CMZoo's International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe Opens Today
Colorado Springs families, today's the day. The International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo officially opens at 9:30 AM this morning — and it's unlike anything the zoo has offered in its 100-year history.
The new facility is the result of a $40 million construction project funded through CMZoo revenue and community donations. After years of anticipation and construction milestones, the giraffe herd finally has a home that matches the zoo's world-class reputation for wildlife care. Families who have visited CMZoo for years are going to notice the difference immediately.
Advertisement
Advertise hereWhat's New
The most visible change is the 12,000-square-foot giraffe barn — a purpose-built structure designed for both animal welfare and visitor experience. Where the old exhibit had three feeding zones, the new center has 11, meaning families have more opportunities to get close and interact with the herd from multiple angles: from above, face-to-face, and even feet-to-hooves in designated viewing areas.
The outdoor giraffe yard has also expanded by 25%, giving the herd significantly more space to roam and graze. Above it all, an ETFE clear roof floods the barn's interior with natural light throughout the day. It's the largest ETFE roof covering any animal exhibit in North America — an architectural achievement that makes the space feel open and alive rather than enclosed.
The facility is formally named the International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe, reflecting CMZoo's larger mission to lead giraffe conservation efforts worldwide. The zoo has one of the most established giraffe conservation programs in the country, and this building is designed to support that work for decades.
The Grand Opening Ceremony
Today's 9:30 AM ceremony will include remarks from CMZoo Board Chair Mike Edmonds, CMZoo President and CEO Dave Ruhl, and Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. The opening coincides with CMZoo's Centennial Celebration, which began this week and runs through Sunday, September 20. Families attending today will find live music, vintage cars, and a full slate of special events in addition to the giraffe center debut.
If your family includes active-duty military, veterans, or retired service members, Military Appreciation Week continues through September 19. Service members and their dependents receive 50% off base admission — just bring your military ID. All other families will need advance tickets purchased at cmzoo.org, as walk-up availability is limited during the centennial celebration week.
Quick Reference
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Opening Time | 9:30 AM today, September 15 |
| Location | Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs |
| Tickets | Advance purchase only at cmzoo.org |
| Military Week | 50% off through September 19 for military/dependents |
| Barn Size | 12,000 sq ft |
| Feeding Zones | 11 (up from 3) |
| Outdoor Space | 25% increase from previous exhibit |
| Centennial Events | Through Sunday, September 20 |
What's Next
With the Giraffe Center open, CMZoo heads into its second century as one of the top zoos in the country. The centennial events this week are a celebration of that history and a preview of what comes next. If you're planning to visit, check cmzoo.org for current hours, availability, and any updates to the Centennial Celebration schedule. Parking can fill quickly on special event days, so arriving early is always a smart move.
What locals are saying
Be the first to share your thoughts
Start the conversation about this article.
Leave a reply
More from Colorado Springs
COS Family Events This Week: CMZoo Centennial, Military Week, Airshow Preview
Colorado Springs families have a full week ahead. Between a historic zoo opening, military appreciation discounts, a pop-up playgroup this morning, and a major airshow on the horizon, there's no shortage of things to do
Lontcs Busy Boards Recalled from Amazon for Lead Paint Violations
SQT LLC is recalling Lontcs Busy Boards sold on Amazon because they violate the federal lead paint ban. The boards were available on Amazon from May 2024 through July 2026, priced around $31. If your family purchased one
OKK Rainbow Mystery Squishy Bun Toys Recalled — Water Beads Pose Serious Ingestion Risk
OKK Trading is recalling about 7,200 Rainbow Mystery Squishy Bun Toys because the water beads inside expand to a size that violates the mandatory safety standard for toys. If a child swallows one of these beads, the cons