Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tips: Getting the Most Out of Your Visit

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs is more than just a zoo—it’s an immersive, hands-on wildlife experience set against one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the country. Perched on the side of Cheyenne Mountain at an elevation of over 6,700 feet, it’s the highest zoo in America and offers views you won’t find anywhere else.

Founded in 1926 by philanthropist Spencer Penrose, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo began as his private animal collection. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the nation’s most unique and respected zoos, committed to conservation, education, and close-up animal experiences that connect visitors with wildlife in meaningful ways.

Our visit was packed with unforgettable moments, from feeding hippos to meeting a baby sloth. If you’re planning your first trip, here’s how to make the most of your day at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Make Time for the Up-Close Encounters

One of the things that sets Cheyenne Mountain Zoo apart is its interactive animal experiences. Ryan especially loved getting up close and personal with some of the residents. Here are a few of our highlights:

Feeding the Hippos – We got to feed Kasai and Omo, the zoo’s two hippos, and it was an incredible experience. Seeing these massive animals open their mouths for snacks is something you’ll never forget.

Meeting Olive the Baby Sloth – Olive, a two-toed sloth born December 19, 2024, lives with her mother Asayn. Watching them together was adorable, and it’s an encounter we’ll always treasure.

Feeding the Giraffes – Giraffe feeding is open to all visitors and starts at just $5. We recommend upgrading to the $20 bundle, which includes more feeding opportunities and helps you make the most of your time with these gentle giants.

Feeding the Otters – Watching these playful animals dive and swim for their treats was as entertaining as it was memorable.

The Giraffe Conservation Project

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to one of the largest reticulated giraffe herds in North America, and their giraffe feeding deck is a signature attraction. Beyond the fun of feeding them lettuce leaves, every dollar spent supports the zoo’s giraffe conservation efforts. The zoo partners with organizations in Africa to study and protect wild giraffe populations, working to combat the species’ decline due to habitat loss and poaching. Your giraffe feeding experience isn’t just memorable—it’s making a difference. Read more.

How Long Should You Spend at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo?

Plan to spend at least 4–5 hours if you want to fully enjoy the exhibits, feedings, and animal encounters without feeling rushed. If you’re traveling with kids or planning multiple animal experiences, you may want to set aside the better part of a day.

Can You Bring Snacks Into Cheyenne Mountain Zoo?

You are welcome to bring food, coolers, backpacks, etc. Just please refrain from bringing in any glass containers or alcohol, and please do not feed any of your food to the Zoo animals. Outdoor seating is available at various locations around the Zoo. Outside food and drink aren’t permitted in any of the Zoo restaurants. Learn more about food options, picnic areas, and gifts at the Zoo.

Eat at Pizza with a View

Pizza with a View lives up to its name. Not only does the restaurant serve up delicious pizza from its own pizza oven, but you get to enjoy your meal overlooking the mountains and zoo below. It’s a great mid-day break before heading back out to explore. We absolutely loved our meal.

Gluten-friendly and vegan options available.

LOCATION: Across from Grizzly Grill and the Carousel.
HOURS: Daily, 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last order at 4:30 p.m.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures on the mountain.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there are hills and pathways to navigate.
• Purchase tickets for animal experiences ahead of time to secure your spot.
• Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated at altitude.
• Budget extra for feedings and experiences—they’re well worth it.

Fun Facts About Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

• It’s the only mountain zoo in the United States.
• The zoo is home to over 750 animals from around the world.
• It began in 1926 and was founded by philanthropist Spencer Penrose.
• The giraffe herd here is one of the largest in the country.
• The zoo has spent years improving the facilities to make them more accessible.

Final Thoughts

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers an experience that goes beyond traditional exhibits. From breathtaking mountain views to unforgettable animal encounters, it’s a place where every turn offers something new to see or do. Whether you’re feeding a hippo, meeting a baby sloth, or enjoying a slice of pizza with the Rockies as your backdrop, you’ll leave with memories you’ll cherish for years.

As magical as it sounds, sleeping at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a no-go. It turns out the giraffes aren’t looking for roommates. But in Colorado Springs, you’ll find plenty of spots that are just as memorable (and don’t require sharing your pillow with a sloth). From charming historic hotels downtown to mountain lodges where the sunrise paints Pikes Peak in gold, your overnight options are as wild as the zoo itself—minus the actual wildlife in your room. And the best part? You’re never more than a short drive from lions, tigers, and trails you’ll swear belong on a postcard.

We’ve established that you can’t bunk with the giraffes at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, but you can scan the QR code below to find the best places to stay in Colorado Springs. Whether you’re after a chic downtown hotel, a cozy mountain cabin, or a historic inn with stories in every creaky floorboard, your perfect home base is just a click away. Adventure starts here…literally.