Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Reviews

Zoo was great, especially with all the lights that were set up. Am really looking forward to seeing the zoo in the daytime and when it's a bit warmer so that more animals are out

Good visit to the zoo today and was a bit odd with all the covid precautions in place. I feel this zoo needs a big overhaul though. The paths and exhibits need a better flow and update. When compared to other zoo's in the area, this one is lacking. Would go back if in the area and needed something to do but I'm 2 hours from toledo, columbus, and Indy too.

Very nice zoo. Covered parking. Fair prices. Very nice spacious exhibits. Abundant food venues with variety and tasty food. Nice gift shop.

This was truly one of the most beautiful zoos I had gotten a chance to visit. The animals were all so content and happy in their habitats and everything at the zoo was clearly in their best interest. From compostable utensils and locally sourced food in the cafe to the solar panels over the parking lot, it was very clear that Cincinnati Zoo is taking their ecological impact very seriously.

Beautiful Zoo! Spent three hours walking the park and could have easily spent more time. Limited open food service areas because of covid. I would honestly recommend bringing a lunch during this time.

Best zoo I've ever been to. There is an obvious effort to bring the animals up close and personal, and all of the animals look very happy.

The Cincinnati Zoo is by far the coolest, biggest and most unique zoos I've been to in my life so far, and probably won't be topped. We spent around 4 hours here and all of it was unique exhibits and animals. It's the only zoo I've seen with a kangaroo exhibit, and the kangaroos aren't caged, meaning they can walk by you. I know the harambe incident was 4 years ago but a memorial or statue to pay respects to him would have been nice to see.

I love this zoo! I take my kids here every year and it is well worth the 2 hr drive I have to make.
They have a good variety of animals and it is laid out in a way that is easy to navigate.

Loved this zoo. Its rated one of the top zoo's in the US and I can see why. All the animals were out and it was awesome.

Amazing zoo. Love the "Africa" section with lions and cheetahs and also the polar bears. Gardens are incredible as well. Friendly for all, but expect a lot of walking. While shaded by the plants it gets hot in summer. Membership definitely worth it.

The zoo offers a wide variety of animals to view, as well as a train to ride and an amazing array of flowers that bloom all summer long. All the food items offered are quite expensive, so bring your own snacks if you are on a budget. Skyline, La Rosa's pizza and Graeter's ice cream at all available.

Good, but some places were grown up around the exhibits and you couldn't see the animals.

Love this place. Always something new. Kiddos love it and the staff is helpful. We have annual passes and go 10 or 15 times a year. Also, very helpful advice in the urnals to not pee in the river...#stayfrosty

Large zoo, lots of exhibits. Visited in the winter on a warm day, some of the animals were missing due to season, but I think in the summer the place is awesome and probably packed ! Overall great experience! Easy parking, $10. General admission was $26.

Very nice place to visit my 2 sons and 3 grandkids are enjoying all the animals. Its slot of walking .if your not a member its expensive. Be prepared.

The plants and foliage at the zoo are just as glorious to see as the animals. On a cooler day like today, the animals were more present. Many people wearing masks.

Nice place. Was happy to cross it off of my bucket list but it can be kinda confusing when walking around, lots of paths but otherwise it was great!

Beautiful. Very clean. All employees were wearing mask. Not many guest were wearing mask.

My family and I love this place. It helps we have a membership so we don't have to do the whole place in one day. It's also good for hill walking. I like to leave my family and go forma.quick mile walk.

Awesome zoo. They keep it nice and clean. The animals are well treated. The reptile house is full of cool critters you dont normally see. Cant wait to see the tortises in the new outdoor enclosure.

The Cincinnati Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country. Not only is it obvious that they're focused on the well-being of their own animals, they also work with zoos across the country on preservation and research. If you're looking for a fun gift for a special occasion, the zoo offers behind the scenes experiences, including an adult sleepover, which are amazing.

The Cincinnati Zoo is an incredible place for people of all ages. The grounds are immaculate. The animals are well cared for. The zoo is a must visit for visitors and locals. Let's go to the Cincinnati Zoo!

I have been to zoos all over the country and beyond. From the realistic habitats... to Fionna... to the botanical gardens... to the free concerts amid millions of tulips... our zoo is awesome!

Wonderful family-friendly environment, even during these troubling times!

Visited on a cold wet(and therefore very quiet) day, We had a great time with the exhibits, and the staff was wonderful. Highlights including Manatees and a few Kea's out with their handlers.

