MISSION: Lead and inspire by connecting people and wildlife.
Lions, Tigers, and Bears, oh my! Today, I will be highlighting another favorite zoo: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. A few weeks ago, my family and I took a day trip to Columbus, OH. to hang out with some of our favorite guys – animals! Being an Ohio native, my kiddos grew up adventuring around this zoo, however we had not visited in quite some time which made our visit even more special.
Our favorite animals
The zoo is home to 10,000 animals, so you’re in for a treat! The zoo is divided into these regions: North America, Asia Quest, Congo Expedition, Australia and the Islands, Heart of Africa, Shores and Aquarium, and the Polar Frontier. Click HERE to view an animal guide and to learn a little about each one. A few of our favorite animals were: the kangaroos (LOVE the Walkabout!), the polar bears, the lions, and of course, the gorillas. We loved hearing from a few of the zoo guides, especially the touching story of Lewis and Clark! Two cougar cubs that were rescued from a fire in Montana by a firefighter and later brought to The Columbus Zoo. Along with this, we enjoyed watching a polar bear cub swim and play about with its mama watching close by. So sweet! The giraffes were another hit as they ventured quite close to the feeding/viewing area, hoping that we would have a tasty treat waiting for them. Or maybe they were just getting a peek at the cheetah run taking place in a nearby exhibit. It was exciting to see the cheetahs in action being prompted by zookeepers.
A lunchtime rest
Once we hit up all of the locations that we could before everyone was hungry, we made our way to the picnic area near the Asia Quest and the Activity Pavilion. Despite the wonderful smells and tasty looks, we packed our own lunch but I was almost swayed to buy a taco in a bag. Yum! The zoo offers the best places to sit and relax for a bit while you’re chowing down. The landscaping around us was impeccable – a pond with a waterfall, luscious flowers, tall trees, and an overall positive vibe.
More attractions
While you’re on your zoo adventure don’t forget to take a ride on either the North America Train Ride, the Dinosaur Island Boat Ride, the Carousel, or the Heart of Africa Camels. How about ALL four? The train and boat ride are for sure favorites of ours. And, if your child/children need to wear off some more steam then the Stings, Wings, and Things Park is a must. It features a jungle gym of sorts accommodated with large caterpillars slides and a giant lady bug. While there are additional fees to ride these attractions, the memories created outweigh the costs.
Before takeoff
As our visit was nearing a close, the aquarium and the reptile buildings were our last stops. In the aquarium you will see a wide variety of fish, sharks, and turtles. Filled with sea creatures big and small, it’s quite the experience. It’s always a blast to walk through the reptile building and see the enormous snakes. Man, am I glad that I don’t have those in my backyard! Among the reptiles you will see are: lizards, frogs, snakes and much more. We also really liked visiting with the Manatees at Manatee Coast. Such gentle giants!
Overall, our day was perfect and we can’t wait to explore the zoo again.
P.S. Don’t forget to do some shopping at the gift shops for a souvenir before you leave.
Want to plan your own trip or just curious about what the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium entails? Head on over to: https://www.columbuszoo.org/home
Click HERE for an interactive map for an enhanced experience and for planning.
I want to hear from YOU. Yes, you! Leave me a comment below and tell me what your favorite zoo or zoo animal is OR what was your most memorable experience.
2 thoughts on “The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium”
I love the reptile house at London Zoo
Pandas, hands down!