Providing an experience that allows you to run wild, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has so many new opportunities and experiences for all ages! A day of fun and unforgettable memories awaits at the number-one zoo experience in the country. Just 15 minutes outside of Downtown Dublin, the Columbus Zoo is the perfect attraction for the entire family.
New Arrivals and Baby Animals
Asian Elephant
A phant-astic new edition has recently been introduced to the Columbus Zoo Family!, Johnson, a male Asian elephant, arrived from the African Lion Safari in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. Johnson is described by his care team as laidback, confident, and is getting comfy with his new herd. The next time you're at the zoo make sure to give Johnson a warm welcome
Baby Gorilla
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is thrilled to announce the birth of a baby western lowland gorilla! This adorable bundle of joy is the 35th gorilla to be born at the Columbus Zoo.
Stop by and visit this cutie from 11 a.m. until closing.
Other New Faces
This summer has seen a baby boom at the Columbus Zoo, say hello to these other new arrivals:
- Desert grassland whiptail lizard hatchlings
- Green basilisk hatchlings
- Humboldt penguin chicks
- Slender-horned gazelle calves
- Dama gazelle calf
- Mandrill baby
Events and Attractions
Lantern Festival
Light Up Your Night at the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival! From now until September 29, experience the luminous celebration of Asian culture at the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival. The family-friendly celebration will be produced by Hanart Culture every Thursday through Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The festival will feature a modernized take on an ancient tradition by showcasing brilliantly lit lantern displays of animal scenes. To bring these scenes to life, 20 skilled artists from China will be at the zoo working to create these illuminating scenes that will bring this event to life.
The Lantern Festival requires the purchase of separate tickets and is not included with Zoo admission.
Wild Explorer Virtual Reality
Come take a ride on the brand-new Wild Explorer Virtual Reality (VR) experience! This attraction allows 16 riders to experience thrilling worlds through the lenses of a virtual reality headset. With options of a Shark Dive or a Gorilla Trek, guests will be provided with an illuminating, real-life experience!
Scooter Pals
Scooter Pals can now be used to explore certain areas of the zoo! These FUR-wheelers are perfect for two riders to adventure around the zoo. Scooter Pals can be used to cruise around Adventure Cove, Conservation Lake, and the Asia Quest Loop. Cruise through the zoo in style on your next visit!
Forestry Fridays
Celebrate Forestry Fridays with complementary giraffe feeding! Guests will have the unique opportunity to feed giraffes fresh tree branches and twigs that have been trimmed down by AEP Ohio. Vouchers can be used now through October during scheduled feedings at this one-of-a-kind experience!
Dinosaur Island Returns
Dinosaur Island has returned to the zoo’s Australia and the Islands region! This beloved attraction features 20 animatronic dinosaurs along a walking path that leads into a boat ride. Check out some never-before-seen species at the zoo during this exciting adventure!
Upcoming Events
Oktoberfest
September 7 & 8
Dive into a vibrant array of activities at Zoombezi Bay during the first celebration of Oktoberfest! A splash of German cheer will make waves over the park with German music performances, Bavarian-style food, fall-flavored beers from local breweries, and access to select rides and attractions. This “wúnderbar” experience will be perfect for the whole family!
Boo at The Zoo
Weekends, October 11-27
Put on your best costume and get spooky with the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium for Boo at the Zoo. Have fun without the fright on Tommy C. Turtle's Trick or Treat Trail, and dance the night away at the Halloween Hullabaloo featuring all your favorite zoo friends.
Wildlights
November 22 - January 5
One of Ohio's Favorite Holiday Traditions, Wildlights! With millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows, and other holiday festivities, the yuletide season comes alive at an experience that can only be found at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Come hop into the wild adventure at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium this season. Be sure to capture your memories and share them using #SoDublin!
Need a place to stay during your visit to the zoo? Find our top picks here.
