The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) has unveiled the return of the popular Zoo Bus for the summer of 2025, with service commencing during the upcoming holiday weekend. This shuttle will connect downtown Columbus to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, as well as Zoombezi Bay, enhancing accessibility for visitors.
Beginning Saturday, May 24, the Zoo Bus will run daily until Labor Day on Monday, September 1. After that date, the service will continue three days per week—Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays—until October 31.
Passengers can catch the Zoo Bus from several locations including the Statehouse downtown, Griggs Dam Park & Ride, and Dublin Park & Ride. The service will provide five daily trips, starting at 8 a.m. from State and High Streets, with the final departure from the Zoo at 6:15 p.m., returning to downtown around 7 p.m.
Fares are affordable, priced at $2 for adults and $1 for children under 12, while children under 5 can ride free. Additionally, riders can take advantage of special admission discounts: each Zoo Bus passenger pays only $5 for entrance to the Columbus Zoo or receives a $10 discount on admission to Zoombezi Bay. To access these savings, passengers must request a Zoo Bus coupon from the bus operator.
This initiative not only promotes local tourism but also contributes to family-friendly summer activities in the Columbus area. For more information about the Zoo Bus, including updates on admission prices and hours, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official COTA and Columbus Zoo websites.
The return of the Zoo Bus is a positive development for both residents and visitors alike, offering an affordable and convenient way to enjoy two of Columbus’s premier attractions.