Boo at the Zoo 2026: Your Last Weekend at the Columbus Zoo, October 24–25

Pumpkins and hay bales at the Boo at the Zoo entrance.

The Columbus Zoo's Boo at the Zoo wraps up this weekend, October 24 and 25, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is included with general zoo admission. Here is what to expect, what is new this year, and how to plan the day.

If you are new to Central Ohio, or helping out-of-town family experience it, a fall weekend at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a classic. Boo at the Zoo has been running on October weekends, and this Saturday and Sunday, October 24 and 25, are the final dates. Here is what to know before you go.

When Is Boo at the Zoo, and What Does It Cost?

According to the Columbus Zoo, Boo at the Zoo runs Saturdays and Sundays only, on October 3–4, 10–11, 17–18 and 24–25. The event hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Boo at the Zoo is included with general zoo admission, so there is no separate ticket for the event itself. A banner on the zoo's site showed different closing hours for the day, so confirm the closing time before you visit.

The zoo's announcement from August 26, 2026 lists the 2026 lineup, and the official event page points to the zoo's hours-and-rates page for tickets.

What Is New and What Is Happening This Year?

Adventure Cove is the center of the event. The zoo lists these highlights for 2026:

• Trick-or-Treat Trail: 13 treat stops, including 11 candy stations and 2 teal pumpkin stations with non-candy options.

• Rave at the Grave: a new kid-friendly DJ dance party.

• Character meet-and-greets and rolling celebrations.

• Jesse's Jack-O-Lantern Journey: a display of carved pumpkins.

• Henry's Character Craze Hay Maze: a maze designed for young children.

• Halloween Hoedown: a performance with the Oak Ridge Bears.

• Imaginarium Fun House.

• Giant Pumpkin Carving: carving on Saturdays, with the pumpkin on display Sundays.

• Magical Mementos Seek-n-Find: a search game around Conservation Lake.

• Community dance performances on select days in front of Conservation Lake.

What About Rides?

Rides in Adventure Cove run on weekends only, while the carousel and zoo train run daily during the event, according to the zoo. A separate Zoo More wristband offers unlimited rides for an additional fee, sold at Guest Relations or Guest Service kiosks. If rides are a priority, check the zoo's current rates before you go.

How Should You Plan the Day?

A little planning goes a long way on a popular fall weekend.

• Go early. The event opens at 10 a.m., and arriving at opening gives you more room to walk before it gets busier.

• Check the weather and dress in layers. October mornings can be chilly and afternoons warmer.

• Bring a bag for treats and a plan for allergies. The teal pumpkin stations are a helpful option for guests who need non-candy treats.

• Mix the event with the animals. The animals are viewable during regular zoo hours too, so leave time for your favorites.

• Confirm the closing time on the zoo's website the morning you go.

What Should You Keep in Mind With a Group?

If you are coming with several generations, agree on a meeting spot and a rough plan before you arrive, since a zoo covers a lot of ground. Build in breaks for snacks and rest, and decide up front which highlights matter most, whether that is the trick-or-treat trail, the animals or the rides. A flexible plan keeps the day fun for everyone.

Why Does This Matter If You Are Moving to Central Ohio?

Events like this are a good way to see how a region actually feels. The Columbus Zoo is in the Powell area of Delaware County, and a day there is an easy excuse to explore the surrounding communities. Drive in from the neighborhoods you are considering, notice how long the trip really takes on a weekend, and stop for a meal nearby. That kind of firsthand impression often tells you more than a map does.

If you are rightsizing and your family visits from out of town, seasonal outings like this give everyone a reason to come, and they are worth factoring into how you think about where you want to live.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Boo at the Zoo in 2026?

The Columbus Zoo lists Saturdays and Sundays on October 3–4, 10–11, 17–18 and 24–25, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The final weekend is October 24 and 25.

Does Boo at the Zoo cost extra?

Boo at the Zoo is included with general zoo admission. A separate Zoo More wristband for unlimited rides costs additional.

What activities are at Boo at the Zoo?

The 2026 lineup includes a trick-or-treat trail with 13 stops, Rave at the Grave dance party, character meet-and-greets, a hay maze, a fun house, pumpkin displays and giant pumpkin carving, among others.

Are there non-candy options?

Yes. The trick-or-treat trail includes 2 teal pumpkin stations with non-candy options.

Can I see the animals during Boo at the Zoo?

Yes. The animals are viewable during regular zoo hours, which the page lists as 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., though a site banner showed a different closing time, so confirm before you go.

If you are exploring Central Ohio and want help comparing the communities around the zoo and beyond, I would be glad to share what I know about the area and what recent sales look like. No pressure, just a local perspective.

This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. All real estate services are provided in compliance with Fair Housing laws, RESPA, TCPA, the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, and Ohio Real Estate Commission advertising regulations. Equal Housing Opportunity. Chrisi Hagan, Collins Lassiter Group, Red 1 Realty.