Ohio Zoos: Complete Guide to Wildlife Parks and Aquariums

Discover Ohio's exceptional collection of 15+ zoos and wildlife parks, including 6 AZA-accredited institutions that rank among America's best. From the award-winning Columbus Zoo to The Wilds' 10,000-acre safari experience, explore world-class animal exhibits, conservation programs, and family attractions across the Buckeye State.

15+

Zoos & Wildlife Parks

6

AZA Accredited Facilities

35,000+

Animals Statewide

1,400+

Species Represented

On This Page

Major AZA-Accredited Zoos

Ohio is home to six Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) accredited institutions, representing the highest standards in animal care, conservation, and education. These world-class facilities attract millions of visitors annually and lead critical endangered species programs.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Top Rated AZA Accredited

Location: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, OH 43065

Accredited Through: September 2028

Voted the BEST ZOO in Ohio by USA Today readers, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium ranks third nationally among all zoos. Spanning 580 acres, this world-renowned facility is home to more than 10,000 animals representing over 600 species from around the globe.

Hours

  • January-February: 10am-4pm
  • March: 10am-5pm
  • April 1-May 24: 9am-5pm
  • May 25-August 11: 9am-6pm
  • August 12-September 30: 9am-5pm
  • Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas Day

Admission

  • Non-Franklin County Residents:
  • Adults (10-59): $25
  • Children (3-9): $19
  • Seniors (60+): $19
  • Franklin County Residents:
  • Adults: $17
  • Children: $12
  • Seniors: $12
  • Parking: $10 (free for members)

Featured Exhibits

  • Heart of Africa - Lions, giraffes, zebras, and more across a 43-acre savanna
  • Asia Quest - Red pandas, tigers, and Asian elephants
  • Polar Frontier - Arctic foxes, polar bears, and brown bears
  • Adventure Cove - Manatee Coast with rescued Florida manatees
  • Congo Expedition - Gorillas and bonobos in naturalistic habitats
Conservation Leader: The Columbus Zoo manages The Wilds conservation center and leads programs protecting eastern hellbenders, freshwater mussels, and Plains garter snakes through the new Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden Historic AZA Accredited

Location: 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Accredited Through: September 2030

America's second-oldest zoo (founded 1875) ranks fifth nationally in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. Celebrating 150 years of excellence, this National Historic Landmark combines world-class animal exhibits with award-winning botanical gardens rated #2 in America.

Hours

  • January 6-November 19: 10am-5pm
  • Member Early Entry: 9am (starting March 1)
  • Festival of Lights (Nov 20-Jan 4):
  • Sunday-Thursday: 10am-9pm
  • Friday-Saturday: 10am-10pm
  • Closed: Thanksgiving Day

Admission

  • Dynamic Pricing (book online for best rates):
  • Adults: $9-$26
  • Seniors & Children (3-12): $6-$20
  • Rides Package Available:
  • Adults: $16-$38 (includes carousel/train)
  • Children/Seniors: $13-$27
  • Parking: $10

Notable Features

  • Africa - Home to the world-famous hippo Fiona
  • Roo Valley - Walk-through kangaroo habitat
  • Elephant Reserve - Expansive Asian elephant habitat
  • Wings of Wonder - Bird show amphitheater
  • Botanical Gardens - Over 3,000 plant species across themed gardens

Special Recognition: Named one of the "10 Best Zoos for Kids" by Child Magazine and #1 attraction in Cincinnati by Zagat Survey.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo AZA Accredited

Location: 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109

Accredited Through: September 2030

Northeast Ohio's premier year-round attraction spans 183 acres and houses more than 3,000 animals representing 600+ species. Accredited since 1982, the zoo features both indoor and outdoor exhibits including the famous two-level RainForest building.

