Merry-not-scary Halloween weekends at the Columbus Zoo with character meet-and-greets, a trick-or-treat trail, hay maze, and Adventure Cove rides included with regular zoo admission.
Boo at the Zoo runs Saturdays and Sundays from October 3 through October 25, 2026, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Powell. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on those weekends, and the Halloween programming is included with regular zoo admission rather than sold as a separate night ticket.
Most of the action sits in Adventure Cove: Character Ambassador meet-and-greets and rolling celebrations, a trick-or-treat trail with multiple candy stops plus teal-pumpkin alternatives, giant pumpkin carving, a hay maze, Jack-O-Lantern Journey, a fun house, and a Halloween hoedown with the Oak Ridge Bears. New for this year are a Rave at the Grave DJ dance party and an expanded candy trail. Rides and the zoo train run on the usual weekend pattern.
Costumes are welcome within the zoo's family-friendly rules, including visible adult faces and no prop weapons. Download the zoo app for maps, arrive early on peak Sundays, and buy a Zoo More wristband if the kids will live on the rides. Powell traffic and parking lots fill on nice October weekends, so leave buffer time.
FAQ
Which dates is Boo at the Zoo open in 2026?
Saturdays and Sundays only: October 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, and 24-25, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Is Boo at the Zoo a separate ticket?
No. It is included with Columbus Zoo admission. Ride wristbands and some crafts or snacks are extra.
How scary is it?
It is positioned as merry-not-scary for families. Skip if you want a haunted house; this is candy, characters, and daytime zoo energy.
