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.

For a memorable visit, check out the Summer Wild Encounters. Behind-the-scenes experiences let you get close to elephants, lemurs, warthogs and an Aldabra tortoise. Encounters are held on Mondays and Thursdays-Sundays; see full schedule and times online. Experiences with lemurs, warthogs and the tortoise are $45; elephants are $130.

Must-See Animals

Giant pandas: Meet Yang Yang and Xi Lun as they eat, tumble and play, and learn about the Zoo’s conservation efforts in China.

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 new 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.

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. 9:30-10:30 a.m., see website for dates.

Rise and Dine with the Animals
Enjoy a delicious breakfast catered by Proof of the Pudding before joining in an educational component to learn more about the species, listening to an Animal Care Professional and wandering the zoo and meeting other animals after the program. $65; ages 2 and younger, free. 8:30-9:30 a.m., see website for dates.

Kids Night Out
Parents can enjoy a night off as their children participate in a fun and educational evening at Zoo Atlanta, featuring an after-hours tour, games, activities, crafts and more. Ages 5-11. $42. 5-9 p.m. June 15 and 29, July 13 and 27.

Grossology Day
Explore the purpose of animal behaviors that many think of as gross, but that help animals to survive and fulfill their roles in the ecosystem with activity stations, a scavenger hunt, a themed storybook reading and more. Included with Zoo admission. July 14, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Wild World Weekend
Experience the dynamic cultures and rich biodiversity around the world with special entertainment and family activities. Included with Zoo admission. July 27-28, 10 a.m.-3 p.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. Daily, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-3:30 p.m.

Nighttime at the Zoo

Ever wonder what happens after-hours at the Zoo?  Get a different perspective though these family-friendly experiences.

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 3 and younger, free. 6:30-9 p.m., see website for dates.

Twilight Tots
Little ones will get to explore the Zoo with a mini tour, songs, animal stories and dancing like an animal. $26; additional child, $5. 4:30-6 p.m., see website for dates.

Zoo NightCrawlers
Spend the night at Zoo Atlanta and create some fun and wild memories with your family as you learn, activities, team challenges and a special animal encounter. $100; see website for dates.

ZooDunit Mystery Series
During this adult-only experience, ages 18+ can test their crime solving skills as they explore the Zoo after-hours. $35. 6:30-9 p.m. June 22, Aug. 23, Sept. 20 and Oct. 11.

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).

Adventure Cubs: Explorers age 5 and younger will learn about a new animal through a game, craft, story, and singalong; afterward, kids and parents can play a themed scavenger hunt. $26; see website for dates.

Wild Encounters: Get a close-up, behind-the-scenes look at your favorite animals, from lemurs and elephants to giant pandas. 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: $26.70-$33.95; ages 3-11, $21.20-$26.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Some kids’ activities are extra.