Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 🇺🇸

Located along the eastern banks of the O'Shaughnessy Reservoir in Delaware County, Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a world-class wildlife experience. Home to over 7,000 animals across more than 800 species, this acclaimed 406-acre facility attracts over 2 million visitors each year. You can explore eight immersive, region-based habitats designed to bring global ecosystems to life.

Highlighted in the Nat Geo Wild series Secrets of the Zoo, the complex features expansive naturalized environments. Walk through the open plains of Heart of Africa to watch giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs, or venture into Asia Quest with its lush Chinese forest and cave exhibits. You can witness polar bears in their massive 167,000-gallon pool at Polar Frontier, meet sea lions at Adventure Cove, and observe endangered Florida manatees at the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Center within the Shores & Aquarium region.

Beyond classic walking paths, you can travel the grounds via a train, tram, or boat ride, or explore the zoo's nearby 140-acre Safari Golf Club and Zoombezi Bay water park. Your visit directly supports global wildlife preservation, as the non-profit zoo actively operates its own conservation program.

What to see at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

• Heart of Africa savanna featuring giraffes, cheetahs, and zebras
• Polar Frontier exhibit with underwater polar bear viewing
• Shores & Aquarium area hosting manatees and the Discovery Reef saltwater tank
• Adventure Cove sea lion pool and Jack Hanna's Animal Encounter Village
• Multiple transport options including a train, tram, and boat ride

Visiting tips

Take advantage of the zoo's train, tram, or boat rides to easily navigate the extensive 406-acre grounds.

How long: Half to full day · Best time: Warm weather

How to get there & what’s nearby

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is easy to reach on Dublin’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Dublin travel guide.