Really an excellent experience. The zoo staff was extremely friendly and helpful, offering advice about upcoming events and interesting animal facts. We got there right when they opened (9:00) and started until 4:30, we almost made it through the whole place! Our kids had an amazing time even if they were exhausted by the end. If I had it to do over I would take the shuttle to Africa and work my way back instead of walking that area twice.
In any case, we will definitely be back, in fact we plan to finish the rest of the zoo tomorrow morning and spend the afternoon at Zoombezi Bay.
Amber Perry
Jul 26, 2022
We drove here from Kentucky.
We visited on a Monday in July. It was warm, but there is plenty of shade for cooling off. We did the Red Panda Experience and it was worth every penny.
I recommend bringing a refillable water bottle with you and you can get water at the fountains but you can also get free ice at the snack stations.
It was fun for 2 adults... I can't wait to bring my kids in the future!
Danielle Willmarth
Jul 22, 2022
Absolutely loved coming here with my family! We arrived at 11am and was wore out by 4pm. So we skipped out on a few sections. However, from what we did experience… it was fantastic. Lots of opportunities for photos, up close encounters and learning experiences with zoo staff. The Zoo is enormous and I highly recommend spending 2 days in the area if coming from out of town to experience it fully. It’s worth it!
Carl Chrome
May 23, 2022
Worth it! Like most Zoos, Columbus features several hours of exhibits and animals from across the world. This zoo is an excellent attraction for families of all ages. Off season is the best time go, while it’s still a bit cold outside, to reduce the number of tourists. Likewise, arriving early will ensure that the animals are active and near feeding time. My favorite exhibit was the manatee tank! I highly recommend this zoo for many reasons.
Yes, they are $35 to rent. Have a decent amount of them. It's possible on an extremely busy day they would be all rented. Might want to call before you arrive to make sure.
Guests are welcome to bring bags up to 22” long x 10” wide x 12” high, and coolers (hard and soft) up to 14” x 14.” Bags, suitcases and coolers on wheels are prohibited. Approved bags and coolers can be kept with guests or stored in several storage locations around the Zoo,
For Franklin County Residents
Under 3 FREE
3 - 9. $9.99
10 - 59. $14.99
Over 60. $9.99
Must show valid license, state id, or utility bill to prove Franklin County resident.
Outside Franklin County
Under 3 FREE
3 - 9 -$14.99
10 - 59. $19.99
Over 60. $14.99
Parking $10
Additional package deals check the website for details
There's manatees, sharks, fish, a section for petting sea creatures, etc. The sting ray part costs extra, but the aquarium is included with zoo admission. Price varies based on if you live in franklin county, have a membership, etc. Call or refer to website for pricing
Best to get there early. Because when the temperature starts to raise midday the animals aren't out as much. Not visible because they want to be in the shade.
You can bring your own to save money if you want. I think the strollers are around $14. It's first come first served, though. The website has more info.
Yes, they are at the Village Rentals and Provisions area just inside the entrance. $10 for a single, $14 for a double. All of them have a sun shade and a small storage pocket. However, it is first come first serve (no reservations) so if it's a busy day you may want to bring your own just to be safe.
Current admission per https://www.columbuszoo.org/home/visit/plan-your-visit/Admission
Franklin County Under 3 Free
Franklin County Ages 3-9 $11.99
Franklin County Ages 10-59 $16.99
Franklin County Ages 60+ $11.99
Outside of Franklin County
Outside of Franklin County Under 3 Free
Outside of Franklin County Ages 3-9 $16.99
Outside of Franklin County Ages 10-59 $21.99
Outside of Franklin County Ages 60+
$16.99
Most of the exhibits are outside, but like it was said before, there are quite a bit that are inside, like the elephants, manatees and most of the Australia exhibit.
No strobe lights like you would see in a haunted house but they do have Christmas light shows where the turns will turn on and off (flash) to beats of music, and this is only in certain areas.
Both places are in the same location. I'm not sure about the ticket cost. We have a season pass. It pays for itself if you go a couple of times. Parking is $10.00. Free parking with season pass.
Not technically. You can show up any time at the time or after. Showing up before your scheduled time defeats the purpose. Throngs of people typically show up right when it opens, the staggered arrival time helps allow for social distancing, protecting patrons and employees.
