The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is considering building a 130-room upscale hotel as part of its growth strategy.
Zoo spokesperson Nicolle Gomez Racey said in a statement on Monday that the zoo is exploring a "signature hotel experience" as part of its long-term vision for the zoo's future and overall guest experience.
One thing the zoo wants to do is have visitors stay longer.
The zoo is seeking a partner to design, finance, build and operate the proposed hotel. Developers have been asked to submit requests for qualifications. The deadline is Friday.
Once a developer is chosen, the zoo expects planning to take up to 18 months, followed by up to two years for construction.
"The expectation is that this would be a privately financed project," Racey's statement said.
The Columbus Zoo, the Zoombezi Bay waterpark and the nearby Safari Golf Club attracted more than two million visitors last year.
