Top 5 Reasons to Vote for the Columbus Zoo as USA Today's Best Zoo

BIG NEWS: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best “Best Zoo”—and we need your vote!

With thousands of animals, world-class attractions, and a commitment to conservation, the Columbus Zoo is not only a world-renowned zoo—it’s a destination. And while other amazing zoos around the nation are also nominated, we know Columbus has what it takes to come out on top.

Cast Your Vote For the Columbus Zoo!

#1 - Thousands of Animals and Endless Wild Encounters

The Columbus Zoo is one of the largest zoos in North America, with thousands of animals representing more than 600 species from around the world. Whether you’re watching polar bears swim, feeding giraffes, or marveling at a cheetah’s speed, every visit brings incredible opportunities to connect with wildlife. Our expert Animal Care teams ensure that every animal receives top-tier care while providing guests with unforgettable experiences.

two Bornean orangutans — *Bornean orangutan Clementine with her mother, Khali, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.*

#2 - Adventure Cove: Animals PLUS a Ton of Family Fun

A world-reknowned zoo PLUS fun for the entire family, too? That's right...Adventure Cove features a mix of animal encounters and smiling-enducing rides, including:

Tidal Twist – A spinning coaster unlike any other in Ohio
Sea Dragon - A guest favorite historic wooden roller coaster. (Fun Fact: We're the ONLY zoo with TWO roller coasters!)
Unique Encounters with Animals – Check out our immersive Animal Encounters Village, or walk through our state-of-the-art tunnel with 360 views° of harbor seals and sea lions, cruising by all year long.
Other Family Rides – A swinging ship, bumper cars, and more!

It’s a perfect mix of adventure and education, making the Columbus Zoo a full-day destination for the whole family.

zoo guests on roller coaster — *Sea Dragon, a historic wooden roller coaster at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium*

#3 - Zoombezi Bay: A World-Class Water Park Next Door

When the summer heat rises, Zoombezi Bay is right next door! This 22-acre water park (the largest in the Midwest!) offers massive slides, a giant wave pool, a relaxing lazy river, and kid-friendly splash areas. It’s the ultimate way to cool off in the summer. No other zoo in the country offers an experience quite like this!

Hint: We'd suggest a two day visit, both the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay have a TON to do and see!

aerial view of waterpark — *Zoombezi Bay, the largest waterpark in the Midwest.*

Bonus: Conservation Tower, a world’s first waterpark attraction, will debut in Summer 2025!

water attraction rendering — *Conservation Tower, a world's first waterpark attraction coming to Zoombezi Bay in Summer 2025.*

#4 - Conservation Efforts That Make a Difference

From Ohio to Africa, the Columbus Zoo is committed to saving wildlife and wild places. We support more than 70 conservation projects worldwide, helping species like the African penguin, cheetah, and manatee. Closer to home, our team is leading efforts to protect native species like hellbenders and monarch butterflies.

When you visit—and vote—you’re helping us continue this important work.

scientist holding tube with hellbender in it — Greg Lipps, Conservation Biologist at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

#5 - Columbus: The Ultimate Family Destination

There’s so much to do in Central Ohio beyond the Zoo! Make a weekend of your visit with stops at:

The Wilds – Our 10,000-acre safari park with rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs, located just 2 hours away from Columbus
Safari Golf Club – Get a round of golf in at our golf course…right across the street from the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay!
LEGOLAND Discovery Center – A must-visit for young builders, located at Easton Town Center.
COSI – A hands-on science museum with fun rotating galleries, located in downtown Columbus.
Experience Columbus! Yes, Columbus. – A vibrant city with great dining, parks, and entertainment! Hint: Columbus means community, and many surrounding communities have TONS of fun, too! Check out Visit Dublin and Destination Delaware for even more ideas.
Columbus Metropolitan Library - Their historic downtown location is a site to behold!