33 Best Stops Between Elkhart and Sandusky (2024)

The Toledo Zoo is a massive and popular zoological institution in Ohio that features attractions and exhibits from all over the world. It's a great place to visit during the holidays, or any other time of year for that matter, as it's home to some amazing animals and scenery.

This zoo is a wonderful fixture in the community. We have lived here over a year now and have been members since our first week! The summer camps are great, lights are magical, the ice slide is a fun addition. We always get the experience package and definitely recommend the addition to the membership. We went to Noon Years Eve this NYE and everyone in our party had a blast. I lead a local Girl scout troop and our girls have been for the zoo sleepover as well as 2 day programs, everything we have had the opportunity to participate in has been great!

Mollie — Google review

Absolutely amazing place to visit. I hadn't been back since I was in middle school almost 25 years ago. What an amazing transformation and yet still very familiar. I had a blast with my family and will try to get back before another couple decades pass. What a great place to spend the day with loved ones and honestly it's so great maybe even a great place to walk around with enemies as there is so many cool exhibits to look at. Really recommend to anyone who has a few or more hours and is in the area.

Brad ( — Google review

Fantastic zoo! We went in purchasing basic admission and came out running to the membership sign up stand. The animals at this zoo were more lively and active than any other zoo I've been too. There were so many baby animals to see. The aquarium and aviary was stellar and large. The reptile house is always my favorite but sadly the largest, the alligator, was sleepy.General admission for two adults is $58.00. Parking is $11.00 at the Hippo road entrance parking lot. We decided to buy the membership because we absolutely will be back! We were able to combine our ticket purchase from today and the total for the family membership was $48.00! That pays for itself in two visits and you receive free parking with that membership. We didn't stop at any of the restaurants, but maybe next time.

Makayla S — Google review

We love the zoo! It's close to our house, and we have a membership. I highly recommend getting one. The zoo has plenty of special events throughout the year, but the Lights Before Christmas is an absolute must. The work they've put into the new exhibits and renovations is amazing. A few of our favorite attractions...Nature's Neighborhood and the Splash Pad for the kiddos...The Natural History Museum (my favorite)....The Aquarium...The Aviary...the Giraffe feeding...and all the animals of course! I would love to give it 5 stars, but the prices are so high. Also, they no longer allow outside food or drinks. Real bummer.Still a season ticket makes it all worthwhile.

Tonya O — Google review

I am a little biased and a little spoiled because I’ve grown up going to the Columbus Zoo. This zoo is nice and small and does have some unique features and animals that Columbus doesn’t have.The price was absolutely ridiculous. $31for one ticket?? I don’t understand what for. They could’ve made their money in other ways if anything was open. The play areas, train, and zip line/climbing area were all closed. If those were open, it would’ve relieved some areas from being so congested and they could’ve made their money that way instead of charging so much at the entrance.I agree with the other reviews and have noticed for myself that the exhibits are ridiculously small for some of the animals. I would say the biggest ones are the elephant exhibit and the land with the zebras, giraffes, camels, okapis, etc.They have an amazing aviary with very unique birds and it is my favorite part of this zoo, the aquarium is bigger than ours and has a variety of creatures.Love that they had the baby elephant out. He was two months old and at Columbus, we would never be able to see the elephants that close to being born.Another problem I have is there is a lot of walking especially to get to the other side where most of the exhibits are. Also a lot of walking with not seeing anything in between all that walking or you have to walk back through what you just saw to get to something else instead of being able to circle around. It should be better mapped out.

S — Google review

What a fun day at the zoo. Weather was perfect. Hanging out with my sisters, exchange daughter from Denmark and my great nephew was great. The animals were active and fun to watch. The baby elephant was probably the most adorable animal at the zoo today.The Toledo Zoo never fails.

Sue P — Google review

Really awesome zoo experience here. Everything seemed clean and spaces seemed well thought out and organized. You're able to get up close to most of the exhibits to get a better view. We enjoyed our time here. Plan on a 3-4 hour visit to walk the whole zoo, longer if you want to be more in depth. Would definitely come back another time!

