Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
A vibrant oasis with diverse wildlife and stunning botanical displays, offering a memorable experience for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant oasis with diverse wildlife and stunning botanical displays, offering a memorable experience for all ages.
"It was so green and beautiful. It took us about 4 hours to walk through and see everything."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploring.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Bring water bottles and utilize misting fans, especially on hot days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fiona the Hippo
Hippoquarium
Meet Fiona, the famous hippo who defied odds! A true Cincinnati icon.
Cheetah Cubs
Cheetah Habitat
Witness the playful antics of cheetah cubs, ambassadors for their species.
Botanical Gardens
Throughout the zoo
Stroll through lush gardens showcasing over 3,000 plant species.
Asian Elephants
Elephant Trails
Observe these majestic creatures as they play and interact.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Hills
Navigate with Ease
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploring.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Bring water bottles and utilize misting fans, especially on hot days.
📱 Zoo App is Handy
Use the app for navigation, but be mindful of battery drain.
🦒 Feed the Giraffes
A memorable experience! Check feeding times and availability.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploring.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Cool
Bring water bottles and utilize misting fans, especially on hot days.
📱 Zoo App is Handy
Use the app for navigation, but be mindful of battery drain.
🦒 Feed the Giraffes
A memorable experience! Check feeding times and availability.
🐘 Elephant Exhibit Fun
Enjoy the elephants and grab an 'elephant ear' snack.
💡 Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Consider special tours for unique animal encounters.
🌿 Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the diverse plant collections throughout the zoo.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Pay close attention to signs to avoid getting lost in the parking lot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden for its beautiful, lush grounds and diverse animal exhibits, with many highlighting Fiona the hippo and the cheetah cubs as favorites. The naturalistic habitats and engaging experiences like feeding giraffes are big draws. However, some guests find the zoo's hilly terrain challenging and wish for clearer signage and a more reliable app for navigation.
"We drove three hours to visit and it did not disappoint. It was so green and beautiful. It took us about 4 hours to walk through and see everything. Almost all the animals were out. It is a little easy to get lost. There's a lot of paths that cut through by the map on their app helps because it gave you the exact path you need."
Brittany Kirks
"I’ve been to the Cincinnati Zoo several times now, and just went again this past Saturday (drove a little under 2 hours from Indy!). This trip I did the behind-the-scenes hippo tour and WOW—such an awesome experience for a big hippo fan like me! 🦛💙 Definitely a highlight of my visits.
It was super hot that day, but thankfully they had a giant misting fan that I kept running back to—it was a lifesaver! 💨 The zoo itself is beautiful 🌳🌸 with so much to see. The elephant exhibit and snack area were wonderful 🐘—you can even eat an elephant ear there (yum! 🍩). Plus, we got to feed the giraffes 🦒, which was right up there with the hippo tour in terms of favorite moments.
Just a heads up: it’s really hilly ⛰️ and there’s lots of walking 🚶♀️🚶♂️, so comfy shoes are a must. My only complaints: I wish the signage was a little better. I couldn’t find the sloth 🦥 (the app wasn’t up to date either), and the parking lot could use clearer signs too—we actually ended up wandering around a lot we didn’t even park in trying to find our car. 🚗😅
Other than that, always a fantastic time here and I’ll definitely be back again! 🌟"
Sarah Fosnow
"We thoroughly enjoyed our day at the Cincinnati Zoo. It has been many many years since I have been to a zoo, back then they were in cages. It is so nice to see the animals in more natural surroundings. I recommend wearing very comfortable shoes for there are a lot of hills throughout the park. We rented an electric cart for my wife and it really helped having the convenience getting up and down the trails.
The only downside we experienced was that most of the food vendors were closed the day (Monday) we were there, so there was a limited choice of food to purchase.
We would highly recommend the Cincinnati Zoo to people of all ages especially families with younger children."
Mark Keever
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is located at 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options, such as bus routes, also serve the zoo. Many visitors drive from nearby cities like Indianapolis and Louisville.
Yes, parking is available at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. However, some visitors have noted that parking lot signage can be confusing, so pay close attention to directions to find your car.
The zoo is quite hilly, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. For those who need assistance, electric carts are available for rent. The zoo app can also help with navigation, though it may drain your phone's battery.
