The Columbus Zoo is a popular destination for animal lovers and zoo enthusiasts, and for those with gluten-free dietary needs, the zoo offers a variety of options to ensure a enjoyable and worry-free visit.
Gluten-Free Dining Options at the Columbus Zoo
At the Columbus Zoo, there are several gluten-free dining options available for visitors. The Congo Grill, located in the Congo section of the zoo, offers a range of gluten-free menu items, including:
- Gluten-free mac and cheese
- Boneless chicken wings
- Gluten-free sandwich buns
In the Asia section, the Lakeside Grill offers a vegetarian black bean burger option that is also gluten-free.
Upscale Gluten-Free Dining at the Zoofari Culinary Experience
For those looking for a more elevated dining experience, the Columbus Zoo’s Zoofari Culinary Experience offers gluten-free and dairy-free options. This exclusive event takes place in the zoo’s Heart of Africa region and features:
- Custom cocktails
- Unlimited food samplings around Conservation Lake
- Gourmet treats at Shores Park
- A custom menu to cap off the night at Water’s Edge Pavilion
- Animal encounters
- A heartfelt gift for Safari Club ticketholders
Considerations for Guests with Severe Dietary Restrictions
While the Columbus Zoo does offer gluten-free options, it’s important to note that there may be a risk of cross-contamination in the food preparation areas. Guests with severe dietary restrictions should exercise caution and consider bringing their own food or contacting the zoo’s food services department for specific accommodations.
Pricing and Hours of Operation
The Columbus Zoo offers a range of pricing options for visitors:
- General admission for adults: $21.99
- Children (ages 3-9) and seniors (ages 60 and up): $16.99
- Children under 3: Free
The Zoofari Culinary Experience is a separate event with its own pricing, starting at $250 per person for Safari Club ticketholders.
The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer months, with Wildlights (the zoo’s holiday light display) taking place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Wild Burger location, which offers traditional burgers, veggie burgers, and more, is open daily during Wildlights.
Conclusion
The Columbus Zoo is a fantastic destination for zoo enthusiasts, and for those with gluten-free dietary needs, the zoo offers a variety of options to ensure a enjoyable and worry-free visit. From the gluten-free menu items at the Congo Grill and Lakeside Grill to the upscale Zoofari Culinary Experience, the Columbus Zoo caters to the needs of all its visitors.
References:
– Columbus Zoo Food and Shops
– Well and Well Traveled – Best on the Map: Ohio’s Largest Zoo, the Columbus Zoo
– Columbus Zoo Wild Burger
– Columbus Zoo Zoofari Culinary Experience
– TripAdvisor – Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Reviews