6/29 Columbus Zoo

Unfortunately, today was a lot hotter and more humid than yesterday, though there was less Canadian smoke in the air.  I had to work this trip around several schedules, so I really had no choice in the weather, but if I come here again, it will be on a cool fall day, and I will rent a power chair to help me get around more easily.  I had a major birthday recently, and I find in the last couple of years that I simply have to rest more often.  Even with a lot of resting, we were all sweaty and sticky by the end of the day.  

In addition, because I drive a large motorhome, I had to park way back at the end of the spaces where buses and other RVs were parked.  This meant a very long walk to the park, and back when we were done.  No shuttles that went anywhere near here, unfortunately.

And finally, the hot weather meant that most of the animals were hiding from the sun by disappearing under rocks and shrubbery.  The result was that I did not take very many photos. I will go in cooler weather next time.  

One of the things I did not realize until I had done some research was that the Columbus Zoo also  includes a water park and an amusement park of sorts.  I guess they make more money this way, but I think the space could have better been used for the animals. 

Typically, my granddaughters were about 40 feet in front of me because I walk more slowly. 

First stop was the aquarium. It was OK, but I have seen bigger and better in places like Monterey, CA.  One of these days when I am driving through Atlanta, I will need to check out their aquarium. 

Then we headed over to Africa because we were hungry and were trying to find the inside seating, air conditioned, supposedly full-service restaurant.  Passed some warthogs that reminded me of the Lion King musical.

And a couple of cheetahs. 

We found the restaurant, and seating was inside, but I would no way call it a full-service restaurant.  Basically, they had five items on the menu, you ordered through a line, and got your meal on a tray.  One nice thing, however, was the view out of the big windows.  There were giraffes, some elephants, and some other African savanna animals.  The only problem was that they were a long way away. 

A wish I had stayed longer to watch the bats. 

Most of the elephants were inside, and frankly, I was very disappointed in the size of their area inside.  Too small, and dull.

This elephant had her head resting against the post, and I think she was sleeping.  Not sure, however.  Felt it was a bit strange. 

Lots and lots of walking from one area to another.  We got lost several times, and I think the maps and signage could have been better. 

An interesting gorilla exhibit.  I always find gorillas interesting because they are so much like us.  Lots of places for them to explore and climb on in this exhibit. 

Hard to take a good photo, but here is one of the gorillas.  Rest were napping in hammocks.

It was a long day, with expensive and not very good food, so we were happy to get back to the campground and dinner.