The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a Family Access Membership, a discounted membership category designed to reduce economic barriers for Ohio residents who qualify for the Ohio Direction EBT card. This membership provides an opportunity for families to enjoy the wonders of the Columbus Zoo at a more affordable price.
What is the Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership?
The Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership is a discounted membership option that allows Ohio residents who qualify for the Ohio Direction EBT card to access the zoo’s facilities and amenities at a reduced cost. This membership is specifically tailored to make the Columbus Zoo more accessible to families who may not have the financial means to afford a regular family membership.
Eligibility and Cost
To qualify for the Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership, guests must provide proof of Ohio residency and income eligibility. This can be demonstrated by presenting a valid Ohio Direction EBT card, which must be the most current card available from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS).
The cost of the Family Access Membership is $64.99, which is significantly lower than the regular Family Membership price of $149.99. This discounted membership grants access to the zoo for up to two primary named adult members in the same household, plus either dependent children or grandchildren up to the age of 21 (not both).
Membership Benefits
The Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership includes all the benefits of a regular Family Membership, such as:
- Unlimited admission to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
- Discounts on food, merchandise, and special events
- Early access to the zoo during select hours
- Reciprocal admission to over 200 other zoos and aquariums across the country
However, it’s important to note that the Family Access Membership cannot be upgraded or credited towards a different membership category. Participants must maintain their eligibility by providing proof of Ohio residency and income eligibility each time they renew their membership.
Accessing the Family Access Membership
To purchase the Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership, guests must visit the Membership/Season Pass Processing office at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and provide a valid photo ID demonstrating proof of Ohio residency, as well as their Ohio Direction EBT card. Alternatively, guests can upload their qualifying documents online.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the Family Access Membership, you can contact the Columbus Zoo’s membership team at (614) 724-3400 and select option 1.
Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium reserves the right to cancel any membership if the bearer violates park safety and security rules or if the bearer has been convicted of any crime that could pose a threat to the safety of guests, including sex crimes or if the bearer is required to be registered as a sex offender in any jurisdiction.
The Columbus Zoo is open every day of the year, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Parking for the zoo is $10 per vehicle and can be paid at the parking booth upon entry or purchased online in advance. Zoo members, including those with the Family Access Membership, can park for free.
Conclusion
The Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership is a valuable program that provides affordable access to one of Ohio’s premier zoological destinations. By reducing economic barriers, this membership allows more families to experience the wonders of the Columbus Zoo and create lasting memories. If you qualify for the Ohio Direction EBT card, consider taking advantage of this opportunity to explore the Columbus Zoo and its diverse array of animal exhibits and attractions.
References:
– Columbus Zoo Membership FAQ
– Columbus Zoo Hours and Rates
– Columbus Zoo Family Access Membership
– Become a Member of the Columbus Zoo
– Columbus Zoo Membership Options