Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

"The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most respected zoos in the United States. Home to over 500 animals and 3,000 plant species, it combines historic charm, award-winning conservation, and family-friendly fun into an unforgettable wildlife experience."

Recommended for

Families with children
Enjoy hands-on exhibits, animal encounters, and fun rides like the zoo train and carousel

Animal lovers
Explore diverse habitats including Gorilla World, Hippo Cove, and Cat Canyon

Conservation advocates
Learn about endangered species, breeding programs, and global wildlife efforts

Garden enthusiasts
Stroll through curated botanical displays and native wetland ecosystems

Things to See & Do

Gorilla World: View gorillas up close in one of the world’s first naturalistic habitats, plus a hands-on learning center
Hippo Cove: Watch hippos swim inches from your face in the immersive underwater viewing area
Rhino Reserve: Discover open-air habitats with rhinos, flamingos, antelope, and more
Cat Canyon: See cougars, snow leopards, and tigers—part of global conservation initiatives
Africa Exhibit: Experience a safari-like adventure with lions, giraffes, ostriches, and cheetahs
Giraffe Ridge: Get eye-level with giraffes and feed them during designated times
Painted Dog Valley: Explore one of the zoo’s most scenic habitats with endangered African wild dogs
Kroger Lord of the Arctic: Observe polar bears playing and swimming in an icy wonderland
Night Hunters: Step into a dark world of nocturnal animals like clouded leopards and vampire bats
The Reptile House: Visit the oldest zoo building in the U.S. and meet snakes, lizards, and amphibians
World of Insects: Walk through a butterfly house and award-winning insect exhibits
Wings of the World: Encounter birds from every continent in environments ranging from wetlands to deserts
Wildlife Canyon: View rare hooved animals like camels, Sumatran rhinos, and capybara
Wolf Woods: Walk forest trails to see wolves, river otters, and explore a research cabin
P&G Discovery Forest: A rainforest-themed indoor play and learning space for younger visitors
Spaulding Children’s Zoo: Pet farm animals, enjoy a nursery, and relax in a family picnic area

Educational Programs

Zoo School: A four-year college prep program for Cincinnati students, focusing on wildlife careers
Animal Encounters: Daily opportunities to touch or feed animals and learn from zookeepers
Keeper Talks & Shows: Attend interactive presentations throughout the zoo’s major exhibits
Conservation Partnerships: Learn about global efforts through the Lindner Center for Conservation

Good to Know

Style: Historic charm meets immersive habitats and modern conservation efforts
Dining: Base Camp Café (greenest restaurant in America), smokehouse, funnel cakes, ice cream stands
Rides: Guided zoo train, carousel, and 4D theater offer fun for all ages
Historic Site: Opened in 1875, with original zoo buildings like the Reptile House still in use

Map & Location