Partners in Conservation
Learn about the Zoo’s financial commitment to holistic conservation efforts in Central Africa.
The Columbus Zoo is going cashless!
To further support our mission of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife., the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will be embracing a cashless payment system. This transition, happening this fall, supports our sustainability efforts while making your experience smoother, safer, and more convenient.
We know that change can feel a little daunting, but this shift is designed to empower you with the ease of digital transactions.
This change is all about making sure that your visit is as effortless and secure as possible, so you can focus on what really matters – connecting with the incredible wildlife and experiences around you.
Kiosk Locations
For those who prefer using cash, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In the next few weeks, pre-paid debit card kiosks will be installed at several locations, allowing you to transform your cash into a pre-paid Mastercard that you can use anywhere in the Zoo...and anywhere in the world where Mastercard is accepted! And, the best part? There's no fee for the switch.
- Location 1: 2 kiosks at the Zoo entrance before you enter the main gates.
- Location 2: 1 kiosk next to the EMS building in Entry Village
- Location 3: 1 kiosk inside the Congo Marketplace
Questions You May Have
Why is the Zoo transitioning to cashless operations?
Cashless payments throughout the Zoo will offer a simpler way to pay.
- Just swipe or tap your credit card, debit card or smart device with Apple Pay or Google Pay at checkout.
- Kiosks will allow guests to insert cash which will then be converted to a pre-paid Mastercard that can be used at any location (inside or outside the Zoo) where Mastercard is accepted.
What are the benefits of a cashless system?
- It saves money! For both the Zoo and visitors.
- It’s safer. Transactions are always secure.
- It’s faster. Contact-less transactions can help speed up checkout times.
- It helps the planet! Reducing reliance on paper currency, we can minimize the environmental impact associated with the production, transportation and disposal of paper money.
What parks are cashless?
The Columbus Zoo and Safari Golf Club are cashless. Zoombezi Bay will be cashless at the start of the 2025 season!
How will this affect my visit to the Zoo?
The majority of locations where there is a monetary transaction will now be cashless. The exception will be the parking booths where cash will still be accepted.
Are vending machines cashless?
Vending machines will continue to accept cash, credit cards, and Apple Pay. Vending machines do not accept Google Pay.
Will there still be ATMs at the Zoo?
There will be no ATMs at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
What form of payment does the Zoo accept?
VISA, Mastercard, Discover and American Express credit cards and most debit cards are accepted for payment. We also accept Apply Pay and Google Pay.
Kiosk Questions
Will there be a fee at the kiosk?
No! The pre-paid Mastercard issued by the kiosk is free to the guest and there are no fees to use the card in or outside the Zoo. The Zoo will be paying the transaction costs.
Can my new pre-paid debit card be used other places besides the Zoo?
Yes! The card can be used anywhere Mastercard debit is accepted for any type of transaction, including tips, and is internationally accepted.
Is the pre-paid card reloadable?
Cards cannot be reloaded at any of the Zoo kiosks. To reload your card, you must first register it. Guests that register their card can manage their spend and take advantage of all the benefits, including:
- Linking the Mastercard to guests $CASHLESS digital wallet.
- Balance inquiry
- Obtain transaction detail including the merchant’s name, amount of spend, and time and date of transaction
- ATM Access with PIN number
- Reload functionality - through Mastercard rePower or Akimbo App
To find locations outside of the Zoo to reload your card, click HERE. Cards can be reloaded online through the Akimbo App or Akimbo website after registration.
You can find the balance of your card here.
Can I get my unused funds on the card back?
While the Zoo will not provide refunds for unused balances, the card can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Once you register your pre-paid debit card, you have ATM withdrawal access with PIN number.
Can balances be transferred from one card to another?
No, but the cards can be registered and reloaded via bank account or GreenDot at Mastercard Repower stations.
How does the cashless kiosk work?
- Enter your mobile number into kiosk.
- Accept the cardholder agreement and SMS/text communication release.
- Start the transaction by inserting cash, with the lowest denomination of $5.
- Insert remaining desired cash amount into the kiosk, as little as $1 or as much as $1,000.
- The machine will confirm amount inserted and amount to be loaded on the card.
- The Mastercard prepaid card will be dispensed from the machine.
- Your new card is ready to use!
Who do I contact if I have a problem or question about my card?
MobileMoney provides 24/7 support for the kiosk by calling (888) 414-6866 or visiting akimbocard.com.
Are the cards recyclable?
The cards are made from recycled material and can be recycled when no longer needed.
