Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Tours

Photo provided by Grahm S. Jones
Photo provided by Grahm S. Jones
Photo provided by Grahm S. Jones
Photo provided by Grahm S. Jones
Photo provided by Grahm S. Jones


Have the African jungle, the Australian outback and the wildlife of the world at your fingertips at this acclaimed city zoo.

The Columbus Zoo is home to over 700 species of wildlife from around the world. Species include rare animals from jungles, deserts, forests and even the icy Arctic. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is among the most popular zoos in the United States. With the zoo’s exciting continent-themed exhibits and interactive displays featuring over 9,000 animals, it’s easy to see why that is true. The Columbus Zoo has been in continuous operation since 1927 and now includes two exhilarating adventure parks: Zoombezi Bay and Jungle Jack’s Landing. 

Explore the zoo’s spacious 90-acre (36-hectare) estate with the whole family and transport yourself to Asia, North America and its polar front, Africa, Southeast Asian islands and exciting and diverse seashores of the world.Visit exotic animals like the endangered black rhino or the Asian elephant.

Go to the African Forest, inhabited by over 700 species of African plant life and home to gorillas, monkeys and leopards.

Venture into the darkness on a simulated night hike through the Australian outback and meet lorikeets, koalas and kangaroos in the garden.

Kids will love the Shores Region, an exhibit dedicated to island wildlife. Handle a real starfish at the Tidepool Touchtank and see an array of slithering snakes and lizards in the Reptile Building. Dip your hand in the water to touch stingrays in Stingray Bay.

Kids will have lots of energy after meeting all those animals, so let them loose on the fun-filled zoo playgrounds. Take them for a spin on the old-fashioned carousel or the Bob Evans Express Train Ride. For an extra admission cost, go on the wild rides at Zoombezi Bay and Jungle Jack’s Landing or relax with a round of Safari Golf, located next door. Jungle Jack’s is named after the zoo’s former director and American patron for wildlife, Jack Hanna.

Columbus Zoo is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas but opening hours change with the seasons. There are reduced admission rates for those aged under 9 and over 60. Half-price discounts apply in the colder months. On-site parking is available for a fee.

Reviews of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
520
5 - Excellent 76%
4 - Good
115
4 - Good 17%
3 - Okay
36
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
6
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
11
1 - Terrible 2%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It was beautiful to go to see the Animals, but even better to see Christmas Lights at the Zoo! "Columbus Zoo and Wildlights" was WILD!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Go for 2 days! Trying to see the whole zoo in 1 day was a lot so get the 2 day pass and split it up!

5/5 - Excellent

Barbie

Wear comfortable shoes!!!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

You need two days at this zoo with little ones

5/5 - Excellent

Family

Zoombezi Bay was great fun!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Allow 2 days to visit especially if you go to the waterpark. Best plan1 day at water park and 2 zoo days

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin

3 out of 5
7150 Sawmill Road, Columbus, OH
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus - Dublin 

Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus - Dublin 

2.5 out of 5
5125 Post Rd, I-270 At Exit #17-a, Us-33/sr-161 East, Dublin, OH
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus - Dublin 
Hampton Inn Columbus/Dublin

Hampton Inn Columbus/Dublin

2.5 out of 5
3920 Tuller Rd, Dublin, OH
Hampton Inn Columbus/Dublin
Powell Home w/ Fire Pit - 5 Mi to Columbus Zoo!

Powell Home w/ Fire Pit - 5 Mi to Columbus Zoo!

3 out of 5
Powell
Powell Home w/ Fire Pit - 5 Mi to Columbus Zoo!
Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin

Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin

3.5 out of 5
5100 Upper Metro Pl, Dublin, OH
Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin
Wyndham Columbus

Wyndham Columbus

4 out of 5
175 Hutchinson Ave, Columbus, OH
Wyndham Columbus
Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Dublin

Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Dublin

3 out of 5
5175 Post Road, Dublin, OH
Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Dublin
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin

2.5 out of 5
4475 BRIDGE PARK AVENUE, Dublin, OH
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin
AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus Dublin

AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus Dublin

3.5 out of 5
6540 Riverside Drive, Dublin, OH
AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus Dublin
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

At the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences, including wildlife encounters and birdwatching. The area also offers exciting day trips, sightseeing opportunities, and a nearby water park for family fun. After exploring the zoo, you can indulge in shopping options, making it a well-rounded destination for adventure and leisure.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the Morgan House Gift Shop, located 1.4km from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Bloomin Beads, Etc. is just 1.6km away, and The Candle Lab is 3.2km away, offering unique gift options. If you're up for a drive, check out other local shops nearby.

Recreation

Explore the Ohio Stadium for an energizing atmosphere filled with sports excitement, just 19.3km away. Unwind at the Safari Golf Club, 644m away, for a relaxing round of golf amidst beautiful outdoor settings. Enjoy nature’s tranquility at Highbanks Metro Park, located 8.0km from the zoo.

Adventure

Zoombezi Bay Waterpark offers thrilling water rides and family-friendly attractions, perfect for a day of fun, located 483m away from the zoo. For more adventure, explore ZipZone Outdoor Adventures, 9.7km away, featuring zip-lining through the treetops, or enjoy karting at Magic Mountain Fun Center, 12.9km away.

Nightlife

After visiting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, enjoy a fun-filled night at Lazer Kraze, just 8.0km away, for arcade thrills. Alternatively, head to Ten Pin Alley, 14.5km away, for family-friendly gaming, or catch a captivating show at the Columbus Children's Theatre, 22.5km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including urban parks, historic colleges, and entertainment arenas. Ideal for families and those seeking outdoor experiences, you can explore the best zoo and nearby aquarium, as well as other top sights and attractions in the area. Make sure to check out local parks and historic sites to enhance your visit to this vibrant destination.

  • Ohio State University: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ohio State University, a historic institution located 19.3km from the zoo. Explore its beautiful campus, rich history, and engaging student life that reflects the spirit of Ohio.
  • Bridge Park: Experience the outdoor charm of Bridge Park, only 6.4km away. This urban park offers family-friendly activities, scenic views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
  • Schottenstein Center: Catch a thrilling event at the Schottenstein Center, situated 17.7km from the zoo. This entertainment arena is known for its exciting sports and concerts, making it a great destination for family fun.

Best time to go to Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The best time to visit Columbus Zoo and Aquarium can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January28.2°F (-2.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February31.1°F (-0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
November43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

To save money during your visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, consider traveling between December and February for lower accommodation rates, especially on Mondays. Utilize Expedia to compare room rates and refine your search based on your budget. Booking a package deal that combines your hotel, flights, and activities can also lead to significant savings. Additionally, explore free activities in the area and use public transportation, which is often more economical than renting a car. Always check for special deals on aquarium vacations for the best prices.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search feature to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia