🔥 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
The second oldest zoo in the U.S. + a National Historic Landmark! Opened in 1875, it’s both a living wildlife sanctuary and a cultural treasure, housing 500+ species across rolling hills — a perfect spot for families, dates, and nature lovers alike 🌿🦁. 📍 Address: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220 ⏰ Hours: 10:00‑17:00 (summer) 🎫 Tickets: Adult $22 | Child $17 | Parking $15 (online booking recommended) ⚠️ Heads‑up: Parking lot under construction! Arrive before 10 AM or consider rideshare — otherwise, prepare for street parking and a longer walk 🚧🚶♂️. 🌟 Must‑See Exhibits: Sumatran Rhino Habitat 🌿 A pioneer in global captive breeding! Shaded, rainforest‑like lighting with mud pits and pools that mimic their natural home. You might even spot researchers at work 🦏💡. Fun fact: Rhino Harapan will soon return to Indonesia — see him while you can! Cheetah Sprint Show 🐆 Twice daily (except Wed/Thu)! Watch servals leap, kids cheer, and cheetahs chase balls at lightning speed — blink and you’ll miss it ⚡🎾. 🗺️ Efficient 1‑Day Route: Morning: Sumatran Rhino → Wolf Woods (catch them while it’s cool) → Swan Lake & Red‑crowned Cranes 🦢 Lunch: Quick bite at zoo cafe + Flamingo photo‑op 📸 Afternoon: Cheetah Show (~2 PM) → African Savannah (ostriches & antelopes) → Children’s Zoo (petting barn) 🐐 💡 Pro Tips from Experience: ✅ Go early — animals are way more active in the morning (we saw lions already napping by noon 😴). ✅ Wear comfy shoes — the zoo is built on hills, and you’ll easily hit 20,000 steps! #CincinnatiTravel #OhioHiddenGems #ZooGoals #FamilyTravel #CincinnatiZoo #OhioLife 🦒📸🌳