Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The snapshot
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the top-ranked zoos in the nation, situated on a mountainside overlooking Colorado Springs. Feed their world-renowned giraffe herd, hop alongside wallabies and feel the powerful roars of the lion pride.
The full experience
Have yourself a wild adventure at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, a stunning mountainside attraction located at 6,714 feet (2,046 m) above sea level and open 365 days a year. This popular Pikes Peak area attraction is home to some of the coolest animals on earth, each ready to make your acquaintance right now!
Enter an enchanting world filled with animals from around the world — and close to home. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo allows guests closer than ever to rare, endangered and native animals! Feed lettuce to the majestic giraffes (one of the largest herds in any zoo), all day, every day. Twice a day during warm weather, get in line to feed an apple to an African elephant or a carrot to an Eastern black rhino! Then, balance an adorable budgie on a popsicle stick filled with seeds or feed a fabulous flock of chickens in My Big Backyard. There are also hippos, penguins, wolves, bears, tiger, mountain lions, wallabies, a rhino, a moose, primates, amphibians, insects, birds, elephants … whew! We’re out of breath, but not out of animals. And animals are only the beginning!
Other Ways to Play at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Want to soar like an eagle (the Zoo has those, too)? Take a ride to new heights on the Mountaineer Sky Ride and check out amazing views of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. For more earthbound fun, hop on Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s historic carousel, which has 20 jumping horses and two benched “chariots”.
While you can certainly bring a picnic to enjoy at designated picnic tables located throughout the Zoo (no glass containers or outside alcohol), there are also several places to dine on crispy chicken strips, juicy burgers and cold and decadent ice cream treats. There’s even some finer dining at Pizza with a View or Rocky Mountain Barbeque Co. (seasonal), which has some of the best views (and brews!) around.
Throughout the year, there are summer camps, customizable Starlight Safaris, overnights and other fun events for kids and adults, plus animal encounters, birthday parties, homeschool opportunities, and so much more. Every day is an adventure, so if you’re local, you should probably look into Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s membership options.
The only way to truly understand what a treasure this mountainside zoo is is to see it for yourself! Slather on the sunscreen, load up the water and get ready for a wild animal safari in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Hours & seasons
Average time
- Typical Visit: 3-5 hours
Difficulty/accessibility
- Mountain paths with some steep inclines
- Stroller-friendly main pathways
- Wheelchair accessible routes are available
- Rest areas throughout
- Tram service for those needing assistance
Phone & address
Additional information
They are currently upgrading the giraffe enclosure, so please be patient with their construction efforts.
What we love (and you will too)
Your Local Guide, PK McPherson
Third-generation Colorado Springs native and mom, sharing the secrets that turn good trips into unforgettable adventures.
I love getting my kids out for a mountain adventure with views of the city and the plains. Between feeding giraffes, watching hippos swim, and climbing all those paths, they’re completely worn out by the end — nothing beats the car ride home with a happy napping kid! It’s the perfect family day out.
Perfect Photo Spot
Position yourself at the lower hippo viewing window. When they swim past, you’ll capture them “flying” with blue sky behind.
Local Secret
Visit during a light snowfall. The animals are extra playful, crowds are minimal, and the zoo feels like a winter wonderland.
Seasonal Surprise
Don’t miss the zoo’s spectacular seasonal events! October brings spooky fun at Boo at the Zoo, while December’s Electric Safari transforms the mountain with dazzling holiday lights.
Plan your adventure
- What to bring
- How to prepare
- The Seasons
- Good to know
- Layers — mountain weather changes quickly
- Camera or phone with zoom lens for animal close-ups
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Water bottle (refill stations throughout)
- Quarters for giraffe feeding crackers
- Sunscreen — you’re closer to the sun up here!
- Check the weather — afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer
- Arrive early for best parking and active animals
- Book tickets online to skip entrance lines
- Consider altitude — take it slow if visiting from sea level
- Download zoo map app for easy navigation
- Open 365 days a year, the zoo transforms with each season. Spring brings baby animals, summer offers cool morning visits, fall showcases golden aspens, and winter creates a snowy wonderland. Don’t miss special events like Electric Safari’s dazzling lights or October’s Boo at the Zoo festivities.
- Outside food and drinks welcome
- Free Wi-Fi in main areas
- Wagon rentals available
- Baby changing stations throughout
- Service animals only
- First aid station near entrance
Getting here
- 15 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs
- Limited spaces on busy days — carpooling recommended
- Follow signs from Lake Avenue
- No public transit available
- When main lot is full, overflow parking available at nearby locations
FAQs about Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
How far in advance should I reserve my trip?
Purchase advance timed-entry tickets online to guarantee entry. Popular days and times sell out, especially weekends and holidays.
Can I get my ticket on-site?
No, all guests must purchase advance timed tickets online, including children 2 and under (who pay 75 cents).
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes! While some paths are steep, accessible routes reach all major exhibits. Free tram service helps with the mountain terrain.
Are tickets refundable?
Zoo admission is non-refundable for any reason, including weather. The zoo is open 365 days a year.
Where do I park?
Free parking is available on-site. When the main lot fills, overflow parking is available at nearby locations. Parking costs $5 per vehicle.
Call Pikes Peak Region Attractions and talk to a local: 1-800-525-2250
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Price List
Dynamic Pricing Year-Round
See pricing calendar
Adult: $19.75 to $34.75
Child (3-11): $14.75 to $29.75
