Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

About

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the United States, home to more than 500 animal species and a stunning collection of gardens that bloom across every season. Located in the Avondale neighborhood of Cincinnati, Ohio, the zoo draws over 1.8 million visitors each year and has earned a reputation not just for its animals, but for its genuine commitment to welcoming every guest.

Visitors can explore themed habitats including Africa, Night Hunters, and the award-winning Fiona's Hippo Cove, named after the zoo's famous premature hippo who captured hearts worldwide. The botanical gardens weave throughout the grounds, offering peaceful moments between animal exhibits. Seasonal events like Festival of Lights and Zoo Blooms give visitors reasons to return throughout the year.

The zoo's Access for All program, developed in partnership with Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, sets it apart as one of the most inclusive zoos in the country. This isn't an afterthought - it's woven into the zoo's mission and daily operations. Staff members trained in disability engagement wear blue badge strips so guests can easily identify them for help.

Practical details make planning straightforward. The zoo offers two parking lots, both ADA accessible, with accessible spaces near the entrance. Senior visitors aged 62 and older can enjoy $10 weekday admission during special promotions. The grounds are manageable for a full-day visit without feeling overwhelming, and shaded rest areas and dining options are spread throughout.

Whether you're watching Fiona swim, strolling through the butterfly garden, or riding the train with your family, the Cincinnati Zoo works hard to ensure the experience feels easy and joyful for everyone.

Accessibility

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has made accessibility a core priority through its Access for All program, created in partnership with Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. The zoo features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout, ADA-compliant entrances, and accessible parking located near the main entrance.

Electric wheelchairs are available to reserve for your visit through the Welcome Center. The zoo's Kanga' Klimb ropes course includes ADA-accessible components, ensuring adventure experiences aren't limited to able-bodied guests.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities or developmental disabilities, the zoo offers sensory bags available for check-out at the Welcome Center. These bags include oral motor chewy tubes, fidgets, noise-canceling headphones, and sunglasses. Social narratives and visual support maps are also provided for the zoo and its different animal habitats, helping guests prepare for and process their visit.

Many zoo employees have received specialized training to better engage with guests who have disabilities. These trained staff members can be identified by blue strips on their employee badges, making it easy to find someone who can help.

Both parking lots are ADA accessible with designated spaces near the entrance. Contact the zoo directly at their Welcome Center for current details on additional accommodations, mobility device rentals, or to plan ahead for specific accessibility needs.

More accessible places in Ohio

• Cincinnati Museum Center (Cincinnati)
• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (Cincinnati)
• American Sign Museum (Cincinnati)
• Belterra Park Cincinnati (Cincinnati)
• Toledo Museum of Art (Toledo)
• Cleveland Museum of Art (Cleveland)