Planning a fun-filled day at Zoombezi Bay in Ohio? Want to save some money on tickets? You've come to the right place! While directly purchasing Zoombezi Bay tickets at a Kroger store might not always be the most straightforward or advertised option, Kroger is a proud corporate partner of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (which includes Zoombezi Bay), and they do offer ways to get discounted tickets. This lengthy guide will walk you through everything you need to know to potentially snag those savings.
Ready to Dive into Savings? Let's Get Started!
Before we even talk about Kroger, ask yourself this: Are you looking for the absolute best deal, or simply a convenient way to get tickets? Your answer will help determine which strategy is best for you!
Step 1: Understanding Zoombezi Bay Ticket Basics (and why Kroger matters!)
First, let's understand how Zoombezi Bay tickets work. A general admission ticket to Zoombezi Bay always includes admission to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. That's a fantastic two-for-one deal right there!
Standard Ticket Prices (Gate Price - subject to change for 2025):
Adults (ages 10-59): Typically around $46.99
Child (ages 3-9) / Senior (ages 60+): Typically around $43.99
Ages 0-2: FREE!
Online Purchase Discounts: Zoombezi Bay strongly encourages purchasing tickets online in advance, as these are often cheaper than buying at the gate. For example, online prices might start at $34.99 for adults and $31.99 for children/seniors. There may be a small processing fee for online orders.
Parking: Parking is an additional $10 per car and is not included in the ticket price.
Now, where does Kroger come in? Kroger is an official grocer partner of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This partnership often translates into discounted tickets for both the Zoo and Zoombezi Bay, though the specifics can vary.
Step 2: Uncovering Kroger's Discounted Ticket Options
While you might not find a dedicated "Zoombezi Bay tickets" counter at every Kroger store, there are primary ways Kroger facilitates discounts:
Sub-heading: Kroger's Official Ticket Outlet Stores
Historically, Kroger has offered discounted Zoo and Zoombezi Bay tickets at select official ticket outlet stores across central Ohio.
Check with Your Local Kroger Store (Customer Service Desk): This is your first and most important step. Head to the customer service desk at your nearest Kroger in Ohio.
Politely ask if they sell discounted Zoombezi Bay tickets. Be specific and mention you know Kroger is a partner with the Columbus Zoo.
Inquire about the current pricing and any limitations. Sometimes these discounts are for specific dates or have purchase limits.
Ask if they have brochures or flyers detailing the offer. This can be helpful for future reference.
Look for Signage within the Store: Keep an eye out for signs near the customer service desk, at the entrance, or even within the grocery aisles that advertise discounts for local attractions, especially the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay.
Sub-heading: Kroger's Online Presence (Less Common for Direct Sales)
While Kroger's primary method for these discounts has traditionally been in-store, it's always worth a quick check on their website.
Visit Kroger.com: Navigate to the official Kroger website (kroger.com).
Use the Search Bar: Search for terms like "Zoombezi Bay tickets," "Columbus Zoo tickets," or "discount tickets."
Review Promotions/Weekly Ads: Check their weekly ad circulars (available online and in-store) or their "Deals" or "Promotions" sections. Occasionally, they might have a special promotion running for local attractions. However, direct online purchase of attraction tickets through Kroger is not a common feature.
Step 3: Exploring Other Discount Avenues (Beyond Just Kroger!)
Even if Kroger doesn't have the exact deal you're looking for at the moment, don't despair! There are several other ways to get discounted Zoombezi Bay tickets, which might even be better than what Kroger offers at a given time. Remember, the goal is to save money and have a great time!
Sub-heading: Purchasing Directly from Zoombezi Bay Online (Always a Good Bet!)
As mentioned, buying online from the official Zoombezi Bay website is almost always cheaper than buying at the gate.
Visit ZoombeziBay.com: Go to the official website:
www.zoombezibay.com Navigate to "Hours and Rates" or "Discounts": Look for sections related to ticket purchases.
Purchase in Advance: The earlier you purchase, sometimes the better the online price. Prices can fluctuate based on demand and date.
Sub-heading: Season Passes (If You Plan to Visit Multiple Times)
If you plan to visit Zoombezi Bay (or the Columbus Zoo) more than once in a season, a season pass is invariably the most cost-effective option.
Check Season Pass Benefits: Season passes often include unlimited visits to both Zoombezi Bay and the Columbus Zoo, free parking, early entry on select days, and discounts on food and merchandise.
Consider Gold Memberships: The Columbus Zoo also offers "Gold Memberships" which typically include Zoombezi Bay access, free rides, and other enhanced benefits. These are fantastic value if you're a frequent visitor.
Sub-heading: Special Promotions and Events
Keep an eye out for special promotions directly from Zoombezi Bay or affiliated organizations.