Hours

  • April-October: 10am-5pm
  • November-March: 10am-4pm
  • Member Early Entry: 9:30am (May 27-Oct 31)
  • Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day
  • Open rain or shine

Admission

  • Adults: $21.50
  • Children (2-11): $17.50
  • Free Mondays: Cuyahoga County residents and Hinckley Township (with ID)
  • Military: $12 (up to 6 tickets with photo ID)
  • Parking: Free

Major Exhibits

  • The RainForest - Two-level indoor habitat with 10,000 plants and 600 animals (currently closed for Primate Forest construction)
  • African Savanna - Lions, elephants, and giraffes
  • Northern Wilderness Trek - Grizzly bears, gray wolves, and bald eagles
  • Australian Adventure - Kangaroos, wallabies, and kookaburras
  • Asian Highlands - Snow leopards, red pandas, and Amur tigers
  • Susie's Bear Hollow - Newest exhibit featuring North American bears
  • Elephant Crossing - Visitor favorite with interactive experiences

Location Advantage: Just 5 miles south of downtown Cleveland, easily accessible from Interstates 71, 77, 90, and 480.

Toledo Zoological Gardens AZA Accredited

Location: 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43614

Accredited Through: September 2028

Home to more than 10,000 individual animals representing 720 different species, the Toledo Zoo combines exceptional animal exhibits with an outstanding aquarium. With 4.5/5 stars from 1,869 Tripadvisor reviews, this facility leads more than 80 global conservation projects.

Hours

  • Regular Season: 10am-5pm daily
  • Lights Holiday Hours (Nov 21+):
  • Monday-Thursday: 3-8pm (zoo closes 9pm)
  • Friday-Sunday: 3-9pm (zoo closes 10pm)
  • Free Mondays: Lucas County residents (10am, non-holidays)

Admission

  • General Admission: $32/person
  • Tickets available online or at entry gate
  • Parking: $7 (two parking areas available)
  • Anthony Wayne Trail lot: Free for all members
  • Broadway lot: Free for President's Circle members only
  • Payment: Cashless system only

Featured Areas

  • Kingdom of the Apes - Gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans
  • Africa! - Hippos (the zoo's namesake), elephants, and giraffes
  • Arctic Encounter - Polar bears and seals in recreated tundra
  • Aquarium - Dramatic coral landscapes with diverse marine life
  • ProMedica Museum of Natural History - Educational exhibits and artifacts
Note: The Reptile House is closed for renovations until 2026.

Akron Zoological Park AZA Accredited

Location: 505 Euclid Avenue, Akron, OH 44307

Accredited Through: September 2026

This intimate 50-acre zoo offers up-close encounters with over 1,000 animals representing 100+ species. Open 361 days per year, the Akron Zoo features award-winning exhibits including Grizzly Ridge, the largest expansion in the zoo's history.

Hours

  • Off-Season (Oct 1-Mar 31): 11am-4pm daily
  • Peak Season (May 1-Sep 2): 10am-5pm
  • Open 361 days per year

Admission

  • General Admission: $11-$21/person (dynamic pricing)
  • Members: FREE
  • Infants (under 2): FREE
  • Parking: FREE
  • Tip: Buy tickets before visit day to save

Notable Exhibits

  • Grizzly Ridge - Largest expansion featuring grizzly bears, red wolves, river otters, bald eagles, and walk-in aviary
  • Journey to the Reef - Lionfish, octopus, clownfish, and coral ecosystems
  • Komodo Kingdom - Komodo dragons and Indonesian wildlife
  • Pride of Africa - African lions and savanna species
  • Wild Asia - Snow leopards, red pandas, and tigers
  • Penguin Point - Humboldt penguins
  • Lehner Family Zoo Gardens - Over 7,000 plants and flowers

Family Friendly: Manageable size perfect for younger children, with exhibits close together for easy navigation.

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery AZA Accredited

Location: 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414

Accredited Through: March 2027

Unique combination of zoo, science center, and natural history museum offering interactive wildlife exhibits alongside hands-on science experiences. Also accredited by the American Alliance of Museums for its educational programming.

Features

  • Live animal exhibits featuring Ohio native wildlife
  • Discovery Zoo with over 100 animals
  • Interactive science and nature programs
  • Planetarium shows
  • Children's discovery center

Regional Zoos & Wildlife Centers

Noah's Lost Ark Animal Sanctuary

Location: 8424 Bedell Road, Berlin Center, OH

Non-profit exotic animal no-kill sanctuary providing permanent safe haven for unwanted and abused exotic animals. Federally and state-licensed facility offering educational guided tours focusing on the plight of exotic and endangered species.

