Planning a day out with family or friends often means thinking about the budget, especially when the cost of everyday expenses continues to add up. At the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, we want guests to feel welcome, find an option that works for their budget, and know they're getting a full day of experiences with every visit.

As Ohio's largest zoo and one of the largest zoos in the country, the Columbus Zoo spans more than 600 acres with eight unique regions featuring animals from around the world. There's a lot to explore, and there are also plenty of ways to save. From discounted afternoon admission and weekday tour pricing to community programs and affordable membership options, a little planning can make your Zoo visit easier on the wallet.

Here are some of the best ways to save on your next visit to the Columbus Zoo.

More Ways to Save at the Columbus Zoo

Those aren't the only discounts available. Depending on how you're visiting, where you live or memberships you already have, there may be another way to lower the cost of your Zoo day.

Here are a few options to check before purchasing your tickets:

Columbus Metropolitan Library Culture Pass: Library cardholders at select Columbus Metropolitan Library locations can check out a Culture Pass for a free Zoo visit. A Zoo Culture Pass can be redeemed for up to six adults and/or children.

Discounted Kroger tickets: Central Ohio Kroger locations sell discounted Zoo Day Passes at their Service Desks from March 15 through December 31. Tickets are $23.99 for Franklin County residents and $33.99 for non-Franklin County residents.

Military discount: Active and non-active duty military personnel receive $4 off up to six tickets with a valid military ID. These tickets must be purchased at the Zoo.

Reciprocal zoo membership discount: Members of participating AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums can receive 50% off Columbus Zoo General Admission with a valid membership card and photo ID.

Group discounts: Groups purchasing at least 25 tickets in one transaction can receive special group pricing, with additional savings available when tickets are purchased at least two weeks in advance.

COTA Zoo Bus: Ride the dedicated COTA Zoo Bus and receive a coupon for $5 admission to the Columbus Zoo. After Labor Day, Zoo Bus service continues Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through October 31, 2026.

School scholarships: Special pricing is available for accredited schools, helping make Zoo field trips and educational experiences accessible to additional students.

Hotel + Zoo packages: Visiting from outside the area? Select hotel partners offer packages that bundle an overnight stay with Columbus Zoo tickets.

Because offers, dates and eligibility requirements vary, visit our Discounts page before your trip to find the option that works best for you.

EXPLORE THESE COLUMBUS ZOO DISCOUNTS

Discovery Family Zoo Memberships

For qualifying Ohio families, saving on a Zoo visit can extend well beyond a single day. The Discovery Family Membership is designed to reduce economic barriers for Ohio residents who otherwise may not be able to afford a Zoo membership.

• For $64.95, the membership admits up to two spouses or domestic partners living in the same household, plus up to six dependent children OR grandchildren through age 18. To qualify, families must provide proof of Ohio residency and a current Ohio Direction EBT card. Documents can be submitted online for approval, and qualifying families planning to visit within 48 hours can also apply in person at the Zoo's Membership and Season Pass Processing building.
• Discovery Family Members receive the benefits of a Columbus Zoo Family Membership, including admission for 12 months and free parking.

For families who love the Zoo, that can turn one affordable purchase into an entire year of visits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DISCOVERY FAMILY MEMBERSHIP

Find the Savings That Work for Your Family

We know families are thinking carefully about where they spend their money, and we want a visit to the Columbus Zoo to feel worthwhile.

Every ticket and membership also supports the animals in our care, including their state-of-the-art habitats, experienced Animal Care teams, our on-site veterinary hospital, and conservation and research efforts that help wildlife here in Ohio and around the world.

So, before you plan your next Zoo day, take a look at the discounts available to you. A little planning can help you save while still enjoying everything that makes a day at the Columbus Zoo special.

VIEW ALL COLUMBUS ZOO DISCOUNTS