Special to 1808Delaware
We’re waiting for you—if you dare to visit, that is! This fall, the undead will rule the night as Zoombezi Bay transforms into ZOMBIEzi Bay, presented by Mtn Dew, to offer a thrilling Halloween experience unlike any other in Central Ohio.
At ZOMBIEzi Bay, guests will explore a fiendish world of four haunted houses, two scare zones, six amusement rides, and other sinister surprises. The terrifying fun begins with opening night on Friday, Sept. 16, 2022. ZOMBIEzi Bay will be held on Friday and Saturday nights in September, and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night in October, with additional bonus hours on Thursday, October 27. Event hours are from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. on all Thursdays and Sundays, and 6 p.m. – midnight on all Fridays and Saturdays.
“The transformation of Zoombezi Bay is currently underway, and it is incredibly exciting to see the park transition from a summertime waterpark oasis to a thrilling Halloween experience as we enter the second season of ZOMBIEzi Bay. Guests—both new and returning—can expect additions and improvements to each of our six haunted attractions, including the debut of our all-new scare zone, Devastation. From ZOMBIEzi Bay for teens and adults, to Boo at the Zoo, which is geared more toward families, fall is such an exciting time for our organization. We’re proud to offer a fun, safe place so people of all ages can enjoy the spirit of Halloween,” said Anthony Sabo, Vice President of Waterpark Operations and Guest Services at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay.
While visiting ZOMBIEzi Bay, guests should expect to be scared not only inside the haunted houses, but also while roaming the park pathways. Guests should be aware that strobe lights, loud sounds and music, and fog are in use throughout the park. Those with light and sound sensitivity, heart or lung conditions, or any other condition that could be aggravated by special effects should not participate.
Due to the intense nature of this event, parental discretion is advised and the experience is recommended for guests ages 13 years and older. Guests can look forward to the following main attractions at ZOMBIEzi Bay:
SCARE ZONES
Devastation—NEW!
Zombies have descended upon the town of Dead River, Ohio, leaving destruction in their wake. Can you survive the undead, or will you become a permanent resident of this town?
Photosynthesis, presented by Mtn Dew
Did you know that when plants die, they don’t really die? In Photosynthesis, Mother Nature is hungry and out for revenge. Will you escape or be the next meal?
HAUNTS
Catacombs, presented by Mtn Dew
Welcome to the Catacombs! Visit the realm of the undead and the corpse-laden corridors of those who came before you. Will you be their next meal? Or, will they summon you to join them in their eternal party?
Eternal Darkness, presented by Mtn Dew
Are you afraid of the dark? You will be after an encounter with the Eternal Darkness—if you make it out alive, that is. The netherworld has come to life in this near pitch-black experience. Can you find your way out before it is too late?
Pleasant Screams, presented by Versiti Blood Center of Ohio
Enter the mysterious research facility known as Pleasant Dreams Laboratory, a world-famous sleep study facility…or is it? Take a tour of the Laboratory and come face-to-face with your worst nightmares.
Sinister Sideshow
Step right up and enter the Sinister Sideshow! Don your 3D glasses and check out the sideshow. Evil clowns and blood-curdling acts all under the Big Top…what could go wrong?
BREWS AND BITES: CRAFT BEER & FOOD FESTIVAL
ZOMBIEzi Bay is crawling with new flavors this fall! Featuring more than 50 craft beers, ciders, and hard seltzers, as well as 17 delicious food items and three non-alcoholic specialty beverages to try, the Brews and Bites Craft Beer & Food Festival has something for everyone. Discover new favorites as you sample your way through the menu and save with a six-item tasting card, available for just $27 plus tax. Themed food and beverage highlights include: Darkness Nachos, Porky Fries, Buffalo Mac & Cheese, S’mores Churros. Violet Margarita, Pretzel Breadsticks With Craft Beer Cheese Dip, Injectable Donut Holes, and more.
RIDES
This horror theme park experience is not complete until guests have also explored an additional feature found at no other haunted event in Central Ohio—amusement rides! Normally a part of the Adventure Cove region at the Columbus Zoo, six pulse-pounding amusement rides will be included with ZOMBIEzi Bay admission, including Sea Dragon, which was recently recognized by American Coasters Enthusiasts as the oldest operating roller coaster in the state.
ADMISSION
Due to the intense nature of this event, parental discretion is advised and the experience is recommended for guests ages 13 years and older. Admission is $28.99 for all September dates and Thursdays and Sundays in October, and $32.99 for any Friday or Saturday in October. Parking is $10. 2022 Zoombezi Bay Season Pass Holders and Gold Members receive free parking and can purchase tickets for only $14.99 on any operating day—the lowest price at ZOMBIEzi Bay! Columbus Zoo and Wilds members save $3 on admission. Admission provides unlimited access to the four haunted houses, two scare zones, and all rides. For an additional $27, guests can purchase a six-item tasting card to experience devilishly delicious food and themed-beverages at ZOMBIEzi Bay’s Brews and Bites Craft Beer & Food Festival. (Guests must be 21 years or older to purchase or consume alcohol at ZOMBIEzi Bay.)
