OHIO — Two Ohio zoos have been nominated among the best of the best for USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice awards.

The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are both nominated for the Best Zoo category. 

The Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the nation, founded in 1873. It gained national attention in recent years for its beloved hippo, Fiona, and her baby, Fritz. 

“Guests can watch hippos underwater, including the world-famous hippo Fiona, meerkats scurrying around and popping upright, and cheetahs racing at top speeds,” the description reads on the nomination. “The multi-sensory Night Hunters exhibit hosts cats and other nocturnal predators, while Manatee Springs encourages guests to observe Florida manatees, and showcases the importance of the long-term conservation of these gentle giants.”

As for the Columbus Zoo, it houses more than 10,000 animals, which represent over 600 species. 

“From Heart of Africa, where giraffes can be spotted stretching their necks, to Asia Quest with its endangered red pandas, every region tells a different wildlife story,” the nomination reads. 

The public can read the other nominations and vote by clicking here.