Trifter

If you’re in the Columbus area, you definitely need to pay a visit to the Columbus Zoo.  Situated in the suburb of Powell, OH, the Columbus Zoo is home to thousands of animals representing numerous different species.  The Zoo participates in several Species Survival Plans, making in an important partner in the nationwide attempt to save endangered species from extinction.  The wide variety of animal species that you can see, as well as the great educational benefit for children, makes this ideal vacation spot for anyone seeking an adventure in the Animal Kingdom.

In visiting the zoo, I recommend pacing yourself, as it can be very easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer size of the establishment.  Furthermore, I recommend taking at least one break during the day for eating, ideally when you have finished with approximately one half of the zoo.  This shouldn’t be too hard to measure, as the zoo is divided into two parts, separated by Riverside Drive.  I would recommend taking a break–perhaps grabbing a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants scattered throughout the zoo–before proceeding into the second half.

I recommend starting in the North America section of the Zoo.  Here, you will find such interesting wildlife as Grizzly Bears, Mexican Wolves, River Otters, and many more, each living and engaging in an exhibit specifically designed to look like its native habitat.  From North America, it’s a short walk to the new Asia Quest, where you can see such endangered animal species as the Amur Tiger, a pheasant aviary, Reticulated Python (named “Fluffy,”) and the Red Panda.  Also be sure to visit the elephants, rhinos, and African lions, located just across the way from the Asia Quest exhibit.

Passing under Riverside Drive (which separates the two halves of the zoo,) you come into the other half of the zoo.  Once here, you can either proceed to the African Forest (where you can eat in the Congo River Food Court,) or you can go the other way and visit the Shores Exhibit, which features many rare animals, including the endangered West Indian Manatee, Humboldt Penguins, the many species of fish in the Aquarium, and several different types of snakes and lizards in the Reptile Building.  Following the path, you then enter into Australia and the Islands, which features several different animals from Oceania including several species of kangaroo, the rare echidna (the spiny anteater,) orangutans, Asian small-clawed otters and many more.  Finally, visit the African Forest, where you will come face-to-face with man’s closest relative the bonbo, spot gorillas outside, wander through the Aviary and even spot the rare Okapi and leopard. 

All told, the Columbus Zoo is one of the finest examples of animal conservation in the state of Ohio, and indeed in the country.  In addition to being accredited by the National Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Columbus Zoo has also been recognized as the #1 Zoo in America by the USA Travel Guide.  What’s more, the Zoo is the ideal place to visit for anyone of any age, from infant to elder.  So what are you waiting for?  Get out there and have an adventure!