A very nice zoo, the animals look well taken care of, which is honestly what I really want to see when I go to a zoo.

Very nice zoo. Animals seem to be well taken care of and the place in general was well kept. The cartoonish map they give you does not seem quite accurate. It is hard to tell if it is a walk through area or if the trail stops because of small pictures of trees. There is a lot of circling around. There are signs telling you where to go but it lacks signs on how to get out. Difficult to find your way back. A lot of walking if you use a cane. I did get to see what I cane to see. Fiona. She is adorable.

We hadn't been to the zoo since February and we love the zoo. The reservation process is easy. It wasn't crowded. We had a great time seeing the animals and riding the train. We bought popcorn, cotton candy and slushies and enjoyed a snack! Perfect!

Great to see all the animals and the festival of lights was great.

beautiful zoo with lots of animals, was a cold/cloudy day when I was there and not many animals were out which was disappointing for my kids. I would go again when its nicer out

Love chasing the fat squirrels here! If you catch one you get to keep it. But that's easier said than done.

I love this zoo. It s conservation efforts, animal education, and general environmental awareness is amazing!

Love it so much I have a membership. Animals have freedom to roam and the zoo is environmentally ahead of the pack. Sometimes I go only to see the beautiful flowers!

Pretty fun experience. The zoo management has no idea how to handle long lines of people wanting to buy tickets. Buy them on line, or wait in line for 2 hours. Also.... Concessions was out of items. Poor management and planning. Also... If you buy the overpriced items in the gift store, you have to buy a bag, unless you want to carry your items individually on the hike back to your car. They should just factor in the cost of the bags into the product sales price. Poor management and poor business decision. See a theme?

Loved getting reaquainted with the zoo. As great as I remembered but sure seems like the hills got more plentiful

Thank you Cincinnati Zoo for the fun day with the family! First time with membership passes (totally worth it) and it was a nice day in a clean, fun, and educational Zoo.

Not very big. Great level of interactive things for kids. We didn't get to see Fiona, but we did get to see her mommy.

The Cincinnati zoo is always a great place to spend the day with your family. The train ride is a must everytime we go.

Amazing! Both of the kids loved it! We were there from Open until Close! Sooooo much to see and do, walking around feels like such an adventure the pathways are the coolest laid out paths I have seen! It was fun, never a dull moment. Very impressive, better than Toledo!

Great place to view animals and the lights...would recommend to anyone who has not been

My Wife and I are somewhat zoo pros. We have been to numerous zoos around the country, and made a special trip for both the Cincinnati and Columbus Zoos.

We found the Cincinnati zoo to be a good time with a lot of really good exhibits and animals.

Pros:
The zoo is very large, and there were a large number of animals to see.
Most of the exhibits allow you to easily view the animals.
Beautiful flowers everywhere
Cheaper entry (with reciprocal zoo membership)

Cons:
Crowds were heavy and the staff did not seem so know how to handle it.
Lack of food options
Pathways can be narrow and when congested it is impossible to get around
Lack of signage on what route to take around the zoo
Parking was not clear
Indoor exhibits were not air conditioned

Had an amazing time. one of the best zoo's I've visited.

Probably one of the best zoos I ve ever been to. The vast amount of animals is awesome.

Great size and animals were greatly taken care of just wish there was better prices and signage for animals not in closures for time of the year. Also could tell certain staff didn't want to be there in select areas of the zoo.

All in all it was a great experience. We got to see all the animals, the staff were polite and helpful and the park was clean and we'll maintained.

Beautiful and clean. Relaxing walks in the middle of the City.

Was a great zoo. Animals looked well cared for, the zoo was clean, and very well kept. Exhibits ranged from old to new, and some really fancy. Really enjoyed the Hippo exhibit. I thought it was an excellent way to showcase these animals. Parking and Entrance were clean and easy to get through. Parking is across a road, the boys enjoyed the bridge. Well rounded zoo with animals of all kinds. Prepare for a full day! Other zoos that we are used to can usually be done in 3 hours or less. allowing us to spend time to eat, wander, and loop around a few times. Here there is SO much, so close together, it was non stop! We ate a good breakfast, arrived at opening, and didnt leave till well into the afternoon! Snacked on our way around on some goodies we brought and saved our appetites for dinner. Well rounded zoo that I would revisit ANYTIME I was in the area. The Dragons exhibit was REALLY COOL! Sea Birds as well

Love the Cincinnati Zoo!! Always a fun family day adventure in the summer and even winter.

