Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

We chose the Heart of Africa Venue for the separate entrance and parking for our daughter's and now son-in-laws ceremony and reception. We and our guests were over the top thrilled with the delicious food, spacious dance floor and of course the animal visitors. The staff went out of their way to make this a wonderful event.

Amanda is amazing!!!!!! She was so easy to work with and so helpful along every step of the way. When we had to move our wedding date due to covid, she was there assuring us that there were many other dates to move us to. The venue itself was breathtaking. Our ceremony backdrop was a savannah! It was gorgeous. My guests raved about how delicious the food was! There were loads of options and all of them were tasty.

My husband and I held our ceremony and reception at the Heart of Africa venue at the Columbus zoo. It was unseasonably warm that day but that made it perfect as all of the animals were out in the background for our ceremony! The venue is absolutely beautiful and my husband and I still hear praises from our guests who had no idea such a space existed at the zoo. Amanda and the rest of the staff at the zoo were wonderful to work with and were extremely helpful throughout the entire planning process. My husband and I were living out of town during the planning process but they coordinated a special tasting food tasting session during one of the few times we could be in town. Also the food at the zoo was absolutely delicious. It was honestly some of the best food at a wedding that I have ever had. If I had to do it all again, I would choose the Columbus Zoo as our venue every time!

I cannot put into words what an amazing wedding reception my husband and I had at the Columbus Zoo. We had our reception at the Africa Event Center and everything turned out perfectly. Amanda (event coordinator) made the planning process very easy and answered any questions we had. I did find communication with catering to be hard at times but in the end everything worked out. The space is beautiful and my guests loved feeding the giraffes. My husband and I looked at a few different venues and found the pricing to be very competitive with the rest of the market in Columbus. You will not be disappointed if you have your wedding or recepetion here!

Amanda was amazing to work with. Some issues week of and I’m disappointed I received a message on my wedding day about details we thought were handled. Remember it’s a zoo first and it’ll be fine. The space was fantastic, food was amazing! We’d still choose the zoo again.

We held our ceremony and reception at the African Event Center. The venue was absolutely amazing and so incredibly unique. We received countless compliments on how beautiful the space was, how fun our wedding was, and how delicious the food was! Our guests were able to feed giraffes and interact with the baby animals during cocktail hour. There is no was to describe how gorgeous and special it is to have giraffes walking around in the background while you're getting married. It tied the entire event together perfectly! In addition to the venue being perfect, the team we worked with was stellar. Amanda and Alyssa are professional, organized, and accommodating. We had a few unique requests, which they happily managed. We planned our wedding from across the country and they helped ensure that we didn't skip a beat in the planning process. Additionally, they were very fun to work with - I enjoyed every interaction we had with the two of them! I can't say enough about this venue. Your guests will be blown away and your planning process will be seamless!

Having our wedding at the Columbus Zoo (African Event Center) was the best decision I made. First, the process went so smooth working with Alyssa and Amanda. They were so incredibly nice and helpful throughout all of the wedding planning stages, and quick to respond to my never ending questions. The day of our wedding couldn't have gone better. We had our ceremony outside and our reception inside. There was 100% chance of rain with severe storms, and Alyssa and her staff were very calming and reassuring that there is a backup plan for bad weather, which is still a beautiful plan B (all windows looking out onto the African exhibit). Lucky for me, it didn't rain, and the day was perfect. The zoo has their own catering, which tastes amazing, and they provide chairs/tables/linens, which very much helped in my planning of things I need. The day of the wedding we got to feed giraffes, and take wedding photos with a baby cheetah, kangaroo, fox, and penguin. It was the best day ever, and multiple guests told us it was the best wedding they had every been to. It was more than a wedding - it was an experience for our guests, which was exactly what I was going for. I would very highly recommend getting married at the zoo!!

Sara and Alyssa were incredibly fantastic to work with! They were so proactive and timely with all of their responses of the questions I had for our upcoming wedding! Throughout the planning process, I never felt uncomfortable or unsure about anything!! I can't thank Sara and Alyssa enough for all of the support and encouragement they provided! Leading up to our wedding day, they reached out to my vendors with information so I didn't have to be the one relaying the details for day of! Our wedding went off without a hitch! It was so perfect and so wonderful that I couldn't have imagined anyone else playing the part that Sara and Alyssa filled!!! The catering staff were wonderful and helpful and so pleasant!!! I advise everyone who is looking to have their wedding at the Zoo to give them the business because you won't be disappointed!!! Thank you again for such a perfect wedding day that will always be remembered, for myself and my husband, as well as the guests that attended!!!

