A 19th CENTURY ATTRACTION...

In its century-long history, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory has earned a special place in the heart of Minnesota families who have made it the top family destination in the state. Last year, more than 1.9 million visitors came to Como to take part in free education programs, to savor the beauty of the historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, and to see why Como Zoo is earning national recognition for the care and conservation of animals. One of only four zoos and botanicals gardens in the U.S. that is still free and open to the public 365 days a year, Como is a cherished community treasure that welcomes a diverse audience of all ages.

WITH A 21st CENTURY COMMITMENT TO CONSERVATION...

In 2010, Como will unveil Polar Bear Odyssey, a new, state-of-the-art habitat for the Zoo’s two polar bears. Designed to simulate a Hudson Bay tundra, with a running stream and real soil to stimulate the polar bears’ natural behavior, Polar Bear Odyssey will immerse visitors in up-close encounters with the world’s largest land predator, with educational displays that explore what we can do to preserve this threatened species in the Arctic.

AND WORLD-CLASS COLLECTIONS OF BEAUTY...

The historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is home to the Midwest’s largest collection of Bonsai, and one of the top 20 Japanese Gardens in all of North America. In 2011, these nationally-acclaimed collections will be brought into full view for Como’s visitors through Japanese Garden Experience, a new wing that will create improved display space for Bonsai, year-round glimpses of the Como Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden, and improved visitor access to both collections.

COMO FRIENDS NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT!

Since 1999, Como Friends has raised more than $21 million toward improvements and enhancements at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory from corporations, foundations, and a community of nearly two million visitors who come to Como every year. Support from Como Friends has helped make possible:

• Operant conditioning animal training at Como Zoo, which has enriched the health and well-being of the animals in Como’s care

• Education programs that now reach 425,000 adult and child learners every year.

• Flowers and plantings for the five seasonal garden shows at the Conservatory’s Sunken Garden, the most beautiful room in Minnesota.

• Restoration projects at the historic Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, the Victorian glass dome that is one of the state’s most beloved buildings.

• Improved amenities, seasonal plantings, and a more beautiful campus for the enjoyment of Como’s 1.9 million visitors.

Como Friends is now leading the Campaign for Como Park Zoo and Conservatory to raise the private funds necessary to complete Polar Bear Odyssey and the Japanese Garden Experience. Your contribution to these projects or to Como’s annual fund will ensure Como's future as a free, family-friendly destination where every visitor can experience the wonders of the natural world.