When you choose to stay at Hotel Polaris in Colorado Springs, you aren’t just booking a room; you’re planting yourself in the heart of adventure. One of the crown jewels of our city, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, sits just a short drive away, and it’s an absolute must for families, animal lovers, and anyone seeking one of the most dynamic Colorado Springs attractions. Whether you're planning a spring break, summer getaway, or a holiday visit, here’s why you’ll want to make this your first stop, and how to best enjoy it.
Why Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Is Exceptional
Perched high on the side of Cheyenne Mountain, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is uniquely situated. In fact, it’s often cited as the highest zoo in the country, at about 6,714 ft elevation. It sprawls across 140 acres (though about 40 acres are used for exhibits) and is home to over 750 animals representing roughly 170 species. The zoo is also accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, reinforcing its commitment to conservation, education, and animal welfare.
Beyond its collections, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo stands out for its immersive, hillside layout, so you’ll find sweeping views, winding pathways, and distinct vantage points over Colorado Springs. It’s not a flat zoo stroll; it’s part animal encounter, part scenic hike, and part photo op at every turn.
In recent years, the zoo’s reputation has soared: for example, in 2025, it ranked among the #2 best zoos in North America by USA Today. That recognition underlines why, for many visitors, it becomes a highlight of their trip.
What To Do: Top Experiences & Family-Friendly Fun
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a hub for things to do in Colorado Springs, especially for families. Here’s what you won’t want to miss:
- Animal on-display zones: Exhibits like Encounter Africa, Australia Walkabout, and the Scutes Gallery host elephants, rhinos, giraffes, wallabies, birds, reptiles, and more.
- Feeding experiences: You can hand-feed giraffes (for a small fee) and interact in the budgie aviary.
- The Loft: A cozy indoor space where smaller animals are showcased and sometimes available for guest encounters.
- Sky Ride: Ride high above the zoo for panoramic views of the mountainside and city skyline.
- Scenic views & elevation walks: Because the zoo climbs the mountain, even just walking its paths offers vistas of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region.
As one of the best zoo experiences in Colorado, it’s that mix of animal connection + natural beauty that leaves lasting impressions.
Electric Safari & Zoo Lights: The Holiday Spectacle
Don’t think Cheyenne Mountain Zoo sleeps through winter; in fact, it magically transforms. From Dec. 5 - Dec. 23 and again Dec. 25 - Jan. 1, 2026, the zoo hosts Electric Safari, a dazzling after-dark event that combines wildlife, festive lights, and family-friendly enchantment.
Here’s what to know:
- Over 85 light sculptures illuminate the grounds, from glowing giraffes to lit-up sloths and more.
- You’ll stroll among larger-than-life illuminated inflatables, snap photos with Santa, and even take in a holiday-safari–themed drone show (weather permitting).
- The event runs nightly (except Christmas Eve) through December and into early January.
- Timed-entry tickets are required; zoo members often enjoy free admission (with a reservation).
- It has been ranked among the top zoo light shows in the country. USA Today’s 10Best has honored it for many years.
Suppose your visit to Colorado Springs attractions happens during the holidays. In that case, Electric Safari is one you won’t want to skip, it offers a uniquely festive, family-oriented twist on what a zoo can be.
How Close Is It and Where to Stay
If you’re wondering “Where to stay near Cheyenne Mountain Zoo?” or “Hotels close to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Colorado Springs,” Hotel Polaris has you covered:
- We are ideally located among the Colorado Springs hotels that give you fast access to the zoo, along with easy routes to other top area draws (the Broadmoor, Garden of the Gods, etc.).
- Our guests can enjoy both convenience and comfort, no long drives, no traffic stress, and more time exploring.
- After a day exploring the zoo, return to our cozy lobby, recharge with local fare, or unwind at Polaris before heading out again the next morning.
In short: staying with us is one of the smartest ways to check “Cheyenne Mountain Zoo” off your Colorado Springs bucket list while having an excellent base for your broader adventures.
Tips for Your Zoo Visit from Hotel Polaris
To make your Cheyenne Mountain Zoo experience even better, here are insider tips:
- Buy timed tickets in advance. For Electric Safari and even some daytime entry periods, reservations are required.
- Arrive early. The zoo is busiest mid-morning to early afternoon. Beat crowds and catch more active animals before midday heat.
- Dress in layers. The altitude and mountain setting mean weather shifts, sun, wind, or chill may surprise you.
- Pace your hike. Because paths climb, take breaks, hydrate often, and wear comfortable shoes.
- Plan for lighting events. If you're visiting during Electric Safari season, rotate your schedule so you can enjoy both daytime animal exhibits and the after-dark spectacle.
- Combine with nearby sites. Just above the zoo is the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, a five-story tower and chapel with sweeping views that is often accessible via the same Cheyenne Mountain Highway.
Final Thoughts
For guests at Hotel Polaris, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers more than just an outing, it offers a multi-sensory, unforgettable Colorado Springs experience. From vibrant animals to mountain vistas, interactive experiences, and holiday magic via Electric Safari, it truly deserves a spot atop your itinerary.
Whether your travel is focused on family-friendly activities in Colorado Springs, immersive attractions, or simply finding the best zoo in Colorado, you’ll find no shortage of inspiration here. And when your day is complete, there’s no better place to rest, recharge, and reflect on your adventures than back at Polaris.
We can’t wait to welcome you, and to help you plan the perfect zoo day (or night).