Welcome to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, where you can experience the perfect combination of nature and wildlife. This popular tourist destination is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, and it has been recognized as one of the best zoos in the world. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, meet exotic animals, and learn about conservation efforts that are making a difference.
Top 10 reasons why visitors should visit:
Meet over 500 animal species from around the world
Enjoy interactive experiences like feeding giraffes or petting goats at the children's zoo
Explore the beautifully curated botanical gardens with over 3,000 plant species
Witness the incredible acrobatic skills of the cheetahs during daily runs
Visit the manatees, the zoo's beloved ambassadors for conservation of aquatic life
Attend various animal encounters and shows throughout the day
Take part in seasonal events like Zoo Brew, HallZOOween, and PNC Festival of Lights
Learn about the zoo's conservation efforts to protect endangered species
Enjoy the newly renovated Elephant Reserve exhibit
Have a fun and educational experience for the whole family!
History:
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden was founded in 1875, and it was originally named the Cincinnati Zoological Gardens. It was opened with the goal of creating a facility where people could observe exotic animals in a natural habitat. Over the years, the zoo has grown to become one of the largest and most respected in the world, with a focus on conservation and education.
What a Visit is Like:
Arriving in Cincinnati on a warm spring morning, my heart was set on one destination: the renowned Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Acquiring the entry ticket was a thrilling initiation into the day's adventure, each printed animal on it promising an encounter with the wild. The anticipation escalated as I joined a line brimming with wide-eyed children and excited families. The weather was humid which I am not used to, but I was not going to miss my chance to see the famous hippos. I have no idea when I would be in Cincinnati next after all.
Upon entering, the sounds of the city were replaced by an orchestra of animal calls and rustling leaves. The immediate sensory embrace was overwhelming yet inviting. My first encounter was with the flamingo exhibit. The sight of these vibrant, pink birds radiating against the backdrop of a clear blue sky was the perfect way to start my journey. Their nonchalance in the midst of human curiosity was a lesson in poise.
As I ambled into Gorilla World, I was instantly struck by the profound wisdom radiating from these incredible beings. Their strength and calm exuded an energy that reverberated within me, stirring a primal respect for the remarkable resemblances we share. I remembered the news story about Harambe, and I felt so sad about such an impossible situation that was.
Then, the anticipation built as I made my way towards Hippo Cove. The hippos, their large, round bodies juxtaposing with their agile underwater ballet, offered a spectacle that was nothing short of captivating. At last I was face to face with Fiona. The tanks had tilapia in them and they would eat the hippo dung.
The zoo, in its carefully curated wildness, created a symphony for the senses: the melodic chirping of the birds, the rustle of leaves under the foot, the vibrant bursts of colors in every direction, the smell of nature – a blend of earth, foliage, and the distinct aroma of the animal kingdom. Between every exhibit of animals is amazing flora as part of the botanical garden. There was a cornucopia of fragrances from various blossoms subtly transforming the environment into a serene paradise. It was a testament to nature's unparalleled artistry.
Moving through the park, the African Savannah offered an immersive experience. I felt like a distant observer peeking into the daily lives of giraffes and zebras, the scent of dried hay in the air providing a tangible connection to the wild African plains.
As the day waned, the Cat Canyon came alive with feline calls, their low roars echoing through the cooling air, adding to the mystique of the fading daylight. Their majesty left a lasting impression on me as I prepared to bid farewell to this remarkable haven.
Exiting the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, I took one final look at this place that had offered me a journey across continents and through diverse habitats, all in a single day. I picked up a magnate and stuffed hippo from the gift shop as a way to remember one the world's most famous zoos. The sensory experiences, the encounters, and the unveiled secrets of the animal kingdom filled my heart with a sense of gratitude.
Hippos:
The Cincinnati Zoo is home to some of the most famous and beloved hippos in the world. Fiona, a Nile hippopotamus, was born six weeks premature on January 24, 2017, and quickly became an internet sensation due to her adorable antics and the dedication of the zoo staff to keep her healthy.
Fiona's story was followed by millions of people around the world as she grew from a tiny, fragile calf to a strong and healthy hippo. The zoo staff worked around the clock to care for her, providing her with specialized formula and physical therapy to help her gain strength and mobility.
Visitors to the Cincinnati Zoo can see Fiona and her parents in the Hippo Cove exhibit, which features a 70,000-gallon pool and a spacious outdoor area for the hippos to play and bask in the sun. The exhibit also includes interactive features that allow visitors to learn more about these amazing animals and their habitat.
