Whether you’re a family looking for a unique night out or simply eager to learn about wildlife conservation in an engaging way, UNEXTINCT at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is a must-visit event that takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the realms of extinct and endangered species. Let’s dive into our family’s magical evening at UNEXTINCT, where technology meets conservation in a spectacle like no other.
We went on the second night that UNEXTINCT was open in Columbus with my dad, stepmom, and our two kiddos. As a family, we’ve always been fascinated by nature and the stories of animals across the globe, making UNEXTINCT the perfect expedition for us.
Table of Contents
The Walk Through Time
The experience is designed to be leisurely, allowing visitors to absorb the atmosphere and information over 90 to 120 minutes. We strolled through the zoo under the cloak of night, from one illuminated scene to another, each narrating a different tale. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium app was a handy companion, enriching our journey with detailed information about the animals showcased at each stop. We arrived at opening time (7:30PM) and left around 9:30PM but it didn’t feel like we’d been there for two hours – it was so interactive!
Among the highlights were holographic displays that were not just visually stunning but evocative. They told stories, some of hope and others of loss, urging us to reflect on our role in the conservation narrative. The illusion of the Australian wild dog, reminiscent of our beloved Annie, was particularly moving, showcasing how technology can foster a connection with creatures we’ll never have the chance to meet in the flesh.
Tickets and Pricing
Opting for the full experience, we purchased six tickets, including two kids tickets, two regular adult tickets, and two premium tickets, which came with flashing bracelets and tumblers. These little extras, although small, enhanced our journey through the night, adding an interactive element that the kids absolutely loved.
- Premium Admission: $38.99 (Premium admission includes UNEXTINCT admission, souvenir cup and interactive glow bracelet.)
- General Admission for Adults (ages 10+): $28.99
- General Admission for Children: $25.99
- Member Prices:
- Premium: $32.99 (Premium admission includes UNEXTINCT admission, souvenir cup and interactive glow bracelet.)
- General: $24.99
- Child (3-9): $21.99
- Parking: $10 (free for members)
The Experience
UNEXTINCT isn’t just an event; it’s a captivating educational journey through 15 different scenes, each telling a unique story of animals that once roamed the Earth or are currently facing the threat of extinction. The entire walkthrough took us about two hours, during which we were transported to different worlds, thanks to the incredible holographic displays and theatrical illusions. Not all “stops” are the same – some are more interactive than others but overall each one was pretty cool.
The entire zoo is not open during this after-hours event. “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.” While we were there, Stingray Bay, Adventure Cove, and the Aquarium were all open though.
We also got the chance to get hands-on with Anchovy the penguin and Joey (not sure if that’s actually his name but that’s what Olivia said) the armadillo. As in we actually got to pet these adorable critters.
Be sure to download the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium app, which provided detailed information at each stop, giving more details and information about the animals displayed. Additionally, docents were available throughout the exhibit, ready to answer any questions and delve deeper into the conservation messages intertwined with each scene.
Food and Amenities
The event wasn’t just a feast for the eyes but also offered a variety of food and drink options to keep us fueled throughout the evening. From the novelty of the “fishbone pretzel” ($12.99 though!!) to the cozy s’mores experience ($5.99), there is plenty to enjoy. Plus, the option to fill our tumblers with hot cocoa (a pleasant surprise!) kept us warm on our nocturnal adventure.
The restaurant WildBurger and Auntie Anne’s are both open during the event so you can have dinner at the zoo during your adventure. There are also a few boozy stations if you choose to indulge that way too!
Final Thoughts
UNEXTINCT at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium was a great evening that sparked conversations about conservation and the natural world with our kiddos. It was a reminder of the fragile beauty of life on Earth and the role we play in protecting it.
It was an really fun experience that we definitely recommend to any family looking to explore the wonders of the natural world in a uniquely immersive way.
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