Best For
Full-day family adventures and seasonal holiday light displays.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
US
Zoo·Expansive, Educational, Family Oriented
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a premier destination in Powell, Ohio, offering a massive collection of animals from across the globe. Visitors can explore distinct regions such as the Heart of Africa, where giraffe feeding is a favorite, or the North American trek featuring polar bears and brown bears. The facility seamlessly integrates an aquarium, showcasing manatees and a popular manta ray touch pool. Known for its strong ties to conservation, the park is so large that many guests recommend a two-day visit to fully appreciate all the exhibits. During the winter months, the zoo transforms with 'Wildlights,' a magical holiday light display that includes indoor viewing areas to escape the cold while observing nocturnal animals and reptiles.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a premier destination in Powell, Ohio, offering a massive collection of animals from across the globe. Visitors can explore distinct regions such as the Heart of Africa, where giraffe feeding is a favorite, or the North American trek featuring polar bears and brown bears. The facility seamlessly integrates an aquarium, showcasing manatees and a popular manta ray touch pool. Known for its strong ties to conservation, the park is so large that many guests recommend a two-day visit to fully appreciate all the exhibits. During the winter months, the zoo transforms with 'Wildlights,' a magical holiday light display that includes indoor viewing areas to escape the cold while observing nocturnal animals and reptiles.
Highlights
Interactive manta ray feeding and touch pool.
Spectacular seasonal Wildlights display during the holidays.
Diverse regional zones including the Heart of Africa and North America.
Indoor exhibits like the reptile house and manatee coast.
Unique animal encounters including giraffe feeding and polar bear viewing.
Reviews
4.7
Excellent41,1 K reviews
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium consistently receives high praise for its vast size and commitment to conservation. Reviewers frequently mention that the park is so extensive it often requires two days to see everything comfortably. Families particularly enjoy the interactive elements, such as feeding giraffes and the manta ray touch pool. The seasonal Wildlights event is a major draw, described as magical and well worth the visit despite the winter chill. While some find the ticket prices high, many suggest looking for discounts through local grocery stores or reciprocal zoo memberships. Overall, visitors appreciate the well-maintained habitats and the variety of indoor exhibits that provide a break from the weather.
Address
4850 W Powell Rd,Powell, OH 43065, USA
Websitecolumbuszoo.org
Phone(614) 645-3400
Hours
ClosedDaily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Time of Day
Lunch, Late Night
Occasion Tags
Family, Tourists, Locals, Special Occasion
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Location
Powell, Ohio, United States