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.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Wyandotte Way - Comfy and Fun, Fam-Friendly Suite

Wyandotte Way - Comfy and Fun, Fam-Friendly Suite

Powell
Wyandotte Way - Comfy and Fun, Fam-Friendly Suite
Walk to Muirfield – Backyard Pavilion & 2 Fire Pits for Ultimate Relaxation!

Walk to Muirfield – Backyard Pavilion & 2 Fire Pits for Ultimate Relaxation!

Shawnee Hills
Walk to Muirfield – Backyard Pavilion & 2 Fire Pits for Ultimate Relaxation!
Perfect Place For Your Columbus Stay

Perfect Place For Your Columbus Stay

Powell
Perfect Place For Your Columbus Stay
Awesome home 17th hole for the Memorial Tournament! Great for corporate outing.

Awesome home 17th hole for the Memorial Tournament! Great for corporate outing.

Dublin
Awesome home 17th hole for the Memorial Tournament! Great for corporate outing.
THE RIVERHOUSE-RIVERFRONT. 3 minutes to Bridge Park, Columbus Zoo

THE RIVERHOUSE-RIVERFRONT. 3 minutes to Bridge Park, Columbus Zoo

Dublin
THE RIVERHOUSE-RIVERFRONT. 3 minutes to Bridge Park, Columbus Zoo
Spacious Home in Quiet, Upscale Community

Spacious Home in Quiet, Upscale Community

Dublin
Spacious Home in Quiet, Upscale Community
Charming 1-bedroom 2 baths  in lovely Powell with a private entrance

Charming 1-bedroom 2 baths in lovely Powell with a private entrance

Powell
Charming 1-bedroom 2 baths in lovely Powell with a private entrance
Buckeye condo with hot tub and pool table

Buckeye condo with hot tub and pool table

Powell
Buckeye condo with hot tub and pool table
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
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 in Powell, Ohio, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and engaging in zoo adventures. Alongside the main attractions, the nearby aquariums in Dublin offer additional aquatic experiences for travelers. With a range of nearby attractions, this destination is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike, providing an exciting day filled with learning and exploration.

Food and drinks

Enjoy refreshing brews at Anheuser-Busch Brewery, located 7 miles from the zoo, or unwind at Good Vibes Winery, 10 miles away, perfect for a romantic evening. For a sweet treat, visit Anthony Thomas Chocolates, just 11 miles from the zoo, ideal for family fun.

Shopping

At Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, you can visit the Morgan House Gift Shop, only 0.9 miles away, for unique souvenirs. The Polaris Fashion Place, located 7 miles away, offers a vibrant shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, The Shops at Worthington is 6 miles away, perfect for family-friendly shopping.

Recreation

Ohio Stadium, 12 miles from the zoo, offers an energetic sports atmosphere. Safari Golf Club, located 0.4 miles away, provides a scenic outdoor golfing experience. For tranquility, visit Highbanks Metro Park, 5 miles away, where you can enjoy peaceful trails and nature's beauty for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

Magic Mountain Fun Center offers thrilling karting experiences just 8 miles from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For underwater fun, Aquatic Adventures Ohio is also 8 miles away, where you can engage in exciting underwater sports. Grand Prix Karting, located 17 miles away, promises more karting adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the lively nightlife at Hollywood Casino, just 14 miles away, where you can enjoy gaming and romantic vibes. For a cultural touch, visit Ohio Theatre, 15 miles from the zoo, offering family-friendly entertainment. Don't miss Sky Zone, only 6 miles away, for thrilling arcade adventures with the family.

Find the best attractions near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

When visiting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Powell, Ohio, you’ll find a variety of attractions to enjoy, including urban parks, landmarks, and event venues. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, the area offers a rich cultural experience. Don’t miss exploring the zoo, Muirfield Village, and the nearby aquarium, making it a perfect destination for a delightful adventure in the Columbus area.

  • Ohio State University: Explore the vibrant campus of Ohio State University, a historic institution known for its rich culture and academic excellence. Enjoy beautiful architecture, museums, and art galleries, all while soaking in the lively student atmosphere just 12 miles from the zoo.
  • Greater Columbus Convention Center: This premier event venue, located 14 miles from the zoo, offers a bustling atmosphere perfect for conferences, trade shows, and community events. Experience the city's business vibe while enjoying various dining and shopping options nearby.
  • Schottenstein Center: Just 11 miles from the zoo, the Schottenstein Center is an entertainment hub hosting concerts and sporting events. Bring the family for an exciting evening filled with fun and memorable experiences in a lively setting.

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January28.2°F (-2.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February31.1°F (-0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
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 SunnyAverageAverage
October55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
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 exploring nearby free attractions like Polaris Fashion Place and Bridge Park. Travel during the cheaper months of November to January for lower accommodation rates. Use Expedia to find the best deals by filtering prices from lowest to highest, and consider booking a package to combine flights, hotel, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you OneKeyCash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.