Important Notice of Guest Impact

UPDATED: FEBRUARY 20, 2025 

Map above shows a one-directional pathway through the zoo as a result of this closure.

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is undergoing a significant upgrade to our Hoofstock habitats while also executing a full replacement of our water main—a $3.2 million project supported by the City of Denver. As a result, some pathways are currently closed, which will impact your visit.

As part of required water main project pathway closures, the North Parkway from Samburu Grille to Primate Panorama will be closed through March 5. Some pathways around Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance’s campus will be rerouted, and guest access to the following facilities and animal habitats will be limited:

• Zoo Gardens
• Wildlife Plaza
• Animal Hospital
• Sheep Mountain
• Monkey Island
• Bear Mountain

Additionally, DZCA will be closed on select dates to facilitate this work:
Full Zoo closures are on February 24, 25, 26, and March 3, 4, 5.

We appreciate your patience and support as we complete these essential upgrades.

Why This Project Matters

Every two minutes, a water main breaks in the U.S., spilling more than 6 billion gallons of fresh drinking water every day—enough to fill over 9,000 swimming pools. These failures waste resources, disrupt businesses, and create challenges for communities.

To ensure a sustainable and reliable water system, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is replacing a 50+-year-old water main, thanks to $3.2 million in funding from the City and County of Denver. This project will prevent future leaks, improve efficiency, and support our conservation efforts.

While this work is underway, we’re also using this time to complete additional improvements, including:

• Removing Zoo Lights displays
• Upgrading pathways
• Enhancing the guest experience

We thank our community for their patience and support as we continue to invest in a stronger, more sustainable future for DZCA.