A Century of Wonder: The History of the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
From a modest start with six reindeer to housing over 10,000 animals and welcoming millions each year, the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium has grown into one of the top zoos in the nation—celebrated for its innovation, education, and global conservation efforts.
A Look Back Through the Decades
1927
The zoo was founded by local businessman and publisher Harry P. Wolfe, who donated six Alaskan reindeer. The original location, Riverside Park, now forms the western side of the present-day Columbus Zoo.
1937
The zoo was renamed the Columbus Municipal Zoo and began charging a $2 membership fee.
1951
The zoo welcomed its first three gorillas. Colo, born in 1956, became the first gorilla in professional care. She lived at the zoo until her passing in 2017.
1956
The Jet Flyer junior roller coaster was installed at the adjacent Gooding Amusement Park. Later renamed the Sea Dragon, this ride is now part of the Adventure Cove area and is Ohio's oldest operating roller coaster.
1978
Jack Hanna became zoo director, transforming the zoo through new exhibits like Manatee Coast and African Forest. His media appearances brought national attention, while his vision solidified the zoo’s role as a conservation leader. Hanna served as director until 1993.
1984
The amusement park next to the zoo was renamed Wyandot Lake Amusement Park.
1990
With the addition of bonobos, the Columbus Zoo became one of only four zoos in North America to house this endangered species.
2000
The Grand Carousel, a 1914 Mangels-Illions housed at Olentangy Park, was restored and installed at the zoo. It is now one of the oldest carousels in the country, with over one million riders.
2008
After acquiring Wyandot Lake in 2006, the zoo reopened the refurbished park as Zoombezi Bay, which is now one of the region’s most popular waterparks.
2025
Today, the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is home to around 10,000 animals and welcomes more than 2 million visitors annually. In 2025, USA Today ranked it the #3 zoo in the country.
As it nears its 100th birthday in 2027, the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium remains a cornerstone of our community—honoring a century of care, conservation, and connection close to home.