Gallery • 6 Photos

Orion Kim

HANGING AROUND. Two orangutans are caught messing around in their exhibit. The Como exhibits vary heavily based on which animals they were built to hold so that the animals are well adapted to their surroundings.

Just east of Minneapolis and at the heart of Saint Paul lies Como Regional Park. The park has a wide variety of free activities to explore for the day. One can spend the day strolling through the park, swimming in the pool, jogging around the lake, or hanging around the zoo and conservatory.
There is no admission fee, but a recommended donation of just five dollars which goes directly to keeping the building in good shape. the Como Zoo experience is full of life. There are countless activities to take part in. Simply walk through the glass front doors and there are gift shops, souvenirs of all sorts, and many animal-related gadgets. The Garden Safari Gift Shop is a little boutique with miniature plants, books, stuffed animals, animal-themed twisty straws and much more.

Along with gifts, the zoo has many food stands scattered around the park, appealing to anyone’s appetite, as well as the Zobota Café. The menu consists of soups, sandwiches, pasta, salads, drinks and more. There is also a large picnic area with a beautiful view for outdoor seating when the restaurant is at full capacity.
During the summer season, which stretches until Oct. 1, there are many displays. A large cat exhibit with tigers and lions, the Polar Bear Odyssey exhibit, the African Hoofed exhibit, the primates exhibit, the birds exhibit, and the pollinators exhibit. All of these experiences bring something new to the table and are a sight to see.
Another activity that is also free and in the same building is the plant conservatory. The current summer flower exhibit extends until October. There are beautiful varieties of flowers and plants. According to the Como Zoo and Conservatory, “The Summer Flower Show features a harmonious color palette of purple, magenta, lavender, and red summer annuals. ‘Cajun Blue’ hibiscus, fuchsia, petunias, and verbena are among the flowers featured in the longest running flower show of the year.”
Outside of the conservatory, there is a Japanese Garden that features many unique organisms such as the Bonsai, Water Lilies, and Catfish, all providing a new comforting atmosphere.
The Como Zoo and Conservatory is an excellent way to spend free time. There is so much to see and at such a small price. For more information about prices, activities, and hours, visit comozooconservatory.org.