Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden | Cincinnati

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the most celebrated and historic zoos in the United States. Established in 1875, it is the second oldest zoo in the country, after the Philadelphia Zoo. Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, just a few minutes from downtown, the zoo is known for its pioneering conservation efforts, innovative exhibits, and beautiful botanical collections.

📍 Location and Size

Address: 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Size: Approximately 75 acres, combining animal exhibits with extensive botanical gardens.

Nestled within the Avondale neighborhood, it is easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot.

🐾 Animal Exhibits and Signature Habitats

Home to over 400 animal species, the zoo features immersive, well-designed habitats that prioritize animal welfare and visitor education.

Major Animal Exhibits:

Elephant Trek: One of the largest exhibits at the zoo, designed for Asian elephants, offering them expansive terrain with pools, logs, and shade structures. This exhibit is a cornerstone of the zoo’s elephant conservation initiative.

Africa: An 8-acre savanna-themed exhibit that mimics African grasslands. It houses:

Giraffes

Cheetahs

Lions

Wild dogs

Zebras

Elevated boardwalks allow for up-close viewing.

Rhino Reserve: Features eastern black rhinos, okapis, and greater flamingos in spacious, naturalistic environments.

Manatee Springs: A Florida-themed exhibit recreating wetlands and swamps, home to:

West Indian manatees

Alligators

Snapping turtles

Native fish and birds

Night Hunters: A dark, indoor exhibit focusing on nocturnal animals such as:

Fennec foxes

Aardvarks

Ocelots

Clouded leopards

Reptile House: The oldest zoo building in the U.S. still in use, it houses snakes, turtles, and lizards in historical architecture.

Lemur Lookout: A newer open-air habitat featuring ring-tailed lemurs, promoting education on Madagascar’s endangered species.

New for 2025:

Siamang Point: A habitat for Siamang gibbons, Asian small-clawed otters, and rhinoceros hornbills, with large climbing structures and water features.

Bear Ridge: Newly renovated exhibit for North American black bears, emphasizing natural forest features.

Sea Otter Coast: A coastal-themed habitat with underwater viewing areas for sea otters, offering educational insights on marine conservation.

🌸 Botanical Garden

The zoo doubles as a botanical garden, showcasing more than 3,000 plant species across formal gardens, themed areas, and natural landscapes.

Accredited as a Level IV Arboretum — the highest status awarded by ArbNet.

Key garden areas include:

Perennial gardens

Seasonal flower beds

Tropical plant conservatories

Educational pollinator gardens

Hosts Zoo Blooms, one of the Midwest’s largest spring floral displays, featuring over 100,000 tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

🎡 Attractions and Rides

For families and younger visitors:

Safari Train: Circles the zoo with scenic views, open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Conservation Carousel: Hand-carved animal figures, open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Giraffe Feeding Station: Hands-on giraffe feeding sessions between 9:30–11:30 AM & 12:30–2:30 PM.

ScooterPals: Electric animal-themed scooters for rental and zoo exploration.

🎉 Events and Educational Programs

The Cincinnati Zoo hosts seasonal events and year-round educational opportunities.

Seasonal Highlights:

Zoo Blooms (April): Acres of blooming flowers and family programming.

Festival of Lights (November–January): One of the country’s premier holiday light displays, featuring millions of LED lights, themed trails, and holiday treats.

Tunes & Blooms: Free outdoor concerts in April on Thursday evenings.

HallZOOween: Kid-friendly Halloween event with costumes and trick-or-treat stations.

Conservation and Education:

Barrows Conservation Lecture Series: Features prominent scientists and conservationists.

Zoo Camps: Weeklong youth programs in summer, emphasizing hands-on learning.

Wild Encounters: Behind-the-scenes animal tours and zookeeper experiences.

🕒 Hours and Admission

Open Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal changes may apply)

General Admission (variable pricing based on day and demand):

Adults: $9 to $26

Seniors/Children (ages 3–12): $6 to $20

Ride Package (zoo admission + unlimited rides):

Adults: $16 to $38

Children/Seniors: $13 to $27

Children under age 2: Free

Parking: On-site parking available for a daily fee.

🧭 Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings or weekdays for smaller crowds.

Dining: Multiple cafes and food stands available inside.

Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller rentals offered at the entrance.

Mobile App: The zoo’s official app provides maps, schedules, and real-time updates.

Summary

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a world-class attraction that combines animal conservation, botanical beauty, and family fun. It offers something for everyone — from wildlife lovers to garden enthusiasts — and continues to be a pioneer in environmental education and sustainable design. Whether you're visiting for the famous Fiona the hippo, the dazzling Zoo Lights, or simply a stroll through lush gardens, the zoo delivers a memorable and meaningful experience.