5 memorable things to do at the Cincinnati zoo

You may think that a day at the zoo is just for kids, but you would be wrong. It’s also for adults who love animals and want to see them in their natural habitat. There are all sorts of attractions and activities at the zoo, and it can take a whole day to get through everything! There is so much to see , do and learn at this place, but I am just going highlight five memorable things you can do at the Cincinnati zoo.

                       Here are five memorable things to do at the Cincinnati zoo.

A day at the zoo is an experience that can’t be matched. The Cincinnati Zoo has everything one could ask for – from animal shows to pelicans, and even a train ride around the park. It’s like living in a wild kingdom, without any of the dangers associated with it. The Cincinnati Zoo offers many opportunities for fun and learning.

  1. One of the five memorable things to do at the Cincinnati zoo , is to visit with Fiona the baby hippo at the zoo. There are also other new arrival male and female adult hippos as well.

It was particularly exciting for me when I saw the baby hippo sitting on the back of the mother for quite some time. It almost felt like she should have complained about the weight ,but that did not happen, or at least not while I was there. (Foot note) hippos used to be common in sub-Saharan Africa , but the recent changes in the climate has reduced their population.

Picture shows side view of the hippo

2. Another very exciting and memorable thing is taking the train tour, especially after walking a great distance in the zoo. You will do yourself good to take the train tour and rest your feet. It only last about 10mins and you get a $4 ticket to board. It takes you on a quick ride as you take in the views, the water, animals and you can see the bright pink pelicans from above.  A train ride where you can see pelicans, other birds and animals is  unforgettable. experience.                                      Zoo train ride tour

3. A visit to the  giraffe cove encounter is another very exciting and memorable thing to do at the zoo. You can watch them walk around, and their very long necks can be reached from the viewing deck area.

You can also ask to feed them ,which was quite fun to watch as they take food out of peoples hands. Its one thing to know the measurements of these animals , but its another thing to stand side by side and really see how tall and huge they  are.  The typical height of a Northern Giraffe is 15-20ft long. Their neck alone can be about 6ft long.

Some say they are the tallest living animals in the world.  To visit and feed the giraffe at this zoo, you must have a mask on and have some coins to get the food. Allow the handlers to assist you get to them

4. Watch a life show where some chosen animals show their skills together with their handlers. You can experience the trainers teach them tricks and guide them to show their skills. The porcupine was quite exciting. I never knew they could take orders and perform stunts. That was great to watch. Be sure to look at the time on the schedule so you don’t miss the show as it only last for 30 mins and its usually full to capacity. plan to be there a few minutes ahead so you can get a seat. Sitting is limited due to Covid.

                           Ever been up close to an elephant?

5. The elephant in all its magnitude can be seen at this zoo. If you are lucky to be visiting during feeding time, it will be quite a memorable experience. The size of this animal is enough to wow you motionless. On this particular visit, the elephant was quite playful , using its tusks to throw dust and dirt around on its back as it twirled around. You could almost feel the earth move with every step it took. To see the live action of the elephant and other animals, click on the link  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBuhP57mhGU&t=5s

 

                     Other things you can do at this zoo includes but not limited to:

  • Watching the cheetah run around skillfully going in and under tree trunks
  • Spend some time at the rainbow fountain. Watching the colors change is a lot of fun
  • Go see the ostrich take its majestic walk around its location.
  • The flock of pelicans is a must see
  • On a hot day be sure to visit the local shop for some ice-cream and delicious root beer float.
  • There are lots of souvenirs at the zoo shop. It is better to shop after your visit to avoid carrying too many things and possibly loosing them.

                                                Know before you go:

  • Use zoo parking and take the cross walk to the main entrance
  • Have credit card or cash ready for entrance fee of $25.00 for adults
  • Remember to pay for parking when you get your entrance ticket $10.00
  • Once your entry ticket has been scanned , walk straight to the map and take a picture. This will help navigate you to all the things you want to see and do easily.
  • You can bring your own water and snacks
  • Use the bathroom right at the entrance , so you don’t get pressed while enjoying the zoo ( especially kids )
  • Don’t forget to bring your camera
  • Check zoo website for current hours of operation as they change seasonally.

Plan to have FUN!