We are a zoo Goin family. With that said Cincinnati Zoo is our favorite. We love to go there and all the animals are so up close and Interactive. The events they have their for kids is super fun and usually free with admission. The only issue is this is one of the more expensive zoos that I've been too and my daughter always wants a souvenir. So if you're looking for affordable I'd go somewhere like the Fort Wayne Zoo, but this is a wonderful place to go if you don't mind the price

Not near as good to the best zoo I've been to but still an enjoyable couple of hours.

The Winter season lights are magnificent for all ages. Beautiful visual treat.

We had so much fun! We didn't get to see the whole park because of the heat, but it was worth it for the animals! I definitely suggest seeing the birds.

Wasn't overly crowded and there were hand sanitizer stations everywhere.

Probably my favorite zoo! Really enjoyed our time here!

Love the Cincinnati Zoo. One of the best zoos in the country oh, very nice to walk through the entire zoo and go to all of the offshoot of the main trail to see all the animals. We love the Winter Lights and fall activities happy to be a member here.

Drive here from wisconsin a few times a year because we love this zoo. The animal exhibits are larger and more natural so the animals look healthier and happier than at some other zoos. Also love their conservation efforts here ! Fiona is a celebrity with my daughter. Also they do offer military discounts on admission and are on the reciprocal zoo list for discounted admission if you have memberships at other zoos. Would like to see a better petting zoo and the gift shop is VERY overpriced but so are most other zoos. You are able to carry in food and drinks here

The Festival of Lights and year round visits are always magical and exciting. A treasure and long past time favorite for myself and my family. We love every visit.

The Zoo is beautiful and big enough to spend the whole entire day exploring.

Beautiful zoo. Friendly and helpful staff and volunteers. Many informative presentations offered throughout the zoo. I joined the zoo membership for the first time this year. I plan to make many visits because of it's a beautiful and peaceful place.

Awesome experience. Really cool exhibits and the most exciting opportunity to see Fiona

Awesome zoo.... but wish they'd have a sign that says how to get to the orangutans... The path to the whole area with those creatures and more is not marked at all and is kind of hidden. Lesson: get a map at the entrance or you may miss a fair amount by depending on their signage.

Loved it! We highly recommend this zoo as a great family destination. However, it can be a little expensive, especially for a large family. Plan ahead and take a cooler and snack bag. You'll have a blast!

Beautiful place. They are always updating and adding new things. Love it!

I love the zoo very safe too everyone was wearing masks. I liked the kangaroo exhibit i highly recommend the zoo especially if you have kids

If you enjoy zoos then you will love this one. The gardens are beautiful as well!!!

We are not local to the area and traveled to visit this zoo. We used reciprocal pass through a local zoo membership for general admission and it was very affordable for a family day to the zoo. The plan is very well laid out and walkable, however I feel like the habitats were on the smaller side (as compared to others we ve seen at other zoos.) It didn t feel as natural and organic with less room for the animals to roam overall (for some of the exhibits.) We enjoyed the experience extras. Not many choices for food, but what they did have was fine. I m thinking the time of year we went was a slower season as not everything was open and also closed on the earlier side, however that also made it less crowded and we were able to see the exhibits well.
Note that they do not give out plastic shopping bags at gift shop. A plus in my book!

They do not post anywhere that masks are required for children 6 and up in the areas that masks are required. The Ohio mask order states that masks are required for children 10 and up. Because of this, my 8 year old daughter, who has fainted from anxiety before (and experiences anxiety from the masks) did not have one. We were about to get on the train, and the young man working it asked for her to put on a mask. I told him she is 8. He then told me she needed one since she s over 6. My issues are these: I could not find anywhere in the zoo where it states children 6 and up needed masks; this worker had made eye contact with me several times while we were waiting for the train and never said anything about the mask. Instead he waited until the train had approached. We got out of of line and left the zoo. Very unprofessional, as well as very unclear guidelines.

Even with COVID restrictions it is a great isit everytime.

Great zoo. We have a very nice zoo in Phoenix, but we came to this zoo to see Fiona, the baby hippo. It was very worth it. Baby Fiona was fun to watch, as were the other animals. We got up and personal with the giraffes, feeding them lettuce. The staff was great. They told all about the animals.

