To help ensure that all guests enjoy a safe experience during their visit, only authorized coolers will be permitted inside the gates at the Columbus Zoo.
Coolers larger than 24 inches in length will not be allowed in the park and may still be inspected.
- Approved bags and coolers can be kept with guests or stored in several storage locations around the Zoo, including one just north of Wild Burger, and, during Zoombezi Bay’s operating season (late May through Labor Day), the Zoombezi Bay Cooler Cove and the Cooler Cove in Adventure Cove.
- Guests are also welcome to store oversized bags and coolers in the Picnic Shelter located just outside the Zoo entrance adjacent to the parking lot.
- Guests may also use the Picnic Shelter and then store the bags and coolers in their personal vehicles.
All coolers stored in the Cooler Coves are subject to random searches by Security. Bags and coolers left unattended outside of these areas will be confiscated.
Outside food and drink are permitted at the Zoo only, but glass containers, alcohol and straws are prohibited. Guests can re-enter the Zoo on the same day after receiving a handstamp upon exiting.
Pre-arranged groups, such as school groups or large private events, can request exceptions through their Zoo contact. When guests arrive at the Zoo’s entrance with these pre-arranged exceptions, our staff will direct them to Security to have their items screened. This will require a little extra time, so we kindly ask that guests build that into their schedule.
A full Bag and Cooler policy is located on our Policy Page.