Guide to Zoo Atlanta: 15+ Things to Know
There’s always something happening at Zoo Atlanta! It’s a top destination for Atlanta families and out-of-towners with more than 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world. The Zoo connects us to animals through education and by inspiring conservation.
Experience the African Savanna and learn about elephants, zebras, giraffes, ostriches and warthogs. Wander the Ford African Rain Forest, home to gorillas, monkeys and an array of reptiles and amphibians. See giant pandas, naked mole rats, clouded leopards and more in the Asian Forest.
Events and Experiences:
Adventure Cubs
This program designed for children ages 2-5 introduces kids to a new animal through a game, craft, story and singalong. At the end of the program, visit the animal and go on a themed scavenger hunt. $26; additional child, $5. Dec. 6 and 18, Jan. 3 and 15, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Wild Encounter: Petting Zoo Painters
See how the talented “VanGoat” and “Baaahlo” create unforgettable paintings. Choose two colors for this unique work of art that you’ll get to take home as a keepsake. $75 per group of up to four people. Every Saturday at 3:15 p.m.
Giraffe Feeding
Come face-to-face with the tallest animals on the savanna and feed the giraffes at Twiga Terrace. $4. Feedings run through Nov. 2025.
Nighttime at the Zoo
Ever wonder what happens after-hours at the Zoo? Get a different perspective though these family-friendly experiences.
Illuminated wildlife lights the night at this Chinese lantern festival with nature-inspired lanterns and experiences. $20.99-$24.99; ages 3-11, $17.99-$19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. Nov. 21-Jan. 18.
Twilight Trek
At this after-hours tour, learn about the ways accredited zoos help animals survive and thrive, and discover how you can become a conservation hero with engaging activities. $27; ages 2 and younger, free.
Must-See Animals
Lions: Hondo, Hatari and Azizi truly have no worries thanks to their newly upgraded habitat that features a pool. Visitors can watch these impressive creatures enjoy the space that was designed with their well-being in mind from three separate areas, including an observation deck with seating.
Giraffes, zebras and ostriches: The African Savanna features a mixed-species area, where guests can get a ground-level view of the earth’s tallest living mammals.
African elephants: Kelly and Tara are always up to something. Kelly loves to throw mud on herself and scrape bark off the logs in her habitat for a snack, and she occasionally paints.
Western lowland gorillas: The Zoo is home to the largest population in North America, with family groups in five natural habitats.
Reptiles: The Zoo’s Scaly Slimy Spectacular has kids oohing and aahing at snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators and other creatures that slither and snap.
Besides seeing awesome animals, the Zoo has tons of exciting events and places to play. Here are some of our favorites:
Play Areas to Explore:
- Treetop Trail: This adventure is situated atop the playground near the main gate, and it is shaded underneath trees so kids really feel like they are in the canopy. Check out the Treetop Tykes Trail for kids under 48 inches.
- KIDZone: Kids can play climb, slide and burn off energy in KIDZone, which has a rock wall, Canopy Climber and Naked Mole Rat playground.
- Splash Fountain: Playing in the spray is a perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
- Outback Station Petting Zoo: It’s fun to reach out and touch goats, sheep and other critters.
- Carousel: Take a ride on one of the Endangered Species Carousel’s 38 carved wooden animals.
- Zoo Train: This replica of an 1863 locomotive is one of the Zoo’s most popular attractions.
More Fun at the Zoo
Wildlife Presentations and Keeper Talks: Check the Zoo’s daily calendar for in-depth presentations on mammals, birds, reptiles and more, held throughout the Zoo (included with admission).
Wild Encounters: Get a close-up, behind-the-scenes look at your favorite animals. Pricing varies and is not included with Zoo admission.
The Details:
Zoo Atlanta
800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta
404-624-9453; zooatlanta.org
General admission: $25.45-$34.95; ages 3-11, $20.20-$26.95, ages 2 and younger, free. Some kids’ activities are extra.
