By Jen Fields, Director of Communications

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay continue to enhance their commitment to inclusion and sensory accessibility, offering special experiences that help guests of all ages and abilities connect with wildlife at the Zoo and enjoy the excitement of the waterpark at Zoombezi Bay.

Families, now through December, are invited to take part in a variety of sensory-friendly events, in addition to the Zoo’s ongoing Quiet Hours and other accessibility initiatives.

Blind, Deaf, & DeafBlind Accessibility Day

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Sept. 7; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

In collaboration with Columbus Speech & Hearing, the Columbus Zoo will host a special day for guests to enjoy the Zoo in a more accessible environment for individuals who are Blind, Deaf, and DeafBlind. Guests are encouraged to stop by the event information tent near the globe fountain just inside the entrance for event details and way-finding assistance.

Highlights include:

Local community partners in Conservation Courtyard offering hands-on activities and learning experiences.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters at all animal presentations and Keeper Talks, along with hearing devices for guests who have not reserved one in advance. Keeper Talks are presented by Fifth Third Bank.

Sensory kits with noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and fidget devices available at Guest Relations for a $10 refundable deposit.

Regular Zoo admission applies, and the Zoo will remain open to all guests during this event. Please note that necessary safety sounds/visuals will remain.

Animal Presentations with ASL Interpretation

11 a.m. – Sea Lion Training Tales (Lighthouse Theater, Adventure Cove)

12 p.m. – Encounter the Wild (Lighthouse Theater, Adventure Cove)

Keeper Talks with ASL Interpretation

9:45 a.m. – Tigers or Pallas’ Cats (Asia Quest)

10:30 a.m. – Lions (Heart of Africa)

11:15 a.m. – Polar Bears, Brown Bears, or Arctic Fox (Polar Frontier)

1 p.m. – Tasmanian Devils (Australia and the Islands)

1:45 p.m. – Orangutan (Australia and the Islands)

2:30 p.m. – Penguins or Aldabra Tortoise (Shores and Aquarium)

Ongoing Quiet Hours Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo offers Quiet Hours on the first Sunday of every month during the first four hours of operation, providing a more sensory-friendly experience with reduced sounds, music, and visual stimuli. Quiet Hours are included with regular Zoo admission and are complimentary for members.

Sensory-Friendly Light Stroll

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Nov. 18; 5:30–8:30 p.m.

This event is open to everyone, and pre-purchased tickets required as space is limited.

Sensory-Friendly Santa Experience

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Dec. 7; 12-4 p.m.

This event is open to everyone, and pre-purchased tickets required as space is limited.

Zoo Accessibility

The Columbus Zoo offers a variety of accessibility resources year-round, including:

Social Stories and Sensory Maps to help guests prepare for their visit and identify sensory-friendly locations.

Sensory Bags with headphones, sunglasses, fidget items, and communication cards, available for checkout at Guest Relations (refundable deposit required).

ADA-Accessible Rides and Attractions, including the 4-D Theater, Columbus Zoo Train Ride, Grand Carousel, and more.

Adult Changing Station in the Adventure Cove family restroom, installed through a community-driven project led by a Westerville teen in honor of her brother.

For more information about the Columbus Zoo’s events, conservation initiatives, educational programs, and more, follow the Zoo’s social media accounts and visit at ColumbusZoo.org.

Additional information about the Zoo’s inclusion initiatives can be found by visiting the Zoo’s Accessibility page or by calling 614-645-3400.