Article Contributed on: 11/17/2006 4:33:14 PM
The venerable writer,
Marcel Proust, had commented, "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in finding new eyes." With such a plethora of enchanting attractions in the Denver area, why travel hundreds or thousands of miles to be entertained?
I wonder how many residents have traipsed through the Denver Zoo. I imagine many animal lovers have but even if you are not an animal lover, I think you are in for a huge treat if you do go and I strongly encourage you to do so soon. This is an ideal time to pay a visit before winter truly sets in. Two additional bonuses are the summer crowds have dispersed and the cooler weather provides a more pleasant atmosphere.
In a nutshell, I found the Denver Zoo to be a veritable Noah's Ark and heavenly paradise all wrapped up in an extensive earthy package.
Be sure to wear comfortable foot attire to enhance the experience as there is a great deal of walking involved if you want to see it all - I surely did and who wouldn't? Never has exercise been so much fun.
The expanse was set before me as I entered and I immediately felt like a child let loose in a candy factory ... so much to savor. How sweet it is - nearly 4,000 animals and more than 700 species spread among 80 acres.
My all-time favorite was a magnificent Asian black bear. I stood and watched her for a half hour. She was utterly fascinating. She acted so human, making the same gestures as a person - shielding her eyes from the odd angle of the sun, yawning, rubbing her nose and scratching her arm among other motions. The cubs were wrestling just like little tykes and obviously enjoying every second.
In addition to the animals, I found several other things that were outstanding. The habitats for the animals are spacious and designed exactly as one would imagine them to be in the wild. Exquisite. The information boards abutting the various animal homes were great. I learned so many fascinating facts about each critter. For example, a lion can eat 100 pounds of meat in one feeding. McDonald's, open those doors! The landscaping is breathtaking ... literally, it's hilly. All of the employees were friendly and polite with their cheerful smiles and good mornings. The entire zoo is pristine without a speck of debris anywhere. Grand statuary abounds.
I don't want to give away too many of the delightful surprises the Denver Zoo holds. I think it would be much more meaningful if you made the exciting discoveries of the incredible beauty of the captivating creatures on your own.
Any downside to the Denver Zoo? The only one I can think of is you eventually have to leave. Presently, the gates close at 4 p.m.
I plan to return soon for the sheer joy of the experience. What are you waiting for - just go and enjoy!
The zoo is located in City Park at 2300 Steele St.
_____________________________
Mary Michele Kane lives in Aurora.