What’s the best time of day to come to Como? With more than a dozen free daily programs offered throughout the summer, the answer is all the time, and again and again. As summer heats up, make the most of every visit to Como with this roster of family-friendly programs and special events, all free to every visitor.
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Polar Bear Program | 10:30 a.m.
Stop by Polar Bear Odyssey to see how Nan, Neil, and Kulu connect with their trainers every day, splashing down in the pools, and sniffing out special enrichments in their habitat.
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Zookeeper Talk | 11:00 a.m.
What’s it like to take care of the world’s most amazing animals? Ask one of Como’s zookeepers, who take turns sharing their behind-the-scenes insights about dozens of different animals at this daily event. Listen to Como’s public address announcements to find out where the day’s talk is taking place.
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Blaze Sparky Show | 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
A splashy Como tradition since 1956, the Blaze Sparky Show now highlights all of the pinnipeds that call Como Harbor home.
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Fish Feeding in Tropical Encounters | Noon
Dive a little deeper into understanding the underwater world with this daily fish-feeding experience presented by Como’s interpretive staff.
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Gardener Chat | 1:00 p.m.
What does it take to keep the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory growing? Find out at this engaging Q and A, featuring a new topic in gardening and plant care every day.
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Gorilla Program | 1:30 p.m.
Meet the greatest of the apes face-to-face in Gorilla Forest, as primate keepers connect with Como’s western lowland gorillas, while exploring ways that you can help protect their wild cousins.
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Porcupine Time | 2:00 p.m.
Como Zoo’s prickliest new arrivals, Russet and Copper, are the focus of this mid-day program, where you can learn all about the African crested porcupine.
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Story Time | 3:00 p.m.
Take a break in Como’s Visitor Center to listen to a nature-themed story perfect for preschoolers and other young learners.
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Tiger Talk | 3:30 p.m.
Tiger mom Bernadette and her twin cubs Maks and Marisa are the focus for this daily conversation, all about the care and feeding of Como’s large cats.
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The Art of Bonsai | 4:00 p.m.
With one of the best collections of bonsai for public display in the Midwest, this daily program gives visitors the chance to learn more about the amazing trees in Como’s collection, and the history and philosophy of this ancient art form.
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Chloe the Sloth Chat | 5:15 p.m.
Say goodnight to Chloe the sloth in Tropical Encounters, as she climbs down from her tree and into the arms of a Como keeper for the evening.
Special Programs
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Wildlife Rescue: Tales of Conservation
Como’s latest free seasonal exhibit features 12 totally climbable animal sculptures from the black rhino to the Burmese star tortoise, highlighting endangered species that are now thriving in the wild thanks to committed acts of conservation.
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Groovin’ in the Garden | Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Put on your dancing shoes and pack a picnic for the Twin Cities’ favorite free summer concert series. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, this outdoor concert series is fun for all ages, with favorite local acts, and fun activities for the kids. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events:
June 11 – Innocent Reggae Band – Roots Reggae
June 18 – Maria & The Coins – Singer-Songwriter Driven Pop Hooks
June 25 – Flamin’ Oh’s – Minnesota Music Legends
July 2 – Leslie Rich & The Rocket Soul Choir – 3-piece Rock Band
July 9 – Salsa del Soul – High-Energy Latin Dance Music
July 16 – Jellyjacket – All-Star Minnesota Rock & Roll Band
July 23 – Favourite Girl – Female Powered Rock Band
July 30 – School of Rock – St. Paul & Plymouth House Bands -
Autism-Friendly Early Entry
See Como Zoo without the crowds from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. during these early access days:
June 7, June 18, July 12, July 23, August 9, August 20, September 13, September 21
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Senior Strolls
Take some time to smell the roses during these special entry times, set aside for seniors.
June 10 – 6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
June 17 – 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
July 8 – 6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
July 22 – 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
August 5 – 6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
August 19 – 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
September 9 – 6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.