Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo grew from a modest municipal collection into one of the country's premier zoos over the second half of the twentieth century. Much of that rise came under Jack Hanna, who took over as director in the 1970s and transformed the zoo's fortunes, championing larger, more natural habitats and an ambitious expansion program.

The zoo earned early fame for a milestone in animal care: the birth of a baby gorilla raised at the zoo, among the first captive gorilla births in the country, which drew national attention and helped establish Columbus as a leader in the care and breeding of great apes. That reputation for animal science has continued to grow.

Jack Hanna became one of the most recognizable animal experts in America, a frequent and beloved guest on national television programs, where he would bring live animals on stage with an unmistakable enthusiasm. His fame turned the Columbus Zoo into a nationally known institution far beyond its region.

Hanna used that platform to promote conservation and wildlife education, and the zoo built out programs and partnerships to match. Though he has since retired, his long association with the zoo remains part of its identity, and the institution he shaped continues its work in habitats and conservation projects around the world.

The zoo is organized as a tour of the world's regions. An expansive African savanna area, an Asian forest, a North American and polar frontier with bears, and a Congo-inspired ape habitat each immerse visitors in a different landscape, with the animals given room to roam in naturalistic settings rather than bare cages.

A large aquarium and reptile complex adds an underwater dimension, including a tunnel where visitors walk beneath sharks and rays. Alongside the animals the zoo offers a manatee rehabilitation program, an adjacent water park, and family rides, so it functions as both a serious conservation zoo and a full family destination.

The zoo sits along the shore of a Scioto River reservoir near Powell, a fast-growing suburb on the northwest edge of Columbus. The reservoir and its surrounding parks and trails give the zoo a green, watery setting, and the adjoining recreation areas draw boaters and cyclists as well as zoo visitors.

This land is part of the ancestral homeland of the Shawnee, Wyandot, Lenape (Delaware), and Miami peoples, who lived across central Ohio before being forced westward in the nineteenth century, and whose descendant nations continue today, largely in Oklahoma. Columbus, the state capital just to the southeast, adds museums, gardens, and a lively downtown to a visit.

The closest Boutel™ stays, so you can turn this stop into an overnight. Each is a place we chose through independent editorial review, never a paid placement.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, near Columbus, Ohio, is one of the finest and most beloved zoos in the country, home to thousands of animals from around the world in expansive, immersive habitats. Consistently ranked among the best zoos anywhere, it features animals grouped by region, including Africa, Asia, the polar frontier, and the heart of Africa, along with an aquarium, a manatee exhibit, and much more, all in beautifully designed habitats. Its outstanding animal collection and dedication to conservation make it a world-class family destination. A magnificent and family-friendly zoo, it delights visitors. With its animals, the Columbus Zoo offers a compelling destination in Ohio.

You can see thousands of animals from around the world in immersive habitats grouped by region, including elephants, gorillas, big cats, polar bears, and countless others, along with an aquarium, manatees, and special exhibits. The world-class animal habitats, the aquarium, the diverse creatures, and the immersive regions are the draws, making it a superb visit for all ages. The variety and quality of the habitats are highlights. With its animals, the Columbus Zoo offers a rewarding experience in Ohio.

Yes, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is wonderful for families, with thousands of animals, immersive habitats, an aquarium, a children's area, and rides that delight children and adults alike. The variety of animals and the beautifully designed habitats especially engage kids, making it one of the country's top family destinations. Allowing a full day helps you see it all. Its family appeal makes the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium a delightful destination in Ohio.

The mild months of spring through fall are the most pleasant for enjoying the outdoor habitats and grounds, with the animals active and the weather comfortable, while some indoor exhibits, the aquarium, and a beloved holiday light display offer appeal in other seasons. Because it is large and popular, arriving early and allowing a full day are wise. For the most pleasant weather, aim for spring through fall, or enjoy the winter lights, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is near Columbus, Ohio, within reach of downtown Columbus, COSI, the Franklin Park Conservatory, and the other attractions of the Columbus area. That makes the Columbus Zoo a compelling stop to combine with the other attractions of Columbus on a visit to Ohio.