We got married here in the Africa Event Center on 7/2/16 and it could have not been more perfect. We had a large wedding (around 200 people) with quite a few children (around 25) and there was plenty of space and entertainment for all ages. Sara and Alyssa, the event and catering coordinators, never took longer than 24 hours to respond to a call or e-mail throughout the 18 month planning process and were always willing to wiggle their schedules if we wanted to come in to see the venue or meet prior to the wedding. Many of our guests told us that it was the best wedding they had ever been to! Our wedding was an absolute fairy tale and we could not have been happier with our experience with the Columbus Zoo!

I had my wedding reception in Africa and I cannot stress enough to brides/grooms considering this venue to BEWARE. THEY OVER PROMISE AND UNDER DELIVER! It is a beautiful, unique venue - no doubt about that. The space practically sells itself; but that's the problem. The zoo lacks in most other areas besides the space itself. The customer service is mediocre at best. Alyssa was slow to respond to questions in the early stages of planning and later when it got closer to the event date, developed an unprofessional attitude. At the beginning, the catering team was willing to make accommodations to our special requests but as the planning went on, their answers turned to adamant "nos" without even offering solutions. The day of our reception, the zoo had booked another event before ours. I understand why they did it - money of course - but it was at our expense. The staff told us the first event was to end at 1PM. Unfortunately, guests didn’t leave until after 2PM and then the space had to be cleaned and re-set. The catering team was so understaffed that 12 friends/family members ended up missing our ceremony because the zoo was so overwhelmed. My florist told me after the wedding, “after over 500 wedding, it was the most chaotic set-up I have ever been a part of.” Thankfully, the room was set by the time the guests arrived from the church but only because my family was there to step up and fill in because the zoo staffs’ poor planning; such a sad experience for me and my family. That’s not all unfortunately. The zoo staff broke a piece of artwork we had specially made for the day during their frantic, messy set-up. On top of that, I had linens and overlays ordered costing over $2000. When they were put on the tables by the zoo staff, they were wrinkled and wet. I called the linen company after the wedding to find out their side of things, and they were appalled at how the zoo had taken care of them and how they looked (I sent them a picture) – they even suggested that the zoo may have been used for another event. When we asked the zoo about it later, they, of course, denied everything. Last but certainly not least, the zoo claims to be a “top wedding venue” yet, they don’t even have a proper room to store wedding materials. We had purchased dripless candles for 12 candelabra centerpieces and when we arrived to drop our stuff off, they told us they had a utility room we could put our stuff in. The utility room had no air-conditioning and was 90+ degrees. Needless to say, the candles melted in their “storage room” and when they were put out the day of the wedding, they were ruined and hot wax dripped all over the linens and guest tables during the reception. You can only imagine the mess. My fiancé, parents, and I barely ate (no hors d’eouvres were ever even offered to me) but the guests told me the food was great. The animals were out and active and the guests loved interacting with them so that was also a plus. Recently, my parents connected with the zoo staff to communicate all of our concerns and it fell on unapologetic ears. Sodexo (the catering company within the zoo) has a long term contract there so they feel they have no need to exceed or even meet expectations for that matter. Overall, it was a beautiful day and I’m going to continue to focus on the positives but felt the need to warn potential customers. I would not want anyone else to experience the stress, lack in customer service, frustration, or disappointment we experienced.

This is probably the best place in all of Ohio to get married. Our guests were constantly entertained and amazed with all the animals. The Africa Event Cetner is absolutely gorgeous and the food and staff were phenomenal. I wish I could do it all over again!

We loved the zoo. Our guests loved the zoo everything worked out so well. We highly recommend the Zoo for a wedding if that is what you like. It was well worth it. We loved the location and the food was excellent. Sara and Alyssa were easy to work with. We scheduled a final meeting the week of the wedding to make sure everything was ready to go. They had everything under control and by the time that our wedding was ending they were starting to put together the set up for the next weeding, they were really on top of it over there. We had 4 amazing animals and they were so fun to play with and look at. Thank you for everything

The Zoo was the perfect place for our wedding! The venue and the animals during cocktail hour blew our guests away and made for perfect photos. Everyone on staff was responsive (especially Sara and Alyssa!), quick to offer feedback, and flexible to meet what we were hoping to achieve. They went above and beyond in holding a personal tasting for us and creating an appetizer off the menu. Everyone we interacted with was professional and delivered an exceptional level of customer service. We can't say enough good things!

