Cheyenne Mountain Zoo - Zebras drinking together at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
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Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

4.8
·24k reviews·Colorado Springs, United States

America's 2nd best zoo, nestled on a mountain, offering incredible animal encounters and panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more animal activity

CrowdLow
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Cheyenne Mountain Zoo - Zebras drinking together at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more animal activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

America's 2nd best zoo, nestled on a mountain, offering incredible animal encounters and panoramic views.

4.8
(24k reviews)

"The BEST zoo we have been too to date! We LOVED all the animal up close & being able to touch & feed animals."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

It's a workout! The zoo is built on a mountain, so expect lots of uphill walking. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool

Bring water bottles and use the misters. It gets hot, especially in summer! :droplet:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 24,497 reviews

Type

Zoo

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giraffe Feeding Frenzy

Giraffe Feeding Frenzy

Giraffe Exhibit

Get up close and personal to feed these gentle giants. A truly memorable experience for all ages!

Mountain Sky Ride

Mountain Sky Ride

Access point near entrance

Ascend to the Shrine of the Sun for breathtaking panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the zoo.

Baby Gorilla Encounter

Baby Gorilla Encounter

Primate House

Witness the adorable antics of the zoo's newest primate residents, a definite crowd-pleaser.

Reddit
Goat Play Area

Goat Play Area

Petting Zoo

Interact with and feed the playful goats – a guaranteed hit for kids (and adults!).

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for an Uphill Adventure

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is built into the mountainside, meaning lots of uphill walking. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on hot days. Strollers can be challenging on the switchback paths, so consider a carrier for very young children. TikTokReddit

Book Ahead for Peak Experiences

Timed-entry tickets are often required, especially during peak seasons. Popular activities like feeding the giraffes or the Sky Ride to the Shrine of the Sun may also need advance booking and have additional costs. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Dog Days (check schedule)
Why
Unique experience with furry friends
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs is an absolute must see when visiting. Voted 2nd best zoo in America. @TheZoo #zoo #cheyennemountainzoo #animals #travel #traveltiktok #visitcolorado #colorado #thingstodo #traveltips #CapCut #usa🇺🇸
@matthew_hello99
18.7K likes • 408.4K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

It's a workout! The zoo is built on a mountain, so expect lots of uphill walking. TikTokReddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool

Bring water bottles and use the misters. It gets hot, especially in summer! Reddit :droplet:

I couldnt get enough of the sloth. 🦥 #zoo #coloradosprings #thingstodo #cheyennemountainzoo #animals #colorado #travel #adventures #exploremore
@sharonstark49
11.1K likes • 252.7K views
Have you visited this zoo yet? 📌Save + send for your next trip! @cheyennemountainzoo should be on your list when visiting 📍Colorado Springs There is a lot to see and I think it is unique being up in the foothills of Cheyenne Cañon- views of the city and even better views on the mountain sky ride! Highly recommend feeding the giraffes- it is only a couple dollars. You can also feed birds, goats...
coloradomountaintowns
9.6K likes • 305.1K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Timed-entry tickets are often required. Book in advance to secure your spot! TikTok :admission_tickets:

🦒 Feed the Giraffes!

A must-do experience! Purchase food at the exhibit for an unforgettable interaction. InstagramReddit :leafflutteringin_wind:

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs has been voted in the top 10 zoos in the United States for 8 years in a row and it’s easy to see why! Whether you live here or are planning a visit, it’s an absolute must to add to your list. It’s tucked at the base of the mountain and focuses on experiences that bring people and animals closer together. There’s a number of interactive and feeding experi...
leah_behr
62 likes • 3.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

It's a workout! The zoo is built on a mountain, so expect lots of uphill walking. TikTokReddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool

Bring water bottles and use the misters. It gets hot, especially in summer! Reddit :droplet:

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Timed-entry tickets are often required. Book in advance to secure your spot! TikTok :admission_tickets:

🦒 Feed the Giraffes!

A must-do experience! Purchase food at the exhibit for an unforgettable interaction. InstagramReddit :leafflutteringin_wind:

🐶 Dog Days Fun

Bring your well-behaved dog on special 'Dog Days' for a unique zoo adventure! Instagram+1 🐕

What Travellers Say

4.8
(24k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Cheyenne Mountain Zoo for its top-notch exhibits, engaging animal encounters like giraffe feeding, and breathtaking mountain views. Many highlight the zoo's dedication to animal welfare and the unique, adventurous experience of its mountain setting, though some note the challenging terrain and smaller enclosure sizes for certain animals. Reddit+1

"Smaller zoo but top notch exhibits. Be prepared for some exercise. Zoo built into the side of a mountain. Switchback paths take you through the zoo - strollers can be a challenge. The animals appeared to be having as much fun as I was- so well cared for and enclosures were well adapted to what the animals need. Enrichment items were actually be used. Great views / scenery all around. There is also a jeep ride to the Shrine of the Sun. This should be a must do if you’re visiting. It’s an additional cost during the summer season but worth every penny ($10 a person - need to reserve a time slot). Also had timed entry. Added bonus was the up front reserved parking for Toyota vehicles. Had a great time here."

