Denver Zoo, Denver

The Denver Zoo, officially known as the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, is a prominent 80-acre nonprofit zoological garden and conservation organization situated in City Park, Denver. Founded in 1896, it stands as one of Colorado's most popular attractions, drawing a substantial number of visitors each year. Managed by the Denver Zoological Foundation, the zoo is funded through a combination of ticket sales, private donations, and support from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).

The zoo's rich history began with the donation of an orphaned American black bear, setting the stage for its long-standing commitment to animal care and innovative exhibit design. Notably, the zoo became a pioneer in the field with the creation of Bear Mountain, the first naturalistic zoo enclosure in the United States. This forward-thinking approach continued with the development of other groundbreaking exhibits like Primate Panorama, which features expansive mesh tents and open spaces designed to closely mimic the natural environments of apes and monkeys, and Predator Ridge, where animals are rotated through different areas to enhance their experience through environmental enrichment.

One of the zoo's most remarkable exhibits is the Toyota Elephant Passage, which opened in 2012. This exhibit includes five distinct areas where various species are rotated, providing them with a stimulating and enriched environment. The zoo is home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 700 species, ranging from native wildlife to exotic creatures like rhinos, gorillas, and giant Komodo dragons. The zoo's dedication to creating considerate enclosures that closely resemble native habitats is evident throughout.

In addition to its role as a leading attraction, the Denver Zoo is a global player in conservation and research, having championed over 600 projects worldwide. Whether visitors are captivated by new exhibits, thrilled by baby animals, or enjoying long-time favorites, there's always something to be excited about at the Denver Zoo.