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Atlanta Zoo Tickets, Prices, Hours, Animals, What to Expect and more

Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Atlanta Zoo is an enchanting and immersive experience for animal lovers of all ages. 

With a mission to inspire value and preserve wildlife through conservation, education, and engaging experiences, the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals.

Visitors can explore lush habitats and get up close and personal with iconic animals at one of the best Zoos in the World in Atlanta. 

In addition to its animal exhibits, Zoo Atlanta offers educational programs, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Whether you’re a family seeking a day of adventure or an animal enthusiast looking to connect with nature, Zoo Atlanta is the perfect destination.

This article shares everything about Atlanta Zoo tickets, ticket prices, zoo opening hours, how to reach, what to expect and more. 

Best Atlanta Zoo tickets

# Atlanta Zoo entry tickets
# Atlanta Zoo +Aquarium Pass
# Atlanta Zoo + Fun spot America Atlanta

Where to get Atlanta Zoo tickets

You can get tickets to the Atlanta Zoo online or at the ticket counter.

By purchasing your online ticket, you can save 30 to 45 minutes that you will spend at the ticket counter.

Online ticket offers entry to the zoo on the day and time you prefer.

You can also explore various ticket options online, which are otherwise unavailable offline.

Online Atlanta Zoo tickets are also cheaper than their offline counterparts.

Atlanta Zoo entry tickets 

Experience the ultimate wildlife adventure at Atlanta Zoo! 

Bring your whole herd to this captivating attraction, featuring over 1,000 animals worldwide. 

Get up close and personal with giant pandas, tortoises, orangutans, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, lions, and more. 

Learn about the zoo’s vital mission to preserve wildlife and join its conservation efforts. 

By purchasing entry tickets, you contribute to the cause and become a part of their noble journey. 

Start your day in Atlanta and embark on an unforgettable safari through the African Savanna, encountering majestic elephants and lanky giraffes.

This ticket includes:

  • Atlanta Zoo’s front entrance
  • Access to all the famous zoo animal habitats, such as those for lowland gorillas, giant pandas, African elephants, giraffes, and so many others
  • Daily access to your favorite animals’ feedings
  • Wristband that allows for unlimited trips on the train and carousel, if desired
  • Access to entertaining children’s activities like Zoo Seekers
  • Access to peaceful areas and support

Ticket prices

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (12 to 64 years)$36
Senior Citizen ticket (65+ years)$34
Child ticket (3 to 11 years)$28

Atlanta Zoo + Aquarium pass

Atlanta Zoo + Aquarium pass
Image: Tiqets.com

The Atlanta Zoo + Aquarium pass is the perfect option for families looking for interesting things to do in a day.

With this combo ticket, you can enjoy discounted entry to both attractions in one purchase.

Dive into the depths of the Georgia Aquarium, once the world’s largest and still the biggest in the United States. 

Encounter mesmerizing creatures like dolphins, octopuses, sea lions, and the legendary whale sharks and belugas. 

Then, head to Zoo Atlanta in Grant Park, where over 1,000 animals await, from cuddly pandas and sleepy sloths to slithering snakes and fascinating orangutans. 

Experience wildlife conservation firsthand and leave with a deeper appreciation for our planet’s remarkable and endangered species.

This Pass Includes:

  • Zoo Atlanta: Entry Ticket
  • Georgia Aquarium: Skip the Ticket Line
  • 10% discount on other attractions in Atlanta

Pass Prices

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (13 to 64 years)$80
Senior Citizen ticket (65+ years)$78
Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$74

Atlanta Zoo + Fun Spot America Atlanta

Atlanta Zoo + Fun Spot America Atlanta
Image: Tiqets.com

Experience the ultimate adventure with the Atlanta Zoo + Fun Spot America Atlanta Ticket.

Enjoy a day of non-stop thrills and wildlife wonders. 

Start your journey at Fun Spot America Atlanta with their Single-Day Pass, where you’ll find exhilarating rides, games, and entertainment for the whole family. 

Then, head to Zoo Atlanta with your Entry Ticket and encounter over 1,000 incredible animals, from majestic elephants to playful monkeys. 

Immerse yourself in the excitement of amusement park rides and the awe-inspiring beauty of wildlife conservation in one unforgettable day. 

Get ready for an action-packed and wild experience like no other!

This Pass Includes:

  • Fun Spot America Atlanta: Single-Day Pass
  • Zoo Atlanta: Entry Ticket
CombinationPrice
Fun Spot America Atlanta: Single-Day Pass$43
Zoo Atlanta: Entry Ticket$28 to $36

Atlanta Zoo opening hours 

During the weekdays, Atlanta Zoo opening hours are 9 am to 5 pm.

