Explore Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in St. Paul

A Must-Visit Landmark Blending Nature, Education, and Family Fun

Located just east of Minneapolis in the heart of St. Paul, the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors. With beautifully maintained gardens, a free-admission zoo, and family-friendly activities throughout the year, it offers a full day of discovery without ever leaving the city.

The Zoo: Wildlife Close to Home

Como Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the globe. Visitors can meet giraffes, zebras, gorillas, lions, and polar bears, all while walking through well-designed enclosures that prioritize animal well-being and education.

Special features like the aquatic life exhibit and the African hoofed stock enclosure provide immersive learning experiences. Daily zookeeper talks and interactive stations make the zoo engaging for families and school groups alike. It's the kind of destination that offers something new with every visit.

The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory

Adjacent to the zoo is the historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, a glass-domed botanical garden filled with lush, tropical plants, seasonal floral shows, and rare orchids. Its elegant design and tranquil atmosphere make it a favorite for photographers, plant enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a quiet escape.

Highlights include:

  • The Sunken Garden with rotating floral displays

  • The Fern Room and Palm Dome for tropical ambiance

  • Bonsai collections and outdoor gardens during warmer months

The Conservatory also plays a role in public education and community programs, offering hands-on exhibits and guided tours for schools and nonprofit groups. As more of these organizations rely on digital displays and real-time scheduling tools, having the support of a reliable Managed IT Services provider in Minneapolis helps ensure that their systems run smoothly during peak visitor hours.

Activities for All Ages

Family-Friendly Fun

  • Picnic areas and playgrounds throughout the park

  • Cafés and snack stations for easy dining

  • Pedal boat rentals on nearby Como Lake

Seasonal Events

  • Holiday flower shows in the Conservatory

  • Zoo Boo and other themed events in fall

  • Music Under Glass concert series during winter

Accessibility and Services

  • Free admission with donations encouraged

  • Wheelchair accessible paths and restrooms

  • On-site parking and easy access via public transit

The layout of the park ensures easy movement for all guests. Maps are available at entrances, and staff are always on hand to assist. With such a high volume of daily visitors, everything from mobile ticketing apps to environmental controls depends on efficient infrastructure. This makes integrated tech support crucial to daily operations.

Keeping Experiences Secure and Connected

Many local businesses and event venues around the Como area are now upgrading their systems to keep pace with visitor expectations. Whether managing point-of-sale transactions or connecting to public Wi-Fi, they require strong protection against digital threats. That’s why more organizations in St. Paul are turning to Network Security Solutions that defend their systems without compromising on accessibility.

These security layers are particularly important for locations that serve children and families, where trust is a key part of the experience. Protecting sensitive data behind the scenes supports the smooth, worry-free atmosphere that places like Como strive to maintain.

Plan Your Visit

Open year-round, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is located at 1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul, MN. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated. Visitors are encouraged to make advance reservations during busy weekends and holidays to ensure entry. The park offers multiple parking lots, and Metro Transit routes make access convenient from both St. Paul and Minneapolis.

If you’re planning a full day, consider starting with the zoo in the morning and transitioning to the Conservatory in the afternoon. Families often pack a lunch for the picnic areas or grab a bite from the food stands near the main entrance. Nearby attractions like Como Town amusement park and the Como Lake walking trails can extend your visit into an all-day adventure.

Driving Directions to Lake Nokomis: