There are plenty of ways to indulge your animal-loving family member or friend in Columbus beyond the obvious choice of visiting the Columbus Zoo. While the zoo is undoubtedly fantastic, it’s worth exploring some lesser-known locations in the area that offer unique opportunities to get up close and personal with furry creatures – perfect for both kids and adults.
Discover a hidden gem just north of Columbus at Olentangy Indian Caverns, where a massive 50,000 square foot petting zoo awaits. Get up close and personal with all sorts of friendly animals, from deer and goats to zebus.
Check out all the different type of animals they have here.
Hours: 10am – 4am
Admission: $4 per person
Location: 1779 Home Road, Delaware, OH 43015
Step back in time to the 1880s at Slate Run Living Historical Farm, a hidden gem nestled in one of our metro parks. Stroll through beautiful gardens, rustic barns, and a farmhouse as you experience life on a farm from long ago. Meet heirloom animals like pigs, geese, turkeys, and magnificent Percheron horses along the way. It’s a unique and educational journey you won’t want to miss!
Hours: June to Aug: Tue-Thu 9am to 4pm, Fri-Sat 9am to 6pm, Sun 11am to 6pm | Sept to Oct: Tue-Sat 9am to 4pm, Sun 11am to 4pm
(Labor Day, noon to 6pm) | Nov to March: Wed-Sat 9am to 4pm, Sun 11am to 4pm
Admission: Free
Location: 1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
The Stratford Ecological Center, located in Delaware County, Ohio, is a non-profit organization dedicated to education, organic farming, and nature preservation. With 236 acres of land, visitors are encouraged to explore the nature trails spanning four miles, interact with the livestock, tour the gardens and greenhouses, and discover the diverse range of ecosystems, including the creek, pond, prairie, swamps, and State Nature Preserve.
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm, Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Closed: Sundays and Holidays
Admission: A $3 per person or $6 per family donation is appreciated for those wishing to spend time at Stratford.
Location: 3083 Liberty Road, Delaware, OH 43015
Make sure you mark your calendar for Storytime on the Farm. 3rd Tuesday of each month April – October, 10am – 11am. No registration required – $5 per family.
Sunrise Sanctuary, Inc. is a non-profit that provides a safe haven for both farmed and companion animals that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. This private animal rescue and sanctuary, spanning over 16 acres, is located in Marysville. While typically closed to the public, they do offer monthly open houses, as well as special events throughout the year.
Hours: Once a month from 1 PM – 3 PM.
Admission: Adult (18+) Admission $10, Youth (4-17) Admission $5, and Children 3 and under are free. All funds raised go directly toward caring for the approximately 170 animals that call Sunrise home. Purchase tickets here.
Location: 16730 Martin Welch Rd, Marysville, Ohio 43040
Don’t forget to check out our Metro Parks, Humane Society, Ohio Wildlife Center and Libraries for other special opportunities!
