Can I Bring A Backpack To The Columbus Zoo?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Guests are welcome to bring bags up to 22” long x 10” wide x 12” high

, and coolers (hard and soft) up to 14” x 14.” Bags, suitcases and coolers on wheels are prohibited.

Are you allowed to take food into the Columbus Zoo?


Guests are welcome to bring food and beverages to the Zoo with them

however, we do not allow straws (due to the safety of the animals) and alcohol is prohibited. Service animals are welcome but pets are not permitted in the Zoo.

Are masks required at Columbus Zoo?

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. We encourage guests to pre-purchase tickets online ahead of your visit to reduce your wait time at the park. At this time,

masks are optional in all areas of the Zoo

, including tours and behind-the-scenes experiences.

How long does it take to go through the Columbus Zoo?


Six hours for two adults

walking from exhibit to exhibit without doing extras like the dinosaur exhibit or stopping multiple times with kids.

Can I take my dog to the zoo?

In accordance with the ADA,

only trained service animals are permitted on zoo grounds

. Service animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task an animal has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. Pets, therapy or emotional-support animals are not permitted.

What should I take on a zoo trip?

  • Food.
  • Water.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Bandages.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Tissues/Wipes.
  • Hand Sanitizer.
  • Camera.

Is the Columbus Zoo closing?

Although the zoo plans to appeal the AZA’s actions and looks forward to being reinstated by 2023,

its loss of accreditation does not mean that it will shut down

; guests will still be able to enjoy the Columbus Zoo as if nothing happened and no layoffs will occur.

Is Columbus Zoo the biggest Zoo?


The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the largest zoo in the United States

. This massive zoo is home to over 7,000 animals of 800 different species, making it the zoo experience of a lifetime! It also offers summer camps for children and programs for visitors of all ages to learn about the animals in the zoo.

How many people are allowed in the Columbus Zoo?

Family Access Membership

Admits

up to two primary named adult members in the same household, plus either dependent children OR grandchildren up to age 21 (not both)

to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Can you conceal carry at the Columbus Zoo?

The Columbus Zoo is owned by the city of Columbus, thus making it a governmental entity. Even if you could carry there, (which

you can’t, it’s posted

) you would not be able to enter any of the buildings, including restrooms.

Does Zoombezi Bay check bags?


All bags are subject to search as you enter Zoombezi Bay

. Please see the water park policies page for more information about Zoombezi Bay’s food policy and bag and cooler policy. If you have any questions during your visit please feel free to ask any team member.

Does Columbus Zoo have beer?


Margaritas, draft beer, and fountain beverages are available

. Must be 21 years or older and present a valid ID to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. Grab a Zoombezi Bay double-wall insulated souvenir bottle and enjoy free Pepsi fountain beverage refills all day long at either of our Pepsi Oasis locations.

Do you need reservations for Columbus Zoo Lights?

*Additional fees apply and

advance reservations are required

. For more information about these opportunities and other tours and experiences, please visit the Zoo’s website. Regular Zoo hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily.

Is the Columbus Zoo a good Zoo?

The Zoo is a regional attraction with global impact, annually contributing $4 million of privately raised funds to support conservation projects worldwide. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization,

the Columbus Zoo has earned Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating

.

How long are the Columbus Zoo lights up?

Wildlights run from

November 19 – January 2

. Their hours are Sunday – Thursday, 5 – 9 p.m., and Friday – Saturday, 5 – 10 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Pro Tip: Get free admission when you bring 6 canned goods for the “Stuff the Truck” event on December 3.

Is parking free at Twycross Zoo?


Parking at Twycross Zoo is FREE

.

Can you feed the animals at Twycross Zoo?

With our range of animal experiences, you can make a great day out even more memorable. Why not give one as a gift?

With our Animal Feed Experiences, choose from seven species to feed including Amur leopards, tiger, penguins, flamingo and pelican, giraffes, lemurs and meerkats

, receiving a memento of your day!

Can I take my dog to Whipsnade Zoo?


No dogs are permitted on site at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

. This includes assistance dogs due to free-roaming animals in the collection.

How should I dress for the zoo?


Wear light colors and loose clothing if it’s going to be hot

. Cotton and linen are breathable fabrics that will help keep you cool. Try a pair of khaki capri pants or bermuda shorts and a short-sleeved cotton t-shirt.

What is the best day to go to the zoo?

The

mornings and afternoons

are the best times to visit the animals. The good news is that no matter the time of day, you will likely find many animals visible and active in their exhibits.

How do you prepare for a day at the zoo?

  1. Read some zoo/ animal books before your zoo trip. …
  2. Load up on sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. …
  3. Bring a wagon or a stroller. …
  4. Charge your camera battery, and clear off memory cards. …
  5. Pack plenty of snacks, and drinks. …
  6. Wear appropriate shoes. …
  7. Discuss safety.

Why is the Columbus Zoo in trouble?

The zoo originally lost its accreditation due to

financial mismanagement and a “long record of intentional and repeated animal transfers with non-AZA members intended to supply baby animals – mainly big cats – for entertainment purposes,”

according to an October press release from the association.

What happened with the Columbus Zoo?

COLUMBUS, Ohio — After being informed in October that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums would strip the zoo of accreditation,

the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announced Monday it lost its appeal of the AZA’s decision

.

Is Columbus Zoo losing accreditation?


Columbus Zoo loses accreditation appeal with Association of Zoos & Aquariums

. The top accrediting body for zoos and aquariums denied the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s accreditation appeal Monday, officially stripping the popular central Ohio institution of an industry seal of approval meant to build public trust.

Which is better Cincinnati or Columbus Zoo?


Columbus Zoo comes in at 2nd on our rankings, with the Cincinnati Zoo not far behind at 5th

. They’re both worthy of planning a trip to Ohio to meet some of their animals and see their amazing scenery.

What is the number 1 zoo in the world?

Naming 275 zoos and aquariums in total, the awards call the

Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska

, the world’s best. The San Diego Zoo in California comes in second place. Monterey, California’s Monterey Bay Aquarium tops the list of world aquariums.

What is the #1 zoo in America?

1:

San Diego Zoo

, San Diego, California

San Diego Zoo is considered to be the top zoo in North America because it is one of the few zoos in the world that housed and bred giant pandas.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.