main Denver Zoo Attractions & Things to See
Denver Zoo is large enough that choosing a few priority habitats before arriving can make the day much easier.
Toyota Elephant Passage
This 10-acre Asian-themed habitat has two miles of interconnected trails and provides space for Asian elephants, greater one-horned rhinos, Malayan tapirs and other species.
Tip: Give this area plenty of time because the habitat covers substantial ground.
Primate Panorama
This seven-acre area includes gorillas, orangutans, mandrills and ring-tailed lemurs, with large open-air structures designed for climbing and natural behavior.
Tip: Combine this area with Lorikeet Adventure and, if desired, Gorilla Trek.
Lorikeet Adventure
This open aviary lets visitors walk among colorful lorikeets. Entry is free, while nectar feeding is currently available for $3 per cup.
Important: Feeding availability and operating times vary.
Stingray Cove
Stingray Cove is a seasonal open-air experience featuring cownose and southern stingrays alongside bamboo and bonnethead sharks in a 15,000-gallon tank.
Current published pricing: $3 general admission and $2 for members, with feeding sold separately when available.
Predator Ridge
Predator Ridge is a major habitat area for African carnivores. Demonstrations and animal visibility vary, so use the daily schedule rather than assuming a specific showtime.
Tropical Discovery
Tropical Discovery provides a climate-controlled, rainforest-inspired environment with reptiles, fish, amphibians and other tropical species.
Tip: It is especially useful as an indoor stop during hot weather.
Denver Zoo Railroad & Conservation Carousel
These family-oriented attractions add variety to a habitat-heavy visit. Accessible spaces are available for guests with mobility limitations.
Tip: Check the day's operating schedule because availability can vary.
Giraffe Encounter
Giraffe Encounter is a separately ticketed feeding experience where guests can hand-feed giraffes and hear from giraffe specialists.
Current published price: $24.95 per guest, separate from zoo admission. Check in 15 minutes before the scheduled encounter.
Signature Experience: Toyota Elephant Passage
For many visitors, Toyota Elephant Passage is the most important area to build into the day's route. Its scale distinguishes it from a simple viewing enclosure: the habitat covers 10 acres and includes two miles of interconnected trails.
The habitat focuses on Asian wildlife and conservation, with Asian elephants, greater one-horned rhinos and Malayan tapirs among the headline species. Village Hall adds indoor viewing and additional species.
What to Look For
- Asian elephants
- Greater one-horned rhinos
- Malayan tapirs
- Clouded leopards
- Fishing cats
- Gibbons
- Asian small-clawed otters
Experiences, Rides & Additional Activities
Some Denver Zoo activities are included with admission, while others have separate fees or seasonal schedules.
| Experience | What to Expect | Requirements / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Giraffe Encounter | Hand-feed giraffes in a semi-private encounter. | $24.95 per guest; admission sold separately. Check in 15 minutes early. |
| Gorilla Trek | Virtual-reality experience featuring critically endangered gorillas in Rwanda. | Currently $5 members / $7 general public. Schedule varies. |
| Lorikeet Adventure | Open aviary with colorful lorikeets and optional nectar feeding. | Entry free; nectar currently $3 per cup. Schedule varies. |
| Stingray Cove | Touch and, when available, feed cownose and southern stingrays. | Seasonal. Current published entry is $3 general / $2 members; feeding costs extra. |
| Denver Zoo Railroad | Family-oriented railroad ride around the zoo. | Check the current daily schedule. Accessible spaces are available. |
| Conservation Carousel | Hand-carved wildlife-themed carousel. | Check current operating schedule. Accessible spaces are available. |
| 4-D Experience | Interactive theater combining film, motion and special effects. | Approximately 15 minutes. Accessibility devices are available. |
Denver Zoo Parking & Transportation
Driving is straightforward, and guest parking is currently free, but busy weekends and special events can make parking slower than expected.
Parking
- Guest parking is currently free.
- Parking is available in lots adjacent to the zoo and in the four-level parking garage.
- Parking access is along 23rd Avenue between York Street and Colorado Boulevard near the main entrance.
- Accessible spaces are available on all four garage levels and in the East lot near the main entrance.
Peak-period advice: Allow extra time for parking during busy summer weekends and major events.
Public Transportation
RTD bus routes 20 and 40 pass near the zoo. The zoo's accessibility information identifies stops around East 23rd Avenue and Colorado Boulevard.
Access-A-Ride also provides local bus transportation for eligible riders in the Denver metro area.
For current schedules, route changes and service alerts, check RTD before traveling.
Dining & Food at Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo has multiple places to buy food and drinks, including dining options around major habitat areas. Availability and menus can vary by season and event.
Kamala Café
Located in Toyota Elephant Passage, Kamala Café provides a convenient food stop while exploring the Asian habitat area.
Café Costa & Other Stops
Additional food and drink locations operate around the campus. Seasonal event pages may list expanded food and beverage options.
Dietary Needs
The zoo publishes allergen information with its restaurant menus. Guests with significant dietary allergies should review current menus and speak with restaurant staff before ordering.
Denver Zoo Accessibility
Denver Zoo describes itself as a “Zoo for All” and provides a range of accessibility resources. The campus is large, so visitors with mobility needs should consider both accessible facilities and the amount of walking between habitats.
