WIldlights Traffic and Guest Experience

Arrival and Parking

What We Ask of Columbus Zoo Guests

• We're expecting heavier-than-normal road traffic, and public service personnel will be working hard to ensure your safety in the area. Do not park or stop on the roads that lead to the Zoo. 
• Once in the Zoo parking lot, follow signs and entrance routes to a designated parking spot. Do not park in the aisleways, wheelchair-offloading space, or blocking other vehicles. 
• Bring snacks, water, medication, your phone charger, and anything you may need for the drive to your destination once you leave the Zoo. We're expecting heavy road traffic, and our parking lot will be busy as well. Remember, extra security personnel will be in the lot, and we ask you to follow exit signs and lanes.
• The Columbus Zoo is a weapon-free zone and has a security system in place at the entrance. Please secure weapons in your vehicle.
• Local first responders and dispatchers will be very busy during Wildlights. Please do not call 911 for parking lot or traffic complaints unless there is an emergency. 

Read more by clicking on these links.

What to Bring and Wear to the Zoo View all Zoo Policies

What the Columbus Zoo is Doing to Optimize Safety and Guest Experience

• To expedite traffic flow, both Zoo entrances will be open to assist with guest arrival and departure. Traffic management processes will be in place at both locations as well, and extra staff and directional signage will be in the parking lot to help with traffic flow. 
• Extra volunteers and staff will be at the Zoo to answer guest questions and to guide guests to Wildlights attractions.
• Security personnel will be in the Zoo and in the parking lot during Wildlights. If you have a safety concern, alert any team member, and they will contact security for you. 
• Zoo EMS personnel will be on-site to tend to medical needs. If you need medical attention while at the Zoo, alert any team member, and they will contact EMS for you.
• We'll be placing extra trash cans in the parking lot.
• There will be plenty of food and beverage options within the Zoo. Guests are also welcome to bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to the Zoo. There is a restriction on bag and cooler size that you can read about here.