family in dinosaur costumes on walking path at the zoo

There's a lot to do at Boo at the Zoo!

Join your favorite Boo at the Zoo Character Ambassadors for a merry-not-scary, frightfully delightful event of spirited fun for the whole family. Get your favorite costume ready, and make plans to visit your Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for this Spooktacular Halloween Celebration.

OCTOBER 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-27

FRIDAYS: 5pm - 8pm  |  SATURDAYS: 10am - 8pm  |  SUNDAYS: 10am - 5pm

Boo at the Zoo is included with Zoo admission, so arrive early to visit the animals!

Buy Tickets

 

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Things to Do

Enjoy a spooktacular day of Halloween-themed fun and delectable treats at Boo at the Zoo!

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Daily Family Activities

  • Tommy C. Turtle’s Trick or Treat Trail
  • Candy Wrapper Recycling Stations
  • Character Ambassador Rolling Celebrations
  • Character Ambassador Meet-n-Greets
  • Jessie’s Jack-o-Lantern Journey
  • Character Craze Hay Maze
  • Giant Pumpkin Carving
  • 4-D Theater
  • Sydnee Koala’s Royal Carousel
  • Dive into Adventure Presentation
  • Training Tales Presentation
  • Cheetah Runs
  • Pumpkin Smash
  • Community Dance Performers

 

 


Costume Policy

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a family destination, and the safety of all Zoo guests is our top priority.

family in halloween costumes

  • Guests younger than 13 years of age and their guardians are encouraged to wear costumes. 
  • Adults who are not accompanied by a guest younger than 13 years old are not permitted to wear costumes.
  • Creative costumes are encouraged and should be in good taste.
  • The Zoo reserves the right to ask that your child's mask and/or face paint be removed if it is inconsistent with organizational policies or values.
  • Full face masks for adults are not permitted.
  • Clothing or costumes with objectionable/questionable material, including obscene language or graphics, are not permitted. 
  • Any guest wearing clothing or costumes that exposes excessive portions of the skin may be viewed as inappropriate for a family environment and is not permitted.
  • Any guests not wearing proper attire will be asked to either put on appropriate attire or leave the park.
  • For safety purposes, costumes should not be able to drag on the ground.
  • Costumes should not contain sharp objects, pointed object or materials that may accidentally strike another person.
  • Costumes should not contain any weapons which resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.

View all Columbus Zoo policies


The Fun Continues!

Check out more ways to maximize your family Halloween adventure!

Rides and Attractions

Rides and Attractions

Grab onto your candy and take a spin on one of our smile-inducing rides, like the brand new Adventure Wheel, our historic carousel, or the relaxing North American train ride. 

Check out Rides and Attractions at the Zoo

Here's our hint to maximize your thrill time: Purchase a Zoo More Wristband, and enjoy ALL of the available rides at the Columbus Zoo...as much as you want on the day of your visit!

Wristbands can be purchased at Guest Relations or at any Guest Service kiosk.

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Food and Shopping

Savor a delightful array of spooky-themed snacks and refreshing beverages to satisfy both your taste buds and your thirst for fun!

  • Dining options are available around the Zoo, featuring everything from a warm pretzel to the best fried chicken you'll have all holiday season.

  • Stroll through our gift shops for cozy items that will keep you warm all season!  Hint: Zoo members receive a 10% discount!

Food and Retail at the Zoo

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Mobile App

Plan Your Boo at the Zoo trip in the palm of your hands...Download the FREE Columbus Zoo and Aquarium map before your visit!

  • Map your route ahead of time

  • Get notifications of upcoming Halloween festivities and animal events around you

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