ZooIndiana, US

Columbian Park Zoo

Columbian Park Zoo offers an unforgettable family adventure, immersing visitors in diverse wildlife from around the globe.

Official website Open in Maps

About

Columbian Park Zoo offers an unforgettable family adventure, immersing visitors in diverse wildlife from around the globe. This engaging zoo, nestled within Lafayette, Indiana's Columbian Park, provides intimate animal encounters and interactive exhibits perfect for all ages.Embark on a captivating journey through various continental zones, each thoughtfully designed to bring you closer to incredible creatures. Wander through the Wallaby Walkabout, where these charming marsupials hop freely, or marvel at the playful antics of North American River Otters through underwater viewing tunnels. Young explorers will delight in the IU Health Family Farm, an interactive petting zoo where they can feed friendly goats and meet miniature horses. Don't miss the majestic Bald Eagles, the ancient Galapagos Tortoises, and the lively penguins in Penguin Cove, all contributing to a memorable and educational day out.Beyond the animal habitats, the zoo is part of a larger park complex featuring an impressive playground, picnic areas, and walking trails. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Columbian Park Zoo Express train or experience the recently reopened carousel, adding another layer of charm and nostalgia to this vibrant community hub. The Columbian Park Zoo is dedicated to inspiring appreciation for wildlife, enhancing conservation efforts, and fostering educational discovery in a fun, family-oriented environment. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

The Columbian Park Zoo, the second oldest zoo in Indiana, was founded in 1908 with a modest collection of animals including foxes, skunks, pelicans, deer, lynx, prairie dogs, and a wolf. Significant improvements were made in 1928 with the construction of the main animal house and the acquisition of an elephant through local school fundraising efforts. By the 1930s and 40s, the zoo expanded its collection to include lions, monkeys, elk, zebras, bears, and alligators, even breeding animals to share with other small zoos.After years of development, a comprehensive master plan in 2004 led to the zoo's closure for major renovations. It proudly reopened in June 2007 with modern, naturalized exhibits, a new family farm, a bald eagle exhibit, Prairie Dog Town, and an interactive fountain and entryway plaza. A highlight of the master plan, the return of a carousel, faced delays but recently opened in June 2026, rekindling a beloved park tradition last seen in 1998. Ongoing construction indicates future plans for a new primate complex and a discovery center, promising continued evolution and enhancement of the visitor experience.

What to do here

Explore diverse animal habitats like the Wallaby Walkabout and Penguin Cove, interact with farm animals at the IU Health Family Farm, observe otters through underwater tunnels, and enjoy rides on the Columbian Park Zoo Express and Carousel. Don't forget to explore the broader Columbian Park with its playground and walking trails.

Seasonal info

The Columbian Park Zoo is a seasonal attraction, typically open daily from mid-April to mid-October. The Butterfly Garden Party exhibit is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, weather permitting. The zoo is primarily an outdoor facility, with limited indoor areas for shelter from inclement weather.

Accessibility

The zoo is a six-acre facility with relatively flat terrain and ADA-compliant pathways composed of concrete, gravel, sand, and mulch. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the gift shop, and service animals are permitted on zoo grounds. Alternate exterior viewing areas are available for some exhibits, and handicap parking can be found in the Wallace Street lot, though the main entrance requires a walk. Sensory bags are also available for check-out.

Don't miss

Wallaby Walkabout

An immersive experience where you can walk among free-roaming wallabies.

Penguin Cove

Observe playful penguins as they waddle and swim.

IU Health Family Farm

An interactive petting zoo where you can feed goats, and see llamas and miniature horses.

North American River Otter Exhibit

Features underwater viewing and a crawl-through tunnel for an up-close perspective of these aquatic mammals.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

North American River Otter

Bald Eagle

Galapagos Tortoise

Prairie Dog

Llama

Horse

Emu

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

Visit in the morning, especially on weekdays, for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and more active animals.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the zoo exhibits and the broader Columbian Park amenities.

Pack a Picnic & Stay Hydrated

Save money by bringing your own snacks and lunch. Remember water bottles, especially during warmer months.

Explore the Park

Beyond the zoo, enjoy the expansive playground, walking trails, and consider a ride on the Columbian Park Zoo Express train or the new carousel.

Check for Special Events

Look out for seasonal events like "Boo at the Zoo" for unique experiences.

Respect Animal Boundaries

Stay on designated pathways, do not cross barriers, and refrain from feeding animals outside of designated interactive experiences like the Family Farm.

Frequently asked questions

: Admission to the Columbian Park Zoo is $3 for ages 3 and up, while children aged 2 and under are free. The zoo is open seasonally from mid-April to mid-October. Standard hours are typically 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended hours until 7:00 p.m. during peak summer months. It's always best to check the official website for the most current schedule.
: The Columbian Park Zoo has concession options, and visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunches as there are plenty of shady spots available. This is a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery. Please remember that feeding zoo animals human food is prohibited for their health.
: The Columbian Park Zoo is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ADA-compliant pathways throughout its relatively flat, six-acre facility. Wheelchairs can be borrowed from the gift shop, and alternate exterior viewing areas are provided for certain exhibits. Service animals are welcome, and handicap parking is available near the main entrance.