Yes, there are several hotels located near the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, offering convenient accommodation for visitors. [^SEO keyword: hotels near cincinnati zoo and botanical garden]
While specific policies can change, it's generally recommended to check the zoo's official website for their current policy on outside food and beverages. Some food vendors are available within the zoo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden can be purchased online through their official website or at the entrance gate. Purchasing in advance online is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or special events like the Festival of Lights. [^SEO keyword: cincinnati zoo and botanical garden tickets]
The operating hours for the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden can vary seasonally and may differ on holidays. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. [^SEO keyword: cincinnati botanical garden hours]
Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as children, seniors, or military personnel. Special promotions or membership options might also offer savings. Check the zoo's website for current offers. [^SEO keyword: cincinnati zoo and botanical garden tickets]
Yes, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers various membership levels that provide benefits like unlimited visits, discounts on special events, and other perks. This can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors. [^SEO keyword: cincinnati zoo & botanical garden]
The Festival of Lights is a popular holiday event at the Cincinnati Zoo, featuring millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, and seasonal entertainment. It typically runs from late November through early January. [^SEO keyword: cincinnati zoo and botanical garden festival of lights]
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Fiona the hippo, the playful cheetah cubs, the majestic Asian elephants, and the diverse collection of primates. The Reptile House and Insect House also offer fascinating exhibits. +2
Yes, the zoo offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, such as the hippo tour, which provide unique opportunities to learn more about the animals and interact with keepers.
The zoo is very family-friendly, with opportunities to feed giraffes, explore interactive exhibits like the Insect House, and enjoy the natural beauty of the botanical gardens. Many TikTok videos highlight family days out. +4
It typically takes about 2 to 4 hours to walk through the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden at a comfortable pace, depending on how much time you spend at each exhibit and if you participate in any special activities.
The zoo is generally accessible, but it is quite hilly. Strollers and wheelchairs can navigate most paths, and electric carts are available for rent to help with the inclines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers various food vendors and snack areas, including options for classic zoo fare and treats like 'elephant ears.' However, some vendors may be closed on certain days, leading to limited choices.
While specific menus can vary, most zoo food courts offer standard options that may include vegetarian choices. It's advisable to check with individual vendors for the most current offerings.
It's best to check the zoo's official policy regarding outside food and beverages before your visit. Some visitors have mentioned bringing their own snacks.
The elephant exhibit area has a snack area where you can enjoy an 'elephant ear.' For a wider variety, explore the main food courts, though availability can vary.
The zoo's layout offers many scenic spots, and while dedicated picnic areas might not be explicitly marked, visitors often find pleasant spots to enjoy their own food if permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of animals in their habitats, vibrant botanical displays, and iconic landmarks like the hippoquarium. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting. +1
Drones are generally not permitted within zoo grounds to ensure the safety and well-being of animals and visitors. Always check the zoo's official regulations regarding photography equipment.
While personal photography is usually encouraged, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be respectful of the animals and other visitors.
A versatile zoom lens is ideal for capturing animals at various distances. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the botanical gardens and overall zoo atmosphere.
Yes, the zoo frequently has baby animals, such as cheetah cubs and hippos, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Keep an eye on the zoo's social media for announcements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Download the zoo app for navigation, but be aware it can drain your phone battery. Consider renting an electric cart if little legs get tired on the zoo's hills.
💰 Budget Travelers
Visiting on a weekday morning can mean fewer crowds and potentially more active animals, maximizing your experience without extra cost.
❤️ Couples & Date Nights
Consider a behind-the-scenes tour for a more intimate animal encounter, making your date night truly unforgettable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Fiona the Hippo
Visitors flock to the Hippoquarium to catch a glimpse of Fiona and her family, often witnessing her playful interactions and impressive size. Seeing Fiona is a highlight for many visitors, and the zoo often provides updates on her activities and milestones. Her story is a testament to the incredible work done by zoological institutions in animal care and conservation. The zoo's partnership with organizations like Project Dragonfly further emphasizes their commitment to education and conservation efforts, with Fiona often being a central figure in these initiatives.
Exploring the Botanical Gardens
During different seasons, the botanical gardens transform, offering unique visual experiences. From the vibrant blooms of spring tulips and roses to the lush greenery of summer and the autumnal colors, there's always something new to admire. These gardens are not just for aesthetic appeal; they play a crucial role in the zoo's conservation efforts, providing food and shelter for animals and serving as living laboratories for research and education.
Family Adventures at the Zoo
Parents often praise the zoo for its shaded areas and misting fans, which are lifesavers on hot summer days, making the experience more comfortable for little ones. While the hilly terrain requires comfortable footwear, the zoo provides a stimulating environment where children can learn about animals and nature in a hands-on way. Special events throughout the year, like the Festival of Lights, also add extra magic for young visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit