Enjoy an exclusive tour highlighting the Columbus Zoo's Lantern Festival!
This private tour takes place on a night when the festival is not open to the public, so you'll have the entire Zoo to yourself! Enjoy magnificent animal shaped lanterns as you ride through the Zoo in the comfort of a VIP golf cart with a group of family or friends. Expert educators will guide your group through areas of the Zoo that are decorated with beautiful, handmade lanterns! You'll leave with lifetime memories and some truly amazing photos.
- Tours last about 1.5 hours and take you down guest paths from the comfort of a VIP cart!
- Columbus Zoo golf carts can accommodate groups up to four, six, or ten.
- Guests with mobility questions should call ahead to discuss accommodations. (614) 645-3488.
- Dress for the weather, and get ready to have a GREAT time at the Columbus Zoo!
These tours will book quickly, so reserve your golf cart soon.
This tour has concluded for the 2025 Lanterns season. Look for dates in 2026!
Know Before You Go
- This is not a behind-the-scenes tour. Not all animal areas of the zoo are visited during your tour because of the late hour or special circumstances.
- Age Requirements: Guests under 18 years, regardless of age, must be registered and accompanied by a paid adult (18 years of age or older). Per safety regulations, participants of all ages (including infants) must be included in your total participant count. Your total participant count cannot exceed the number of seats (4, 6, 10).
- Alcohol: No outside alcohol is allowed on Zoo grounds. The presence of alcohol in your group will result in the immediate termination of your tour with no refund.
- Cameras: Participants are free to document their Zoo experiences with the use of cameras or video recording devices. Be advised that recording in areas in which there is an expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, is prohibited.
- Cancellations: If you do not attend on your scheduled date or cancel up to 48 hours before your tour date, no refunds will be issued.
- Health and Safety: We care about the wellbeing of both guests and our tour guides. If anyone in your group is sick, please do not attend.
- Mobility Considerations: This tour is a great option for guests with mobility challenges. Throughout the experience, there will be stops at animal areas where guests will have the option to get on and off the cart and walk short distances. Mobility aids such as collapsible wheelchairs, walkers, or canes are welcome and may occupy 1–2 seats on your reserved cart. We also offer a cart that can accommodate a guest who remains in their wheelchair during the tour—this option is available at no additional cost with the purchase of a Twilight Tour Lantern Tour. Please call us at 614-645-3488 to discuss your needs and explore the best options for your group.
- Payment: Payment is required in full at the time of booking. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
- Special Needs: Please let us know if you or anyone in your group needs special accommodations. (614) 645-3488.
- Weather: Tours take place rain or shine. If a tour is cancelled by the Zoo for any reason, we will attempt to reschedule or you will be refunded for the full amount.
Tours must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.
