A Magical Winter Adventure: Visiting the Toledo Zoo Lights with My Little One

Dec 21, 20242 min read

Every year, my mom has begged me to visit her in Toledo during the holiday season so we could take Olive to see the iconic zoo lights. This year, we finally made it happen! It was just the three of us — my mom, Olive, and I — and the experience was absolutely magical.

Pro Tips for Visiting the Zoo Lights with Kids

Dress in Layers
We visited on a chilly evening, so dressing warmly was essential. Olive started the night bundled up in her stroller, cocooned in cozy blankets, but as soon as she saw the twinkling lights, she was up and running around. Hats, gloves, sweaters, and coats are a must for both you and your little one to stay warm while exploring. Layers make it easy to adjust as you move between outdoor light displays and indoor animal exhibits.
Plan Your Route
The Toledo Zoo thoughtfully keeps several indoor exhibits open during the event, which is a lifesaver on cold nights. We alternated between walking outside to admire the lights and warming up indoors every 15 minutes. This rhythm worked perfectly for us, giving Olive time to marvel at the lights and the animals while staying cozy.

Highlights of the Zoo Lights

This was my daughter’s first real zoo experience, and she was mesmerized by the aquarium. She couldn’t get enough of the vibrant fish and sea creatures. Watching her little face light up with wonder was worth braving the cold.

We visited the reptile house, where she was fascinated by the slithering snakes and colorful reptiles. Outside, the giraffes and rhinos made special appearances, delighting both Olive and my mom. These up-close encounters added an extra layer of magic to the evening.

The Toledo Zoo also offers warm drinks and food to enjoy. There’s a designated area where you can sit and savor a hot chocolate or a snack, which is perfect for taking a break from the chilly air.

A Night to Remember

While I’m generally more inclined to support wildlife rehabilitation and safety-focused organizations, this trip to the Toledo Zoo lights was a heartwarming exception. Of course I enjoyed it but I couldn’t help but also compare the Toledo Zoo Lights to the Nashville Zoo Lights we visited last year. The Nashville display’s themed elements added a unique flair, but the Toledo Zoo’s open animal enclosures made the experience feel more interactive for my little one, a detail worth noting as part of the overall magic of the evening. My mom got to create beautiful memories with her granddaughter, and my daughter had a blast exploring the lights and animals. All in all, it was a win-win for everyone involved.