Step into the extraordinary at Unextinct!
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is proud to host this jaw-dropping after-hours event that defies imagination! Enter a world where 70 extinct and endangered species come to life using tech-driven theatrical illusions, allowing you to learn about the importance of conservation and the role we all play in species survival.
- Members of the Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and The Wilds receive a 50% discount on admission prices.
- The Carousel, Tidal Twist, Havoc Harbor, and Mission Macaw rides are included with every admission!
- Zoo and Zoombezi Bay members receive free parking!
- Upgrade to a Premium ticket and receive a custom pennant and souvenir cup.
- Elevate your experience by attending a VIP Night, presented by Dr Pepper, at Lakeside Lounge.
- Mark your calendars for our Adults Only night and other themed nights!
dates and admission
8:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
NEW HOURS! UNEXTINCT is best viewed after the sun sets, so we've adjusted the event time to take full advantage of the night's darkness.
THURSDAYS | FRIDAYS | SATURDAYS |
APR 4 | APR 5 | APR 6: VIP Night, presented by Dr Pepper |
APR 12: Adults Only Night | APR 13 | |
APR 19 | APR 20: VIP Night, presented by Dr Pepper | |
APR 26 | APR 27 |
FRIDAYS | SATURDAYS | SUNDAYS |
MAY 3 | MAY 4: VIP Night, presented by Dr Pepper | |
MAY 10 | MAY 11 | |
MAY 17: Adults Only Night | MAY 18: VIP Night, presented by Dr Pepper | |
MAY 24: Adults Only Night | MAY 25 | MAY 26 |
Admission
Choose the date you'd like to attend...and change it later if you'd like!
- General Admission for Adults (ages 10+): $28.99
- General Admission for Children: $25.99
- Members of the Columbus Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and The Wilds receive A 50% discount!
Get Ready!
Tell Me More about UNEXTINCT!
Guest of all ages will enjoy UNEXTINCT and learn valuable lessons about extinct species as well as those on the edge of extinction. The event is an outdoor walking experience, so please plan accordingly for the weather.
UNEXTINCT is a special nighttime event that will be located in a focused section of the Zoo, and Zoo animals are not included in the experience. However, you may see a few out-and-about as you stroll the paths!
You'll enter the Columbus Zoo's main gate and into Entry Village. Your journey will then take you into Asia Quest and then under the bridge and into our Shores region.
This experience is designed to be followed in a particular order, and volunteers will be present to point you in the right direction. To maximize your experience, download the Zoo's free mobile app, where you'll find each feature of UNEXTINCT as well as thoughtful information about each animal you'll see!
UNEXTINCT was created by Morgan Lee Richardson and the experiential design team at Mangolin Creative. It was crafted to leverage art and design as a means of fostering connections between humans and wildlife, empowering individuals to enact positive change for endangered species. Through captivating illusions and narrative, UNEXTINCT seeks to ignite a sense of hope and optimism for preserving our planet's biodiversity for future generations.
We suggest downloading the free Columbus Zoo and Aquarium mobile prior to your visit! When you arrive, you'll be able to see conservation information about each featured species of UNEXTINCT.
- Make sure your bluetooth is on
- Make sure your app notifications are on
Want to read up on the featured species before you arrive?
Living Water Arachnoglitch Sacred Geometry Africa Alive Larger Than Life Spectral Stalkers Electric Menagerie Twilight Trek Soaring Panorama Ultra Violet Gallery Chrysalis Chromatica Neon Bamboo Ancient Wisdom String Forest
Ticket Information
- Tickets can be purchased at the main gate of the Columbus Zoo.
- You can also purchase tickets on this webpage and skip the ticket lines.
With a premium ticket, you'll receive interactive bracelets that will enhance your experience while walking through UNEXTINCT, and you'll also receive an UNEXTINCT souvenir cup!
Ticket upgrades can be made at the Zoo's ticket window and may be based on availability.
Tickets are not refundable but can be used during any date that UNEXTINCT is offered.
Tickets to UNEXTINCT make a great gift!
Gift tickets can be purchased online. You can either print them out or email them to the recipient.
Members of the Columbus Zoo receive a discount on admission! Just show your member ID at the gate or enter your ID number when purchasing tickets online.
Questions about My Visit
Yes! Download the free 'Columbus Zoo and Aquarium mobile app to your smartphone. In the top toolbar, you'll see an option to view UNEXTINCT information. The app will be home to conservation messaging that will enhance your visit, walking directions, nearest food and drink options during UNEXTINCT, and more!
Hints
- Allow for notifications from the app
- Make sure your bluetooth is turned on prior to entering the Zoo.
Food, non-alcoholic beverages, baby formula and special diet items for medical purposes are permitted inside the Zoo as long as they comply with the Zoo's Cooler policy.
For the health and safety of our animals, we do not permit or use straws or lids on beverage containers. Heavy duty souvenir cups with lids and straws sold by the Zoo are permitted.
The carousel and 4D Theater will be accessible to guests for an additional fee.
UNEXTINCT is a special nighttime event that will be located in a focused section of the Zoo, and Zoo animals are not included in the experience. Animal areas like Adventure Cove and the Aquarium will also be accessible throughout the event, but animal viewing in any region is not guaranteed.
- This experience contains bright, flashing lights that may cause discomfort for people with photosensitivities.
- There may also be loud music and sound effects which may cause discomfort for people with sensitive hearing.
- Sensory kits are available in the Zoo's Guest Relations office on a first come, first serve basis. A refundable deposit of $10 is required.
Service animals are permitted, but pets and emotional support animals are not.
UNEXTINCT is a limited-time immersive experience that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is hosting. Reciprocal admission discounts do not apply to special events.
The Zoo closes at 5 p.m. and our security team will fully clear the park in order to prepare for the evening event. You may bring your UNEXTINCT ticket to the turnstiles at 7:30 p.m. for entry.