Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!
Ohioans won’t have to travel far to find them, as two of the state’s safari and wildlife parks were named among the ten best in the nation by USA TODAY’s 10BEST 2025 roundup. Nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers, the publication selected ten of the top spots in the U.S. to visit the most rare and endangered animals.
If you’re looking for a taste of Africa, here’s where to find the best safari and wildlife parks in Ohio.
Located about 20 minutes from Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky, African Safari Wildlife Park kicks off the list of best safari parks at No. 10. Spanning 100 acres, this park offers two options for visitors: a drive-thru safari and a walk-thru safari adventure.
When driving through the safari park, visitors are greeted by giraffes, llamas, and zebras from the comfort of their vehicle. Walking through the park allows you to see other animals like kangaroos, lemurs, and warthogs, where they’ll be visible around mid-May 2025. Drive-thru tours begin after March 21.
Ticket prices vary based on when you visit, but children ages two younger get in free.
Coming in near the top of the list of best safaris is The Wilds in Cumberland at No. 2. Managed by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the safari park is one of the largest conservation centers in the world, spanning more than 10,000 acres. The Wilds has appeared on the 10BEST list of best safari parks every year since 2017.
Rhinos, cheetah, and zebras are just some of the animals that you’ll encounter. The Wilds also offers ziplining over animal pastures for guests wanting more adventure. A robust conservation center, the safari park aims to protect animals and conserve endangered species. Visitors can even stay the night through its various lodging options including cabins, campgrounds and yurts.
Reservations are required. Summer tours are available starting May 1, but the park currently offers winter tours until April 30.
These are the 10 best safari and wildlife parks in the U.S. according to USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards 2025:
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