Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is reached via I-75 exit 6, following signs to 3400 Vine St. In a garden setting, the zoo houses some of the world's rarest animals, including cheetahs, elephants and manatees. Nearly two dozen areas include Manatee Springs, where the residents include manatees, alligators and crocodiles; the Jungle Trail's orangutans; Elephant Reserve; Giraffe Ridge; and Lords of the Arctic, featuring an underwater view of two polar bears.

In Night Hunters, observe the behaviors of clouded leopards, vampire bats and a Burmese python. Come face-to-face with the zoo's big cats at Cat Canyon, home to tigers, snow leopards and cougars. At Spaulding Children's Zoo kids can have close encounters with gentle creatures. Africa Habitat offers open-air views of a sprawling savanna, African painted dogs, African lions, giraffes and meerkats. Africa's newest addition is Hippo Cove, where visitors are treated to underwater views of the famous baby hippo Fiona and her mother, Bibi.

More than 3,000 varieties of plants grace the 75-acre grounds. Themed gardens include a butterfly garden, an African violet garden, a rain garden and an endangered plant species garden. Seasons determine the types of items you'll see; for instance, the more than 100,000 spring tulips are a highlight and in winter fruits and berries set the holiday tone. A botanical center offers interactive children's displays.

Train rides are available as well as seasonal carousel rides, Kanga Klimb climbing course and animal encounters. Brochures for themed self-guiding tours can be picked up at the Harold C. Schott Education Center.