My wedding at the Africa event center was absolutely perfect. I had a few minor issues with communication between the staff during the process. All issues were worked out, the staff was very accommodating on the big day, and my guests still tell me it was the most unique and beautiful wedding they have ever experienced.

I wish I could give the zoo 10 stars! I cannot express in words what an amazing venue this is for a wedding. My husband and I were married at the Africa Event Center (The Heart of Africa area), and we had our reception there, as well. I could not have designed a more perfect day! Sara and Alyssa made this possible. They were wonderful to work with, and quick to respond to any questions my husband or I had. They were incredibly accommodating, as well! I don't think there was a single request that was denied! The Africa Event Center is an absolutely amazing and unforgettable place to be married. The giraffes and other animals are out during the ceremony (weather permitting), and it makes for the most stunning backdrop you have ever seen! You also have the option of providing a giraffe feeding for the guests after the ceremony (We did this, and it was a wonderful decision! Our guests had the best time!), and then the zoo staff brings other animals to mingle with your guests, after you and your spouse get a private session with them. "Once-in-a-lifetime" does not begin to describe this venue. I am still getting compliments to this day, and I know that I will continue to do so for a long, long time! If you are looking for a unique, fun, unforgettable venue that is nearly impossible to beat, look no further!

We had our wedding reception at the Africa Event Center Oct. 3rd of this year, and it was everything I had hoped for after seeing the venue for the first time. Of course, with our luck, it was 50 degrees and raining, so for the health of the giraffes they were not on exhibit. While that was a bummer, we knew from the beginning that was a possibility. We were still given the opportunity to take pictures in different areas of the zoo, though for comfort of our bridal party, we stuck around Africa. I can't wait to see how the pictures turned out, as the male lion was putting on a show! They also brought out 4 different animals that we were able to interact with: fennec fox, a penguin, a lynx, and a snow leopard. The staff in charge of those animals were AWESOME. Speaking of awesome--Sarah and Alyssa were EXCELLENT to work with. They made things incredibly easy and understandable. I was planning from out of state, and they kept up with and responded to my emails in no time at all. They were also nice enough to try and squeeze me in when I would be in town and wanted to finalize some details. Finally, I don't think you can find better wedding food than what is available here. Price comparison, they were priced well for the quality and service (we are by no means wealthy), but the food and alcohol sure seemed like we were paying more than we did. My guests had a great time, and while some were bummed they didn't get to experience the full benefit of having the giraffes there, they all said that the wedding was very "us" and fun.

All-in-all, the Columbus Zoo was a great venue and we had an amazing wedding and reception there. The staff was all friendly and helpful and was in frequent communication prior to the event. We had our wedding at the waterfront pavilion area of the zoo, with the ceremony held on the Boardwalk over the river, and the reception held in the pavilions on the boardwalk. One of the unique things about the zoo is that they will bring out several animals for the guests to interact with. For our wedding, there was a lemur, an albino kangaroo, an owl, and a penguin. You can also rent out a carousel for you and your guests, and/or golf-carts that employees while use to bring your guests to and from the main gate to the wedding area. Definitely a memorable and fun venue.

We fell in love with the Africa Event Center and booked almost a year in advance. After many conversations regarding the animals in the yard they did not handle it properly. In the end we had no animals (giraffe, zebras, wildebeest, etc) in the yard. Our guests were extremely disappointed. They should have a specific contract explaining all details in regards to the animals. After they officially started events, the pricing changed. It's a beautiful venue but never plan in April and get everything in writing. The welfare of the animals are most important but without communication it spoiled our experience.

Everyone from the zoo I came into contact with was so helpful and nice. They were very patient with me and my mom and supplied us with everything we requested. It was an amazing experience!

