Special to 1808Delaware

Remember the days of not having to make a reservation to visit the Zoo – well, those days are back… at least temporarily. Beginning January 4 through February 28, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s admission will be half price, members and non-members do not need a dated, timed ticket to enter. (Subject to change due to due weather and limited capacity).

Also, beginning January 4, the Zoo’s operating hours will be 10 AM to 4 PM.

Several animals enjoy the colder weather in their outside exhibits, such as those living in the North America region like the polar bear and cougars. Let’s not forget the newest residents at the Columbus Zoo; if you haven’t met the sea lions and harbor seals at Adventure Cove – you need to stop by.

Additionally, many animals are still visible from the comfort of heated, indoor shelters, including Discovery Reef, Manatee Coast, Congo Expedition, the reptile building, the habitats at Vanishing Giants, and the Naomi Coyle Dempsey Quest for Enlightenment Interpretive Center in the Asia Quest region and the nocturnal building in the Australia and the Islands region.

Upcoming free days

The Columbus Zoo is offering free admission for two upcoming holidays:

  • Monday, January 18, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
  • Monday, February 15, for President’s Day.

Again, no reservations are needed to enter the Zoo during these two free days. (Subject to change due to due weather and limited capacity). The standard parking fees ($10 per vehicle; free for Zoo members) will still apply during this promotion.

When you visit the Zoo, don’t forget your mask

In response to COVID-19 and to support efforts to help reduce the spread of the virus within the community if you are medically able and 10 years old and older, we require you to have a mask that covers your nose, mouth, and chin at all times, everywhere in the Zoo. In addition, please adhere to social distancing and stay 6 feet from other people who are not from your household.

Our staff and volunteers are working hard to keep the Zoo a safe place for everyone to visit. We know masks are not always comfortable, but they help in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Please wear a mask properly to protect yourself, others, and the animals who live at the Zoo.

Guests can find full details about the Columbus Zoo’s guidelines on the Zoo’s Reopening Plan page on the Zoo’s website. For additional updates about the animals, events, and more, be sure to follow the Zoo’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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