Columbus Zoo Mom Tips

Our experts tell you what you need to know in our Columbus Zoo Mom Tips.

Parking – This zoo has an extremely large parking lot. I would say it’s similar to that of Six Flags! You pay for parking on your way in at a booth, and then you drive up as close as you can. The only tip is if you are going to Zoombezi Bay, park to the left.
Cost – AZA reciprocal membership gives you 50% off admission. The zoo also has $5 discounts for those that live in their county.
Zoombezi Bay – Connected to the zoo is a large waterpark. We haven’t done the waterpark, but it’s always busy, and the locals that I talked to in line said they come at least once a week just for the waterpark! They have combo tickets that can help you save money, but honestly I don’t think many people do both in the same day – the zoo is too big for that!
Strollers – This is a very large zoo. I would bring a stroller for all kids 5 and under, and even those ages 6-8 might try to sneak a ride.
Route – The zoo is set up in geographical regions – Australia, Asia, North America, Africa, etc. This is great for organization, but not necessarily for route, as rather than a circle the regions act more like tributaries off of a river. We usually start to the left, and see Australia, the Islands, the Forest, and Asia, and then move to the middle. We see the Manatee Coast and the aquarium building, then we move to North America. After that, we see Africa and the bears. The only problem with this, is that you’re saving the best for last!
Bathrooms – The zoo had a lot of bathrooms. None of them stand out as being better than others, but we found one each time we needed one.

Shows/Encounters – The things you won’t want to miss are in Australia and Africa. Australia has a walk-thru kangaroo exhibit, as well as a lorikeet aviary. Africa has the Cheetah Run multiple times per day, followed up by giraffe feeding in the adjacent exhibit. There is a log ride in The Islands that is fun for adults, but young kids might be scared of the robotic dinosaurs that squirt water at you along the way.
Must-see exhibits – The cheetah encounter is something you need to see! The polar bear exhibit has a downstairs viewing where you can be directly under them. This zoo is one of two places outside of Florida where you can view manatees, so be sure to stop by Manatee Coast to see Stubby and the babies they’re rescuing!

Feeding Opportunities – Lorikeet Feedings and Giraffe Feedings are the main opportunities. There is also a goat yard you can walk into, but I think you just brush them, not feed them.
Food – You can bring your own food into the zoo or buy food here. We purchased food, and although slightly pricey was really good. We sat inside in Africa at tables next to a window that overlooked the giraffes!

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