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Cheetah Run 5K
After a 6-year hiatus, the beloved Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Cheetah Run 5K is BACK!
Get ready for a wild run you won’t forget! You’ll dash past cheetahs, lions, giraffes, bears, otters, zebras, and more as the race path winds right by their habitats—talk about the ultimate spectators!
Run or walk for a purpose during this unforgettable 3.1-mile adventure through the stunning Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and surrounding Avondale neighborhood. Open to guests of all ages, this one-of-a-kind course showcases lush, world-class gardens and up-close views of animals you won’t find anywhere else in town.
With breathtaking views and plenty of space for fans to line the course, the Cheetah Run 5k is equal parts race, safari, and celebration!
In addition to the Cheetah Run 5K, enjoy:
- Live entertainment
- Up-close animal encounters
- Complimentary pre- and post-run stretching with StrechLab
- Special Cheetah Cub Chat at 9:15am inside the Zoo at their habitat
- Photo opportunities
Tickets
This event is sold out
Race Admission Includes:
- Chip-timing
- Post-race refreshments and goodies
- Cheetah Run 5K t-shirt
- Zoo Day Admission
- Parking
Cub Run Admission Includes (ages 3 – 12):
- Post-race fun run in Euclid Parking Lot
- Cub Run completion ribbon
- Zoo Day Admission
*Those 3 and under do not need a Cub Run Admission ticket to participate!
Course Map
FAQ
The Cheetah Run 5K starts and ends within the Zoo’s Euclid Parking Lot located at 3311 Euclid Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220.
Parking will be available starting at 6:30am in the Zoo’s Main Parking Lot located at 3427 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220.
No, parking will only be available within the Zoo’s Main Parking Lot on Vine Street.
Packet pickup will be at Fleet Feet Blue Ash on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 4pm – 7pm.
Location: 9525 Kenwood Rd, Blue Ash, OH 45242
You may also pick up your packet from the Zoo the morning of the run.
The Cub Run will take place at the Zoo’s Euclid Parking Lot located at
3311 Euclid Avenue,
Cincinnati, OH 45220.
The Cub Run will take place from 8:30am – 9am. There will be various start times to accommodate guardians taking place in the Cheetah Run 5K.
Yes. Portable restrooms will be available for use in the Euclid Parking lot.
Yes! If you participated in the Cheetah Run 5K or Cub Run, please show your registration upon entry.
The Zoo will open at 9am for all members and Cheetah Run 5K/Cub Run participants.
Entry is not permitted before 9am.
Sponsors
Cub Run Sponsor:
Supporting Sponsor:
Hydration Sponsor:
Entertainment Sponsor:
Stretching Sponsor:
Supporting Sponsor:
Wild Miles Marker Sponsor:
