Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

This place is a hidden gem! My boyfriend and I made a "getaway trip" to St. Paul, and we stopped by this zoo before heading home. This zoo is great! There is no admission to pay, instead guests are encouraged to pay a donation (they can manage). This zoo is similar to Central Park in that it is located within the Como Regional Park. It is a really nice walk and you get to see lots of neat animals. If you're up for it there's a really nice greenhouse you can visit as well. We can't wait to visit this place again!

The conservatory is my favorite place to come in the winter. The orchid collection is awesome and I love checking on all the bonsai in training. The koi pond is so relaxing and the sunken garden is gorgeous every year and every season! Such good childhood memories that I keep coming back as an adult.

Honestly, I think this zoo is better than the Minnesota Zoo. Added bonus…IT’S FREE! (donations are welcomed, not required). Prefect destination for an any occasion: casual strolls, dates, or place to take guests visiting the Cities. My only qualm is that during peak times (weekends, holidays or warm days during winter), parking is really tough to find.