AROUND DENVER

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

BY NATALIE HUSTEAD

Rethinking the Role of Zoos

Zoos often bring to mind negative images—small enclosures, poor diets, and bored animals with little stimulation. But the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) challenges these outdated perceptions. Their mission, “inspiring communities to save wildlife for future generations,” is more than just a slogan. Guided by a comprehensive Master Plan, DZCA continuously improves the habitats at their City Park location while building partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits to expand their conservation efforts on a global scale.

A Lantern Festival and Ongoing Upgrades

If it’s been a while since your last visit to the Denver Zoo, you might notice some big changes. Most recently, DZCA partnered with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.—the largest Chinese lantern festival producer in the U.S.—to create “Glowing Wild,” an immersive lantern experience. Similar to Tianyu’s “Bright Nights” at Four Mile Park, this installation combines conservation messaging with artistic wonder, encouraging visitors to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the natural world.

Though the lanterns are a visual treat, it was hard to ignore how many exhibits were closed due to construction. Still, in true Denver fashion, the inconvenience feels like part of the city’s evolution. In my decade as a zoo patron, it’s never been the same experience twice.

Constantly Evolving

Though it can be frustrating to miss a favorite animal, these closures are part of the DZCA’s ongoing evolution—something I’ve come to appreciate in my decade as a zoo member. The Africa exhibit has always been a standout, especially Predator Ridge, an award-winning, five-acre space designed to mimic the natural rotation of predators in the Samburu region of Africa.

Inspired by that success, the zoo expanded in 2012 with the opening of the Toyota Elephant Passage, giving guests an up-close look at elephants roaming and exercising in gated passages throughout the day.

Looking Ahead: The Master Plan

In 2015, the DZCA launched a new Master Plan aimed at “Leading the Next Generation of Scientists & Conservationists through Incredible Experiences.”

A major step in that journey came in 2024, when the Denver Zoo officially rebranded as the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, reflecting its focus on wildlife research and support for more than 600 conservation programs globally over the last three decades.

Key Features of “The New Denver Zoo”:

  • Education Satellites: Learning hubs throughout the zoo where children and families can engage in hands-on conservation education.

  • Premier Animal Adventures: Unique guest experiences that generate revenue and deepen connections to wildlife.

  • The Watering Hole Restaurant: A safari lodge-style dining space integrated into the Africa exhibit.

By creating these one-of-a-kind experiences, DZCA is building a future where guests come back not just to be entertained—but to be inspired.

Sustainability at the Core

Conservation is only part of the story. Sustainability is just as important to DZCA’s mission.

  • In 2019, the zoo achieved a 63% landfill diversion rate.
  • A partnership with King Soopers redirects unsold produce and meat to feed zoo residents—cutting waste and improving animal diets.
  • During April, donations to The Kroger Co.’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation support the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
  • Working with Swire Coca-Cola, DZCA recycles plastic bottles into reusable bags and staff uniforms.
  • A collaboration with Denver Botanic Gardens led to over 100 bags of biodegradable shredded wood being used as enrichment for the ape exhibit.

Sustainability is embedded into every aspect of the guest experience—just like the animals themselves.

Beyond the Zoo Gates

Education and engagement don’t end when guests leave the zoo.

DZCA offers:

  • Field trips
  • Seasonal camps
  • Teacher resources for K–12
  • Online and in-person learning tools
  • Research opportunities

They also donate admission tickets and guest experiences to charitable fundraisers. Those wanting to get more involved can apply for one of over 500 volunteer roles, from guest engagement to veterinary support.

Do Zoos Deserve Their Bad Reputation?

Documentaries like Tiger King and Blackfish have revealed disturbing conditions in some facilities. But as a long-time supporter of DZCA, I’ve seen another side—one where endangered animals are cared for with dignity, conservation is taken seriously, and the public is welcomed into a mission that matters.

The Master Plan ensures every visit to the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is better than the last—and serves as a powerful reminder that when done right, zoos can be engines of education, conservation, and real change.

 

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