In addition to Fiona and her family, the Cincinnati Zoo is also home to a number of other hippopotamuses, including a group of pygmy hippos. These smaller hippos are native to West Africa and are considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting.
Overall, the hippo exhibit at the Cincinnati Zoo is a must-see for animal lovers and anyone who wants to learn more about these fascinating creatures. The zoo staff are dedicated to providing the best possible care for their hippos, and it shows in the health and happiness of these amazing animals.
Harambe the Gorilla Incident:
Harambe was a western lowland gorilla who lived at the Cincinnati Zoo from 2014 until his death in 2016. He became famous around the world after an incident in May 2016 when a child fell into his enclosure and Harambe was shot by the zoo's response team to protect the child's safety.
Although the incident was tragic, Harambe's life and legacy at the Cincinnati Zoo are worth celebrating. He was born at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, in 1999 and was transferred to the Cincinnati Zoo in 2014 as part of a breeding program. Harambe was known for his unique personality and playful behavior, and he quickly became a beloved member of the zoo's gorilla family.
Visitors to the Cincinnati Zoo can still learn about Harambe and his life at the zoo through various exhibits and displays. The Gorilla World exhibit, where Harambe lived, features a 1.75-acre outdoor habitat with trees, grassy areas, and a waterfall. The exhibit is home to several other gorillas, including Harambe's half-brother Mshindi.
The zoo has also established the Harambe Wildlife Conservation Fund in memory of Harambe. The fund supports wildlife conservation efforts around the world and aims to continue Harambe's legacy of promoting the welfare of animals and their habitats.
Although Harambe's death was a tragic event, the Cincinnati Zoo remains committed to its mission of promoting the conservation of wildlife and their habitats. Harambe's story serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting endangered species and preserving the natural world for future generations.
10 interesting facts:
The Cincinnati Zoo is home to the largest publicly accessible insectarium in North America.
Fiona, the famous hippopotamus who became a social media sensation, was born at the Cincinnati Zoo.
The zoo has the largest indoor reptile house in the world.
Cincinnati Zoo's bird house has been ranked the best zoo bird house in North America.
The zoo is the birthplace of the first California Condor to be born in captivity and released into the wild.
The botanical garden features a collection of rare and endangered plant species from around the world.
The Cincinnati Zoo has the first and largest accredited zoo-based animal nutrition center in the world.
The zoo's cat canyon exhibit is home to the largest indoor feline breeding facility in the world.
The zoo has a program called "Plant for Pollinators" that encourages visitors to plant pollinator-friendly plants in their own yards.
The zoo offers a variety of unique animal experiences, such as painting with elephants or behind-the-scenes tours.
Insider travel tips:
The zoo offers discounted admission on weekdays during the off-season.
If you plan to visit during peak season, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid lines.
Don't miss the daily animal encounters and shows.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
Consider becoming a zoo member for discounted admission and special benefits.
Check out the zoo's website for seasonal events and discounts.
The zoo is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Food and drinks are available for purchase inside the zoo, but you can also bring your own snacks and picnic in designated areas.
The top things a person can do for free there:
Visit the garden areas and take a peaceful walk among the beautiful flowers and trees.
Attend animal encounters and shows included with general admission.
Explore the Children's Zoo and meet farm animals up close.
Take advantage of free parking available at the zoo.
Money saving tips:
Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and avoid waiting in line.
Check for discounts through your employer or organizations such as AAA or AARP.
Consider purchasing a membership if you plan on visiting the zoo multiple times in a year.
Getting to Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden:
The zoo is located at 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220. It is easily accessible by car and parking is available on site for a fee. The zoo is also accessible by public transportation via the Metro bus system.
Best Places to Eat Nearby:
The zoo has several dining options on site, including the Base Camp Cafe, Safari Grill, and Watering Hole Cafe.
Hours and Reservations:
The zoo is open year-round, with hours varying by season. It's best to check the zoo's website for the most up-to-date hours and to make reservations in advance.
Safety Tips:
Stay on the designated paths and follow all posted signs and warnings.
Do not feed or touch the animals.
Keep a close eye on children at all times.
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families. With its rich history, diverse animal collection, and beautiful botanical gardens, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to take advantage of the insider travel tips and money-saving suggestions to make the most out of your visit. Happy travels!
Disclaimer: The information in this post was factual to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Please call the location or visit their website to get the latest and most up-to-date information before visiting.