I live in West Virginia near Parkersburg. I have an injured bird i believe to be a Clarks Grebe. I can't get ahold of anyone to get help for him. Is there anyone who can advise me on what to do for him please.. can advise me
What Nancy said. If you have a large crowd coming, it might be best to get the zoo annual pass, as it is reciprocated at MANY zoos and aquariums nationwide.
I personally took my own so I can have more storage space for my child's diaper bag and snack bag, but you can rent single for 10 and i beleive it's a little more for double.
Most are all endangered! Columbus Zoo does not take animals for only entertainment reasons. This facility and the Wilds all take really good care of the animals and resuce a lot of them to care for them. The Columbus Zoo is known for being able to have the first born zoo polar bear which is an animal close to extinction due to the ice caps melting. They are also have reptiles they have that are so close to extinction. Both facilites also precipitate in a breeding program and set animals back into the wild :)
admission tickets for Franklin County residents continue at $14.99 for ages 10-59 and $9.99 for ages 3-9. Franklin County senior citizen admission tickets (guests 60 years and older) are reduced from $10.99 to $9.99.Mar 13, 2015
They have a membership package that includes both the zoo and water park and then there is also a 2 day pass you can buy and go to one on the first day and the other the 2nd.
$10 to park for non members. Franken county residents pay 16.99 , 11.99 for children 3-9, and 11.99 for seniors 60+. Non Franklin county residents pay 21.99, 16.99 for children 3-9 and 16.99 for seniors 60+. That does not include the other individual attractions inside the zoo or the waterpark.
You can buy them at the Zoo. You can also buy them at Kroger for a little cheaper.
Franklin County* Under 3: Free
Franklin County* Ages 3-9: $11.99
Franklin County* Ages 10-59: $16.99
Franklin County* Ages 60+: $11.99
*Zoo guests will be asked to provide a valid driver's license, state-issued ID or a current utility bill to receive the Franklin County pricing.
Outside of Franklin County Under 3: Free
Outside of Franklin County Ages 3-9: $16.99
Outside of Franklin County Ages 10-59: $21.99
Outside of Franklin County Ages 60+: $16.99
Discussed? Admission is discounted for locals because they should be able to enjoy a park/facilities that are supported by thier own tax dollars, roads, law enforcement, sewer/water, employees, etc for less than visitors who contribute to none of those things. It is the same at parks across the country, as it should be.
As others have stated, the aquarium is part of the regular zoo admission. The aquarium is located to the back left of the zoo as you come in from the main entrance.
Like the others have mentioned: lazy river dinosaur ride, carousel, camel, and pony rides. All cost additional money. There is a water park attached that has water slides, but you would need to purchase an additional ticket to enter.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium allows and accepts service animals of any kind as long as they don't pose a threat like a tiger or something. Although, I don't think emotional support animals are allowed, you would have to look into that and it depends how sevire the disability is. I hope this answer was help to you!
Heart of Africa exhibit closed. Will not open until weather stays consistent 55 degrees. Alligators are closed as well as kangaroos and lorakeets. Animal encounters is closed, making way for new sea lion exhibit open 2019.
If each person has a car in their posession - such as my husband and I each have our own card under the same membership but drove separately, it will definitely cover both cars.
I believe each car will have to present a membership card though to be free. I've never been able to present mine and cover another car behind me.
We have taken the kids' wagon or a large baby stroller. You can try it and see. Backpacks are good... my daughter has each kid take water and snacks in theirs. Youngest had pullups, then later, extra pants in case of accident.
Yes there are shaded areas. It was just over 90 degrees. I didn't get to travel through the whole park, but they also had areas with water play areas where the kids could get wet and cool off as well. It was just a muggy day that's all. A great place to visit we are going back soon. The kids loved it
Prices are different depending on where you live. Columbus residents get a discount. Considering i live an hour from the zoo (so, not cbus, but close enough to go more than once per year), parking and my family of 4, I found a membership to be the better value.
Hi! Go to columbuszoo.org and click the orange button that says Tickets. A screen will pop up and you should select membership reservations. It will walk you through step by step from there!
