Ohio Zoos and Aquariums

By Marvin Johnson On May 27, 2021

CLEVELAND (WJW) – The state of Ohio is home to world-class zoos and aquariums. So plan a trip, pack the kids, and check out one of these places:

African safari game park

This Port Clinton attraction offers drive-through safaris so you can stay in your own car and see zebras, giraffes, camels, and more. Wall-by-safari adventures are also available.

(Courtesy photo of the African Safari Wildlife Park)

Akron Zoo

Akron Zoo has more than 1,000 animals, including endangered otters, Humboldt penguins, snow leopards, and jaguars. The new living space of the Lehner Family Foundation in Wild Asia opens on May 29th and houses two tigers, red pandas and gibbons with white cheeks.

(Courtesy photo of Akron Zoo)

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The Cincinnati Zoo is home to the famous hippopotamus Fiona and an adorable duo: Kris the cheetah and her companion dog Remus. Other habitats include African Penguin Point, Lemur Lookout, and Manatee Springs.

(Courtesy photo of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens)

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo sits on 183 acres and features habitats such as the Asian highlands, Australian Adventure, and the RainForest. Feed a giraffe in the African savannah or approach the elephants at the African Elephant Crossing.

(Courtesy photo of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo)

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Columbus Zoo has more than 10,000 animals in six different regions, including the Congo Expedition, Asia Quest, and Heart of Africa. It is home to two massive Alaskan brown bear brothers: Brutus and Buckeye.

(Courtesy photo of Columbus Zoo)

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

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The hippos at Cincinnati Zoo get along well

The aquarium is located in the old West Bank power station of the apartments and has nine galleries and more than 300 species. The highlight is the sea tube and shark gallery with three types of sharks, stingrays and eels.

(Courtesy photo of Greater Cleveland Aquarium)

The wilderness

The wilderness is nearly 10,000 acres in Cumberland with rhinos, antelopes, cheetahs and African painted dogs. It is one of the great conservation centers in the world.

(Courtesy photo of The Wilds)

Toledo Zoo and Aquarium

The Toledo Zoo has more than 10,000 animals representing more than 720 species. Make sure to check out Penguin Beach, Tiger Terrace, and Primate Forrest.

(Courtesy photo of Toledo Zoo)

Bonus:

Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium

It is a two and a half hour drive from Cleveland. It features polar bears, Amur tigers, black rhinoceros, cheetahs, flamingos and Masai giraffes, California sea lions, and more.

(Courtesy photo of Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium)

Newport Aquarium

Across the Ohio River from Cincinnati is the Newport Aquarium. There is a lot to see including the Amazon Tunnel, Coral Reef, and Gator Alley. Guests can interact on the Shark Touch and Tide Pool Touch exhibits.

(Courtesy photo of Newport Aquarium)

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