Tamar B — Google review

We always love going to the Toledo Zoo for the lights, and this year was better than ever. After two decades of visiting every year, the Aviary was FINALLY open and we got to see some amazing specimens. Lots of other animals were out, too. Not to mention the lights, which were spectacular as always. The zoo employee screaming at us to get out of the orangutan exhibit did sour the experience a bit, I must say.

Melissa F — Google review

Love this zoo, I've been coming here since I was a kid- and it seems to just get better and better each year. We went on a Wednesday this year and it wasn't very crowded at all. The animals were more interactive than I've ever seen That's gotta be my favorite thing about this zoo, how well the animals are looked after. Their enclosures are large, they seem genuinely happy, which makes this place such a great experience. I've gone to other zoos in major cities and in comparison, they've seemed like backyard barn farms. Despite the stellar review, definitely be prepared for the price of food. It's outrageous, but what tourist attraction doesn't have outrageously priced food? It's a tradition. The souvenirs are also jacked up in price- but the stuff is pretty cute. I personally love my little octopus plushie I got from the aquarium gift shop. And as a native to the Toledo area, its very important they reopen the entrance on Broadway. If you serve the community in such a large way as letting the entire county free on Mondays, at least let the people who live in the neighborhood walk in. They have to put up with a lot due to the zoo- and it would be nice if the zoo extended that kindness. Other than that soapbox speech, the Toledo zoo really is a wonderful place that is near and dear to my heart.

Carrie R — Google review

It was an amazing day I must say. Relaxing, educational, inspiring. We had a wonderful tym seeing everything there & the guides that explain the exhibits r so very appreciated, helpful, kind. I luvd they were there to explain and make it more enjoyable to learn about each animal. I must say the tiniest seahorses I've ever seen there, were amazing too.. it's truly a wonderful zoo.. even in the rain.

Shannon ( — Google review

Had a great day with my family, enjoying the sights and scenery. The zoo has done a lot of improvements since the last time I was there 10+ years ago. The exhibits were great. The food was good, definitely slightly pricey, but there were lots of options. Everything was really clean except for the baby changing station in one of the family restrooms. We bought a membership and I think it is totally worth it because you get free parking (which is normally $10) and also receive 10% off on all food purchases. We can't wait to go back soon!

Leah — Google review

Had a wonderful time at the zoo. Varieties of animals, nice exhibits, lot many ones for children to enjoy. Concession stands all available in the same area instead of scattered across the zoo. Pumpkin carvings, inflatables, play areas, it was all fun!

Satyajit D — Google review

Was a great experience. One of my favorite zoos. And I go to 2 new zoos every year. Seen so many animals I haven't seen at other zoos. Nice to see pairs and no solo animals. Plenty of places for kids to play and have fun. Free water fountains, huge plus there. We pay enough to get in. Love seeing the original buildings in with the new. Will recommend.

Dkce — Google review

This zoo was so fun, so much to see and the animals are so much more active than most zoos we’ve been to. The animals looked happy and well taken care of and that’s always nice to see! Definitely worth the drive and the kids loved it.

GABBY M — Google review

Excellent zoo! Staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. My kids were well entertained for hours which is not easy to do. Only complaint is that they don’t let you bring in food and the food in the zoo is overpriced. 🦍🦧🦒🦛🐘🦅🐅🐊🦓🦏🦥🦭🐆🦚🐻

Joseph H — Google review

Love the Toledo Zoo! Grounds are clean, lots of exhibits. Orangutans are always my favorite. Got to see the baby which was adorable. Mama was showing off her off to everyone. I bought a membership which = admission for me and one other and free parking. If you go to the zoo more than once per year, the membership is worth it.

Heather — Google review

Wayyyyyy better than Detroit Zoo. The aviary is filled with the most beautiful birds. The primates are always so fun to watch. I wish they would get the giraffe feeding open. We are still waiting to do this!

