Partners in Conservation
Learn about the Zoo’s financial commitment to holistic conservation efforts in Central Africa.

Our Zoo provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with wildlife and nature, offering enriching experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Why Field Trips to the Columbus Zoo Enhance Student Learning:
Whether you’re planning an upcoming visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium or teaching from a classroom miles away, we’re bringing the Zoo to you!
Our Virtual School Trip Videos are designed with educators and students in mind. Each short video (just 5–8 minutes!) takes you on a guided tour through different regions of the Zoo, introducing the animals you may encounter and sharing fun, educational facts along the way. From fascinating adaptations to important conservation stories, these videos help students connect with wildlife long before they arrive — or even if they can’t visit in person.
So whether you’re prepping for a big day out or exploring the Zoo from your classroom, these bite-sized adventures are here to spark curiosity, support learning, and bring the wild to life.
Click on each thumbnail to watch the video for that Zoo region!
We offer self-guided resources. Explore social stories and sensory maps on our Accessibility page. For specific requests, contact us via the form or email teacher@columbuszoo.org.
The Columbus Zoo is now cashless! We accept credit cards and purchase orders for school trips. Request a PO for a larger amount; you’ll only be charged for the actual value used.
If available, you can book picnic shelters when registering for your field trip for $50. For questions, email schools@columbuszoo.org.
Lunches can be stored in the pavilion outside of the main zoo entrance (free of charge), in your rented pavilion, or carried on your person.
Yes, and it affects school groups as well.
Zoo membership cards are now fully digital, so please bring a spreadsheet or list with membership numbers on the day of your trip.
When registering for your trip, overestimate the number of tickets you need. We can provide refunds for unused tickets. If you need 15+ additional tickets, please make a separate reservation.
Trips must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance. If you need an invoice to request a Purchase Order, please download and use this document.
Email schools@columbuszoo.org, and we’ll take care of it.
Your visit may qualify for special field trip rates! School groups must meet the following criteria for the rates to apply:
Finding the best rate for your school trip is easy. Just follow these three steps.
Email: schools@columbuszoo.org
If you are a homeschool or virtual school group with additional questions, please email us.