An idea to bring in guests during the cold winter months has grown over the past 22 years to be one of Columbus, Ohio’s favorite holiday events. Come to the Columbus Zoo to see Wildlights – it’s a great reason to visit Columbus, Ohio right now. Beginning November 19 and running through January 1, see the millions of LED lights that decorate the zoo made famous by celebrity zookeeper Jack Hanna. The zoo opens daily at 5:00 p.m. and closes at 9:00 p.m. during the week and at 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. The zoo is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
The Columbus Zoo is located north of Columbus, Ohio on Powell Road/State Route 750. The zoo is in close proximity to US Route 161, I-270, and Sawmill Parkway. For directions, go to the zoo website.
In the Village section of the zoo, holiday sounds begin at 7:00 p.m. with performances by various local music organizations. The Village features the Reindeer Corral where families can visit Santa’s team before and after they make their visits to the homes of the good children of the world. There are photos with Santa and the reindeer available, costumed characters from a local radio station, a secret Santa shop, and Mrs. Claus’ kitchen where kids can decorate their own cookie.
The Watering Hole features a nightly animated light show. This is the 3rd year of the light show, a popular show that features songs of the season. Special encounters are available in the North American and Polar Frontier section of the park. Families can get environmental education and enjoy an old fashioned, country Christmas.
Baby elephant Beco celebrates a family Christmas in Asia Quest and in the Shores, there are photos available with a Sleigh, holidays at Manatee Coast, and cold weather to be celebrated with the Humbolt penguins. The Giving Tree in the African Forest is full of gift ideas for the zoo family and visit the Koalas in their habitat in the Australia exhibit.
Admission is the at the regular rates – $7.99 for guests age 2-9 or over age 60 and $12.99 for everyone in between. The zoo is free to members and check with your local zoo for reciprocal agreements that might gain visitors free admission,. Food is available throughout the park including the new Lakeside Grill including 1/3 pound Angus burgers, BBQ chicken sandwiches and ribs. The Congo River Market Food Court is a good bet for families that have a variety of dietary needs and wants. On those cold winter nights, a good hot chocolate or warm slice of pizza are not far away for hungry guests with stands throughout the park.
Hotels in the Area: Chase Suites Hotel rates range from $95-$155 per night. The boutique hotel features hot breakfast, daily manager’s reception and happy hour, access to a pool and spa. Near the Polaris Mall northeast of the zoo, there are new Cambria Suites and Hampton Inn and Suites hotels. Both have more affordable rates.
Another food option in the area includes Digger & Finch, a golf themed pub on Riverside Drive. The dinner prices are moderate with a good entre options priced between $10-$20. Montgomery Inn’s famous ribs are nearby on Dublin-Granville Rd. This is the classic Cincinnati restaurant’s first foray into the Columbus market. Prices are about on par with Digger & Finch’s menu for dinner.
For more information and for visits anytime during the year, see http://www.colszoo.org/. Special events are available throughout the year. And do not forget to check the events calendar for periodic visits by famous Director Emeritus Jack Hanna, including during the holiday season.
