The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is an Ohio gem a short distance from Dublin. It’s an amazing experience that will introduce you to almost 0,000 creatures from all around the world! You can learn about the animals that are native to the regions the six sections of the zoo represent. You can see animals from frigid climates, the African savanna, the Asian jungle, far-off islands, the Australian Outback, and more. The zoo is also home to one of the largest collections of reptiles in the world. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the few zoos in the country that kangaroos call home, so be sure to check them out! The zoo has a variety of educational programs suitable for all ages so you can learn about the animals while observing them. 

Popular Features of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Adventure Cove

The newest zone in the Zoo introduces you to several different species of wildlife. In a panoramic viewing experience inspired by the Pacific Northwest, sea lions and seals take center stage. Explore Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village, a one-of-a-kind indoor-outdoor ecosystem dedicated to human-wildlife encounters. This ever-changing habitat is home to up to 50 different species.

Heart of Africa

Heart of Africa, the Zoo’s biggest zone, debuted in 2014 and offers interactive activities like camel riding, giraffe feedings, and cheetah sprints. Visit with zebras, giraffes, lions, monkeys, wildebeests, gazelles, and other African animals. Stop by the Mapori Restaurant for lunch and take in the views of the savanna.

Polar Frontier

At the Polar Frontier, see the zoo’s “coolest” habitat, an expansive area featuring a family of polar bears swimming under a huge observation window. This one-of-a-kind experience lets you see the bears swimming above and below water as they play and splash in their 75,000 gallon pool. By walking on a special viewing bridge, visitors of all ages can get nose to fur with these amazing animals.

Australia & the Islands

The Columbus Zoo’s Australia & the Islands areas will transport you to the outback of Australia. While hopping around in the Kangaroo Walkabout, get up and personal with a kangaroo. Watch gibbons swinging from tree to tree, feel the power of the komodo dragon, and see some of the most venomous snakes in the world.

Behind the Scenes Experiences

There are a variety of unique tours offered to guests for behind-the-scenes opportunities to learn about the different species of animals at the zoo. You will get the chance to touch and interact with exotic animals, and see how they eat, sleep, and play. Tours are available for all ages so everyone can get an up-close look at the zoo’s most interesting creatures.

Chief Leatherlips Monument
Olivia’s Kitches of Dublin