CMZoo's New Giraffe Center Opens Tuesday: What COS Families Should Know Before They Go

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo has been in Colorado Springs for 100 years. Tomorrow, it opens what may be the most significant new addition in a generation.

The brand-new Giraffe Center opens Tuesday, September 15, at 9:30 AM, with Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade in attendance for the grand opening ceremony. If your family is planning a trip to CMZoo in the coming days, here's everything you need to know.

This Week Is Also Military Appreciation Week

CMZoo's centennial celebration is running alongside Military Appreciation Week through Sunday, September 20. Active-duty service members, veterans, retired military, and their immediate dependents all receive 50% off base admission this week.

One important note: tickets are advance-only and must be purchased online at cmzoo.org. The 50% discount is applied at checkout when you indicate military status. Plan ahead before you go — they are not available at the gate.

The Centennial Celebration

The Giraffe Center grand opening is the headline attraction of CMZoo's 100th anniversary celebration, but there's more happening through Sunday. The centennial events include live music, local artists, and vintage cars — the kind of afternoon that works for families with kids of a wide range of ages.

CMZoo has been part of Colorado Springs for a century. It's worth celebrating.

What's Next

Families who've visited the old giraffe area at CMZoo will notice the change immediately. The new center is designed to give animals more space and visitors more access — which for families with young children means more memorable close-up moments. Plan for extra time if you're visiting this week, as the grand opening will likely draw strong crowds. Check cmzoo.org for current hours and ticket availability before you head over.