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Military Families Get 50% Off at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo This Week — Plus 100th Anniversary Events

By Sarah Morales, Staff Reporter
Published September 13, 2026
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Military families in Colorado Springs have a reason to head to the zoo this week. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's Military Appreciation Week runs September 13 through 19, offering 50 percent off base admission for active-duty service members, veterans, retired military, and their dependents living in the same household.

The timing adds a second reason to visit: the week also marks the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's 100th anniversary Centennial Celebration, with live music, artists, vintage cars, and family-friendly events running through the weekend. And on Tuesday, September 15, CMZoo opens its brand-new Giraffe Center as part of the centennial festivities.

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Quick Reference: Military Appreciation Week

Detail Information
Dates September 13–19, 2026
Discount 50% off base admission
Who Qualifies Active-duty, veteran, retired military + dependents in same household
Tickets Advance e-tickets required (no gate sales)
Buy Tickets cmzoo.org
Giraffe Center Opens Tuesday, September 15
Centennial Events Live music, artists, vintage cars, family activities through Sunday

What ID to Bring

To receive the discount at the gate, you'll need to show one of the following forms of identification:

  • Valid military or retired military ID
  • A copy of your DD214
  • A state driver's license with a veteran indicator or military identifier
  • An ID issued by the VA, VFW, or American Legion

All members of your party — including children age 2 and under — need their own advance e-ticket to enter the zoo. Purchase tickets at cmzoo.org before you head out.

A Century of Colorado Springs' Beloved Zoo

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo turns 100 this year, and the centennial celebration is more than a formality. The zoo has been a cornerstone of family life in Colorado Springs for generations, and this week it marks the milestone with events that blend appreciation for its past with a look at what's coming next — including the Giraffe Center opening Tuesday, which will give families new opportunities to see and interact with one of the zoo's most popular animals.

If you've been thinking about visiting but waiting for the right moment, this week offers the most compelling combination the zoo has had in years: a meaningful discount for military families, anniversary events, and a brand-new facility opening mid-week.

What's Next

Military Appreciation Week at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo runs through Saturday, September 19. Tickets must be purchased in advance at cmzoo.org — they are not available at the gate. After the centennial week, the zoo's regular fall programming continues through the season, with additional special events planned. Check cmzoo.org for a full schedule of upcoming events.


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