I would give them a call but they don't really close for rain. But I will tell you as someone who has been going for 17 years, going in the rain is the best time to go. You basically get the whole zoo to yourself and the animals are more active (usually) so I would just bring a poncho and rain boots :)
I just purchased my ticket and parking ticket online before going in. I went early. If you are a Franklin County resident you can purchase your ticket at a cheaper price.
As far as I've seen you only need a mask on when you go inside any of the buildings, bathrooms included, but other than that I've seen a lot of people who don't wear them when walking around outside of buildings.
This sounds like a question more suited to contacting the zoo directly.
Information in regards to volunteer opportunities can be found here:
https://www.columbuszoo.org/home/about/volunteer
Best of luck in your future endeavors!
There is no additional charge for the aquatic exhibits just one fee for the whole zoo. I have a family of 3 and the annual zoo pass pays for itself after 2 visits.
Noooo!!! We went less than a week ago. They do not require it but suggest it. The vast majority of visitors are not choosing to wear one. They have a variety of protocols in place to help with social distancing. You must buy your tickets and parking online and reserve a time slot at least the day before you go. This prevents crowds from forming at the entrance and turnstiles. A couple of the indoor exhibits are closed, there are no shows or keeper talks, several food vendors are closed, and one way paths are labeled throughout.
It is open but you have to go online to make reservations for both a particular day and entry time slot. Some attractions at the zoo are closed, but most is available for viewing. Check their website for full information. Hope this helps.
What is the likelihood of meeting Jack Hanna on the weekends?
Kevin Jacobs | Dec 2, 2020
Pastor Jim bowman | Dec 3, 2020
Mr. Hanna is usually scheduled only teo or three times a year. If you call the main number they should be able to give you dates.(columbuszoo.org/about/learning-about-the-zoo/jack-hanna)
How much is it do get in??
Iyesha parrish | Dec 2, 2020
Jason Owens | Dec 3, 2020
Columbus zoo. With
Will the zoo bus be running since the zoo will be open on june 1w
How di you get to The Wilds and what does the tour cost?
Rene Milligan | Dec 2, 2020
Phil Ross | Dec 3, 2020
Go to the web site. There are different types of tours and hours change depending on season.
Can you have a private Birthday party??
j rr | Dec 2, 2020
Phil Ross | Dec 3, 2020
I don't know what you mean by private but that are picnic tables in different places. You can bring your own so long you are within the cooler size limitations. There are food and beverages available.
It is open year round. Starting in November they will have their wildlights going on then. I am told by my son a law that it is a butiefull thing to see
During normal working hours the exhibits close promptly at closing time. They are usually pretty good about not rushing you out if you are in another area of the park and walking out...or grabbing a last minute snack or souvenir. They do have Wildlights and Boo at the zoo with extended hours; but not all areas of the park or exhibits are open during these extended hours if you want to see them; plan on spending the day. It's worth mentioning the price is the same no matter when you get there so for the most experience for the dollar you should go as early as you can depending on what you want to see
Their website says "We are unable to accept reservations for these items. All wheelchairs, scooters, strollers, and lockers are available are available on a first come/first serve basis."
It depends on what kind of ticket you're buying (adult, children's, etc). Regular adult ticket is $22. But look on their website for the other pricing.
The zoo has an exotic bird "habitat" that visitors can walk into and enjoy. I can remember actually 2 places within the zoo that you will find birds, one connected to another attraction then a big like... Caged area full of colorful birds. Im not sure if they're specifically birds of paradise, but I can confirm there are exotic birds that you can enjoy.
Where are the brown bears from? There's a sign saying the differences between grizzlies and other brown bears but it doesn't say which these are.
Mark J Miskin | Dec 3, 2019
Ahmed Hammad | Dec 4, 2019
Good morning everyone i don't know the best option if have chance to visit the zoo ask the guide work the same department should be he know the answer good luck
Yes, it costs 10.99 for a huge refillable cup with a straw and a lid. Then you get free refills all day long. If you bring the cup back later in the season, refills are only 99 cents. It's a great value, especially when trying to stay hydrated in the summer heat. I recommend the lemonade or the Gatorade.
