Things to Do in the Winter at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Discover the thrill of Ohio's winter season like never before with your family at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. It's a season filled with family fun, exciting activities, and captivating events.
Did you know that at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, many animals eagerly embrace the cooler temperatures and snowfall? It's not just the ones you'd expect! Elephants revel in playing in the snow, and even a majestic lion finds a snow-covered ground a perfect spot to relax.
But that's not all! Our aquarium and indoor habitats are a treasure trove of family activities and events. Marvel at the grace of manatees, observe baby stingrays in awe, and encounter fascinating snakes. With so much to explore, don't forget to bundle up and plan your family's winter getaway to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where every moment is an unforgettable adventure!
Animals You can see during winter at the columbus Zoo
Indoor Habitats
Take a break from the cooler temperatures! These species can be viewed from an indoor guest space, though many have access to their own outdoor habitats as well. Each animal at the Columbus Zoo decides where it wants to be throughout the day!
- Amur tiger
- Asian elephant
- Canada lynx
- Ducks
- Fish
- Flying Foxes
- Gibbons
- Gorilla
- Harbor seal
- Hellbenders
- Markhor
- Pallas' cat
- Porcupines
- Reptiles
- Sand cats
- Sea Lion
- Sloth bear
- Snakes
- Straw-colored fruit bats
- Turtles
- Zebra Sharks
Outdoor Habitats
- African leopard
- Arctic fox
- Asian elephant
- Black bear
- Bonobo
- Bornean orangutan
- Brown bear
- Cougar
- Greater Malayan Chevrotain
- Koala
- Lion
- Mexican wolf
- Moose
- Otters
- Polar bear
- Red-Crown Crane
- Red panda
- Reindeer
- Swan
- Wolverine
Where Do Zoo Animals Go in the Winter?
They're closer than you think!
Warm Up indoors at the zoo
With plenty of opportunities to head indoors and warm up from Ohio's chill, the Zoo has you covered.
Food
Cold temps call for yummy food! Grab a burger, devour a slice of pizza, and enjoy a Starbucks coffee during your visit.
Warm Up
Find cozy indoor spaces and animal habitats throughout the Zoo by downloading our mobile app before your visit!
Shop
Our marketplace offers beanies, hoodies, gloves, and everything else Zoo-themed to keep you warm during your visit and afterwards, too.
Winter Tours of the Zoo
"I'm SO glad I did that!" It's a phrase we hear often from guests who take part in our customized tours and animal experiences.
- Feed giraffe in our state-of-the-art heated barns.
- Meet the first animal to join the Zoo in 1927: Reindeer!
- Go behind-the-scenes and learn about animal care at the Zoo.
- Learn sooo much about sea lions!
...And several more!
There's even More!
Check out other ways to maximize your Ohio winter adventure!
Family Fun Events
Escape the cold Ohio winter and warm up to a world of family fun at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! Discover enchanting winter events that will delight visitors of all ages, from festive light displays to special family-friendly gatherings. Create cherished memories with your loved ones as you explore the zoo's winter wonderland and enjoy the seasonal magic.
- Wildlights
- Zoo Year's Eve
- Sensory-friendly experiences
Kid Camps and Activities
Animal Story Time
Tiny Tales, Big Adventures invites young children, and their caregivers, to enjoy a delightful story time followed by a special encounter with one of our animal ambassadors, which will bring the tale to life! And best of all, this story time is included with Zoo admission.
Located in Jack Hanna's Animal Encounters Village with the Zoo's Adventure Cove region.
Winter Break 1-Day Camps
Each day of camp will take an up-close look at a specific habitat and the amazing animals that call that space their home. Camp is separated into grades K-2 and grades 3-5. These camps include a light afternoon snack, activities, art project, Zoo walk (if weather appropriate) and a special Zoo experience.
Road Trip to The Wilds
Located just 2 hours southeast of Columbus, The Wilds is the largest animal conservation center in the world. And, in the winter, unique opportunities to get up-close-and-personal with endangered species are available!
- Meet rhinos in their state-of-the-art heated barn.
- Feed giraffe from an elevated balcony.
- Take in breathtaking winter views of The Wilds' 10,000 acres of pastures and woodlands!
- Stay the night in a cozy cabin or lodge!
Download the Zoo App!
Want to make the most of your day? The Columbus Zoo mobile app is a must-have on your mobile device!
- Plan your itinerary ahead of time.
- Receive reminders for upcoming animal experiences and events during your visit.
- Map the most efficient path to the winter animals and indoor areas you want to see the most.
Hint: The app can also be used this summer as you visit the Zoo's waterpark, Zoombezi Bay (think warm thoughts, think warm thoughts...)!
