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Which do you visit first, the carousel, the zoo itself or the plant conservatory? The answer changes for every visit. The Cafesjian Carousel is beautiful and it accommodates both adults and kids who want to ride. But Sparky the Seal only comes out once or twice a day, so you don't want to miss that. And if you're in the mood to see an immaculate garden, well...

Best Times to go to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
If you go in the summer, try to avoid being outside in the late afternoon. The afternoon is the best time to see the conservatory, go to the gift shop, or have an icy snack at a shaded table. The best summer hours at the zoo are in the cool morning or early afternoon. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is open every day 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (April -September) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (October - March). The carousel is open during the spring, summer and fall Tuesday - Sunday. It is not usually open on Mondays. Check the Como Park website tab "Attractions," for more carousel details.

Must See at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
The animals are all so active at this zoo, you want to see everything. Make sure you see the Sparky the Sea Lion Show at 11:30 every day during the summer. The trainers have a different story to tell with Sparky's help every year, from Sparky's aerobic exploits (ever see a Sea Lion try jumping jacks?) to fairy tales with an environmental spin. Sparky gives two shows on weekends and holidays. The Polar Bear exhibit is also fun, because the bears like to come outside and swim in their large tank. And if you're into plants, take a slow meander through the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Everything is so well kept, you just want to sit on a bench and take it in.

Admission to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
Admission to the zoo and conservatory is free, but a donation is suggested ($2 for kids, $3 for adults). The Carousel costs $2 per ride – rides are free to people 90 years and older.

Parking at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
There are a variety of parking lots that surround the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Maps are available online. Try to avoid parking in the surrounding residential streets – many of these become "permit only" over the summer. If you don't have a city-issued permit, hunt for a parking lot. A free summer shuttle bus runs from the Minnesota State Fair parking lot to zoo.

Public Transportion to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
Como Park recommends Bus lines 3 and 83 to get you to the Zoo and Conservatory. They also recommend the Metro Green Line, which services University Avenue between downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. Bicyclists are invited to use Cyclopath and the Nice Ride Bike Station at Como Park (right in front of the Visitor's pavilion).

Food at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
Plenty of choices, here: Zooper Foods (seasonal, outdoor venue by Seal Island) has pizzas, burgers, salads, kids meals and corn dogs for $5 - $10 per item. The Zobota Café is an indoor venue with vegetarian items, noodles, soups and salads and free wi-fi for customers, again in the $5 - $10 range. And there are also seasonal food carts throughout the zoo, offering ice cream, popcorn, cotton candy and drinks to pedestrians who need a quick pick-me-up (think around the $5 range).

Insider Tip for Como Park Zoo and Conservatory​
On a beautiful day, you want to get to the Sparky the Sea Lion Show amphitheater early, because it fills fast. Also, if you're looking for a way to burn off extra energy, take the kids to Como Town, a full-sized amusement park for families that is right next to the zoo.

Author's Bio: The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is a favorite summer destination for Louisa Danielson. She is a freelance writer who specializes in tourism and community event information.