Posted: 4/19/06
Beauty and beasts less than an hour away
Como Park in St. Paul still offers a full day of family fun
 Over the Easter weekend, the lions at Como Zoo soaked up some sun in their outdoor pen. |
By MaryHelen Swanson
Gas prices getting you down? If predictions hold true, theyíre only going to get worse. Summer vacations may be curtailed due to overstretched family budgets.
So whatís a family to do? Look for the wonder and excitement of attractions close to home, thatís what.
Less than an hourís ride from the Post Review reading area is still one of the best family attractions around. And the price is certainly right.
Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory are open every day of the year: Summer hours (April - September) are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Here you will find beauty in the flora and fauna at the Conservatory and in the new visitor center, too.
And just a few steps away youíll find the beasts: lions and tigers and bears - oh, my.
Along with these creatures youíll find tiny monkeys, fierce looking gorillas, long-necked giraffes and fish in fish tanks and much more.
If you havenít been to the Como Zoo lately youíll be surprised at the variety of animals on hand.
Because Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory remain open during inclement weather, some animals may be off display and some exhibits or gardens may be closed.
ENTRANCE
The main entrance for Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is the new Visitor Center. The original entrance of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is also open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Visitors with limited mobility are encouraged to use the that entrance on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. If you are visiting Monday - Thursday, please call the Visitor Services Office (651-487-8201) ahead of your visit to arrange to have a Como staff person waiting to admit you at the original entrance.
PETS
Pets are not allowed on the grounds or in the buildings of Como Zoo and Conservatory. Service animals are permitted, but may cause undue stress on zoo animals. In this case, the owner may be requested to remove their service animal from zoo grounds.
ADMISSION
Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory are free. But they ask that visitors consider making a voluntary donation of $2 for an adult and $1 for a child to help care for the plants and animals. Everyone is always welcome whether or not they make a donation.
Parking is free.
STROLLER & WHEELCHAIR RENTAL
Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at Garden Safari Gifts. Single-seat strollers and wheelchairs are available for $4 per day. Double-seat strollers are available for $6.50 per day. Some type of collateral, such as a driversí license, is required and will be held at Garden Safari Gifts during the rental period. All rentals must be returned to Garden Safari Gifts before the zoo and conservatory close.
SPARKY SHOWS
The 2006 Sparky the Sea Lion Show begins on Memorial Day weekend.
Sparky performs Tuesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Sparky Amphitheater (outdoors).
Sparkyís last shows of the 2006 season will be on Labor Day - Sept. 4.
REFRESHMENTS
Zobota Cafe: This new indoor cafe is located in the Visitor Center features chef specials, hand-tossed salads, unique grilled sandwiches and Caribou Coffee. Open daily at 10:00 a.m.
Zooper Foods: The Zooís main concession area, features hamburgers, French fries, personal pizza, popcorn, ice cream and cold drinks. Open seasonally.
Food Carts: Visit the antique popcorn wagon, an ice cream cart or the Dippin Dots cart for a refreshing treat during your visit to the Zoo. The food carts are located throughout the Zoo and are open seasonally.
Food is not allowed in Zoo exhibit buildings, Conservatory gardens, or the Visitor Center (unless designated).
Picnicking is still a family favorite in the other areas of Como Park.
CAFESJIANíS CAROUSEL
The 2006 Carousel season begins May 2 and ends Sept. 4, Tuesday-Friday: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets are $1.50 for all riders (children under 1 are free).
Call the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory 24-hour hotline at (651) 487-8200 for detailed information on any event, show, or attraction.
©ECM Post Review
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North Branch, MN 55056
Telephone: 651-674-7025
Fax: 651-674-7026
E-mail: editor.postreview@ecm-inc.com