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Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, United States of America - Things to Do in Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Things to Do in Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, located in Powell, Ohio (just north of Columbus), stands as one of America's premier zoological destinations, spanning 580 acres and home to over 10,000 animals representing more than 600 species. This world-renowned facility gained international recognition under the leadership of Jack Hanna and continues to be a leader in conservation, education, and animal care, featuring diverse regions including the African Savanna, Asia Quest, and the acclaimed Polar Frontier. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers an immersive experience where visitors can encounter everything from majestic polar bears and Siberian tigers to playful sea lions and gentle manatees, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families traveling to central Ohio.

Top Things to Do in Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Explore the Heart of Africa

Journey through the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's most expansive region, where African elephants roam vast savannas alongside giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs. This immersive experience includes elevated walkways offering panoramic views of the African landscape and close encounters with some of the continent's most magnificent wildlife.

Booking Tip: Purchase zoo admission tickets online in advance for $19.99 adults and $14.99 children (ages 2-9), with parking costing an additional $10. Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more active animals, especially during feeding times which occur throughout the day.

Experience Polar Frontier

Witness the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Arctic tundra habitat featuring polar bears, Arctic foxes, and seals in expansive, naturalistic environments. The region's highlight is the massive polar bear habitat with underwater viewing areas where visitors can watch these magnificent predators swim and play.

Booking Tip: The Polar Frontier is included with general admission, but consider visiting during cooler months (October-March) when polar bears are most active. Morning hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities as animals are more energetic during feeding schedules.

Discover Asia Quest

Navigate through the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Asian-themed area featuring Komodo dragons, sun bears, and the impressive Siberian tiger habitat. This region showcases the incredible biodiversity of Asia with authentic architecture and landscaping that transports visitors across continents.

Booking Tip: Asia Quest is accessible with standard zoo admission, but arrive early as the Komodo dragon and tiger exhibits tend to draw large crowds by midday. The tigers are most active during morning and late afternoon feeding times around 11 AM and 3 PM.

Visit the Shores Aquarium

Dive into the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's impressive aquatic facility featuring manatees, stingrays, and diverse marine ecosystems from around the world. The facility includes touch tanks, coral reef displays, and the popular manatee habitat where visitors can observe these gentle giants up close.

Booking Tip: The Shores region is included with zoo admission, but the interactive stingray touch experience requires an additional $3 fee. Visit during weekday afternoons when the aquarium areas are less crowded, and don't miss the daily manatee talks at 1 PM and 3 PM.

Ride the Historic Carousel and Train

Experience the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's charming attractions including the hand-carved Carousel and the scenic train ride that circles portions of the zoo grounds. These classic attractions provide a relaxing break while offering unique perspectives of the zoo's beautiful landscapes and animal habitats.

Booking Tip: Both attractions require additional fees beyond admission: $3 for the carousel and $4 for the train ride. The train operates seasonally (April-October) and provides excellent photo opportunities, while the carousel operates year-round weather permitting.

Getting There

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is easily accessible via Interstate 270 to Sawmill Road (Exit 20), located approximately 18 miles north of downtown Columbus in Powell, Ohio. John Glenn Columbus International Airport is the closest major airport, situated about 30 miles south of the zoo with rental car services, taxis, and ride-sharing options available for the 45-minute drive. Visitors can also reach the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium via Amtrak service to Columbus Union Station, followed by a rental car or ride-share for the final 20-mile journey north.

Getting Around

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium covers 580 acres with well-maintained paved pathways connecting all major exhibits and regions, making it easily walkable for most visitors. The zoo provides complimentary wheelchairs and stroller rentals at the main entrance, while motorized scooters are available for rent at $15 per day. Internal transportation includes the seasonal zoo train that connects major areas, and multiple rest areas with benches are strategically placed throughout the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium grounds for visitor comfort.

Where to Stay

Powell (closest to zoo)
Dublin
Worthington
Delaware
Westerville
Northwest Columbus

Food & Dining

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium features multiple dining options throughout the grounds, including the Safari Golf Club Restaurant offering full-service dining with views of the golf course, and various quick-service locations like the Dippin' Dots stands and snack bars scattered across different regions. Popular on-site options include the Heart of Africa Café serving African-inspired dishes and the Shores Café near the aquarium section, while the nearby Powell and Dublin areas offer extensive restaurant selections including local favorites like Mitchell's Fish Market and Rusty Bucket for post-zoo dining experiences.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Columbus

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

The Thurman Cafe

4.6 /5
(6666 reviews) 2
bar

Cap City Fine Diner and Bar

4.6 /5
(4112 reviews) 2
bar

Lindey's

4.6 /5
(2737 reviews) 3

Forno Kitchen + Bar

4.5 /5
(2458 reviews) 2

The Old Mohawk

4.5 /5
(2153 reviews) 2
bar

The Guild House

4.5 /5
(1923 reviews) 3

When to Visit

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium operates year-round with the optimal visiting period being late spring through early fall (May-September) when all outdoor exhibits are fully accessible and animals are most active in moderate temperatures. Winter visits to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offer unique advantages including smaller crowds, active cold-weather animals like polar bears and penguins, and special holiday lighting displays, though some outdoor attractions may have limited hours. Weekday visits typically provide the best experience with shorter lines and more opportunities for close animal encounters, while the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's indoor facilities including the aquarium and reptile buildings ensure enjoyable visits regardless of weather conditions.

Insider Tips

Download the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium mobile app before arrival for interactive maps, feeding schedules, and real-time animal activity updates to maximize your visit efficiency.
Pack comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's 580 acres involve significant walking, and Ohio weather can change quickly throughout the day.
Arrive 30 minutes before opening time to secure close parking spots and be among the first visitors to see animals during their most active morning hours at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

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