The owners of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, US, are considering building a US$40m onsite hotel.

According to the Columbus Dispatch, the zoo hired Hotel & Leisure Advisors of Cleveland to determine whether a hotel would be profitable.

The firm said that its success would depend on how creative the hotel is and how well it is marketed as a unique resort, complementing the zoo, its water park and its golf course.

The company also suggested the hotel have 175 rooms spread over three buildings and 25 yurts (circular bungalows).

The hotel could also feature 15,000sq ft of conference space, 2,500sq ft of function rooms, a zoo-themed restaurant with a live animal exhibit, an indoor pool, a spa, fitness and games rooms and a miniature golf course.

The zoo board is currently reviewing its options.