Summer officially kicks off at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory beginning Saturday, May 23, with the return of favorite seasonal experiences, added daily programs, family attractions, and the start of Como’s free weekend shuttle service.
The Blaze Sparky Show Returns
One of Minnesota’s longest-running and most beloved summer traditions is back! The Blaze Sparky Show has entertained generations of Como guests since 1956 and returns to Como Harbor beginning May 23.
The educational and entertaining show highlights the seals and sea lions that call Como home, where each pinniped has the chance to take on the role of “Sparky.” Guests can catch daily shows at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Giraffe Feedings Are Back
Guests can once again come nose-to-nose with the world’s tallest animals as Como’s Giraffe Feeding Station opens for the season.
This unforgettable experience allows visitors to hand-feed Como’s giraffes while snapping memorable photos with these gentle giants.
- Daily at 1:15 p.m.
- $5 per feeding
- Credit card payment only
New Daily Summer Programs
Summer at Como also means a full schedule of added-value programs happening every day throughout the Zoo and Conservatory. Guests can enjoy educational talks, animal encounters, and gardening experiences included with their visit.
Daily Program Highlights
- Polar Bear Program – 10:30 a.m.
- Zookeeper Talk – 11:00 a.m.
- Blaze Sparky Show – 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
- Washed Ashore Sea Stories – 12:00 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.
- Gardener Chat – 1:00 p.m.
- Giraffe Feeding – 1:15 p.m.
- Gorilla Program – 1:30 p.m. & 4:00 p.m.
- Tiger Talk – 2:00 p.m.
- Water Garden Wonders – 3:00 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
Washed Ashore Exhibit Opens
Guests can also explore Washed Ashore, a powerful traveling exhibit featuring giant sculptures made entirely from debris collected from Oregon beaches.
Created using recovered plastics in their original colors, these stunning sculptures help tell the story of ocean pollution while encouraging guests to reduce waste, recycle properly, and limit single-use plastics.
Daily Washed Ashore talks at noon and 3:30 p.m. will give visitors an opportunity to learn more about the sculptures and the important conservation messages behind them.
Summer Fun Across Como Park
Summer adventures continue throughout Como Park with rides on the historic Cafesjian’s Carousel and thrills at Como Town, both now open for the season.
Free Weekend Shuttle Service Begins
To make summer visits easier, Como’s free weekend shuttle service also begins Saturday, May 23.
Running Saturdays and Sundays through August 23, plus Memorial Day, the shuttle transports guests from the staffed off-site parking lot at 1930 Como Avenue directly to the Visitor Center entrance in just minutes.
The shuttle runs continuously from 9:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Skip the parking stress and spend more time enjoying everything Summer at Como has to offer.
