Columbus Zoo Bus Returns for Summer 2025 with Discounts

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Zoo bus will resume service this Memorial Day weekend, providing an affordable option for visitors to reach the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay. This service begins May 24 and will operate daily until Labor Day, September 1.

The Zoo Bus, run by the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), will facilitate five trips each day. The first bus departs from the intersection of State and High streets at 8 a.m., and the last bus leaves the zoo at 6:15 p.m., returning to downtown around 7 p.m.

Adults can use the bus for a fare of $2, while children under the age of 12 will pay just $1. Riders aged 5 and under can ride for free. In addition to the bus fare, every passenger will receive a discount on zoo admission: entry to the Columbus Zoo costs just $5, or riders can save $10 on tickets to Zoombezi Bay.

To claim these discounts, passengers must request a coupon from the bus operator, limited to one per customer. Upon reaching the zoo, customers should present the coupon at the admission window for verification.

For additional details on the Zoo Bus service, visit COTA’s website or call Customer Service at 614-228-1776.