Bill G — Google review

Very nice zoo. Came from Detroit to see animals we don’t have at the Detroit zoo. I personally didn’t get to see very many, as the group I was with was slow moving lol. This is obviously no fault of the zoo but I missed a lot and I will certainly have to come back. From what I did see, it appears to be a very nice zoo and the animals were pretty active. They do also have a small aquarium which is included with admission. You can easily get through the aquarium in half an hour, so don’t expect to spend a long time there. They do have a touch tank where you can touch rays and small sharks. The kids really enjoyed that.The zoo does have a train that doesn’t go very far, but it’s only $2.50 per person, they also have a merry go round for $2 each. They of course also have places to buy souvenirs and get your face painted.The coolest exhibit I saw there was the museum of natural history that had lots of detailed sculptures of animals that were once in America but are now extinct such as giant sloths, mastodons, etc. This building also had a touch tank where you can touch sturgeon.There are quite a few places to eat there, but a lot appeared to be closed. Be prepared to pay a premium for bottled water, you may want to consider bringing your own, as it was $4 per bottleOverall, we had a fun time and I definitely want to come back so I can see everything. I would definitely check this out if you’re in the area and if you’re in Detroit, I’d suggest visiting this zoo as a change from the one in Detroit if you’d like to see some different animals. Zoo is only about an hour away from Detroit.

Paige A — Google review

Easily one of the best zoo experiences I've had:The layout takes a second to get used too with most of the zoo being on the opposite side of the road, they have a nice tunnel and bridge to get to the other side which makes it convenient. When I was here today there was a ramp under construction.A lot of the exhibits are clean and spacious. The animals today were very active and there are a ton of free up-close interactions you can partake in.The staff was friendly and knowledgeable as they wandered the park and interacted with everyone.I would absolutely recommend everyone take a chance here and explore, it's a great and exciting learning environment for everyone!

Jacob S — Google review

I've always liked that it's an easy zoo to navigate with plenty of great attractions. If you have small kiddos, this is the zoo for you. Easy to walk, good concessions, and the exhibits will keep the kids entertained and often amazed. Don't worry, as an adult you'll feel like akud again.

Cyril R — Google review

Good selection of animals to see and they keep improving and expanding habitats. Lots of interactive experiences for kids and people of all ages. Great aquarium, green houses and play areas. Their aviary and reptile house is also nice. They also have a great museum and an outdoor amphitheater. There is also a vegetable patch and pollinator garden. Some cramped quarters for some animals but I can see they’re working on improving the overall quality of life for the animals. Clean bathrooms and nursing areas.Overall good well rounded experience. Well worth the membership/ ticket fee. Highly recommend getting a membership especially if you have kids. Lots to explore even if you end up coming a few times a month like we do! They also have free days/ times. Friendly knowledgeable staff and volunteers

Mahisha A — Google review

It's a good zoo. Some animals weren't out, unfortunately. Lots of walking, I believe most if not all of it is stroller/wheelchair accessible! The aquarium has touch tanks where you're able to touch some sea animals. There is a splash pad, it was closed for the season when we visited but hope to visit it when they open again when it warms up. Some animals are no longer there that were there years ago, understandable but sad 😢 . Buy a membership, it's worth it.

Leslie E — Google review

Too much fun! If you can, get an family pass you should definitely go for it. There’s too much going to see and one day is not enough time!🥰 we also got the experience package which pays for itself. We get to go on as many rides as we want on the safari train and carousel. And we can feed the giraffes with it too. Plus it gets you trick or treating for free and all the other seasonal activities as well.

Mary S — Google review

The zoo is very large and there are many attractions and animals to see. The main food area has been closed both times we've visited, leaving less shaded picnic/rest areas. The giraffe experience, the polar bears and the splash pad were our favorite parts. The aquarium is large and has hands on areas as well. The website says no outside food or drink but bags were not checked at the door.

Melissa C — Google review

I absolutely love the flow of this zoo! The habitats are built so that you can see the animals from more than one vantage point. That way, you are pretty much guaranteed viewing. Loved it so much I purchased a membership!! Great zoo!!!!

Lisa S — Google review

I've been coming to this zoo for almost as long as I've lived in the US (23 years), and it never ceases to impress.As a professional nature and wildlife photographer, it offers a great place to practice my craft.

Miguel D — Google review

This was my first time to the Toledo Zoo. I was already in town to photograph the eclipse so I decided to take my camera and visit. It was amazing! From easy parking near the entrance to learning that Veterans are admitted free (just charged 11 dollars for parking) it was a great experience. Lots of different animals - easy to see and photograph. A wonderful day trip. So much fun.

