Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium which includes marine life, zoo animals and land animals
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium which includes marine life, zoo animals and land animals
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium showing zoo animals
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium featuring zoo animals, cuddly or friendly animals and land animals
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium showing zoo animals and dangerous animals


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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Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Dublin

Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Dublin

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Things to do near Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the Morgan House Gift Shop, located 1.4km from the zoo, perfect for unique gifts. Bloomin Beads, Etc. is 1.6km away, offering lovely handmade items. The Candle Lab, 3.2km from the zoo, sells delightful scented candles. If you're up for a drive, visit Easton Town Center for a wider selection.

Recreation

Experience a fun day at Topgolf, where you can enjoy mini-golf with a family-friendly atmosphere, just 12.9km away. Alternatively, unwind at Muirfield Village Golf Club, 3.2km away, for a peaceful day of outdoor golfing amidst beautiful scenery.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ZipZone Outdoor Adventures, located 9.7km from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where you can conquer treetops on ziplines. For water fun, Zoombezi Bay Waterpark is a mere 483m away, offering exciting slides and family-friendly attractions. Don't miss the karting at Magic Mountain Fun Center, 12.9km away.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a vibrant experience. Visit the nearby Old Mohawk for craft cocktails, or enjoy the live music scene at The Basement on East Broad Street. For a relaxed evening, head to the Short North Arts District for art and dining.

*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

Located in Powell, Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers an array of attractions for visitors, including urban parks and entertainment facilities. Ideal for families seeking an outdoor city experience, the zoo is renowned for its accreditation and exclusive exhibits. Don't miss the scenic zoo grounds and the opportunity to ride the Columbus Zoo train for a unique perspective of this popular destination.

  • Schottenstein Center: Located 17.7km from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, this vibrant arena offers diverse entertainment options, from concerts to sports events, making it a lively spot for family outings and thrilling experiences.
  • Coffman Park: Just 6.4km away, this urban park provides a serene escape with ample green space for picnics, playgrounds for children, and scenic walking paths, perfect for family gatherings amidst the city's charm.
  • Dublin Arts Council: Situated 4.8km from the zoo, this art gallery showcases local and regional artists, creating a culturally rich environment where visitors can appreciate various art forms and community events.

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

Tips to save on your trip to Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.