Mobility
Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Scooters are available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis. The zoo strongly recommends reserving mobility equipment when making a ticket reservation.
Stroller rentals are also available, with limited availability.
Accessible Attractions
Conservation Carousel, Gorilla Trek and Denver Zoo Railroad provide spaces for guests with mobility limitations. Stingray Cove and Lorikeet Adventure are also listed as wheelchair accessible.
Sensory Support
Sensory kits are available from the Concierge booth just inside the Main Entrance. The zoo also publishes a sensory guide describing individual experiences.
Restrooms & Family Facilities
All-gender restrooms are available at the Main Entrance. Family restrooms are available at the Main Entrance and Kamala Café, with additional facilities around the campus.
Service Animals
Service animals are welcome, but restrictions apply in certain sensitive animal areas. Handlers should check in with security at entry and review the zoo's current service-animal policy.
Free Aide Admission
For each guest needing assistance, Denver Zoo currently admits one aide, attendant or guide free of charge. Contact Guest Care to add the free aide ticket to an existing reservation.
How Long to Spend at Denver Zoo
The right amount of time depends on how many habitats and paid experiences you want to see.
1–2 Hours
Best for a focused visit. Choose two or three priority areas rather than trying to cover the entire zoo.
Half Day
A practical choice for first-time visitors. Combine several major habitats with food, demonstrations and one or two additional experiences.
Full Day
Ideal if animals are a major interest or you are traveling with children. You will have more flexibility for demonstrations, meals and breaks.
Best Time to Visit Denver Zoo
There is no single best time for every visitor. Weather, animal activity, crowds and seasonal programming all affect the experience.
Best for Cooler Weather
Earlier hours are particularly useful during hot weather. Denver Zoo recommends coming early during heat events, when outdoor walking can become uncomfortable.
Best for Fewer People
Weekday visits can be easier for visitors trying to reduce crowd pressure, although holidays and special programs can change the pattern.
Best for Seasonal Events
Summer and winter bring special programming, but event dates and hours vary. Check the official calendar rather than relying on a recurring annual schedule.
6 Denver Zoo Visitor Tips
A little advance planning can make a major difference on an 84-acre zoo campus.
1. Reserve Early
General admission uses timed online entry. Tickets currently go on sale 10 days ahead.
2. Check the Daily Schedule
Demonstrations and seasonal experiences change. Use the official schedule to decide which activities deserve a fixed place in your route.
3. Download the App
The official app includes a digital map and GPS capabilities, useful when navigating the large campus.
4. Plan for Walking
Comfortable shoes matter. Toyota Elephant Passage alone includes two miles of interconnected trails.
5. Prepare for Denver Weather
Sun protection, water and weather-appropriate clothing are useful. On hot days, prioritize shaded and indoor areas.
6. Reserve Mobility Equipment
Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Scooters are limited. Reserve one as early as possible if needed.
Events & Seasonal Activities
Denver Zoo maintains a changing calendar of animal programs, seasonal celebrations, evening events and special activities.
130th Summer Celebration
In 2026, Denver Zoo is celebrating its 130th anniversary with the 130th Summer Celebration, scheduled for May 25 through September 7. The program includes special activities, entertainment, animal birthday events and other seasonal experiences.
Specific dates and operating details can change, so consult the official calendar before planning around a particular activity.
Evening & Holiday Programs
Denver Zoo also hosts special programs outside normal daytime hours at various points in the year, including summer evening programming and the winter Zoo Lights program.
Evening events can use different tickets, entry procedures and parking guidance from normal daytime admission.
Denver Zoo Map & Layout
Denver Zoo is large enough that a map is worth using before and during your visit. The official map is available digitally, and the mobile app provides GPS capabilities.
Key Locations to Identify
- Main Entrance and Guest Services
- Parking garage and East parking lot
- Toyota Elephant Passage and Kamala Café
- Primate Panorama
- Tropical Discovery
- Predator Ridge
- Lorikeet Adventure
- Stingray Cove when operating
- Restrooms and family restrooms
- Dining and snack locations
A Simple Route Strategy
Pick two or three must-see habitats.
Combine habitats with attractions in the same general area.
Tropical Discovery can provide a useful climate-controlled stop.
Use the app's GPS map if you need help finding the next stop.
Denver Zoo Visit Checklist
Use this quick checklist before leaving for the zoo.
- Book your timed-entry admission.
- Confirm the zoo's current opening hours.
- Review the daily animal demonstration schedule.
- Choose your top three habitats or experiences.
- Check the official map or download the zoo app.
- Reserve a wheelchair, scooter or stroller if needed.
- Check the weather and prepare for sun or heat.
- Plan where you want to eat or take a break.
- Check whether seasonal experiences such as Stingray Cove are operating.
- Allow additional time for parking if visiting during a busy event.
Denver Zoo FAQ
Answers to common questions about Denver Zoo tickets, hours, parking, accessibility and planning.
Ready to Plan Your Denver Zoo Visit?
Reserve your timed-entry admission, check the current hours and daily schedule, review the map, and confirm any seasonal experiences or accessibility needs before you go.