After 4 PM Tickets: Zoombezi Bay often offers heavily discounted "After 4 PM" tickets, especially later in the season. These are a fantastic option if you're only interested in a few hours of waterpark fun. Prices can be as low as $19.99.
COTA Zoo Bus Discount: If you take the COTA Zoo Bus to the park, you may be eligible for a discount on Zoombezi Bay admission (e.g., $10 off general admission).
Military Discount: Active and non-active duty military personnel often receive discounts.
Franklin County Resident Discount: If you reside in Franklin County, you may be eligible for special discounted rates directly through the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium website, which would include Zoombezi Bay access.
Group Discounts: If you're visiting with a large group (typically 15-25+ people), you can qualify for significant group discounts.
Credit Union or Employer Discounts: Many credit unions, large employers, and even AAA offer discounted tickets to local attractions. Check with your bank, employer, or AAA membership benefits.
Sensory-Friendly Events: Zoombezi Bay sometimes hosts "Quiet After Hours" or "Sensory-friendly" events with limited tickets and a calmer environment, which might have different pricing or require advance registration.
Step 4: Making Your Purchase and Enjoying Your Visit!
Once you've identified the best ticket option for you, here's how to proceed:
Sub-heading: Purchasing Your Tickets
Online (Recommended): If buying online from Zoombezi Bay, simply select your desired date and ticket type, add to cart, and complete the purchase. You'll typically receive e-tickets via email.
At Kroger (If Available): If your local Kroger sells them, you'll purchase them at the customer service desk. They may print physical tickets or provide a voucher.
At the Gate (Less Economical): While possible, it's generally the most expensive option.
Sub-heading: Important Reminders Before You Go
Check Operating Hours: Always verify Zoombezi Bay's operating hours for your planned visit date. Hours can vary throughout the season.
Parking Fee: Remember the $10 parking fee.
Cashless Park: As of 2025, Zoombezi Bay has transitioned to a fully cashless payment system. Bring a debit/credit card or be prepared to use their pre-paid debit card machines available at the ticket building if you prefer to use cash.
Sunshine Guarantee: Zoombezi Bay offers a "Sunshine Guarantee" in case of inclement weather, which may make you eligible for a return ticket. Check their website for specific terms.
Arrive Early: Especially on hot summer days, the park can get crowded. Arriving early can help you beat the lines and secure a good spot.
Pack Essentials: Don't forget sunscreen, towels, swimsuits, and perhaps a change of clothes. Lockers are available for rent.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a fantastic day at Zoombezi Bay without breaking the bank!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the most up-to-date Zoombezi Bay ticket prices?
The most current and accurate ticket prices for Zoombezi Bay are always available on their official website,
How to get discounted Zoombezi Bay tickets through Kroger?
Check with the customer service desk at your local Kroger store in Ohio, as they may sell discounted tickets as part of their corporate partnership with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (which includes Zoombezi Bay).
How to save money on Zoombezi Bay admission if Kroger doesn't have discounts?
Purchase your tickets online directly from the Zoombezi Bay website in advance, as online prices are typically lower than gate prices. Consider an "After 4 PM" ticket if you're visiting later in the day, or a season pass if you plan multiple visits.
How to find out about Zoombezi Bay season pass benefits?
Visit the "Membership" or "Season Pass" section on the official Zoombezi Bay or Columbus Zoo and Aquarium websites, which will detail all the benefits, including unlimited visits, free parking, and discounts.
How to get a discount on Zoombezi Bay tickets for Franklin County residents?
Franklin County residents can often receive discounted admission to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (which includes Zoombezi Bay) by purchasing tickets directly through the Zoo's website and verifying residency with a valid ID or utility bill upon entry.
How to use a military discount for Zoombezi Bay tickets?
Active and non-active duty military personnel can typically receive a discount on day passes when purchasing at the Zoombezi Bay front gate and presenting a valid military ID.
How to pay for things inside Zoombezi Bay?
Zoombezi Bay is a cashless park, so you'll need a debit card, credit card, or a pre-paid debit card (available for purchase with cash at the ticket building) for all purchases inside the park.
How to avoid long lines at Zoombezi Bay?
Consider visiting on a weekday, especially earlier in the season or during the latter half of the day. Arriving right at opening can also help you get ahead of the crowds. Purchasing tickets online in advance also saves time at the gate.
How to get a refund or return ticket due to bad weather at Zoombezi Bay?
Zoombezi Bay offers a "Sunshine Guarantee." Check their official website for the specific terms and conditions regarding eligibility for a return ticket if your visit is impacted by severe weather.
How to combine a visit to Zoombezi Bay with the Columbus Zoo?
A general admission ticket to Zoombezi Bay always includes admission to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on the same day, allowing you to enjoy both attractions for one price. You can easily walk between the two parks.
