Information
Landmark: Columbus Zoo and AquariumCity: Columbus
Country: USA Ohio
Continent: North America
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Columbus, USA Ohio, North America
Overview
In Powell, Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium ranks among the nation’s top zoos, drawing visitors with its vast array of animals, hands-on exhibits that pull you right into the scene, a strong focus on conservation, and educational programs that reach all ages.Since opening in 1927, it’s transformed from a small city zoo with a handful of cages into a world-class attraction that draws more than two million people each year.You’ll find it at 4850 West Powell Road in Powell, Ohio, about 20 miles north of downtown Columbus-just past the long stretch of cornfields.The zoo covers more than 580 acres, stretching right into the splash and noise of nearby Zoombezi Bay water park.The place is home to over 600 species, from sleek exotic mammals and bright-feathered birds to reptiles and shimmering fish gliding through the water.Our mission is to empower people-helping them take the wheel, feel the wind on their face, and steer toward their own goals.Under the banner “Saving Wildlife,” the zoo cares for its animals, works to protect endangered species, teaches visitors, and sparks a real connection to the natural world-like the rustle of leaves in a quiet aviary.We’re open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., though some spots-like the garden in late autumn-follow seasonal schedules.Ticket prices change depending on where you live and how old you are, with reduced rates for Franklin County locals, service members, and through certain community programs.It’s $10 to park each car, but zoo members roll in for free-no need to feed the meter.Heart of Africa features a vast 43-acre savanna, stretching under an open sky and crafted to mirror the wild beauty of the African plains.In this exhibit, giraffes stretch their necks toward leafy branches while zebras, cheetahs, and ostriches wander across wide, sunlit plains.Guests can watch these majestic creatures up close, catching the glint in an elephant’s eye, and join engaging programs that explore African ecosystems and the work being done to protect them.Adventure Cove is a one-of-a-kind aquatic exhibit where California sea lions bark from sunlit rocks and harbor seals glide through shimmering blue water.Guests can step into a 360‑degree acrylic tunnel-the world’s first-and watch rays glide overhead and fish dart past, completely surrounded by the underwater world.Manatee Coast is a dedicated rescue and rehab center that also teaches visitors about manatee conservation, where you might spot a gentle giant drifting slowly through clear, sunlit water.This exhibit helps fund the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP), a clear sign of the zoo’s worldwide dedication to safeguarding endangered animals-like the gentle giants gliding through Florida’s warm waters.Visitors can explore manatees’ biology, discover the dangers they face-like speeding boat propellers-and see how conservation teams are working to protect them.Opened in 1968, the Reptile Building is the oldest on the grounds, home to snakes that coil in warm glass terrariums, slow-moving turtles, quick-footed lizards, and bright-eyed frogs.The exhibit shines a light on biodiversity, showing how each species plays a vital role-from bees pollinating wildflowers to fish keeping coral reefs alive.The North America region is in the midst of a $40 million makeover, bringing new life to exhibits that feature Mexican wolves, bald eagles, black bears, and playful river otters splashing through clear, cool water.The restored habitats feel alive, giving visitors a chance to learn about local wildlife and the challenges of protecting them-like spotting a heron fishing quietly by the reeds.Next to the zoo, Zoombezi Bay sprawls across 22 acres, offering everything from family-friendly splash zones to heart-pounding rides like Python Plunge, a water coaster that drops you from 45 feet up in a spray of cool mist.Big Boa Falls shoots you through a twisting half-pipe tube, slick and echoing with rushing water.Baboon Lagoon is a kids’ splash zone packed with more than 90 ways to get soaked, from spraying fountains to tipping buckets.You’ll need a separate ticket for Zoombezi Bay, but you can grab a combo pass that gets you into the zoo too-perfect for cooling off after seeing the lions.The Columbus Zoo leads the way in wildlife conservation, backing more than 75 projects across 20-plus countries, from protecting sea turtles on sunlit beaches to restoring forests half a world away.The zoo works to bring endangered species back from the brink, protect their habitats, and teach visitors-young and old-why it matters.They offer school programs, summer camps, behind-the-scenes tours, and hands-on exhibits where you might feel the smooth curve of a turtle’s shell-all created to inspire visitors of any age to care for wildlife.The park offers plenty of ways to grab a bite, from laid‑back cafés to snack stands where you can smell popcorn and fresh coffee drifting through the air.Gift shops sell souvenirs, educational toys, and animal-themed treasures like soft plush owls.The zoo makes sure everyone can enjoy their visit, offering things like wheelchair rentals and smooth, ramped paths that meet ADA standards.Guided tours, along with seasonal events like the glittering winter Wildlights and the colorful Lantern Festival, make a visit feel unforgettable.Before you go, check the zoo’s website-it’s got clear maps, an event calendar, and handy tips to make the most of your day, right down to where the popcorn stand is.Plenty of parking, easy stroller rentals, and thoughtful family services make it a warm, hassle‑free spot for visitors of any age-even the little ones clutching melting ice cream cones.Simply put, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium isn’t just where you go to look at lions and penguins-it’s a lively hub for conservation, learning, and family fun.Spanning wide halls and carefully curated spaces, the exhibits pull you in, letting you hear a bird’s call or feel the hush of a forest, and leave you inspired to value-and safeguard-wildlife everywhere.
