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.

Plan a trip to see Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Jungle Russell
Jungalow
Jungle Fever

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

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
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

Close to Zoo, Bridge Park+Dogs ok+Big Yard+Family items

Close to Zoo, Bridge Park+Dogs ok+Big Yard+Family items

2 out of 5
Powell
Close to Zoo, Bridge Park+Dogs ok+Big Yard+Family items
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 
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 Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The surrounding area offers outdoor experiences perfect for a day trip, along with sightseeing opportunities. Don't miss the nearby water park for some fun and relaxation, as well as local shopping options to explore. There's something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.

Shopping

You can visit the Morgan House Gift Shop, located 0.9 miles from the zoo, for unique gifts. Bloomin Beads, Etc. is 1 mile away, offering a variety of crafts. The Candle Lab, 2 miles from the zoo, specializes in custom candles. If you're up for a drive, check out nearby shopping centers.

Recreation

Ohio Stadium, located 12 miles from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, offers exhilarating sports vibes. The nearby Safari Golf Club, just 0.4 miles away, provides a relaxing outdoor golfing experience. For a tranquil escape, Highbanks Metro Park, 5 miles away, features scenic trails perfect for wellness and relaxation.

Adventure

Zoombezi Bay Waterpark, located 0.3 miles from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, offers thrilling slides and wave pools for family fun. For more excitement, visit ZipZone Outdoor Adventures, 6 miles away, featuring ziplining and obstacle courses. Don’t miss the karting at Magic Mountain Fun Center, 8 miles away, for an adrenaline rush.

Nightlife

After a day at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, dive into the excitement at Lazer Kraze, just 5 miles away, for thrilling arcade fun. For a blend of culture and entertainment, check out the Columbus Children's Theatre 14 miles from the zoo, or enjoy more arcade adventures at Ten Pin Alley, 9 miles 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

When visiting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, you'll find a variety of attractions to enhance your experience. From beautiful urban parks to historic colleges and lively entertainment arenas, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy outdoor activities and explore nearby sights, while also discovering other top attractions in the area, including the best zoo and aquarium. Your trip is sure to be filled with memorable adventures in this vibrant location.

  • Ohio State University: Explore the vibrant campus of this historic university, known for its rich culture and academic excellence. Enjoy beautiful architecture, art museums, and gardens, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
  • Bridge Park: Experience the family-friendly atmosphere of this urban park, ideal for outdoor activities. Enjoy scenic views, walking trails, and various dining options, perfect for a relaxing day with loved ones.
  • Schottenstein Center: Catch a game or show at this lively arena, offering an exciting entertainment vibe. It's a hub for family fun, featuring concerts and sporting events that make for an exhilarating experience.

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 HighSlightly High
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 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 on your visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, consider traveling during the off-peak months of December to February, when accommodation prices are lower. Stay on a Monday for the best rates, and use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotel packages that include flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Lastly, take advantage of public transportation options to get around the area affordably, and look out for free activities in the vicinity to enhance your experience without overspending.

  • 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 to June and 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 tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by booking a package through Expedia that includes your hotel stay near the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, along with your flights and activities.
  • 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia