Patrick
Colorado is often praised for its world-class skiing and lively cities such as Boulder, yet tucked just 40 miles from Denver is a tiny town full of personality, vintage shops, and one of the most incredible wildlife experiences in the country.
Keenesburg, Colorado may be small, but it offers travelers a truly unforgettable stop along I-76—especially if you’re seeking adventure above the animal kingdom.
A Town With Humor, Heart, and Hundreds of Animals
Visitors are immediately greeted by Keenesburg’s famously quirky welcome sign: “Home of 500 Happy People and a Few Soreheads.” Although the population has grown to nearly 2,500 residents, the lighthearted spirit remains intact.
But people aren’t the only newcomers—over 750 rescued exotic animals now call this community home thanks to the remarkable work of The Wild Animal Sanctuary.
For decades, the sanctuary has carried out global rescue missions, bringing in lions from Ukraine, moon bears from South Korea, and even tigers—Larry, Mo, and Curly—from Oklahoma. These animals are now free to roam across massive open habitats, far removed from the abusive conditions they were once trapped in.
Travelers can reach Keenesburg by driving north from Denver International Airport or by taking the Bustang route from Denver to Sterling, which conveniently stops at the Keenesburg town hall. From there, it’s only a 12-minute drive into the heart of the wild.
Explore the Wild Animal Sanctuary: Colorado’s Must-Visit Wildlife Haven
A Global Leader in Big-Cat Rescue
Few travel experiences are as moving as witnessing animals who’ve been given a second chance at life. The Wild Animal Sanctuary, spanning 720 acres, welcomes roughly 170,000 visitors annually, who pay between $20 and $50 depending on age.
These funds directly support one of the largest carnivore sanctuaries in the world, home to animals rescued from circuses, illegal ownership, and unsafe domestic conditions.
Walk Above the Wildlife on a Record-Breaking Bridge
The sanctuary’s hallmark feature is its 1.5-mile elevated walkway, which earned a Guinness World Record in 2016 for being the longest footbridge on Earth. This elevated path lets guests watch lions, tigers, and bears from above without disrupting their natural behavior.
The sanctuary is open daily from 9 a.m. until sunset, though summer visitors should stop by in late afternoon when the big cats are most active. The walkway is uncovered, so be prepared with sun protection in summer or warm layers in winter, as it can get breezy at higher elevations.
And don’t forget your camera—capturing these majestic animals in peaceful surroundings is a highlight for many visitors.
Since its founding in 1980, the sanctuary has rescued animals from around the globe—including several tigers once kept at the facility run by Joe Exotic of Tiger King fame.
Today, they live comfortably in spacious habitats, a sight that one reviewer described as “a beautiful experience… a heartwarming story of how one man had a vision and made it happen.”
Wander Through Charming and Quirky Keenesburg
Those who want to stay close to the sanctuary can book a room at the Keene Motel, a friendly, family-run option just minutes away. While Keenesburg offers limited lodging and amenities, its charm lies in its simplicity and small-town spirit.
The town is home to two delightful antique shops:
- Christy’s Gifts – Toys, collectibles, used furniture, and retro treasures
- A Step Back in Time – Vintage saddles, kitchenware, old video games, and assorted curiosities
Shoppers often praise the friendly, knowledgeable owners who make browsing even more enjoyable.
While facilities are minimal, Keenesburg prides itself on community-driven events such as Easter egg hunts, OktoberFest, and Christmas in Keenesburg. As for the legendary “soreheads”?
According to local tales, they were simply the town mechanic and barber involved in a long-ago disagreement—now just a humorous piece of local folklore. Today’s Keenesburg is warm, welcoming, and safe, just as residents affectionately claim.
Keenesburg may not appear on every Colorado travel itinerary, but its blend of humor, hospitality, and extraordinary wildlife encounters makes it a destination worth exploring.
Whether you’re marveling at rescued big cats from above, browsing retro shops, or soaking in the town’s peaceful atmosphere, this hidden gem offers a travel experience unlike any other in the state. Add it to your next Colorado road trip—you won’t regret it.