Fall at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is truly a magical time. From colorful fall foliage and adorable Zoo babies to pumpkins, a showstopping holiday light show, and seasonal treats, there are plenty of reasons to visit this time of year. 

An elephant at the Cincinnati Zoo rolls an enormous pumpkin along the ground with its trunk
Photo credit: Lisa Hubbard

Meet the Newest Members of the Zoo Family 

Stop by Gorilla World to see one-year-old gorilla (and local celeb!) Mboka Jo as he explores, plays, and learns from the adults in his troop. You'll also want to look for Martini, the fennec fox kit whose enormous ears and adventurous personality have already made her a fan favorite. Expect to see fluffy red panda cub Penny in her outdoor habitat, playing and exploring in the cooler weather. 

Expecting this fall: Tessa, a 20-year-old female giraffe, is pregnant with her fifth calf! She is doing well and should give birth late October/November. 

An otter at the Cincinnati Zoo plays in the water with a fall-colored leaf on its head
Photo credit: Mark Dumont

Enjoy Fall at the Botanical Garden 

Did you know the Cincinnati Zoo has one of the most diverse living tree collections in the Midwest? This means you can expect the gardens to take on a whole new look every autumn. Because canopy protection is at the heart of the Zoo's mission, visitors are rewarded with an explosion of fall leaf color that is completely unique and awe-inspiring. You'll definitely leave with some incredible, Insta-worthy photos!

A bunch of carved jack-o-lanterns are lit up outside of the Cincinnati Zoo
Photo credit: Lisa Hubbard
A snowy sidewalk at the Cincinnati Zoo that is illuminated by holiday string lights.
Photo credit: Lisa Hubbard

HallZOOween & Jack O'Lantern Glow

Put on your costume and bring your own treat bag for HallZOOween! This family-friendly daytime event includes treat stations, special animal enrichment opportunities, festive foods, a Costume Cavalcade and plenty of pumpkin pandemonium. 

When the sun goes down, experience the Zoo in a whole new light during Jack O'Lantern Glow. More than 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins and fall displays transform a half-mile trail into an unforgettable autumn adventure. 

Up Next: PNC Festival of Lights 

The holiday season gets brighter during the 44th annual PNC Festival of Lights, happening November 19, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Come early to visit the animals, then stay as the Zoo glows with 5 million LED lights!

Search for Fiona fairies, stroll through the immersive Under the Sea area, see larger-than-life animal lanterns, and watch the Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake. You can also ride the North Polar Express, visit Santa through December 23, roast s'mores, and warm up with a Hot Hippo drink. 

Warm Up with Indoor Adventures

Need a break from the cool air? Visit indoor habitats like Manatee Springs, the Reptile House, World of the Insect, Night Hunters and Jungle Trails. These warm indoor spaces are perfect for discovering fascinating animals while getting a break from chilly temps. 

Many animals also become more active when the temperatures drop, making fall and winter a great time to see them! Check Zoo Today when you arrive for the latest up-to-date information. Purchase tickets, or even an annual membership, online and start planning your visit today.

 

Ready to start building your Cincy Region getaway itinerary? Order your FREE copy of our Official Visitors Guide and check our local Calendar of Events for more ideas of things to do.