Columbian Park Zoo

Columbian Park Zoo and its collection

Columbian Park Zoo is a zoo in Lafayette, United States.

Over 190 animals of more than 90 species are kept, and the surrounding park also holds a baseball stadium, a walking trail, picnic spots and playgrounds. Education runs from preschool to college level, and a monthly 45-minute Zoo Pajama Party for ages one to five mixes bedtime stories with an animal encounter.

History

The zoo dates from 1908, its first animals being a wolf, a lynx, deer, prairie dogs, pelicans, skunks and foxes. In 1928 the main animal house was built and an elephant bought with money raised by local schoolchildren. Lions, monkeys, elk, zebras, bears and alligators arrived in 1943.

Things to do

Things to do include Columbian Park Zoo Express, Columbian Park pedal boats and Columbian Park Carousel.

Conservation and approach

During the 1930s it began breeding animals to supply other small zoos.

What the venue says

• large viewing windows and tunnels
• The zoo gift shop offers bottled water, sports drinks, candy, and novelty items, though full sit-down food concessions are limited inside the gates.
• Parking is available along the street on Park Avenue, Wallace Avenue, or in the lot on Scott Street.
• The facility is built on relatively flat ground with ADA-compliant pathways made of concrete, gravel, sand, and mulch.
• Wheelchairs and other mobility devices are permitted in all public areas, including immersion and contact yards.
• The administration office, gift shop, and restrooms are fully ADA accessible.
• The zoo also offers sensory-friendly resources like check-out sensory bags and designated calm spaces.