The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and the Toledo Zoo are two of the most popular zoos in Ohio, each offering unique experiences for visitors. In this article, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison of these two zoos, covering cost, timings, rates, value, and other quantifiable details to help you decide which one is the best fit for your next zoo adventure.
Cost Comparison: Columbus Zoo vs Toledo Zoo
When it comes to admission prices, there is a slight difference between the two zoos:
| Admission Type | Columbus Zoo and Aquarium | Toledo Zoo |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $21.99 | $19.00 |
| Child (Ages 3-9/2-11) | $16.99 | $14.00 |
| Children under 2 | Free | Free |
| Parking | $10 per vehicle | $7 per vehicle |
As you can see, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has a higher admission price for both adults and children, but the Toledo Zoo offers a more affordable option, especially for families.
Timings: Columbus Zoo vs Toledo Zoo
The operating hours for the two zoos also differ slightly:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day), and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (rest of the year).
- Toledo Zoo: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has extended hours during the peak summer season, allowing visitors more time to explore the vast array of exhibits and attractions.
Membership Rates: Columbus Zoo vs Toledo Zoo
Both zoos offer a variety of membership options for visitors who plan to visit frequently:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Memberships start at $85 per year for an individual and go up to $225 per year for a family plus membership (includes up to 6 people).
- Toledo Zoo: Memberships start at $60 per year for an individual and go up to $150 per year for a family membership (includes up to 6 people).
The Toledo Zoo’s membership rates are more affordable, making it a more accessible option for families and frequent visitors.
Value Comparison: Columbus Zoo vs Toledo Zoo
When it comes to the value of the visitor experience, both zoos offer a wide range of exhibits and attractions:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Home to over 10,000 animals from around the world, with popular exhibits like the Heart of Africa and the Aquarium. The zoo also includes the Zoombezi Bay water park, which is an additional cost.
- Toledo Zoo: Also home to over 10,000 animals, with exhibits like the Aquarium, the Arctic Encounter, and the Nature’s Neighborhood (designed for young children).
While the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has a larger overall footprint, the Toledo Zoo offers a more compact and manageable layout, making it easier to navigate for some visitors.
Quantifiable Details: Columbus Zoo vs Toledo Zoo
When it comes to the size and visitor numbers, the two zoos differ significantly:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Covers 580 acres and sees over 2.3 million visitors annually.
- Toledo Zoo: Covers 51 acres and sees over 1 million visitors annually.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s larger size and higher visitor numbers suggest a more expansive and diverse collection of exhibits and attractions, but the Toledo Zoo’s more manageable size may be preferred by some visitors.
Recent Highlights: Columbus Zoo vs Toledo Zoo
Both zoos have celebrated notable events in recent years:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: In 2021, the zoo welcomed a new baby elephant, the first elephant birth at the zoo in over 10 years.
- Toledo Zoo: In 2020, the zoo celebrated the birth of a new baby gorilla, the first gorilla birth at the zoo in over 20 years.
These exciting events showcase the ongoing efforts of both zoos to expand and diversify their animal populations, providing visitors with unique and memorable experiences.
In conclusion, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and the Toledo Zoo each offer their own unique advantages and experiences for zoo enthusiasts. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the specific attractions and exhibits that interest you the most.
References:
– https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/central-ohio-news/the-best-zoos-and-aquariums-in-ohio-according-to-visitors/
– https://www.reddit.com/r/Ohio/comments/8nzr2q/which_zoo_columbus_cincinnati_toledo_st_louis/
– https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-us-zoo/
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g51048-i1043-k4122157-Toldeo_Zoo_or_Columbus_Zoo-Toledo_Ohio.html
– https://zoowithus.com/2019/08/01/zoo-vs-zoo-ohio/