Como Park

Imagine a green oasis where exotic fauna and rare tropical plants live in harmony. Como Park is more than just a place for a walk; it is one of the oldest and most beloved public parks in the region, located in close proximity to the city of Minneapolis, USA. This complex, spanning over 150 hectares, combines a famous zoo, a magnificent botanical conservatory, and a picturesque lake.

The park's crown jewel is the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory — a Victorian glass dome housing hundreds of plant species from every continent. The zoo itself, the first in the state of Minnesota, provides visitors with a unique opportunity to see Amur tigers, polar bears, and gorillas for free, making it extremely popular among tourists and locals alike.

Due to its historical significance and high standards of animal care, the park is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Every year, this destination welcomes about two million guests, offering not only educational programs but also cozy relaxation areas by the water, vintage carousels, and beautiful Japanese gardens.

To contact the administration and clarify details of your visit to Como Park, you can use the following official contact information:

A visit to Como Park promises a rich program for nature lovers. At the zoo, you can observe graceful Amur tigers, majestic gorillas, and polar bears in their modern Polar Bear Odyssey exhibit. Be sure to check out "Seal Island," which regularly hosts the famous interactive show featuring a sea lion named Sparky, a delight for both children and adults.

Botany enthusiasts should spend time at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Here, you can wander among exotic orchids and palms in the Tropical Encounters zone or find tranquility in the Japanese Garden with its waterfall. In summer, the park is transformed: the Lily Pond blooms with exotic lilies, and on Lake Como, you can rent a boat or enjoy a picnic on the shore.

For families with children, the Children's Farm Zoo is open, offering a chance to get closer to domestic animals. A classic carousel, a swimming pool, and a golf course are also available on-site, allowing you to alternate educational tours with active recreation and outdoor entertainment.

Getting to this scenic spot from downtown Minneapolis is quite simple — a drive via I-94 E takes about 20–30 minutes (a distance of approximately 15–20 km). For the convenience of visitors, free parking is available on-site, and bike paths are provided for those who prefer an active way to travel.

If you plan to use public transport, look for Metro Transit bus routes #84 and #94, which run from central districts to the "Como Ave & Lexington Pkwy" stop, located right by the entrance. Travelers arriving from MSP Airport in the USA will find it most convenient to take a taxi or Uber — the trip takes about 30–40 minutes.

For walking enthusiasts staying in neighboring St. Paul, the route from the city center is about 4 kilometers. The entire park is fully accessible for strollers and people with disabilities, making it an ideal destination for every tourist.

The history of this remarkable place began in 1873, when city authorities purchased land around Lake Como, following the plans of landscape architect Horace Cleveland. The zoo officially opened its doors in 1897, and its first inhabitants were three deer donated by the mayor. Over time, the collection expanded, and by the early 20th century, visitors could see foxes, bears, and even exotic animals here.

The magnificent conservatory, opened in 1915, deserves special mention. Its creation was led by Friedrich Nussbaumer, who drew inspiration from the famous Kew Gardens in London. In the 1930s, during the implementation of New Deal programs, the park's appearance changed significantly: the famous "Monkey Island" and Art Deco-style bear grottoes were built, which still serve as a reminder of the era's historical heritage.

Notably, Como Zoo was the first in North America to successfully raise Amur tigers in captivity under the leadership of John Fletcher. Today, the park continues to thrive thanks to the support of "Como Friends," who have invested tens of millions of dollars in modernizing enclosures and creating a modern visitor center, all while maintaining its historic status on the US National Register.

To leisurely explore all the key locations of Como Park, an average visitor will need between 4 and 6 hours. This is plenty of time to meet the zoo animals, stroll under the conservatory's glass dome, and enjoy views of the lake.

If you are planning a family weekend with amusement rides, the sea lion show, and a lakeside picnic, we recommend setting aside a full day (about 6–8 hours). The scale of the grounds and variety of exhibits allow you to spend a lot of time here without feeling tired from monotony.

The doors of Como Park are open to visitors daily. You can plan your visit for any day of the week that is convenient for you, based on the following operating schedule:

• Monday — Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Please note that on holidays or depending on the season, the operating hours of individual attractions and conservatory wings may vary slightly, so it is recommended to check the official website before your trip.

Exploring the park's surroundings can significantly enrich your trip, as there are many interesting locations for the whole family nearby. From major shopping centers to exciting water parks, everyone will find something to enjoy.