Zip to the Zoo with Us
Enjoy a Day at the Columbus Zoo for Under $10
Your safari starts with the Zoo Bus! For a safe, easy and affordable ride to the Columbus Zoo, take COTA’s Zoo Bus — it’s just $2 each way and available from May to October. The best part? Admission to the Zoo is $5 per person when you ride. Or, you can get $10 off Zoombezi Bay tickets.
How to Ride
Cash is best
The Zoo Bus Is $2 per Person Each Way
Buses cannot make change, so bring exact cash for each leg of your trip and you’re ready to go.
Riding with a herd? Due to fare capping, each digital payment method such as Tap to Pay or the Transit app can only be used for one rider. Exact cash is recommended for groups and families.
Receiving Your Discount
When you board the Zoo Bus, kindly ask your Operator for a Zoo Bus coupon. They will distribute one per customer. Once you arrive at the Zoo, head to the admission window to present the coupon to verify your discount eligibility. If you are a COTA Mainstream customer, show your COTA-issued Mainstream ID Card at the window instead. It’s that easy!
Summer 2026 Zoo Bus Schedule
Saturday & Sunday Only: May 9-24 | Daily: May 25–Sept. 7
Friday, Saturday & Sunday Only: Sept. 8–Oct. 31
Holiday/Sunday Schedule: Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day and Labor Day
