Columbus Zoo Reviews

Inclusive Guest Experiences: The zoo has implemented various inclusion initiatives such as the installation of adult changing tables and sensory-friendly programming to ensure guests of all ages and abilities can enjoy the zoo.

Sensory Maps: The zoo provides sensory maps on its website to help families plan their visit by identifying sensory-friendly locations, busy areas, quieter areas, and more.

Conservation Efforts: The zoo is committed to significant conservation initiatives, such as the North American Center for Bison Conservation at The Wilds, which aims to restore prairie habitats and manage large-scale bison herds.

Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation: The zoo's My House facility is transforming into the Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation (OCWC), where visitors can learn about local conservation initiatives and see endangered species being raised for potential reintroduction into the wild.

Educational and Recreational Destinations: The zoo complex includes the 22-acre Zoombezi Bay water park and the 18-hole Safari Golf Course, making it a recreational and educational destination.

Global Impact: The zoo annually contributes to conservation projects worldwide and supports biodiversity preservation through collaborative efforts with various organizations.

Accessibility and Community Engagement: The zoo's website and social media platforms provide updates on events, animals, and inclusion initiatives, ensuring community engagement and accessibility.

Variety of Animals: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium features over 7,000 individual animals representing more than 800 species, making it one of the largest and most extensive collections.

Interactive Exhibits: The zoo offers interactive exhibits like the "Ice Bear Outpost," which includes an ice-themed play area, a window into the Arctic fox indoor room, and interactive screens for polar bear conservation.

Well-Designed Enclosures: The enclosures are well-designed and natural-seeming, providing ample space for the animals. For example, the lion habitat is packed with grass and features panoramic views into the savannah.

Family-Friendly: The zoo is a family destination with various play areas for kids, including the "Polar Playground" and "Stings and Wings" playground.

Rides and Attractions: The zoo offers carnival rides, a Dinosaur Island boat ride, and a train ride, which can be accessed with a ride pass.

Limited Time for Full Experience: The zoo is so extensive that visitors might not have enough time to see everything in one day, especially if they want to do all the rides.

Some Exhibits Criticized: Some exhibits, like the lion habitat, have been criticized for design issues, such as the large moat that might limit animal access.

Weather Sensitivity: Some areas, like Heart of Africa, are not well-shaded, which can be a drawback during hot weather.

Crowds: Popular attractions like Auntie Anne's can have long lines by afternoon, making it advisable to visit early.