Specializes in: Exotic animal rescue and education

Wild Hearts African Farm

Location: Lewisburg (Dayton/Lewisburg area)

Unique blend of education, conservation, and community-focused activities bringing African wildlife to Ohio. Guided hiking tours offer up-close encounters where guests can feed and touch a variety of African animals in naturalistic settings.

Specializes in: African wildlife, hands-on encounters

Wolf Timbers

Location: Bolivar, OH

Specialized wolf and wildlife sanctuary dedicated to wolf conservation and education. Offers educational programs about wolf behavior, conservation, and the ecological importance of apex predators.

Specializes in: Wolf conservation and education

Discovery Zoo

Location: Central Ohio

Indoor facility housing over 100 animals with multiple viewing options. Family-friendly environment focusing on interactive animal experiences and education programs suitable for all ages.

Specializes in: Indoor exhibits, educational programs

Specialty Wildlife Parks & Safari Experiences

The Wilds USA Today Best Safari Park

Location: 14000 International Road, Cumberland, OH

Voted BEST SAFARI PARK in Ohio by USA Today, The Wilds encompasses nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed mining land transformed into one of the largest and most innovative conservation centers in North America. Operated by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, this unique facility offers authentic safari experiences in southeastern Ohio along the scenic Appalachian Byway.

Hours

  • May-September: Daily 10am-4pm (last tour at 4pm)
  • October: Weekends only
  • November-April: By reservation only
  • Closed major holidays

Tours & Experiences

  • Open-Air Safari Tours - Standard wildlife viewing
  • Wildside Tours - Feed giraffes, meet rhinos in pickup truck
  • Sunset Tours - Special evening experiences (June-September)
  • Horseback Tours - Guided riding through preserve
  • Zipline Tours - Aerial adventure with wildlife views

Conservation Focus

The Wilds leads groundbreaking conservation programs including:

  • Wild Bison Program - Model program for conserving wild bison traits and ecosystem benefits, partnering with tribal bison programs
  • Prairie Restoration - Protecting endangered American prairie ecosystems (less than 5% remain)
  • Species Survival Plans - Breeding programs for endangered species including rhinos, giraffes, and wild horses
  • Habitat Restoration - Transforming former mining land into thriving wildlife habitat
Important: Advanced reservations required. Members receive free Open-Air Safari tours May-October plus 50% discount on Columbus Zoo admission.

African Safari Wildlife Park Drive-Through Safari

Location: 267 S Lightner Road, Port Clinton, OH

Experience Africa in Ohio at this 100-acre drive-through safari park featuring more than 50 animal species including two rare white zebras, giraffes, bison, deer, elk, and alpacas. Feed animals directly from your vehicle as they roam freely across expansive habitats.

Hours (Seasonal: March-November)

  • Late Spring/Late Summer: 10am-6pm
  • Summer: 10am-7pm
  • Monday-Friday: 10am-6pm
  • Saturday-Sunday: 10am-7pm
  • Last admission: 1 hour before close

Admission

Early Spring/Mid-Fall:

  • Ages 7+: $27.95
  • Seniors (62+)/Military/First Responders: $24.95
  • Children (3-6): $21.95
  • Children 2 & Under: FREE

Late Spring/Summer:

  • Ages 7+: $34.95
  • Seniors/Military/First Responders: $31.95
  • Children (3-6): $28.95

Features

  • Drive-Through Safari - Feed animals from your vehicle (one cup of food included)
  • Walk-Through Safari - Seasonal area with additional exotic animals (closed until May 2026)
  • Unlimited Re-Entry - Return multiple times same day until 1 hour before closing
  • Weather Notice: Giraffes not visible in rain or when temperature below 60°F

Petting Zoos & Farm Animal Experiences

Olentangy Caverns Petting Zoo

Location: Central Ohio

Sprawling 50,000 square foot petting zoo nestled in woods featuring friendly goats, pigs, deer, chickens, rabbits, and Zebu cow. Combined admission includes underground cavern tours.

Lagoon Deer Park

Location: Sandusky, OH

Walk-through experience where animals from various nations join you on your journey. Feed and interact with friendly deer and exotic animals in naturalistic settings.

Idle-Hour Ranch

Location: Near Columbus

Exotic animal encounters ranging from kangaroos to lemurs. Hands-on interactions and educational programs ideal for budding animal enthusiasts.

Young's Jersey Dairy

Location: Central Ohio

Working farm with long history featuring farm animal petting zoo, two miniature golf courses, batting cages, driving range, and homemade ice cream.

Aquariums & Marine Life Exhibits

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

Location: FirstEnergy Powerhouse, Flats District, Cleveland

This 70,000 square foot facility transformed a historic powerhouse into Cleveland's premier aquatic attraction, featuring over 50 marine exhibits across 8 main areas including a spectacular 175-foot shark tunnel.

Main Galleries

  • Ohio Lakes & Rivers - Native freshwater species
  • Asia & Indonesia - Asian aquatic ecosystems
  • Tropical Forest - Rainforest water habitats
  • Industry & Habitat - Human impact exhibits
  • Giant Pacific Octopus - Featured invertebrate display
  • Coastal Boardwalk - Touch tanks and interactive experiences
  • Tropical Reef - Coral ecosystems and reef fish
  • Shark Gallery & SeaTube - 175ft walk-through shark tunnel (premier attraction)

Behind the Scenes: Professional dive team maintains aquarium habitats with dives 5-7 days per week.

Columbus Zoo - Shores and Aquarium Region

Location: Within Columbus Zoo complex, Powell

Comprehensive aquatic exhibits highlighting marine mammals, fish, reptiles, and semi-aquatic birds with focus on conservation through rehabilitation and display.

Featured Areas

  • Manatee Coast - Florida manatee rehabilitation center holding several hundred thousand gallons, capacity for up to 10 manatees. Currently rehabilitating Cobble, Clawford, and Sabal
  • Discovery Reef - Interactive coral reef ecosystem with touch pools
  • Pacific Seas - Marine life from Pacific Ocean habitats
  • Tidal Pools - Hands-on experiences with coastal species

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium - Aquarium Exhibits

Location: Within Toledo Zoo complex

Award-winning aquarium featuring dramatically displayed tanks with striking coral landscapes and calming color schemes. Recent major renovation enhanced exhibits showcasing diverse marine ecosystems.

Highlights

  • Extensive coral reef displays with vibrant tropical fish
  • Large-scale marine habitats with theatrical lighting
  • Educational programming about ocean conservation
  • Interactive touch pools and feeding demonstrations

Conservation Programs & Endangered Species Protection

Ohio's zoos lead critical conservation initiatives protecting endangered species locally and globally. These programs combine captive breeding, habitat restoration, and scientific research to prevent extinctions.

Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation (Columbus Zoo)

State-of-the-art facility opening with North America Trek region focuses on restoring Ohio's endangered species through science-based breeding and reintroduction programs.

Key Programs

Eastern Hellbender Recovery (Ohio Hellbender Partnership)

  • Giant salamanders declined dramatically over 30 years due to habitat loss and water pollution
  • Partnership includes Columbus Zoo, The Wilds, Ohio State University, other Ohio zoos, academic and government organizations
  • Since 2010: Over 2,000 eastern hellbenders raised and released into Ohio streams
  • 2023 Milestone: First documented wild reproduction by released hellbenders
  • Program includes egg collection, captive rearing, release, and habitat restoration

Additional Species Programs:

  • Freshwater Mussels - Critical filtration species restoration
  • Eastern Plains Garter Snakes - Threatened snake species recovery
  • American Burying Beetles - Endangered insect conservation

Global Conservation Efforts

Columbus Zoo & The Wilds Programs:

  • Critically Endangered Ruffed Lemurs (Madagascar) - Research on reproduction factors including habitat modification, nutrition, and climate change. Funding provides science-based management recommendations to Malagasy authorities
  • Central African Holistic Conservation - Major financial commitment to ecosystem protection
  • Wild Bison Conservation - The Wilds leads model program for conserving National Mammal, partnering with tribal bison programs
  • Prairie Ecosystem Restoration - Protecting endangered grasslands (less than 5% of American prairies remain)