My husband and I got married at the Columbus Zoo in May of 2013 and had an AMAZING experience. All of the staff we worked with, from the moment we first made contact to view the site to the day of the wedding, were wonderful! They made the experience fun and as stress-free as possible. I didn't need a wedding planner or day- of coordinator because they were so helpful in answering questions and getting things set up. Our guests say that our wedding was the most fun wedding they've ever been to, thanks to the fun add-ons we were able to select such as renting the carousel and visits from a variety of animals. The river created a beautiful backdrop for our ceremony (held on the boardwalk) and the pavilion(s) can be made as formal or informal as you like for the reception (or ceremony). The food was great and the fact that they cater on site made for one less thing to worry about coordinating. The opportunity to wander the Zoo for bridal party pictures also made for a truly unforgettable day! If I could do it all over again, I would not change a thing! I have only positive things to say about The Columbus Zoo as a wedding site.

I was married at the zoo in September 2013 at the waters edge area. We had the best day for weather and people are still talking about the animals we had there and how cool that was! My maid of honor walked down the aisle escorted by a porcupine, it doesn't get any better than that. The space is really unique and I hardly had to do any decorating. The zoo has great places for pictures and our pictures from the aquarium were my favorite. I was the first wedding to have the food of the new contractor and it was really really good. There are different packages to fit budgets and even with the least expensive level we had a lot of options. I worked with Sara from the zoo and she was a rock star. She answered all of my questions usually within hours and sometimes even minutes of emailing and was there the day of the help take care of things for us as well. There are also golf carts available to take all of your guests back and forth from the entrance to the event area which was essential! The only downside for me was that there was no private area for the bridal party once we got to the zoo. Otherwise the zoo is a great space and your guests will love it too!

If you are looking for a unique and memorable wedding The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the perfect place. The staff is amazing from beginning to end. It is a beautiful setting with a lot to offer.

The Columbus Zoo was a high contender for my wedding venue. They were just a little out of our price range, but you DEFINITELY get high quality for what you pay for! The setting is BEAUTIFUL over looking the lake & EXOTIC with all the animals. They bring out live animals after your ceremony, FULL BAR OPEN for 3 hours, a delicious looking meal menu, & SUPER friendly & punctual staff. Great deal if you've got the money to spend! I recommend this venue for sure!

This venue was absolutely perfect for our wedding. Not only was the setting so beautiful (in the pavilions along the river), the event staff made everything so easy! This venue was so unique (who else can say they had a penguin at their wedding?), and we loved that the money we were spending on the venue would be going to a good cause. The zoo catered our event as well, and the food was quite good. I highly recommend the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for your event. You won't regret it!

This venue was amazing for my wedding. Everything went perfect. The only this I would change is the zoo wedding planner.. She was talking us out of our wedding at this venue.

We used the Columbus Zoo for our ceremony, reception and our caterer. The facilities are beautiful and very nice. We got married on the water, which was very scenic and gave us wonderful pictures. The set-up was nice because guests went into one of the board walk pavilions for drinks and appetizers after the ceremony while we took pictures and then were directed into the other pavilion where dinner was set-up. Then after dinner and cake we back into the other pavilion for dancing, so we never had to wait for things to be cleared out or set-up. My only complaint would be the amount of time you have to set-up. You cannot set-up the day before, as they are likely to have events that afternoon. Our ceremony started at 5:00 p.m. and the earliest we could get in was 4:00 p.m. Other than that we loved the location and the catering staff was wonderful too.

Though my planning got off to a rough start with trying to get someone to work with such an inexperienced event planner as myself, I was soon matched up with a wonderful sales rep. She helped me with ideas, walked with me through the venue to show me different areas I could put things as well as to hear what I wanted set up where, and she was extremely friendly and helpful throughout the entire process. She made it MUCH less stressful for me and I am eternally grateful, for our wedding was perfect in every way!

Our wedding was at a Zoo so it was unique, it was classy and yet the children weren't bored. In fact, many guests told us it was the most fun they've had at a wedding in years and they loved that the kids were entertained. Zoo employees brought around 4 animals, a fennec fox (I got to hold him!), a parrot, a wallaby and a dingo. The dingo and fox were available for petting and whatnot. I loved the laidback atmosphere but we made it wedding appropriate. The staff there is amazing, I didn't worry about a thing ALL night!;The room we had our reception in was painted in a Zoo theme, if you don't want that back drop, choose the alternate location.