Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

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.

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Things to do near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers an array of activities, including wildlife encounters and birdwatching, making it a delightful day trip destination. Visitors can explore the themed exhibits and enjoy area sightseeing, ensuring a memorable experience. With sports facilities nearby, it's perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation in a vibrant setting.

Shopping

At Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, visit the Morgan House Gift Shop for unique souvenirs, just 559m away. The Candle Lab, 1.2km away, offers delightful gifts. For a broader shopping experience, if you're up for a drive, The Mall at Tuttle Crossing is 3.7km away, featuring a variety of shops.

Recreation

At Ohio Stadium, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events, just 7.5km from the zoo. Enjoy a round of golf at Muirfield Village Golf Club, located 1.2km away, or find tranquility at Highbanks Metro Park, 3.1km from the zoo, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrills at Zoombezi Bay Waterpark, a lively waterpark located 186m from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, perfect for family fun. For karting enthusiasts, Magic Mountain Fun Center offers an exhilarating experience 5.0km away. Don't miss the adventurous ZipZone Outdoor Adventures, situated 3.7km from the zoo.

Nightlife

In Powell, Ohio, Lazer Kraze offers an exhilarating arcade experience just 3.1km from the zoo, perfect for family fun. Cinemark Polaris 18, located 4.3km away, provides a romantic cinema atmosphere. For a cultural touch, Columbus Children's Theatre, 8.7km distant, showcases captivating performances for all ages.

Find the best attractions near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, situated in Powell, Ohio, offers a delightful mix of attractions including urban parks, historic colleges, and entertainment arenas. Ideal for families seeking outdoor and city experiences, you'll find plenty to explore nearby. Consider searching for hotels close to the zoo, as well as checking distances and local points of interest to enhance your visit to this vibrant area.

  • Ohio State University: A prestigious institution steeped in history, Ohio State University offers a vibrant campus culture with stunning architecture and lively events. Explore its beautiful grounds and perhaps catch a game or performance.
  • Red Rooster Quilts: This charming gallery showcases an impressive collection of quilts, blending artistry with tradition. It's a delightful spot for art enthusiasts and those looking to purchase unique handmade gifts.
  • Bridge Park: A family-friendly urban park featuring scenic walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Enjoy outdoor activities amidst a lively atmosphere, with plenty of dining and shopping options nearby.

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 HighSlightly High
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 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 Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, consider travelling from December to February, when accommodation prices are lower. Aim for a Monday stay, as Saturdays tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia to search for hotel deals and compare room rates, ensuring to filter by price to find the best discounts. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights and hotel bookings for extra savings. While exploring, utilise the local public transport system for affordable travel options around Powell and the zoo.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, remember to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation for Columbus Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia