Cincinnati Zoo in January offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors, with a variety of attractions and activities that celebrate the winter season. From the captivating Penguin Parades to the cozy indoor exhibits, the zoo provides a delightful escape from the cold and a chance to explore the wonders of nature.
Zoo Hours and Admission
The Cincinnati Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout January, February, and March, making it the perfect destination for a winter adventure. During the Penguin Days promotion, which runs from January 8 to March 8, 2024, visitors can enjoy discounted admission, making it an affordable option for families and individuals alike.
Penguin Days and Parades
One of the highlights of a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo in January is the Penguin Parades. Every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday Monday at 11 a.m., visitors can witness the adorable king penguins march through the zoo. This unique experience will continue until March 8, 2024, before the aging king penguins retire.
| Penguin Parade Schedule |
|---|
| First Parade: Saturday, January 13th |
| Last Parade: Sunday, February 25th |
| Time: 11:00 AM |
Other Animal Encounters
In addition to the Penguin Parades, the Cincinnati Zoo offers a variety of other animal encounters during the winter months. Visitors can enjoy unique otter training sessions, witness the feeding of Mexican wolves, and get up close and personal with birds during their flights.
Winter Animals and Exhibits
The Cincinnati Zoo is home to a variety of animals that thrive in the winter weather. Visitors can observe the red pandas, snow leopards, Arctic foxes, and reindeer, all of which have unique adaptations that allow them to survive the cold.
Red Pandas
The red pandas, with their thick fur and adaptations to keep them warm, are a must-see during a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo in January.
Snow Leopards
The snow leopards, Renji and Nubo, can be found in their newly updated habitat, which features a large tree, cave, and climbing structures.
Arctic Foxes
Visitors can observe the Arctic foxes, Sly and Fifi, and learn about their thick fur coats and other adaptations that help them thrive in the cold.
Reindeer
The reindeer at the Cincinnati Zoo are fascinating to observe, with their unique adaptations, such as warming the air they breathe and having hollow outer hairs for insulation.
Indoor Exhibits
While the outdoor exhibits are a highlight of a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo in January, the zoo also offers a variety of indoor exhibits that provide a cozy and warm respite from the cold. Visitors can explore the Dragons exhibit, the Manatee Springs exhibit, the Wings of Wonder Bird House, the Reptile House, and the World of the Insect exhibit.
Additional Tips
When visiting the Cincinnati Zoo in January, it’s important to dress warmly, as some of the exhibits are outdoors. Additionally, visitors should check the weather forecast, as the Penguin Parades may be canceled if the temperature rises above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
References
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/walking-in-a-winter-wonderland/
- https://www.explore.com/1465097/cincinnati-zoo-visit-winter-reason-penguin-parade-days/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/winter-is-here-and-so-are-these-cold-weather-loving-animals/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/events/penguin-days/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/cincinnati/comments/afvlp5/zoo_in_the_winter/