Columbus Zoo: a wondrous world of wildlife
From aardvarks to zebras, there's a world of fascinating creatures to explore at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The zoo is rated No. 1 in the country by a national travel guide, and millions of visitors come each year to see animals and plant life from every continent on the planet.
The Australia exhibit features plenty of kangaroos and wallabies, while Asia Quest features tigers and bears from the orient. Head on over to the African Forest, where you're sure to catch a glimpse of a grazing gazelle or a majestic lion. Coming soon is the Polar Frontier, which will be home to polar bears, penguins and other ice-loving creatures.
The zoo features a large variety of extremely rare animals in their natural habitats alongside zoo favorites like elephants and monkeys.
The aquarium features a tank for the exclusive use of injured manatees in which the zoo staff nurses back to health and releases into the Gulf of Mexico once they are well again. You'll also be able to find dolphins, a whale, sharks and plenty of fish and crustaceans in the deep-blue aquarium water.
TV-personality Jack Hanna is director emeritus for the zoo, which puts on dozens of activities and attractions for people of all ages each month. From family nights to senior walks, the Columbus Zoo is a great place for folks aged 1 to 100.
If you get hungry during your visit, there are plenty of tasty foods on-site. A variety of cafes and concession stands dot the large campus, offering traditional favorites like cotton candy, hot dogs, pizza and ice cream, as well as more grown-up choices like Asian rice bowls, espresso and healthy salads.
Be sure to take a ride on the zoo's tram over to Zoombezi Bay — a large animal-themed water park that is sure to be a splish-splashin' good time. (Combination admission to both the water park and zoo is $37.99 for visitors 10 and up, $27.99 for seniors and kids aged 2-9, and kids under 2 are free.)
Parking is available for $5 per car, and is free for zoo members (along with zoo admission). For information on becoming a member of the Columbus Zoo, click here.
- by LeeAnn Mullen, Columbus Reporter for HelloMetro
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LeeAnn MullenLeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.