Toledo Zoo:

  • Over 80 conservation projects worldwide
  • Species Survival Plans for endangered animals
  • Habitat protection initiatives across multiple continents

Cincinnati Zoo:

  • AZA member since 1978 with extensive conservation portfolio
  • Botanical conservation programs (over 3,000 plant species)
  • Global breeding programs for critically endangered species

Visitor Information & Planning Tips

Best Times to Visit

  • Spring (April-May): Mild weather, baby animals, fewer crowds
  • Fall (September-October): Comfortable temperatures, active animals, beautiful foliage
  • Weekday Mornings: Smallest crowds, most active animals
  • Avoid: Summer midday heat (animals less active), holiday weekends (largest crowds)

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes (plan 2-4 miles)
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Reusable water bottle (refill stations available)
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Light jacket (indoor exhibits can be cool)
  • Stroller for young children (rentals often available)
  • Rain gear (most zoos open rain or shine)

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair and ECV rentals available at major zoos
  • Paved pathways throughout facilities
  • Accessible restrooms and dining areas
  • Sensory-friendly hours and resources
  • Service animals welcome
  • ASL interpretation available for programs (advance request)

Free Admission Days

  • Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Free Mondays for Cuyahoga County residents and Hinckley Township
  • Toledo Zoo: Free non-holiday Mondays for Lucas County residents (10am)
  • Columbus Zoo: Franklin County Community Days (discounted rates)
  • Military: Free or discounted admission Memorial Day, July 4th, Veterans Day at most facilities

Zoo Memberships & Discount Programs

Membership Benefits Overview

Zoo memberships typically pay for themselves in 2-3 visits and offer year-round benefits including free admission, free parking, retail discounts, and reciprocal admission to 100+ other zoos nationwide.

Columbus Zoo Membership

Pricing:

  • Franklin County Residents: $199.99 (Reg $204.99)
  • Non-Residents: $229.99 (Reg $234.99)

Benefits:

  • Free admission to Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay
  • Free parking (normally $10)
  • Free rides, animal feedings, 4-D Theater
  • 10% discount at gift shops and restaurants
  • Reciprocal admission to 100+ AZA facilities
  • Discovery Family Membership: Reduced-cost program for qualifying Ohio residents

Cincinnati Zoo Membership

Benefits:

  • Free admission and free parking
  • 10% discount retail, 20% discount food service
  • Discounted tickets for extra guests
  • Reciprocal free/discounted admission to 100+ zoos nationwide (including 7 in Ohio)
  • Special $50 Membership: Zoo Access for All program (requires SNAP/EBT card, purchase in person)
  • Military Discount: 10% off all membership levels for active military and veterans

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Membership

Benefits:

  • Pays for itself in about 2 visits
  • Free unlimited daytime admission for one year
  • Discounted admission to 150+ zoos nationwide
  • Visit for an hour or stay all day - unlimited visits
  • Full year to experience seasonal exhibits and events

Akron Zoo Membership

Benefits:

  • Unlimited admission to Akron Zoo for one year
  • Discounted admission to all major Ohio zoos
  • Reciprocal discounts at 150+ zoos and aquariums nationwide
  • Members' Nights: Special after-hours zoo experiences throughout year
  • Wild Lights (annual 10-year anniversary celebration): 5-9pm

Additional Discount Programs

Military & First Responders

  • Columbus Zoo: $2 discount up to 6 tickets with military ID
  • Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: $12 admission up to 6 tickets with photo ID
  • Cincinnati Zoo: FREE admission Memorial Day, July 4th, Veterans Day + discounted family tickets
  • Most facilities: 10% membership discounts for active duty and veterans

Special Programs

  • SNAP/EBT: Discounted rates at Cincinnati Zoo ($50 membership)
  • Groups (15+): Special rates available at all major zoos
  • COTA Zoo Bus (Columbus): $5 admission with bus ticket
  • Senior Discounts: Reduced admission at most facilities (60-62+ age varies)

Frequently Asked Questions

The Akron Zoo is particularly well-suited for young children due to its manageable 50-acre size with exhibits close together, making it easy to navigate with strollers. The Columbus Zoo, while larger at 580 acres, offers the most comprehensive experience with free rides, animal feedings, and the adjacent Zoombezi Bay water park included with membership. For toddlers and preschoolers, petting zoo experiences like Olentangy Caverns or Young's Jersey Dairy provide hands-on interactions that engage younger visitors. Most major Ohio zoos offer stroller rentals, nursing stations, and age-appropriate play areas.

