Tips for Visiting the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens with Kids: A Spring Adventure
As a Michigan mom always on the lookout for family-friendly getaways, I have to say—our recent spring trip to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden was a total hit! If you're planning a visit with your little ones, especially in spring when the flowers start blooming and the animals are extra active, here are some tips from our experience to make your day smooth, fun, and full of memories.
Why Spring Is the Sweet Spot
Spring is the best time to visit if you love flowers and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. The zoo is also a botanical garden, so around mid-April to early May, you'll see gorgeous tulips, cherry blossoms, magnolias, and more. We went the last weekend of April, during Zoo Blooms and the blooms were stunning! Check out this full itinerary for a weekend trip to Cincinnati.
Tulips at Zoo Bloom at Cincinnati Zoo
What to Pack
Stroller or wagon – Even for older toddlers, there's a lot of walking!
Refillable water bottles – There are fountains and refill stations around.
Snacks – Outside food is allowed, and it saved us money and tantrums.
Sunscreen and layers – Spring weather can be unpredictable—cool mornings, warm afternoons.
Must-See Animal Stops
Fiona the Hippo – Cincinnati's most famous resident! Her exhibit is a must.
Manatee Exhibit - another peak of underwater creatures, we caught the manatees feeding during our visit
Giraffe Ridge – You can get so close and sometimes even feed them.
Wings of the World – Great indoor option if it rains, and kids love the colorful birds.
Red Pandas – Adorable and often active during cooler spring mornings.
Elephant Exhibit Eight Asian elephants are quite entertaining in their impressive exhibit.
Cheetah Run - Be amazed watching cheetahs reach their full speed! Plus they have baby cheetahs that were born recently. (Check show times)
Timing & Tickets
Arrive early – Gates open at 10 AM, but parking fills up fast, especially on weekends.
Buy tickets online – You’ll save time and sometimes a few bucks.
Parking tip: The main lot gets busy, but there's overflow and sometimes street parking if you're okay walking a bit.
Admission
Adults (13-61): $27
Children (3-12): $21
Seniors (62+): $21
Play + Picnic Spots
The Children’s Zoo has a petting area and a fun playground.
Take a ride on the small train for a nice break from walking.
Save money and bring a blanket and lunch—there are shaded grassy spots perfect for a break. The new elephant area also has a massive covered shaded pavilion and bathrooms that make a great rest stop.
Train at Cincinnati Zoo is a nice break for tired legs
10 Mom-to-Mom Tips
1. Arrive Early (Before the Crowds and Heat)
The zoo opens at 10 a.m., but if you can, get there right when it opens. The animals are more active in the morning, and the early hours mean fewer crowds and cooler temps.
2. Pack Like a Pro
Bring snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, and a change of clothes (especially for the little ones who love the splash zones). Don’t forget hand sanitizer and wipes – you’ll use them more than you think!
3. Rent a Wagon or Bring a Stroller
Even if your kiddos claim they’re “too big,” little legs get tired fast at the zoo. Wagons are a lifesaver for hauling both kids and your stuff.
4. Check the Animal Encounter Schedule and Use the App
The zoo posts daily animal chats and feeding times – these can be some of the most memorable experiences for kids. (Think: watching the elephants snack, the cheetah running at top speed or petting goats at the barnyard!) By using the zoo app you can get real-time updates, feeding times, and bathroom and nursing room locations.
Feed the Giraffes
5. Hit the Most Popular Exhibits First
Fiona the hippo is a local celebrity, so head to Hippo Cove early to beat the crowds. Same goes for the red pandas and giraffes!
6. Take Advantage of the Botanical Garden Beauty
Spring blooms like tulips, cherry blossoms, and magnolias are everywhere. It’s a great time to slow down, snap some pics, and teach kids about flowers too!
7. Bring Layers – Spring Weather is Tricky
It might be chilly in the morning and sunny by lunch. Layers let you adjust as the day warms up.
8. Let the Kids Lead (a Little!)
Letting them pick their top 3-5 animal exhibits to see first gives them some independence and keeps everyone engaged. You can always “guide” their choices a bit.
9. Don’t Skip the Play Areas
The zoo has fun playgrounds and splash pads, especially great for letting kids burn off energy. Just be prepared with towels and dry clothes!
10. End with a Sweet Treat
The zoo has great ice cream and snack spots. A soft serve cone or Dippin’ Dots is the perfect way to end a busy spring day.
Carousel at the Cincinnati Zoo
Closing Thoughts
If you're coming from Michigan, Cincinnati is a manageable drive (about 4–5 hours from Metro Detroit and Kalamazoo), plus this zoo is definitely worth making into a weekend trip from Michigan. Add in some extra time at the Newport Aquarium or Findlay Market if you can.
Happy adventuring, and let me know if you go—I'd love to hear your favorite part!
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