How to spend a summer day at Como… without spending a dime
With a full roster of daily public programs and the long-awaited return of Como’s fantastic interpretive volunteers, there are more ways than ever to connect to conservation at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. As the crowds make a comeback, here’s how to make the most of your summer days at Como, Minnesota’s most visited cultural institution. And with free admission for all, making great memories won’t cost a thing…
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Mission Safari
Jump like a kangaroo, swing through the trees like an orangutan, and hang like a sloth in Como’s new immersive maze attraction, now open through Labor Day. Designed for kids, and fun for families, your journey through Mission Safari will make you even smarter about the earth’s amazing biodiversity.
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The SPIRE Sparky Show
A Minnesota tradition since 1956, the new Spire Sparky Show has been reimagined for a new generation, with an even greater focus on conservation, and lead roles shared by all six boisterous and high-energy residents of the state-of-the-art habitat. Check it out daily at shows at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
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Keeper and Gardener Talks
Meet and learn from the people who know Como’s plants and animals best during these engaging, small group experiences. With a daily keeper talk at 11 a.m. and a gardener talk at 1 p.m., listen to the Como public service announcements to find out where the day’s talks will take place.
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Nature Walk
Those talented teenage interpreters you may meet around campus this summer are part of Como’s popular Nature Walk program. Selected through a competitive process, these young volunteers receive special training to teach Como visitors even more about our animals and plants. They also make conservation look cool—especially for our younger visitors. Every year, Nature Walk volunteers help to bring more than 200,000 visitors a little closer to Como’s natural collections.
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Senior Strolls
Get fit and make new friends at one of these early access mornings, specifically for the 55+ and up crowd. Visit Como’s website to register in advance for June 21 and more upcoming dates.
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Lil’ Explorers
Free every Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon, Como’s Donor Plaza (or in the Visitor Center during inclement weather) becomes a fun conservation station for preschoolers, with storytime, hands-on activities, and nature themes including Night Time Animals on June 22, Animal Families on June 29, Junior Gardener on July 6 and Bird Buddies on July 13.
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Sensory-Friendly Early Entry
Developed in partnership with the Autism Society of Minnesota, these early morning entry opportunities allow visitors to explore Como without the crowds, along with a social narrative to prepare guests for what they’ll see, hear and smell during a morning at Como. Visit Como’s website to reserve a spot for upcoming dates, including July 9, August 13 and September 10.
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Groovin’ in the Garden
Pack a picnic and prepare to shake your groove thing at the Twin Cities’ favorite family-friendly concert series. With fun activities for kids, and a fantastic lineup of local favorites, you’ll want to put this Wednesday concert series into regular rotation. Upcoming concerts include Ty Pow & The Holy North on June 21; Red Eye Ruby on June 28; and FLOWTUS on July 5. Held outdoors in front of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, hot dogs, ice cream treats, beer and wine are also available to purchase.
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Cafesjian’s Carousel
A Minnesota tradition that just keeps turning, Como’s historic carousel is now open through Labor Day, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering free rides on June 27, July 25, August 29 and September 26.