As a mom of two boys, I’m always on the lookout for fun and memorable experiences to share with my kids, and Boo at the Zoo has become one of our favorite fall traditions! This annual event hosted by The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium combines the magic of Halloween with the excitement of the zoo, making it a perfect family outing. Whether you’re local or just passing through, Boo at the Zoo is a spooky season “must-do!”
Spooktacular Family Fun
Our family recently spent an evening at Boo at the Zoo and when we arrived we headed straight for Adventure Cove – the main hub of the Halloween Celebrations! My four-year-old was super excited about the Trick or Treat Trail and made sure to get two pieces of candy at every station (one for him and one for his younger brother!) The lines for the treat stations moved super quickly, which is always a relief for parents of impatient toddlers! After filling up our buckets with treats, we explored Henry’s Character Craze Hay Maze and the Lil’ Boo Character Fun House (located within The Grove). Both activities were super cute and fun for littles!
The next stop on our Boo at the Zoo adventure was Stingray Bay – our boys always look forward to feeding the stingrays and dipping their hands into the water! I’m also slightly obsessed with the baby stingrays in the middle of the pool – they’re so stinking cute!
After visiting the stingrays, we headed back towards the center of the zoo and stumbled upon the Character Ambassador Meet and Greets in front of Lakeside Pavilion. My boys gave hugs and high fives to Patriot Eagle, Sydnee Koala, Max Elephant, Jama Giraffe, and Tommy C. Turtle. This was, without a doubt, the highlight of their evening!
Our very last destination was Jessie’s Jack-O-Lantern Journey located in Asia Quest. This self-guided tour featured hundreds of hand-carved pumpkins and was certainly a sight to see!
Plan your stops by checking out this map of the zoo!
Planning Your Visit
Boo at the Zoo will continue Oct. 18-20 and Oct. 25-27. It is included with the price of zoo admission. Hours: Fridays 5pm - 8pm, Saturdays 10am - 8pm, and Sundays 10am - 5pm.
Getting into the Spirit
One of the best parts about Boo at the Zoo is the chance to dress up! My kids wore matching “Big Boo” and “Little Boo” T-shirts (for the sake of comfort) but we saw a lot of really fun and creative family costumes. Don’t forget to bring your own trick or treat bags as the zoo does not provide them!
Highlights of Boo at the Zoo
Trick or Treat Trail – Featuring 7 treat stations located around Adventure Cove.
Lil’ Boo Character Fun House – Located in The Grove.
Henry’s Character Craze Hay Maze – Located in The Grove.
The Magical Pumpkin Seek-N-Find – Presented by Disney on Ice Frozen and Encanto.
Character Ambassador Meet and Greets – Located in front of Lakeside Pavilion.
Zoo Boo Choo-Choo – Located in North America.
Jessie’s Jack-O-Lantern Journey – Located in Asia Quest.
Grab your costumes, gather your family, and head to Boo at the Zoo! Experience the magic of the season while making unforgettable memories. You won’t want to miss out on this merry-not-scary, frightfully delightful event! Don't forget to share your spooky memories with us using #SoDublin!.