Over the past 24 years, Como Friends has been privileged to receive generous support from the community in support of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Today, we proudly announce a momentous achievement: $50 million invested in Como’s historic campus to improve visitor amenities, update animal habitats and gardens, and expand education programs, while preserving free access for all visitors.

Thanks to community support from individuals, corporations and foundations, along with proceeds from purchases in the gift shop, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of the last metro zoos and botanical gardens in the U.S. that is always free, providing equitable access to our nearly 2 million visitors per year. Community generosity has made possible transformative capital improvements that enhance the lives of Como Zoo’s beloved animals and continue to preserve the historic beauty of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Contributions have funded the expansion of education programs that engage visitors and increase empathy for our natural world and made possible the launch of the Conservation Champions program that provides professional Como staff with opportunities to participate in conservation fieldwork around the world and to implement conservation initiatives on-site at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

The impact of $50 million in investment to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is momentous for Como and our community. Every year, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory generates more than $200 million in economic impact on our region, helping to generate more than 2,000 jobs.

As we reach this remarkable milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors, Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory Staff, St. Paul’s Mayor and City Council, and the Minnesota State Legislature. Together, we’ve built a better Como—one that inspires, educates, and connects.