This list is for all the animal lovers out there! Feed exotic animals from your car, enjoy various zoo programs throughout the year, underwater adventures, drive thru safaris and much more.

Tip: Are you already a member of one of these locations? Check out their recipricol admissions list. Most of these locations give large discounts to members of other zoos/aquariums.

Do you know of any locations not listed? Please email us with the details, and we’ll get them added.

Note: As usual, contact information is provided. Please call to confirm hours and pricing or check the websites listed before planning your trip.

African Safari Wildlife Park
267 S. Lightner Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452
Enjoy a Drive-Thru or Walk-Thru safari, ride a camel, feed a kangaroo, and more! Most activities are closed during the colder months so check their website before you go. Tip: This park usually has discounts on their website and Groupon!
(419) 732-3606
Website | Our Review

Akron Zoo
500 Edgewood Ave., Akron, OH 44307
This zoo is perfect for a quick day trip! It is a smaller zoo which makes it great for families with younger children. They also have numerous special events throughout the year so make sure to check their website. Tip: Summit county residents can receive free “community day” tickets. Their website lists the specific days for each city.
(330) 375-2550
Website | Our Reviews

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109
There is so much to do at this zoo! This zoo is so large, we usually only do half of it each visit. The elephant exhibit is a huge favorite in my house. In the winter months, visit the indoor “rainforest” which has some great animals and an exhibit that simulates a rainstorm. Tip: Mondays are free for Cuyahoga County residents. If you aren't a resident though, I don't recommend going those days since it can get very busy. Also, during the cooler months make sure to pack a lunch since most of the food locations are closed during the offseason.
(216) 661-6500
Website | Our Reviews

Greater Cleveland Aquarium
2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, OH 44113
Check out fish from Ohio's lakes and rivers, feed a stingray, or walk through the shark seatube. Check out their website for daily activities and special events. Plan to be here at least 90 minutes to make sure you see everything and tickets are good all day so you can take the family out to lunch and come back! Tip: Discounts coupons are available through several partnerships including Lolly the Trolley and Melt!
(216) 862-8803
Website | Our Review

Metroparks Farm
7574 Columbiana-Canfield Rd., Canfield, OH 44406
FREE Admission to this 402-acre working farm. Open seasonally, they offer hands on activities, a natural playground, archery range, and more!
(330) 533-7572
Website

Noah’s Lost Ark Exotic Animal Sanctuary
8424 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center, OH 44401
This non-profit, animal sanctuary features a wide array of exotic animals. They are open from the middle of May until the end of October. Check their website for seasonal hours.
(330) 584-7835
Website

The Farm at Walnut Creek
4147 CR 114, Sugarcreek, OH 44681

Take a 2.3 drive-through tour or take a one hour wagon ride to visit several types of exotic animals. Their hours vary throughout the year so check their website or call ahead.
(330) 893-4200
Website

The Ohio Bird Sanctuary
3774 Orweiler Rd., Mansfield, OH 44903
Check out several types of exotic birds year round. They also offer a Children's Nature Scape, trails, and a picnic area at no charge.
(419) 884-4295
Website

Wagon Trails Animal Park
907 Youngstown Kingsville Rd. SE, Vienna, OH 44473
Take a guided tour through 60 acres to see more than 350 animals from around the world. There are several opportunities to feed the animals throughout the tour. The park is open from May through October.
(330) 539-4494
Website | Our Review

More Animal Fun

Fun on the Farm – Details on the many area farms that offer tours and educational events.