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Zoos, Aquariums, and Natural Spaces of Ohio
29
items Great green and educational spaces around the state of Ohio to visit.
Map
Sections
5
Zoos
Aquariums
Museums
Parks
Conservatories
Zoos
Far warning - there are other zoos or wildlife parks outside of this list in which one could visit in Ohio, however, I am only keeping to those who are AZA accredited. The following zoos and wildlife parks are fantastic places to visit and have some ...
I'm a little biased as my first job was here, but, this is my favorite zoo in Ohio! Second oldest zoo in the state, representing over 400 animal species (90 endangered!) and approximately 3,000 plant species adorn the grounds. The zoo is beautiful, h...
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Voted the BEST ZOO in Ohio, the Columbus Zoo is a well loved part of the state and a great place to visit if you are in the Columbus Area! Home to more than 7,000 animals representing over 800 species, the zoo is split into multiple regions represent...
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
A 183-acre zoo with 600 different species, a variety of plants in their greenhouse, and fun activities for you and your family! Known most for their African Elephant Crossing, this zoo has a ton of cool things to see!
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
The Akron Zoo, also known as the Akron Zoological Park, is one of Ohio's smaller zoos. Home to a little over 100 different animal species and a many plants in its zoological gardens. I am fond of this zoo because of its active participation in butter...
Akron Zoo
As of this post, they are celebrating their 125th anniversary! Representing over 720 different species, this zoo has a lot to offer and has a TON planned for this year. I'll be checking them out, hope to see you there!
Toledo Zoo
Connected to the Columbus Zoo, the Wilds is a private, non-profit safari park and conservation center that combines conservation science and educational programing, as well as offering visitors leisure activities such as zip-lining, horseback riding,...
The Wilds
Aquariums
Most aquariums in Ohio are a part of zoos - however, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium is a great, solo one! Would also recommend the Newport Aquarium, if you are in Cincinnati. Even though its technically across the boarder.
This aquarium features 55 exhibits over 8 thematic concentrations representing both local and exotic species of fish, the aquarium has a ton of great events and educational opportunities that would make your visit a great one.
Greater Cleveland Aquarium
Museums
Fun, science and nature based museums around the state of Ohio!
This museum is a children's museum, science and technology center and zoo all wrapped up into one! There is something here for everyone!
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a science museum and research center targeted for kids and teens, with some adult programing. There is always something new and interesting to explore!
Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
A great museum and educational facility with exhibits focused on STEM concepts,
Great Lakes Science Center
Personally love this one. The Cincinnati Museum Center is a LARGE museum, with many different permanent and rotating exhibits, there is always something cool to see!
Cincinnati Museum Center
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a natural history museum that is a crossroads for educational, cultural and medical institutions in the area.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Hands-on discovery museum for visitors of all ages, but definitely more targeted towards kids and families. Powered by STEAM and strives to be a catalyst in our communities for inspiring young minds, nurturing a lifelong passion for learning, and cul...
Ohio Valley Museum Of Discovery
Center offering interactive experiences with animals, plus a planetarium & programs/camps for kids.
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
I've also worked here! The Dawes Arboretum is a nonprofit arboretum and historical site/museum with over 2,000 acres of plant collections, gardens and natural areas for restoration projects. The site includes approximately 12 miles of hiking trails a...
The Dawes Arboretum
One of the largest arboretum and botanical gardens in the United States, with more than 3,600 acres, including 600 acres devoted to collections and gardens. Diverse natural areas and ecologically sensitive habitats make up the rest of the holdings - ...
The Holden Arboretum
Parks
There are many amazing parks and park districts across the state of Ohio - these are just a few of particular interest.
Located north of Columbus in central Ohio, Alum Creek is a popular boating, camping, and biking destination.
Alum Creek State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Ohio's third-largest state forest, containing 16,446 acres.
Tar Hollow State Park
Stunning in every season, Hocking Hills features beautiful towering cliffs, thrilling waterfalls, and deep, hemlock-shaded gorges.
Hocking Hills State Park
This beautiful park surrounds the lake and boasts a wooded family campground and a variety of year-round cabins for families and gatherings of all sizes.
Lake Hope State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Thousands of wooded acres greet visitors to the Mohican region. Mohican State Park's wild landscape offers truly stunning views from both land and water.
Mohican State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources
The park offers a rustic full-service lodge with family suites and a cozy campground with easy access to the lake.
Burr Oak State Park
Located in southwest Ohio, the 3741-acre Caesar Creek State Park offers some of the finest outdoor recreation in Ohio amidst the park's sprawling lakes. Known for fossils!
Caesar Creek State Park
Located in the Appalachian foothills near the banks of the Ohio River, Shawnee State Park is nestled in beautiful Shawnee State Forest
Shawnee State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Perched atop the white cliffs of South Bass Island in Lake Erie, this unique 33-acre park offers camping, fishing, and swimming.
South Bass Island State Park
This park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Wayne National Forest is a patchwork of public land that covers over a quarter million acres of Appalachian foothills of southeastern Ohio.
Wayne National Forest - Home
Conservatories
There are a few others in the state that are university owned, and likely others on top of this, but, these are the ones I have been to!
Also worked here! And, have been visiting this space since I was small - it meant a great deal to my family. This facility is a horticultural and educational institution showcasing exotic plant collections, special, rotating exhibitions, and the Dale...
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Krohn Conservatory - Cincinnati Parks
Krohn Conservatory is located in Eden Park. The Conservatory holds multiple floral shows a year including the Butterfly show.
Krohn Conservatory