Chris H — Google review

Wonderful place to visit with the family. We visit frequently throughout the year during every season. Beautiful foliage in the spring and summer with wonderful fall and winter decorations as well. There are many fun things to do at the zoo from the carousel, train, ride, aquarium, and aviary. The Zoo is a must DO!

Hilari H — Google review

The best zoo I've visited yet. It would be worth going just for the Museum of Natural History. The animal exhibits are immaculate as are the grounds. There are playgrounds and a large splash zone for kids. This place is stunning. You won't be disappointed.

Sally C — Google review

We love our Zoo!There are many animals to see/learn about.They offer several activities for children to do and even offer classes and camps for children and parents to attend. They put a lot of effort into the learning, games and crafts at their camps and classes.They have a small splash pad that my son loves, as well as many concessions to choose from.Animal demonstrations and opportunities to get up close and personal with animals like the sting ray touch tank. Feeding giraffes and others.

Abby Z — Google review

Most expensive zoo we've gone too. I think prices across the board were a bit higher than anything we've seen from other, better known zoos. Also had to pay for parking.But anyway, I'll always give zoos 5 stars if they treat the animals well. The habitats were well thought out and most were well sized. All animals had forms of enrichment and ways to stay active which was great. There is information and historical data all over the park so there is plenty to read, which I enjoyed.Besides pricing, my only complaint are the information TVs above most exhibits. It takes way too long for most of the information screens to cycle back around and I just couldn't keep waiting. They either need to add more TVs or simply go back to the informational signs like most zoos have.And clean the glass. It was hard to see into a lot of exhibits. But we went late in the year. Maybe that's a seasonal job??

AJ F — Google review

The place was such a beautiful escape from the business of downtown. We got there super early, so our first walk around, they were still letting some animals out. After about 30minutes, though, everyone was ready to play.The staff were well informed and eager to teach and share experiences. I can’t wait to come back with my nephews. This was my “trial run” they’re going to love Kirk the new baby elephant 🐘

Shakiyla I — Google review

Wonderful, cool underground walkway and overhead bridges. While not every feature was open since it's not a weekend but there was still plenty to do. Food at the Bistro was lovely, pricing is what you would expect from a zoo, but worth it. A lot of cool stuff in the gift shop. The animals were so photogenic, and the gardens by the conservatory are so serene. Whether you're on your own, or with friends, it's a nice place to walk around and enjoy your day.

Braeden P — Google review

Excellent zoo. Better than my local overpriced "Buffalo Zoo". You get quite a bit for your money. The Zoo and Aquarium are included as well as their Museum. Spent about 6 hours seeing everything. Staff was very helpful and very informative. They answered all questions I had asked. Nice clean Zoo. Most of the animals seemed happy..... after all it was 90 degrees when I went. Highly recommended, worth the drive. A++++

David G — Google review

This is a GREAT zoo with a pretty awesome aquarium added to your original entry price! Active military and our amazing Veterans have free entry. We went to see the new baby elephant and found additional babies were born there this spring. Really awesome!

Tamara C — Google review

I absolutely love the Toledo zoo.We specifically went to see "Kirk," the baby elephant. The zoo staff was very careful about managing viewing the mother and baby elephant for the care of the elephants. I'm glad. It was nice to see.I try to go on days that are normally less busy. This zoo does a really good job at keeping restrooms clean at zoo facilities. We had a zoo greeting from staff upon entering, and the young man asked if we would like a group picture. I said yes, please, and thank you.I handed my camera to him. Now, thankfully, I have a great family picture of a very pleasant and fun visit to the toledo zoo. 😀

Frank B — Google review

A great zoo in northern Ohio for all to enjoy! Hippos, Giraffes, and even an aquarium make for a great time at this zoo! Easily spotted from the road, lots of parking, fairly priced entry ticket and vendors throughout the zoo. Most definitely worth stopping by and experiencing for yourself, or with family!

Sean Q — Google review

I love this zoo! Our family has a membership and we live in Ann Arbor. We try to go as much as we can but the membership is worth it. They have awesome animals and activities. Their aquarium is really cool. My fav is the red panda and baby Kirk the elephant! It’s not super huge so it’s easy to get around. They have great food choices. The parking is super close and you don’t have to walk far at all.