Ohio's 6 AZA-accredited facilities each offer unique strengths. The Columbus Zoo (580 acres, 10,000+ animals, 600+ species) ranks third nationally and is the largest and most comprehensive. The Cincinnati Zoo, America's second-oldest (founded 1875), ranks fifth nationally and combines exceptional animal exhibits with award-winning botanical gardens rated #2 in America. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (183 acres, 3,000 animals) features the famous two-level RainForest and offers free admission Mondays for Cuyahoga County residents. Toledo Zoo (10,000 animals, 720 species) excels in aquarium exhibits and leads 80+ global conservation projects. The Akron Zoo (50 acres, 1,000 animals) provides an intimate experience perfect for shorter visits. All six maintain the highest AZA standards for animal care, conservation, and education.

The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds lead the Ohio Hellbender Partnership, which has raised and released over 2,000 eastern hellbenders into Ohio waterways since 2010, achieving the 2023 milestone of first documented wild reproduction. The new Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation focuses on eastern hellbenders, freshwater mussels, Plains garter snakes, and American burying beetles. The Wilds leads model conservation programs for wild bison (America's National Mammal) and prairie ecosystem restoration (less than 5% of original American prairies remain). The Columbus Zoo supports critically endangered ruffed lemurs in Madagascar and Central African conservation initiatives. Toledo Zoo operates 80+ conservation projects worldwide. All six AZA-accredited facilities participate in Species Survival Plans for endangered species through coordinated breeding programs.

Zoo memberships typically pay for themselves in 2-3 visits and provide substantial additional benefits. For example, a Columbus Zoo non-resident membership ($229.99) breaks even with just 3 visits ($25 admission + $10 parking = $35 per visit x 3 = $105 savings). Membership benefits include free parking (saving $10 per visit at most facilities), retail discounts (10-20%), food discounts (10-20%), free rides and attractions (carousel, train, 4-D theater), and reciprocal admission to 100-150+ other AZA zoos nationwide. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo members receive free admission to 150+ zoos, while Cincinnati Zoo members get reciprocal benefits at 7 other Ohio zoos. Special discount memberships are available for SNAP/EBT recipients (Cincinnati Zoo: $50), military personnel (10% discount at most facilities), and Franklin County residents (Columbus Zoo: $199.99 vs $229.99).

The Wilds is a nearly 10,000-acre open-range conservation center and safari park located in southeastern Ohio, operated by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Unlike traditional zoos where animals live in relatively small enclosures, The Wilds provides expansive habitats on reclaimed mining land where endangered species roam across hundreds of acres in settings that closely mimic their native environments. Visitors experience wildlife through various safari tours including open-air bus tours, Wildside pickup truck tours (feed giraffes and meet rhinos), sunset tours (June-September), horseback tours, and zipline tours. Voted Best Safari Park in Ohio by USA Today, The Wilds focuses heavily on conservation including wild bison programs, prairie restoration, and Species Survival Plans for endangered species. Advanced reservations are required. Members receive free Open-Air Safari tours May-October plus 50% discount on Columbus Zoo admission.

Free admission opportunities include: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo offers FREE Mondays for Cuyahoga County residents and Hinckley Township (with valid ID). Toledo Zoo provides free admission for Lucas County residents on non-holiday Mondays starting at 10am. Most Ohio zoos offer FREE admission for military personnel and veterans on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day (typically up to 6 discounted family tickets). The Columbus Zoo offers Franklin County Community Days with discounted rates throughout the year. Federal employees receive free admission to Columbus Zoo November 1-20 annually (up to 5 guests plus free parking). Military personnel receive $2-$12 discounts daily with valid military ID at most facilities. COTA Zoo Bus riders receive $5 admission to Columbus Zoo. SNAP/EBT cardholders can purchase $50 annual membership at Cincinnati Zoo (in person with valid card).