Paul P

"The BEST zoo we have been too to date! We LOVED all the animal up close & being able to touch & feed animals. A lot of uphill but totally worth it! They have plenty of benches all over for resting if you get tired easily! Take a rain poncho, backpack, water, snacks. So cool that it is on the mountain. Loved the views. Excited for the new giraffe habitat to get finished to go back & see that! We got to see the new baby gorilla. Baby was definitely the star of the zoo, EVERYONE loved the baby. Too cute. Definitely recommend going to this zoo!"

Brittny Duran

"I come to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, a lot. Have gotten to watch a lot of babies be born, and grow up there. Actually memorized a lot of the animals names. It's an amazing zoo, from what I have seen they take amazing care of the animals there. The staff are always friendly, and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend visiting. I do enjoy the Denver Zoo as well, but this is my top favorite zoo I've been to, and will always continue to go and visit. I am currently in my second trimester of pregnancy, and am so excited to take my kid there once they're old enough."

Cori Mercer

What People Like

Up-close animal encounters
Stunning mountain views
Well-cared-for animals

What People Dislike

Challenging uphill terrain
Smaller enclosure sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is located at 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use ride-sharing services as well. TikTokInstagram

While direct public transportation routes to the zoo's specific entrance can be limited, you can take local bus services to get close to the area and then potentially arrange a short taxi or ride-share for the final leg. It's best to check the local transit authority's website for the most up-to-date routes. Reddit

The zoo is built into the side of a mountain, so expect a lot of uphill walking. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a workout. The paths are switchbacks, which can be challenging with strollers. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is parking available at the zoo. During peak times, it can fill up, so arriving early is recommended. Some social media posts mention special reserved parking for Toyota vehicles. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own water bottles, snacks, and food. This is a great way to save money and stay refreshed during your visit, especially with the uphill climbs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Cheyenne Mountain Zoo website for the most current pricing. They often have different rates for adults, children, and seniors. Look out for potential discounts or membership options. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends. The zoo often uses a timed-entry system to manage crowds and ensure a good guest experience. TikTok

While specific discounts like AAA are sometimes mentioned, it's best to check the zoo's official website or local deal sites for current offers. Membership can also be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple times. TikTok

Zoo hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Cheyenne Mountain Zoo website for the most up-to-date operating hours for the day you plan to visit. TikTok

Refund policies typically depend on the zoo's terms and conditions, which are usually outlined when you purchase tickets online. It's advisable to review these policies carefully before buying. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the large giraffe herd, the baby gorilla, elephants, and the sloth. The zoo is known for its well-cared-for animals and engaging exhibits. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! Kids love feeding the goats and giraffes, and the zoo often has special events. The mountain setting itself provides an adventurous feel for younger visitors. TikTokInstagram

The Sky Ride is an optional, additional-cost attraction that takes you up the mountain to the Shrine of the Sun, offering incredible views. It's a popular experience, especially during the summer. Reddit

Yes, on designated 'Dog Days'! This is a unique opportunity to bring your furry friend along for a special zoo visit. Check the zoo's schedule for these events. Instagram+1

The zoo is built on a mountainside with switchback paths, which can make strollers and wheelchairs challenging. While possible, be prepared for steep inclines and uneven terrain. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the zoo offers various food and beverage options for purchase, including snacks and meals. However, many visitors find it convenient and cost-effective to bring their own food and drinks. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and save money. There are various spots where you can relax and enjoy your meal. Reddit

Typical zoo fare like burgers, hot dogs, and snacks are usually available. For specific menu items and pricing, it's best to check the zoo's official website or inquire upon arrival. Reddit

While specific options can change, zoos often provide a range of choices. It's advisable to check the zoo's current offerings on their website or ask staff upon arrival for the most accurate information. Reddit

Given the zoo's mountain location, many areas offer scenic views. Look for seating areas near the giraffe exhibit or along the upper paths for picturesque dining experiences. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The panoramic views from the upper parts of the zoo, especially near the Sky Ride, are stunning. The giraffe exhibit and the elephants also make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

The enclosures are designed to give good viewing access, and many animals are quite active. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. Reddit

Tripod policies can vary. It's best to check the zoo's official photography guidelines on their website to ensure compliance and avoid any issues. TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the animals are often more active then. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Always be mindful of signage and staff instructions. TikTok

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