Jessica S — Google review

I love this zoo! So much to do and perfect for young kids! They had a weeknight promo for half off after 4pm, so stayed a few hours in the evening, but we could have easily spent all day! The little kids play area is so neat! There were tons to do for little ones who love to splash and play in the dirt (bring swimsuits and extra clothes/ towels!). The running stream was our kids' favorite, but there is something for everyone. I was happy to see the playground still around and the (newer) splash pad area! Petting zoo is so cute too! Great food options. I wish the carousel and train were included in admission-I don't know that we'd pay to do more than once- but they were pretty affordable.

Samantha H — Google review

I could spend hours marveling at the beauty of nature housed within the Toledo Zoo. It was truly a day filled with wonder and appreciation for our planet’s diverse inhabitants.Exploring the different exhibits was a journey through various ecosystems. The Arctic Encounter with polar bears gracefully gliding through the water was breathtaking, while the African Savanna transported me amidst giraffes, wild buffalos, zebras, and tiger with her cubs. One of the highlights was the Aviary, a paradise filled with colorful birds from around the world. Moreover, the zoo’s commitment to conservation and education shone through their informative sessions and conservation initiatives. It was heartwarming to witness their dedication to preserving endangered species and raising awareness about wildlife conservation. It was a great experience and still lots more to see & cover, probably when I visit again

Dinakaran P — Google review

Toledo ZooWent to this zoo in 2017. Not bad. When you live next to the Detroit Zoo. Most zoos look small. Good size. Many people. No issues. I do like the fact that you don't need to pay extra to visit the Aquarium.Highly Recommended

Kalvin H — Google review

We love The Toledo Zoo! We typically visit on Mondays when it is free for Lucas County residents. The employees are great and pretty knowledgeable. The Zoo is well kept! The only complaint I have is that the Zoo is absolutely cashless. So I refuse to purchase anything while I am there. I only pay for parking.

Crystal S — Google review

Insane prices as most are! There's plenty of bathrooms, a splash pad, small playground like area for kids to play. The aquariums look amazing!!! Clean and a lot of staff on standby to speak about exhibits. We enjoyed our visit.

Lacey — Google review

Had a blast! The animals were so active today! We took advantage of the Zoo membership as it was cheaper for us to buy a membership for our family of 6 vs paying for each ticket. The membership also allows us half off some other zoos in the area! The red panda was SO adorable!

Adam V — Google review

Took my children here while visiting family. The Toledo Zoo is great. So many animals to see! The baby elephant is so cute!!

Rachel W — Google review

My wife and I are visiting from Cincinnati for the weekend. The first stop was the zoo, and we had a great time. The zoo is not really big but is spread out and the habitats are very nice! The Toledo Zoo is a MUST visit for sure!!!

Richard S — Google review

Great place to go. I love this place because it has so many animals to look at including a bird house, reptile house, aquarium, and more. It is also great because during Christmas when they have the lights up it Is so amazing.

Tate's S — Google review

Toledo Zoo is easily a place where you could spend the whole day. There’s a huge variety of animals to visit, the enclosures are very well-maintained, the park is clean, has lots of information on every animal there. The staff there are very friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable. Being able to see these beautiful animals up close and personal is an amazing experience. Recommend checking out the aviary where they have a section of that area, with free-roaming birds. Another place I’d recommend is the touch tank where you can touch sturgeon. And lastly the reptiles & museum! So many different species of snakes & a collection of pinned butterflies, moths, bees, beetles, and so on. I 100% would go again.

Cimbery K — Google review

Truly a remarkable place to let the mind wonder and watch the kids be interested in learning and exploring. It was our first time going and the Toledo zoo did not disappoint at all. It was super friendly there and all the animals were up and out. It was a beautiful zoo and if you get the chance to go there I highly recommend you do so.

Chris D — Google review

One of the best zoos I’ve been to! I really liked how the zoo is spilt up into 2 separate areas, because it seems to help things not be so crowded. My family and I had certain exhibits all to ourselves. Despite going on a VERY hot day (90 and up) a lot of the animals were active. We especially loved the aquarium. There were also plenty of staff/volunteers around the zoo offering facts and information. It’s a great place for kids.

Shelby C — Google review

33 Best Stops Between Elkhart and Sandusky (2024)
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