The aquarium is one building with the manatees and some salt water fish. So it is not large but the exhibit is impressive with the manatees residing with rays, etc. They have "baby" manatees right now. If you are expecting a full size aquarium within the zoo, it is not. However I loved it.
Do you all give passes to groups like the VFW for prizes for bingo to give away? We are having a bingo for a fundraiser and would love to have some passes. Anything you can do will help. Thanks. Janet
This link gives you full information on addmission costs. Franklin County residents get a cheaper admission rate and children and seniors are a lower cost than adults. https://www.columbuszoo.org/home/visit/plan-your-visit/Admission
The price is contingent on your residency and age.
Franklin county residents:
3yrs and under are free
3-9yrs 11.99
10-59 yrs 16.99
60+ yrs 11.99
Non residents
3yrs and under are free
3-9yrs 16.99
10-59 yrs 21.99
60+ yrs 16.99
What kind of coolers are allowed to bring in inside zoo
Debbie Personett | Dec 3, 2019
Angel Goins | Dec 4, 2019
Guests are welcome to bring bags up to 22” long x 10” wide x 12” high, and coolers (hard and soft) up to 14” x 14.” Bags, suitcases and coolers on wheels are prohibited.
Can u take coolers
Tracy Norris | Dec 3, 2019
Justin Manner | Dec 4, 2019
Yes but there are conditions.
https://www.columbuszoo.org/home/visit/plan-your-visit/zoo-policies
Follow this link. It shows their pricing as well as parking. It depends on if your a resident of the county or not.
https://www.columbuszoo.org/home/visit/plan-your-visit/Admission
May 4th it opens for weekends only, on May 25th it will open daily until August 19th when it will again only be open on weekends and Labor day until September 30th! We can't wait for the new exhibit!
The columbus zoo isnt just for people living in columbus, but if you are wanting to get a zoo membership you need to have proof of ID with a correct address on it.
I think you would be better contacting someone at the zoo. But I also think that one ticket is for one person. So I don't think their provider will get in for free.
You can use any form of payment- cash, debit or credit cards. When I mentioned 1/2, I meant "half". So, tickets are helf price on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
If you are already there just go to the front guest services (near the ticket sales). Or, if you noticed this before you got there you can contact the zoo services at 614-724-3489 and explain the lost card. They should be happy to mail you a new one.
I think they even have a picnic area just outside the gate where you can store your cooler so you don't have to drag it around with you or go all the way back to your car.
Yes they have quite a few.
A beautiful Merry Go Round,a Dinosaur adventure ride and many
others.Also a Manta Ray
encounter where you can
touch a Sting Ran in a pool
(the shatp barb has been
removed from the tails)
You need to exp.it for
yourself. It Truly is a
wonderful place to visit.
We stayed at the Hyatt Place in Dublin. It was about 20 minutes from the zoo and is a decent area. There were plenty of nearby restaurants and the hotel was affordable with free breakfast.
How much for a 2 day pass and what all does it inculde
James Cricj | Dec 3, 2019
Bob Kovack | Dec 4, 2019
I honestly do not remember. We took a bus trip, it was included in the price. We also visited other places. You could Google, Columbus Zoo and get prices. I have been to many zoos. I would rate this zoo as number one on my list. Worth every cent.
Yes one day is good make sure you start early if you are just visiting the zoo area the water park is connected but is closed in winter. Zoombezi Bay is the name.
Parking is $10, kids under 3 free, ages 3-9 and 60+ are $16.99 and 10-59 are $21.99. They do have a special, 50% off through 2/28, and $5 off for March 1- April 20. And, they have activity packages as well. If you have a large family, the most economical option may be the Membership.
https://www.columbuszoo.org/home/visit/plan-your-visit/Admission
So everyone knows, they have coupons you can get at wendys for wildlights where you can get up to 6 tickets for $10 each instead of paying full price adult $16.99 and kids $11.99.
16.99 if you live in Franklin county, 21.99 otherwise. Though someone handed me a coupon for wildlights when I was in line to get a ticket, so it only cost 10 dollars per person for me and my friend.
Yes when you can find a day not to cold. Walk all the way to the back see all the animals on your way then by that time is the lights are on And you can see them all on your way out