POWELL, Ohio — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is considering plans for a hotel as part of a wider expansion at its Powell campus.
The zoo has issued a request for qualifications seeking a private developer to build a themed, upscale hotel near its main entrance. Nicolle Racey, vice president of communications and marketing, said a signature hotel experience fits the zoo’s long-term goals.
“We are looking for the right partner to help create a high-quality, mission-aligned destination that supports regional tourism and advances our mission,” Racey said in a statement.
The request outlines a hotel with at least 130 guest rooms, including family and themed accommodations, suites, and rooms with balconies overlooking the zoo. The concept includes a restaurant, meeting and event spaces, an indoor pool with a waterslide, retail space, and conservation-themed activities for guests.
The zoo estimates development costs between $32 million and $45 million. The project is expected to be privately financed. Developers would handle design, funding, construction, and possibly hotel operations.
“This would be a privately financed project, with the developer responsible for securing funding,” Racey said. “The zoo will focus on ensuring the project fits our strategic vision and improves the experience for guests, members, and the community.”
The hotel proposal is part of the zoo’s “2040 Framework,” announced in 2023 after reaccreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The plan calls for expanded animal habitats, a conservation center, a 100,000-square-foot aquarium, new parking and arrival areas, and more attractions.
The campus also includes Safari Golf Club and Zoombezi Bay, which drew nearly 370,000 visitors in 2023. The zoo itself reports about 1.8 million annual visitors and is home to over 7,000 animals from around 600 species.
Zoo officials say the hotel would help increase visitor stays and support their goal of becoming a national, nature-focused destination.
Developers must submit qualifications by May 22. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit detailed proposals and interview with zoo officials.
Once a partner is selected and agreements are complete, the project would enter planning, design, permitting, and financing. Racey said similar projects usually take 12 to 18 months for planning and design, and another 18 to 24 months to build.