This zoo offers visitors several up close experien...

This zoo offers visitors several up close experiences with the animals. For example, you can walk with the wallabys (penguin exhibit coming soon), the peacocks roam free in the entire zoo (mostly hanging out near the picnic area), and you can feed birds, elephants, giraffes, and more. The "my big backyard" exhibit has chickens, koi, rabbits, and other animals that people find near their homes (typically not in a zoo).

The views from the mountain are spectacular, but be prepared for steep hills. They have a golf cart type shuttle that will take you around for an extra charge. Get there early in the morning or you will have to wait to park (sometimes an hour or more just to get to the parking lot!).

The animal enclosures are set in such a way that even when the animals are lounging or sleeping, visitors can see them. I've been to other zoos where the animals always seem to be hiding, but that's not the case here.

We bought a membership and it has definitely been worth the cost. Each time we visit, we see something new or different (it's hard to see everything in one trip).

There are plenty of food options, but it can get expensive. You can pack a picnic, however, and enjoy a view of Colorado Springs from their outdoor picnic tables next to the carousel.

Overall, this is a great zoo and fun for animal lovers of all ages.