The Columbus Zoo is back open and I am VERY HAPPY. We truly love and appreciate our Zoo so much and is one of the things we really missed. A lot of things that we haven’t been able to do, I am not too anxious to jump right back into – the Zoo is not one of those things. Making it even more special? Emerson now has glasses and can see clear. It was absolutely incredibly watching her eyes light up, watching her point at everything and saying, “Wow!” Getting to see the world through your children’s eyes is one of the most beautiful things there is in this world. But, okay, back to what you came here for – the details on the Columbus Zoo opening back up.
Today, June 12th, is the first official day for the Zoo being open since closing for COVID-19. It is open solely for members this weekend and if you didn’t grab tickets yet, unfortunately, there are none left. They went QUICK. If you’re not a member, starting June 15th, you can start to get tickets and schedule your visit(s).
The Zoo will be open daily from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., and all Zoo visits (including for Members) will require a dated, timed ticket to help ensure that social distancing and other precautions are followed appropriately. If you are a member, you can make your reservations here. It is very easy to do. Click on the link. Pick your time. Fill out your information. Get your confirmation. via email. If you’re not a member, you can make your reservations here. Pretty much the same procedure as members.
When you get to the Zoo, I suggest staying in your car until its your time to go in. There was an employee asking what time our tickets were for and directed us to a certain spot. We got there after our 9:30 entry (about 9:45) and they sent us to the middle two lanes. They did have people lining up for the next time slot. However, with times being ticketed, there really isn’t a reason to get there too early. It moves very fast as the number of people is limited.
When we got up to the ticket scanner, I showed her my membership and ticket via my phone. She had me scan the pass myself and that was it. Very easy. Simple and quick.
Once you’re through the gates, you’ll notice there are no paper maps. Luckily, they have large signs/maps everywhere + you can get a map via the website, if needed! You can download here before going, too.
They do not require masks, however, they are highly suggested. When we first got there, I would say 50-60% of people had them on. When we were leaving and it was much busier, I would say I saw 40% of people with masks on. With that being said, ALL employees had them on and I wasn’t really paying attention to make sure people were wearing them or not.
New Policies/Procedures You’ll See
Keep in mind these are put into place to provide a safe and fun experience. You can truly tell how hard they worked to put everything into place. They did an AMAZING JOB. Also, shout-out to all the employees. They were beyond friendly and helpful. I can’t count the times I heard them say, “Welcome back!! We’ve all missed you!”
- The majority of the outdoor habitats and viewing areas will be open and available to guests. Some modifications have been implemented, including spacing in front of viewing windows to minimize contact with glass surfaces, and removal of some seating and objects to encourage guest flow.
- One-way direction has been instituted in certain Zoo regions that contain smaller pathways.
- If a viewing area is too narrow and social distancing is not possible, then that viewing area will be closed.
- Some indoor habitats and areas may be open during the Zooโs reopening. Availability is subject to change due to operational considerations.
- Indoor animal viewing areas will be disinfected before the Zoo opens and throughout the day.
- Animal encounters, some rides, trams, group programs and events, and interactive stations will be unavailable at times.
- Polar Playground and Shores Park will be available and frequently disinfected. Stings Wings N’ Playthings Playground will be temporarily closed.
- Coin operated machines such as penny presses, photo booths and foot massagers will be closed.
- Food and beverage options will be available to our guests with altered and/or reduced menu offerings to expedite lines.
- Select outdoor locations will be open and utilize social distancing ground markers in their queue lines and waiting areas.
- Outdoor seating will be available, with tables located at least 6 feet apart from one another.
I have to say, while we were anxious to get out of the house, at the same time, we were also anxious to get out of the house. After our visit this morning, I might have to say it was one of our more enjoyable visits. Everything is very organized and I felt like it was easier to get through the zoo with the pathways they had set up. It was nice being at the Zoo and not having it be SUPER crowded. It almost felt like an early Spring or fall visit in regards to the number of people – not like a typical mid-summer packed visit. As we were leaving, it was getting busier – but, I felt most people were pretty respectful of space.
I also liked how there were more employees by the exhibits. Not only were they watching to make sure everything was going smoothly, they were there to answer general questions and were happy to chat about the animals. I didn’t get her name, but the lady in the aquarium was very nice and answered all of our questions with a smile. Well, I think she was smiling, but, ya know, #masklife.
I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all throughout our entire visit. So, huge thank you to the entire staff at the Columbus Zoo for their hard work and for creating such a fun and education environment for us all!
Tip: If possible, I highly suggest getting an early time slot. We were there before 10 AM, which meant there were only 2 time slots before our visit. The Zoo wasn’t packed at all. However, once you’re in the Zoo, there isn’t a timeline of when you need to leave. When we were heading out around 12, it was getting pretty packed. They are limited on the number of people they allow in each day, but the later times are going to be busier (in my opinion).
If you have any questions about our experience, please feel free to DM me over on Instagram.
