Experience the Magic of UNEXTINCT: An Immersive Nighttime Adventure at Columbus Zoo

Get ready for an adventure like no other! Imagine strolling through the Columbus Zoo at night, feeling the excitement in the air. UNEXTINCT, created by former Disney Imagineers, brings extinct and endangered species back to life using cool technology and stunning illusions. It’s like stepping into a digital wonderland! With dramatic effects and captivating storytelling, this experience will transport you to another realm where nature’s magic awaits.

But it’s not just about the wow factor. UNEXTINCT also teaches us about conservation and why it’s important to protect our planet.

“This new experience combines the importance of conservation and awareness, offering hope and a call to action. It is a testament to the power of immersive storytelling to inspire positive change in the world,” said Tom Schmid, President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Fifteen areas to explore illusions of over 70 extinct and threated species  
• Tons of fun lights all around
• LED Bar serving up cocktails, S’mores Experience, and shopping
• Exciting interactive activities 
• Various entertainment in the entry plaza of the Zoo
• The 1914 Mangels/Ilions Carousel and the 4D Theater will be open 

What we thought:

• Harper: “I liked the green on the floor! Kind of the red, too. It was sort of like PJ Mask colors. I liked the white stones that changed colors.”
• Emerson: “My favorite thing was the Tigers! The floor with all the dots was really cool There were so many lights and stuf! I liked jumping on the stones that were white and changed colors when you hopped on them. ”
• Riley: “You should really make s’mores and eat the chocolate because that’s the best! Oh, and my favorite lights were all of them because they reminded me of Spirit Rangers!”
• Megan: “I absolutely loved everything about UNEXTINCT! The only thing I wish for is a warmer night next time, haha! It did get pretty chilly out there. Watching the girls explore all the interactive parts was a blast. Exploring a favorite spot of ours in a new way is always exciting for me. I can’t pick a favorite part! The tunnel was awesome with all the artwork and the visuals over the lake were probably my favorite. I really appreciated that they had information playing on speakers at each area; it was super informative. And seeing the zoo all lit up was like a little flashback to our favorite Christmas lights! I highly recommend going with the family. I’m already counting down the days until we can go back again!”

And that’s just the beginning! UNEXTINCT runs from March 14 to April 27, offering ample opportunities to immerse yourself in its magic. Operating from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., the event is tailor-made for nighttime adventures. Catch it on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in both March and April. Plus, keep an eye out for special VIP Nights presented by Dr Pepper on select Saturdays. And mark your calendars for Adults Only Night on April 12!

Things to Know

• Event Details:
  • UNEXTINCT is a special nighttime event located in a focused section of the Zoo.
  • Zoo animals are not included in the experience, but you may spot a few as you stroll the paths.
  • Animal areas such as Adventure Cove, Asia Quest, and Discovery Reef Aquarium will be accessible, but animal viewing is not guaranteed.
• Event Timing:
  • The Zoo closes at 5 p.m. for preparations. You can not stay in the Zoo. You will have to re-enter.
  • UNEXTINCT ticket holders can enter at the turnstiles at 7:30 p.m. for the evening event.
  • 90-120 Minutes is the amount of time it takes to walk through the experience
• Experience Route:
  • Enter the Columbus Zoo through the main gate into Entry Village.
  • Follow the route through Asia Quest, under the bridge, and into the Shores region.
  • Volunteers will guide you to ensure you don’t miss any part of the experience.
  • Maximize your adventure by downloading the Zoo’s free mobile app for UNEXTINCT features and animal information.
• Admission:
  • Choose the date you’d like to attend…and change it later if you’d like!
    • General Admission for Adults (ages 10+): $28.99
    • General Admission for Children: $25.99
  • Zoo members get $4 off UNEXTINCT tickets. 
• Food and Drinks:
  • There are multiple kiosks open with food, as well as the main burger place by Asia Quest. They also offer hot chocolate, boozy warm drinks and speciality cocktails/mocktails.
  • Highlight recommend the Electric Margarita and Sprelino Potatoes – crispy spiral potatoes, wild sauce , bacon, and jalapeno! The girls liked the fishbone pretzel!
• Special Nights:
  • Premium VIP Experience Presented by Dr Pepper (April 6 & 20):
    • Upgrade your UNEXTINCT experience with our exclusive lounge VIP package.
    • Includes UNEXTINCT ticket, exclusive seating access to Lakeside VIP lounge, two complimentary drink tokens at private bar, commemorative souvenir cup, and more.
  • Adults Only Night (April 12):
    • Call the babysitter, leave the kids at home and enjoy UNEXTINCT in an adults-only atmosphere.
• Sensory Considerations:
  • Bright, flashing lights and loud music may discomfort people with photosensitivities or sensitive hearing.
  • Sensory kits are available at the Zoo’s Guest Relations office for a refundable deposit of $10 on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• TIp: They offer LED glasses ($29.99) and interactive bracelets ($9.99). Honestly, we didn’t pay attention to the bracelet. Probably better off to stop at Dollar (.25) store before and pick up some glow sticks, necklaces, etc.! Save your money for the spiral potatoes!!

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with wonder and excitement at UNEXTINCT! As you explore the captivating illusions of over 70 extinct and endangered species, you’ll not only be amazed by the spectacle but also inspired by the message of conservation and hope. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at the LED Bar, enjoying interactive activities, or simply marveling at the breathtaking effects, UNEXTINCT promises an experience like no other. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join us at Columbus Zoo for a night to remember.