The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in December is a true winter wonderland, offering a unique and enchanting experience for zoo enthusiasts. During this time, the zoo hosts its annual Electric Safari event, featuring over 85 one-of-a-kind light sculptures and larger-than-life illuminated inflatable animals. This event has been voted as the 3rd Best Zoo Lights in the U.S. from 2019-2022 by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice.
Electric Safari: Illuminating the Night
Electric Safari takes place on select nights from December 1-3, 8-23, and 25-January 1, 2024. Advance timed e-tickets are required for everyone and sell out quickly, with non-peak day tickets being $5 cheaper. The event features a holiday-safari themed drone show, interactive activities, giraffe and budgie feeding opportunities, and the chance to see select animal exhibits such as the Lion Relaxation Room, Asian Highlands, Australia Walkabout, Elephant & Rhino Barn, Giraffe Barn, Hippo Building, Rocky Mountain Wild (except grizzlies), The Loft, and Scutes Family Gallery.
Dining Options During Electric Safari
During Electric Safari, several restaurants are open, including:
- Grizzly Grill
- Cozy Goat
- Pizza with a View
- Elson’s Place
- Rocky Mountain BBQ Co. (open Saturdays and Sundays only)
- Dippin’ Dots (open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)
- Thundergod Gift Shop
Year-Round Animal Viewing
In addition to Electric Safari, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open every single day, with almost all of the animals able to be seen all year long. Animals such as wolves, moose, Rocky Mountain goats, mountain lions, tiger, leopards, bears, and otters thrive in the cooler weather. Animals native to warmer climates, like hippos, penguins, lemurs, primates, giraffe, and wallabies, are given the option to go outside if it is a safe temperature. Guests can still see them in their warm indoor spaces when they choose to stay inside.
Discounted Admission Tickets
During the winter season, the zoo offers discounted admission tickets through the end of February. Adult tickets range from $14.75 to $24.75, and child tickets (ages 3 to 11) range from $10.75 to $20.75. Children age 2 and under are just 75¢. Advance tickets are required.
Unique Experiences and Attractions
In addition to the Electric Safari event and year-round animal viewing, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a variety of unique experiences and attractions for visitors:
- Holiday-themed drone show
- Giraffe and budgie feeding opportunities
- Warm indoor spaces for animals from warmer climates
- Discounted admission tickets during the winter season
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in December is a must-visit destination for zoo touring enthusiasts. With the Electric Safari event, discounted admission tickets, and the opportunity to see a variety of animals in both indoor and outdoor settings, the zoo offers a truly magical and unforgettable winter experience.
References:
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Electric Safari
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Electric Safari Series
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Why Winter Zoo Visits are Wonderful