My son loves his Fiona the Hippo book so I looked online and saw that the best hours to visit were between 3-5pm because that is when the hippos are most active. So we bought tickets for 3:00-3:30. By the time we got across the street an into the zoo it was like 3:30. We visited all the animals along the way and saw Fiona and her mom, Bibi! That was great. But basically, not long after it was closing time at 5:00. I thought I read somewhere to plan 1-2 hours for the trip and this definitely wasn't enough, especially with small children. We should have come much earlier and taken a long lunch break and gone to the hippos after that. It was a nice zoo, a little more expensive than I wanted hut apparently if you buy tickets out farther they are cheaper. We bought ours a few days in advance because we were watching covid stats and didn't want them to go to waste if we couldn't go. We will definitely go back if we are in the area. Also, a lot of enclosures were empty because it was too cold for the animals in October and then some of the indoor enclosures were closed due to covid and not being able to space out enough. So, take that into consideration because when I emailed asking what enclosures were open or closed they didn't mention the ones that were closed due to the temperature.

Wonderful zoo! They have animals not found at most zoos. Manatees, and painted dogs are just a few. Cincinnati zoo has Fiona! A baby hippo who is adorable. My grandson wanted to watch her for a long time. It's a very large zoo and has a train ride which children really enjoy. Reasable prices.

We loved feeding the giraffes but other than that I felt bad for the animals. The enclosures just seemed so small for them. The lion looked well fed but not muscular like he should have been. All of the shops were closed. Crocodiles didnt look good at all. Maybe I am spoiled because we grew up going to Brookfield Zoo but this place just seemed like the animals were so sad. Wouldnt go back!

Lovely walkable zoo with beautiful foliage. Animal habitats are smaller than Columbus zoo, but seem to be responsibly maintained. Animal handlers are knowledgeable and friendly. Recommended for families but gets very congested aft peak times with all the strollers.

Went for the holiday light show. Considering all of Cincinnati seemed to be there, the zoo was still well lit and easily navigated. Awesome, awesome lights!

Awesome Zoo!! There are a lot of animals and exhibits, so be ready to give 5-6 hours of your day.

This place is very nice compared to other zoos I've been to, just a shame but all the animals were sleeping during my visit.

Awesome awesome zoo. Very proud of my hometown zoo for the experience they create and the work they do to ensure the conservation of our planet and animals in it.

I grew up going here and I still love going to the zoo. parking isn't the best but passable. R.I.P. Harambe

One of the best Zoo's we've been to. Clean, friendly people and they were updating some attractions but easy to navigate.

We just came from Alabama to go to the Cincinnati zoo (which boasted being voted #1 zoo). I cannot express my disappointment enough. Not only was it expensive there were barely any animals out. If there were going to be so many animals hidden away, there could have been a warning of some sort allowing us to make a better decision not to pay $24 per person to see more "animal out of habitat" signs than actual animals. The ONLY reason I came was to see the Polar Bear and the only one I got to see was made of lights. Then when we did make verbal complaints they only handed a written complaint page. I would not recommend this place to an enemy so I definitely wouldn't recommend it to a friend.

Great zoo. My family had a great time and the employees and volunteers were extremely knowledgeable and nice. Can't wait to go back

This is definitely the best zoo I ve ever been too. They have pretty much everything you want to see.

Plan around any group days. Went during numerous corporate outings. A lot of the exhibits were still closed driving foot traffic to the open exhibits. The gorilla enclosure was one of the best experiences in there. Plenty of room with excellent views. As expected, be prepared to walk.. A lot...

A a rainy chilly day it was a nice brisk walk to see a parade of penguins,spotted dogs,Fiona the rhino and a few others. It a small zoo but I found a pair of beautiful turtle earrings in the gift shop.

A beautifully maintained zoo with all the favorites (plus a few NEW favorites). The animal embassadors are great and add a level on interactivity and fun to an experience that is usually "look but don't touch."

Membership is highly recommended.

The zoo is great all year but the lights make it magical! Fun night out with the family.

We were gifted a membership for Christmas. So we have been taking our 2 boys pretty frequent. They love it!! We enjoy seeing the different animals. My sons love the little train. There are also several places that you can sit to eat if you packed food or to just rest. There are also many options if you wish to buy food or snacks. I would also suggest getting a souvenir cup, especially if you plan on going more than once.

I was surprised at how busy it was with COVID restrictions in place. Thankfully, most people were abiding by the mask recommendations. We love this zoo for so many reasons: ample shade and sitting places, lovely flowers all around, and animals close enough to see, even when they are napping.