Question for Minnesotan's

[Jenn Lynn]

Can you tell me about the Zoo that is free in Minneapolis? We have been to the other one (Minnesota Zoo), but not the free one. We are thinking about going there this weekend.

Thanks!

 

[hercamore]

Hi,

Do you mean the Como Park Zoo in St. Paul?

www.comozooconservatory.org


I've haven't been to this zoo in many years. I do know it's a popular place on the weekends.

Maybe some else has more info.

It's going to be a beautiful weekend here in Mn.

herc.

 

[Jenn Lynn]

YES! Thank you for the link.

I am trying to take advantage of the nice weather this weekend and plan an outing. This looks like it would be fun for all of us.

 

[HauntedMansionGeek]

Como is a beautiful zoo......small and quaint but still it's located in a gorgeous setting.
Be sure you get into the greenhouse there...but there MIGHT be a fee for that one I guess.

Still, just resting on the lawn of the greenhouse on a sunny day......AHhhhhhh so nice!

Have a good time.

 

[Jenn Lynn]

HMG-I read that it is a $1 donation for adults for the conservatory. DD will be free.

Does anyone know if there is a place to get lunch there? Or can I pack a picnic lunch? Is there a picnic area? Is it an actual park too with playground equipment or hiking trails-things of that nature?

Thanks!

 

[alexandmaddie]

Hi Jenn Lynn: Como Zoo just started requesting donations for the zoo part as well as the conservatory.

There are extensive picnic grounds right next to the zoo. There is Como Lake which is close by. There is a path around the lake which you can walk. I wouldn't really consider Como Park to have hiking trails, however.

There is a little Midway (with kiddie rides and minature golf) right next to the Zoo.

I would plan on getting to the Zoo/Picnic Area/Park very early because parking will be a nightmare on the weekends.

I am pretty sure there is a playground by the main picnic pavillion.

Let me know if you have any other questions. I used to live really close to Como Zoo/Park.

Krista

 

[Jenn Lynn]

alexandmaddie-Thanks so much for the information! We are coming from WI (about 1 1/2 hrs. away) so we would want to get there early. I think we will just come and spend the day. I am a little concerned about crowds, but we will manage.

The website says that the zoo opens at 10am-do you know if this is still accurate?

Thanks again!

 

[elgerber]

I like the Como Zoo better than our Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley actually. Good advice to get there early. There are some walk up food counters there, corn dogs and such, good for a quick lunch. I see your tag about the mosquitos, better make sure you leave the park by dusk LOL, cuz they are NASTY all of the sudden.

Erika

 

[Jenn Lynn]

Originally posted by elgerber
I like the Como Zoo better than our Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley actually. Good advice to get there early. There are some walk up food counters there, corn dogs and such, good for a quick lunch. I see your tag about the mosquitos, better make sure you leave the park by dusk LOL, cuz they are NASTY all of the sudden.

Erika

Thanks for the tip about the mosquitos!

We went to the Minnesota Zoo last September. I thought it was ok except for all of the bees around (I am allergic.) DD really liked the petting zoo.