1 / 6
Location
Parking
Free parking available at Columbian Park Zoo
Best time
Arrive right when the zoo opens (check seasonal hours) to see animals most active and avoid mid-day crowds. Plan to stay for the train ride (30 minutes, extra cost) and explore the adjacent Columbian Park playground attractions.
Visitor tip
Don't miss the interactive animal encounters like feeding the goats and observing prairie dogs - these are highlighted as must-do experiences. Check if the paddle boats are operating, as they're mentioned as a popular add-on attraction at the park.
About Columbian Park Zoo
Park with zoo animals & a playground. Action-packed park featuring a seasonal zoo, walking trails & a high-energy playground.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Location
- Lafayette, IN
- Special Programs
- Birthday parties, Pet Prep 101 family programs
- Parking
- Free parking
What visitors say
For just three dollars, you can’t beat the value. The experience is perfectly sized and engaging enough to be worthwhile but not so overwhelming that young children get exhausted. I’d suggest packing a lunch and finding a shady spot…
We wanted to go on the paddle boats but they weren’t open yet so we checked out the zoo. The animals are well cared for. We got there right when they opened. It was a bit busy but plenty of room to see the animals. We enjoyed the goats…
We randomly stopped for a break while driving to Chicago when I saw the zoo and park combo. The zoo was small but sweet and well maintained. Friendly and nice employees and the animals all seemed happy. The park was amazing! Even the…
From 3,183 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- Admission is only $3, making it one of the most affordable zoo experiences while still maintaining well-cared-for animals and clean facilities
- The zoo is intentionally small and compact in design, allowing young children to explore without becoming overwhelmed while still seeing a variety of animals including goats, monkeys, llamas, prairie dogs, and penguins
- Columbian Park Zoo offers interactive animal programs including Professional animal caregiver programs and Pet Prep 101 family programs, allowing visitors hands-on engagement with animals
More Family Fun Nearby
Other venues within driving distance:
Own this venue? Stand out from the competition.
Zoos listings that are Featured get seen first by thousands of families every month.
- Priority placement in search
- Photo gallery showcase
- Insider tips from visitors
- Highlighted in dedicated featured section