Cheyenne Mountain Zoo vs Denver Zoo: 5 Stunning Highlights

Zoo Core Editors Desk

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo vs Denver Zoo: 5 Stunning Highlights

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Denver Zoo are two of the most popular and renowned zoos in the United States. Both offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors, but which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the key differences between these two zoos, including cost, timings, exhibits, and more, to help you decide which one is the best fit for your next zoo adventure.

Cost Comparison

When it comes to the cost of admission, there are some notable differences between Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Denver Zoo:

Admission Type Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Denver Zoo
Adult $24.95 $20.00
Child (ages 3-11) $17.95 $14.00
Senior (ages 65+) $22.95 $18.00

As you can see, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo has a slightly higher admission price compared to Denver Zoo, but the difference is not significant. Both zoos offer a variety of membership options, with Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s starting at $65 for an individual and Denver Zoo’s starting at $69.

Timings and Accessibility

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo vs Denver Zoo

Both Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Denver Zoo are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the exception of Christmas Day. However, the accessibility and transportation options differ between the two.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is located on the side of a mountain, which means visitors have the option to use a shuttle service or a tram to reach the zoo. Parking is available on-site for a fee. In contrast, Denver Zoo is located in a large, flat area, making it easily accessible and offering ample on-site parking.

Exhibits and Animals

When it comes to the variety of exhibits and animals, there is a significant difference between the two zoos:

  • Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to over 750 animals, including giraffes, penguins, hippos, and a variety of animals native to the Rocky Mountain region.
  • Denver Zoo, on the other hand, is home to over 3,500 animals, including elephants, lions, tigers, and primates.

Both zoos offer a range of special experiences, such as giraffe feedings, behind-the-scenes tours, and animal encounters, but the sheer size and diversity of Denver Zoo’s collection make it a more comprehensive and impressive zoo experience.

Awards and Recognition

Both Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Denver Zoo have received recognition and awards for their excellence:

  • In 2021, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo was voted #4 Best Zoo in North America by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and its Rocky Mountain Wild exhibit was named #3 Best Zoo Exhibit in North America.
  • In 2015, Denver Zoo was named one of the top ten zoos in North America by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

These accolades demonstrate the high-quality experiences and attractions offered by both zoos, making them both worthy contenders for your next zoo visit.

Conclusion

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Denver Zoo are both excellent choices for a zoo visit, but the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the specific experiences you’re looking for. If you’re seeking a more intimate, mountain-based zoo experience with a focus on Rocky Mountain wildlife, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo may be the better fit. However, if you’re looking for a larger, more comprehensive zoo with a diverse collection of animals, Denver Zoo is likely the better choice.

Regardless of which zoo you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable and educational experience at either Cheyenne Mountain Zoo or Denver Zoo.

References

Leave a Comment