Lions and tigers and bears- oh my!
Denver Zoo
Why locals love it
Colorado has abundant wildlife, but after a few years endless deer and squirrel sitings get monotonous. Fortunately for animal lovers, the 80-acres of the Denver Zoo provide habitat for over 4,000 exotic creatures.
Why you should visit it
An open-air aviary, an eight-acre recreation of Samburu National Reserve in Kenya, a tropical discovery zone, a climate-controlled Komodo dragon exhibit, and a 5-acre facility housing more than 25 endangered primate species (including silverback gorrilas!) make this zoo an engaging attraction.
Special tip
Though smaller than the oft compared Albuquerque Zoo, the Denver Zoo is set in the scenic City Park, so you can extend your visit with a nice picnic.