Eggs, Paws, and Claws

APR 3 & 4

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is ready to kick off the 2026 spring season with some EGG-streme fun as we welcome back Eggs, Paws and Claws!

Be sure to hop on over with your family and friends for this two-day event that will feature photos with the Easter Bunny, Eggbert and Shelley’s Rolling Shell-ebration, the Egg-Splore-N-Find, and more!

train with eggs on it

Photos with the Bunny

The Easter Bunny has arrived and he’s EGG-cited to return to the Zoo! Be sure to hop on over to Lakeside Pavilion next to Conservation Lake during your visit for a unique photo experience with the Bunny himself.

  • TIME: 9:15 a.m. - 5 p.m. (The line closes at 4:30 p.m.)
  • LOCATION: Lakeside Pavilion, Room 1
  • Advanced reservations are recommended but not required. Guests have the option to enter a standby line.

Reserve Your Bunny Photo Experience

Egg Ambassador Meet and Greets

A visit to Eggs, Paws and Claws isn't complete without saying "Hi" to the happy hosts of this event. Located outside of Lakeside Pavilion, Eggbert, Shelley, Yolko and Oh-No will leave you feeling sunny-side up! 

  • TIME: Varies
  • LOCATION: In front of Lakeside Pavilion
  • If the weather is not favorable, the Egg Ambassadors will be inside Lakeside Pavilion.

Character Ambassador Meet and Greets

The Zoo’s Character Ambassadors will be out and about to celebrate spring.  Be sure to stop by and say hello to get a memorable photo with your pals!             

  • TIME: Varies
  • LOCATION: In front of Lakeside Pavilion
  • If the weather is not favorable, the Character Ambassadors will be inside Lakeside Pavilion.

Eggbert and Shelley's Rolling Shell-ebration

This musical adventure follows Eggbert, Shelley, Yolko and Oh-No as they roll their way through the Zoo on the Character Express train! This activity will surely “crack” you up! (This attraction is weather dependent and subject to change.)

Eggs-splore and Find

Join us for this twist on our traditional Seek-n-Find activity presented by your favorite Zoo Character Ambassadors! 

  • All ten Characters have decorated eggs in their likeness and hid them just for you to spot throughout the Zoo. 
  • Be sure to grab an activity map at the tent just inside the turnstiles to take part in this adventure.  
  • Once all the eggs are located, stop by the prize tent by Jr. Zookeeper to receive your "hen"-tastic prize while supplies last. 

 

Keeper Talks

Starting this weekend for the season, guests have the unique opportunity to learn from the Zookeepers themselves as they present fun, informative sessions about the species that they care for daily. Keeper Talks are presented by Fifth Third Bank.

TIMESPECIESZOO REGION
9:15 a.m.Harbor Seals and California Sea LionsAdventure Cove
9:45 a.m.Amur Tigers or Pallas' CatsAsia Quest
10:30 a.m.  African LionsHeart of Africa
11:15 a.m.River Otters, Mexican Wolves, or SongbirdsNorth America Trek
1 p.m.KoalasAustralia & the Islands
1:30 p.m.OrangutansAustralia & the Islands
2:15 p.m.Humboldt Penguins or Aldabra TortoisesShores and Aquarium

Eggs, Paws, and Claws is included with regular Zoo admission

Buy Tickets

Easter Bunny with Egg Characters at the entrance of the Zoo