Ohio features several excellent aquarium options. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is a dedicated 70,000 square foot facility with over 50 marine exhibits across 8 main areas, featuring a spectacular 175-foot shark tunnel as its premier attraction. Galleries include Ohio Lakes & Rivers, Asia & Indonesia, Tropical Forest, Giant Pacific Octopus, Coastal Boardwalk, Tropical Reef, and the Shark Gallery & SeaTube. The Columbus Zoo's Shores and Aquarium region includes Manatee Coast, a rehabilitation center holding several hundred thousand gallons capable of accommodating up to 10 manatees (currently rehabilitating Cobble, Clawford, and Sabal), plus Discovery Reef, Pacific Seas, and interactive tidal pools. The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium features award-winning exhibits with dramatically displayed tanks showcasing striking coral landscapes. For those willing to travel slightly beyond Ohio, the Newport Aquarium in Kentucky (just across the border) offers the Surrounded by Sharks tunnel and world's first Shark Bridge.

African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton (267 S Lightner Road) offers a 100-acre drive-through safari where visitors feed more than 50 animal species directly from their vehicles, including two rare white zebras, giraffes, bison, deer, elk, and alpacas. Open seasonally March-November with admission $27.95-$34.95 (varies by season), the park includes one cup of animal food per car and allows unlimited re-entry same day until 1 hour before closing. A Walk-Through Safari area features additional exotic animals (closed until May 2026). Note that giraffes are not visible in rain or when temperature is below 60°F. The Wilds in Cumberland provides a different type of safari experience across 10,000 acres of open-range conservation land with guided tours on open-air buses, pickup trucks, horseback, or zipline. Both facilities require advance planning - African Safari accepts walk-up admission while The Wilds requires advance reservations.

Most major Ohio zoos remain open year-round with reduced hours during winter months. The Columbus Zoo is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas (winter hours: 10am-4pm January-February). Cleveland Metroparks Zoo stays open year-round rain or shine, closing only Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day (winter hours: 10am-4pm November-March). The Akron Zoo operates 361 days per year (winter hours: 11am-4pm October-March). Toledo Zoo maintains daily operations with special holiday Lights displays (winter hours vary by season). Cincinnati Zoo is closed only Thanksgiving Day. Winter visits offer unique advantages including smaller crowds, active cold-weather animals (polar bears, snow leopards, grizzly bears), special holiday light displays (Wild Lights at Akron, Festival of Lights at Cincinnati, Lights Before Christmas at Toledo), and many indoor heated exhibits (RainForest at Cleveland, aquarium areas at Columbus and Toledo). Safari parks like African Safari Wildlife Park and The Wilds operate seasonally - African Safari is open March-November only, while The Wilds operates May-September daily, October weekends, and November-April by reservation only.

Plan a full day (5-8 hours) for comprehensive visits to the Columbus Zoo (580 acres with 10,000+ animals across multiple themed regions), Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (183 acres with both outdoor and indoor RainForest), or Toledo Zoo (10,000 animals representing 720 species). A half-day (3-4 hours) suffices for the Akron Zoo (50 acres, manageable size) or Cincinnati Zoo's main exhibits, though you could easily spend a full day at Cincinnati exploring the botanical gardens. The Wilds safari tours range from 2-4 hours depending on tour type (Open-Air Safari: 2 hours, Wildside Tours: 3-4 hours, combination experiences: 4+ hours). African Safari Wildlife Park visits typically last 2-3 hours (1.5 hours drive-through, additional time for walk-through areas when open). Petting zoo experiences at places like Olentangy Caverns or Young's Jersey Dairy typically require 1-2 hours. To maximize your experience at large facilities, arrive at opening time when animals are most active, prioritize must-see exhibits first, and consider breaking up visits across multiple days if you have a membership.

Related Resources

Last updated on November 27, 2025