The Zoo is Cashless

The Columbus Zoo is Now cashless!

To further support our mission of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife., the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has embraced a cashless payment system. This supports our sustainability efforts while making your experience smoother, safer, and more convenient.

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.

pre-paid debit card machine info

For those who prefer using cash, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Pre-paid debit card machines are 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: Two machines at the Zoo entrance before you enter the main gates.
Location 2: One machine next to the EMS building in Entry Village
Location 3: One machine inside the Congo Marketplace
Location 4: One machine by The Coop

How They Work

Watch this short video on how to use the Zoo's pre-paid debit card machines.

Pre-paid Debit Card Machine Questions

Is there a fee to use the machine?

No! The pre-paid Mastercard issued by the machine 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 pre-paid debit card machines. 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 pre-paid debit card machine 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.

Questions You May Have

Why did the Zoo transition 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.
Pre-paid debit card machines 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 does 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.

Are there ATMs at the Zoo?

There are 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 Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Is there a minimum age requirement to get a pre-paid debit card?

There’s no minimum age to get a card, but if any issues arise, customer service can only assist an adult. Since minors can’t legally agree to contracts, the cardholder status automatically transfers to the adult who provided the funds. Any questions or actions need to be handled by that adult.

Do guests need a mobile device to get a pre-paid debit card?

Guests do not need a mobile device to get the card. Any valid 10-digit phone number works. While cell phones make it easier to receive redemption codes via SMS, there are alternative ways to handle this if you use a landline or entered the wrong number.

Do the machines accept coins?

The Pre-Paid Debit Card Machines do not take coins or $2 bills. The machine takes only cash.

Does the pre-paid debit card machine offer language options to accommodate speakers of different languages?

Yes! The interface offers options for English, French, Spanish, and Chinese. The entire transaction will then proceed in the selected language.