COLUMBUS – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has adopted a new policy on bags and other containers brought into the zoo and neighboring Zoombezi Bay.
Effective Sept. 6, visitors will be allowed to bring bags no larger than 22 inches long by 10 inches wide by 12 inches high, and hard or soft coolers, without wheels, up to 14 inches by 14 inches.
Guests can carry the bags and coolers or store them in several locations around the zoo, including one just north of Lakeside Grill.
During Zoombezi Bay’s operating season, from late May through Labor Day, the Zoombezi Bay Cooler Cove and the Zoombezi Bay Picnic Shelter will also be available to store items, zoo officials said.
Bags and coolers left unattended outside of these areas will be confiscated. As before, outside food and drink are permitted at the Zoo only, but glass containers, alcohol and straws are prohibited.
The zoo recently opened a new picnic area outside the entrance, adjacent to the parking lot where visitors can store oversized bags and coolers in a new shelter or storing the bags and coolers in their vehicles after using the shelter.
Guests can reenter the Zoo on the same day after receiving a handstamp upon exiting.