Eat, Drink, and Shop
Cincinnati Zoo offers a variety of food and drink selections, including healthy options! Zoo Bucks are a great way to pay for snacks and gifts during your visit.
Your purchase provides critical financial support and enables us to achieve our mission. Thank you!
Shopping
The main Zoo Shop, located in Vine Street Village, carries a wide range of items to commemorate your trip to the Zoo and also stocks practical items, such as sunscreen, to make your visit more enjoyable!
Shop Online
You can now shop at the Cincinnati Zoo’s Gift Shop online! Don’t miss all of the latest merch!
We are Plastic Bag Free as part of our sustainability initiative. Please Bring Your Own Bag: Bring a reusable bag or purchase a Zoo-themed tote from the gift shop for only $2.99. Thank you for helping us be The Greenest Zoo In America®!

Plush Recycle, Reward, Repeat
Guests can now trade in an old or unused animal plush at the Cincinnati Zoo! These toys will be collected and sent to TerraCycle, ensuring that they are repurposed and kept out of landfills. ♻️
Dining
Restaurants
In addition to the excellent selection of local craft beers, our kitchen offers amazing made-to-order flatbreads, Loaded Tots (aka Tatchos), and pastas. Our Member’s favorites are here too: funnel fries and jumbo soft pretzels.
Hops has been certified as a Green Restaurant from the Green Restaurant Association!
Take a break from the elements in our traditional café. We have air-conditioned dining inside or sit on the Africa Deck, enjoying views of the Savannah while eating. We serve All-American classics including hand-breaded chicken tenders, LaRosa’s pizza, seasonal salads, deli sandwiches, & grilled burgers. Multiple kids’ choices make this stop a crowd pleaser for the entire family.
The Base Camp Cafe has been rated the “Greenest Restaurant in America” by the Green Restaurant Association!
Located at the base of the Veldt across from Rhino Reserve is LaRosa’s, your neighborhood family pizzeria. Have a slice of Cincinnati’s classic cheese or pepperoni pizza, an order of breadsticks, or grab a whole pie for the family to eat on our al fresco patio. Canned beer also available.
Feeling famished from your travels? Bring your expedition to the Outpost Café for lunch to experience some of the classic Cincinnati Flavors, like Skyline Chili, or Grippo’s Chicken Sandwich.
Stop inside Mai Thai’s Marketplace to enjoy a scoop or two of local ice cream, either in a cup, a waffle cone, or as a decadent sundae. Need a quick coffee break? Chase that down with a Mom ‘n ‘Em’s specialty coffee available hot or iced or a Nitro Cold Brew coffee.
New! Welcome to our convenient Grab and Go section at Mai Thai’s Marketplace! Here you’ll find a selection of your favorite zoo snacks like popcorn and cotton candy, freshly made wraps and salads, and refreshing beverages including a selection of canned beer and wine. We also have retail items available for quick and easy purchase on our self-serve kiosks. Stop by and grab a bite or browse through our curated selection of products for a hassle-free shopping experience.
The Grove
Located in The Grove. Try our delicious, fresh, hand-breaded chicken tenders. Spice it up with a little Buffalo Sauce or Nashville Hot Sauce!
Located in The Grove. Grab lunch at Wild Burger with offerings like our Wild Burger, All Beef Hot Dogs, or try the vegetarian-friendly Black Bean Burger.
Welcome to Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen and treat yourself to a delightful array of festive favorites. Our signature funnel cakes come in both traditional and loaded varieties, piled high with sweet toppings that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Warm up with a rich, velvety hot cocoa, perfect for sipping on chilly days, or snack on our warm soft pretzels with cheese. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory snack, Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen is your go-to destination for holiday cheer and mouthwatering flavors. Join us for a taste of joy this season!
Snacks & Desserts
Swing by Tuskers for tasty snacks and cold drinks! We have jumbo soft pretzels with cheese, cotton candy, popcorn, and refreshing canned Pepsi, plus a great selection of domestic and craft draft beers. This is also your place for fresh made funnel cakes, traditional and loaded varieties, piled high with sweet toppings. We can’t wait to see you!
Swing by the Canopy Canteen for a real taste adventure with sweet snacks, Pepsi fountain drinks, and our biggest selection of ICEE® flavors! Warm up with a piping hot cup of Hot Chocolate!
Welcome to Candy Cane Cottage! Indulge in our gourmet hot chocolate, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Pair it with our delicious soft pretzels and enjoy a variety of fountain beverages and tasty festive sweet snacks. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, Candy Cane Cottage has something for everyone. Stop by and satisfy your cravings!