Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Name: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, OH, US
Telephone: (614) 645-3400
Price range: $$$

Powell zoo campus with Little Explorers Base Camp, Shores Play Park, and Polar Playground for toddler days.

4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065

Confirm seasonal gate hours on columbuszoo.org; Little Explorers schedules shift by month.

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Awards

2026 Best Overall Best Outdoor Activities for Toddlers in Columbus, Ohio

Why Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Is Our Best Overall Pick

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas, with 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. hours through November 18. Guests under 3 get in free, and Franklin County residents pay from $18.95 online for ages 3 to 9 versus $27.95 for non-residents. Zoo admission includes Wildlights, which runs November 20 through January 3 from 5 p.m. A free mobile app gives walking directions across the 4850 W Powell Rd campus, which helps when a stroller nap sets the route.

Little Explorers Base Camp included with admission
Shores Play Park and Polar Playground on campus
Powell campus with stroller-friendly paths

Know before you go

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium at 4850 W Powell Rd in Powell is Best Overall alone on our best outdoor activities for toddlers list. Little Explorers Base Camp, Shores Play Park near the Aquarium, and Polar Playground give toddlers play between animal walks. Stroller-friendly paths keep the day outdoor-first.

Use the Aquarium wing when wind picks up without treating this as a winter indoor ranking. Confirm Little Explorers hours the week you visit, since seasonal sites move.

Parking: On-site Zoo lots; arrive early on peak weekends.
Reservations: Timed tickets and memberships via columbuszoo.org.
Tip: Map Little Explorers Base Camp, Shores Play Park, and Polar Playground before you chase animal habitats.