Denver Zoo

Denver Zoo concentrates on naturalistically recreating the native environments of its 3,500 residents. Wolves roam through a sheltered forest, chimpanzees swing from the branches of the many African trees, while giraffes wander across an open plain. A total of more than 650 different species are on show here, with 200 of these in need of preservation due to dwindling numbers on a global scale.The zoo was founded in 1896, when the then mayor of Denver was given the gift of a small bear called Billy Bryan. In the present day, around 1.6 million visitors flock here every single year and there are 32 hectares of enclosures to explore on foot or on board the cheap, and green, zoo train. You can also rent a pull-along wagon for children, a buggy or a wheelchair.Bear Mountain is a big favourite, with its collection of fearsome grizzly bears and unusual coati. When this exhibit was founded in 1918 it was the first in the U.S. to seek to replicate the indigenous habitat of the animals contained therein – in this way it was a forerunner for the rest of the zoo, and for zoos in general around the country.Visit the menacing carnivores of the African plains at Predator Ridge. This area seeks to replicate numerous aspects of the environment at the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya. Huge lions, tough African wild dogs and the famous laughing hyenas are all resident here.One of the more unusual aspects of a visit here is seeing the artistic endeavours of the only rhinoceros in the world who paints with a brush – his works are on show in the Pachyderm Building. Another must-visit enclosure is that of the magnificent gorillas, whose survival is threatened by destruction of their habitat Denver Zoo has one of the largest enclosures for these (usually) gentle giants in the world. It also houses the biggest indoor Komodo dragon habitat in the globe, enabling these enormous lizard predators to roam widely.Feeding time is very popular, and you can check the times online before your visit. When you need to refuel, there are plenty of restaurants, or you can bring a picnic. There is a wide-ranging programme during summertime, including meeting the reptiles, seeing the birds up close and much more, while Christmas sees millions of lights illuminate the darkness.Denver Zoo is in City Park, a 10-minute drive from the city centre, and there is plenty of parking. It is also easily reachable by bus or light rail services.