School Trips

We're committed to creating an environment where people of all abilities feel welcome, supported, and prepared for a memorable visit. 

• Columbus Zoo: Self-guided social stories and sensory maps are available on our Accessibility page. 
• For specific requests, contact us via the registration form or email us.

Accessibility at the Columbus Zoo Accessibility at Zoombezi Bay Accessibility at The Wilds

• When registering, we recommend estimating your attendance on the higher side. Refunds are available for unused tickets.
• If you need to add 15 or more tickets after registering, please make a separate reservation.
• If you need to move or cancel your trip, please email us.

Email the Field Trip Booking Team

Your visit may qualify for special field trip rates! School groups must meet the following criteria for the rates to apply.

NEED TO KNOW: Registration will open month by month and can be made up until 48 hours prior to your visit date. We encourage schools to finalize group counts before booking. School groups are not limited per day, if your preferred date falls within the eligible dates listed, it will be accepted. Registration numbers presented at check-in are final.

NOTICE: Chaperones accompanying a registered school group will be charged the school group rate at the gate.

Ask about these resources:

• Meal Vouchers
• Digital Scavenger Hunts. Field trip groups can use the Goosechase app to explore the Zoo while also strengthening their understanding of conservation and wildlife by completing missions. These experiences must be reserved ahead of time. 
• Virtual Field Trip Videos

Zoo Info for Educators Email the Field Trip Booking Team 

• Picnic shelters: If available, shelters may be reserved for $50 when registering for your field trip.
• Lunch storage: Store lunches free of charge in the pavilion outside the Zoo’s main entrance, in your reserved shelter, or carry them with you during your visit.

Meal Vouchers are available. Email us for more information. 

Reserve a Picnic Shelter Email the Field Trip Booking Team

• The Columbus Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and The Wilds accept all major credit cards, Google Pay, and Apple Pay.
• The Columbus Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and The Wilds are cashless, including for school groups. There are machines within all parks that allow students, teachers, and chaperones convert cash to a pre-paid debit card, at no cost. 

Cashless Machine Locations and Guidance Sustainability

• Payment: Credit cards and purchase orders are accepted as payment for school trips. The Columbus Zoo is cashless, including for school groups.
• Purchase Orders: When requesting a PO, we recommend requesting a higher amount than your estimated total. You’ll only be charged for the amount used.
• Advance Registration: School trips must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance.
• Zoo Member in Your Group: Membership cards are fully digital. Please bring a spreadsheet or list with applicable membership numbers on the day of your trip.
• Financial Assistance: Scholarship opportunities may be available for qualifying school trips. 

Download the PO Form View scholarship information Book Your Trip Email the Field Trip Booking Team