Skip to main content
Sightseeing

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

📍 Colorado Springs · USA
No photos yet
4.2/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Introduction

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is perched on the mountainside of Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs at an elevation of about 2,042 meters, making it one of the highest-altitude zoos in the United States. Built along the mountain slope, the campus covers roughly 56 hectares and is home to nearly 750 animals representing more than 170 species, including several endangered and rare varieties. The zoo is renowned for its immersive exhibits and close-up animal interactions, and visitors can ride a chairlift to enjoy panoramic views of the entire campus and the distant Rocky Mountains. The African penguin exhibit, hippo habitat, and giraffe feeding experience are especially popular with families. Open year-round and dedicated to wildlife conservation education, it is one of Colorado's most beloved family attractions.

Highlights

1
Unique Mountain Setting
A mountain campus above 2,000 meters offering panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the Rocky Mountains
2
Giraffe Feeding Experience
Hand-feed giraffes up close, one of the most popular interactive activities in the park
3
African Penguin Exhibit
Watch penguins swim and feed up close while learning about conservation efforts
4
Mountainside Chairlift
Ride the chairlift between exhibits and enjoy sweeping views of the forest and animal habitats
5
Hippo Underwater Tunnel
Walk through a glass tunnel to observe hippos gliding gracefully underwater
6
Conservation Education Programs
Join wildlife conservation talks and behind-the-scenes tours to learn about endangered species protection

🛈 Practical Info

HoursDaily 9:00-17:00, last admission 16:00, closed on Thanksgiving
AdmissionAdults about $25.75, ages 3-12 about $20.75, under 2 free
Recommended Duration3-4 hours
Address425 W Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
TransportDrive from downtown Colorado Springs, about 10 minutes by car
Websitecmzoo.org

💡 Tips

Arrive in the morning when animals are more active and crowds are smaller
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the mountain campus has steep paths
Buy a combo ticket for the chairlift and feeding experiences for better value
Bring a light jacket as the mountain top can be cool even in summer
Purchase tickets online in advance for a small discount and to skip the queue

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Cheyenne Mountain Zoo?

Arrive in the morning when animals are more active and crowds are smaller Wear comfortable walking shoes as the mountain campus has steep paths