Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of a kind. It is built right into the side of the mountain, which means as you wander from exhibit to exhibit you keep catching these wide-open views out over Colorado Springs. It is a genuine local favorite, easy to pair with a visit to the Broadmoor area since they sit in the same part of town.

At a glance
Where: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, near the Broadmoor
Known for: Its mountainside setting, the giraffe herd, and big views over the city
Good for: Families, a half-day outing, October’s Boo at the Zoo
Website: cmzoo.org

A local’s note
The zoo is right up near the Broadmoor, and you get a great view of Colorado Springs from up there. The prices are reasonable, not expensive, so it is an easy day out. And at Halloween they do Boo at the Zoo, the whole place decorated, really fun. We enjoyed it.

What to know before you go
Because it is set into the mountainside, expect some walking uphill, so wear decent shoes and take your time. The giraffe herd is the signature here, one of the things the zoo is best known for, and the overlooks give you those postcard views of the city below. If you can time a fall visit, Boo at the Zoo in October is a genuinely fun family evening with the grounds decked out for Halloween.

Hours and location
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is at 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, up the hill toward the Broadmoor. It is open daily, generally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last admission around 4, though hours shift by season and for special events. Check cmzoo.org or call (719) 633-9925 for the day you are going.

Looking for more? See our full local’s guide to things to do in Colorado Springs.