One of Columbus’ top attractions offers you the chance to create memories together that will last a lifetime.
Founded in 1927, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a community cornerstone that welcomes over two million people per year to the Columbus area. With 10,000 animals representing over 600 species, there are so many incredible creatures to get to know, but the best and most immersive way to experience Central Ohio’s animal kingdom is the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Tours and Experiences presented by Nationwide.
We recently spent an amazing day taking in the Reindeer Experience and Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village Experience, and we’ve put together your full guide to taking part in the incredible tours and experiences at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Tours and Experiences create the opportunity for immersive interactions.
14 different tours and experiences across all seasons
From elephant bathing, to giraffe feeding and everything in between, tours and experiences truly allow you to unlock the full magic of a zoo visit.
Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village Experience is an absolute hidden gem that provides the opportunity to meet a variety of the zoo’s ambassador animals in a fun, safe setting inside the Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village. In this interactive environment, we spent time with two different species of porcupines, a bat-eared fox, toucan, macaw, tortoise and sloth. Bruce the bat-eared fox posed for photos, Barbie the African-crested porcupine accepted lettuce and pets, and we were even able to feed sweet potato snacks to Wilson the sloth.
This experience is kid-friendly and is one the zoo’s best immersive experiences for the entire family. You’ll enjoy 45 minutes of animal interaction in this beautiful indoor space that opened to the public in 2020, and tickets are available to purchase throughout the year. You can also access the building itself for no cost with admission to the zoo where you’ll see a variety of species welcoming you upon entry.
The Reindeer Experience is available year-round and makes for the perfect holiday gift.
Give the gift of a Reindeer Experience for the holidays
Do you know the most famous reindeer of all? Well if you ask us, they live at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and they’re ready to meet you and your family.
We visited the home of Abby, who is one of the more popular animals at the zoo during the holiday season. The Zoo’s incredible Animal Care Team accompanied us on this experience where we were able to pet and interact with the reindeer while they enjoyed tasty treats and snacks. Interacting with the animals in their own habitat while also speaking to the staff who care for them on a daily basis creates memories to be treasured, and the reindeer are ready to welcome you throughout the year.
Jack Hanna's Animal Encounters Village opened in 2020 and provides the perfect backdrop to unforgettable memories.
Memories await you at the Columbus Zoo
Each tour and experience truly provides something new to cherish. Tickets to a Columbus Zoo and Aquarium tour make the perfect last minute holiday gift for you and your loved ones, and there’s availability for several tours through the rest of 2023 and in 2024.
Book a tour & experience and learn more about everything they have to offer by visiting the zoo’s website, and be sure to share all of your animal adventures when you visit by using #LiveForwardCbus on social media.