The last entry to Atlanta Zoo is at 3.30 pm.

On Weekends the Atlanta Zoo is open from 9 am to 6 pm with last entry at 4.30 pm.

The Animals return to the habitat an hour before the zoo closes. 

The Food stands close an hour before the Atlanta Zoo closing time. 

The only days that the Zoo Atlanta is closed are Thanksgiving and Christmas.

When is the best time to visit Zoo Atlanta?

The best time to visit Atlanta Zoo is at 9 am on weekdays.

When you visit early, you can see all the animals active and moving out of their enclosures to interact with visitors.

As the sun goes higher, the animals tend to look for shade and it becomes difficult to spot them.

We recommend you visit during the weekday rather than weekends to avoid the crowd.

The most pleasant seasons to visit Zoo Atlanta are spring and fall, with mild and pleasant temperatures. 

It’s also less crowded during these seasons, which allows for a more enjoyable experience. 

Avoid visiting during the summer when it’s hot and humid, and the zoo is typically packed with visitors.

How long does it take to visit Zoo Atlanta?

It typically takes around three to four hours to visit Zoo Atlanta, depending on your pace and level of interest in the exhibits.

However, you should allocate more time if you plan to attend animal encounters or shows.

If you are visiting with kids, allow yourself four hours or more since they tend to stay at their favorite exhibits longer and require breaks during the walk.

It’s recommended to arrive early to make the most of your visit.

How to get to Atlanta Zoo

The Atlanta Zoo lies near downtown Atlant in Grant park. 

Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315. Get Directions.

You can reach Atlanta Zoo by taking the following public transport options. 

By Car

By car
Image: Wikipedia.org

From the City Centre, use the M.L.K. Jr. Dr. SE and Hill St. SE route.

The Zoo is a 5-minute drive from the city center.

By Train

Take the train from Atlanta News First WANF to W Whitehall St SW and Ralph D Aber, then walk to Northside Dr. NW & 14th St NW. 

Take a train to Cherokee Ave SE & Bass St SE after a brief stroll to Ralph D Abernathy Blvd & W White. 

Zoo Atlanta is 0.2 miles away. 

The Atlanta Zoo can be reached by walking for 4 minutes.

By Air

The Atlanta airport is the closest airport to Zoo Atlanta. 

The Atlanta Zoo is 9.6 miles from the airport.

Animals at Atlanta Zoo

Atlanta Zoo has over 1500 animals representing 220 species. 

The Zoo has various sections like the African Savanna, the Giant Pandas, the Reptile House, the Komodo dragon exhibit, the Asian Forest, and the World of Wild Theater. 

The various zones and animals in Atlanta Zoo are given below. 

African Rainforest

Atlanta Zoo is home to the largest population of Gorillas in North America. 

The oldest male gorilla, Ozzie, is a VIP in this section of the Zoo. 

You can also find African birds, lemurs, monkeys, guenons and more in the living treehouse section of the rainforest. 

Complex Carnivores and Trader’s Alley 

This is the section for big cats and predators. 

You can find Tigers, Lions, Bush Dogs, Binturong, Fossa and more in this section. 

The Trader’s Alley houses animals significant to the International Wildlife Trade. 

This section houses Malayan Sun Bears, Raccoon Dogs and more. 

African Savanna

This is the perfect replica of vast African lands. 

You can find various animals native to the grasslands and deserts of Africa. 

This is a kid’s favorite section of Atlanta Zoo, as you can find lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, warthogs, meerkats, and more. 

The Savanna complex is home to the famous 9-year-old white rhino. 

Scaly Slimy Spectacular

This award-winning amphibian and reptile complex features more than 70 species. 

Visitors are welcomed to this section by the 14-meter tall iconic glass entry dome. 

This section shows animals like Gaboon Viper, Green Anaconda, Gila monster, Green tree python, Jamaican iguana and more. 

Asian Forest

Asian Forest houses the most adorable animals of the Atlanta Zoo.

You can meet giant otters, sun bears, komodo dragons, Sumatran tigers, panadas and Orangutans in this section. 

Outback Station

Transport to the grasslands of Australia at the outback station. 

In this section, you will find yourself among Australian wildlife like Red Kangaroos, Cockatoos, Kookaburra and Cassowaries. 

The Outback section also has a children’s petting station where kids can interact with friendly goats, sheep and pigs. 

You can gain entry to all parts of the Zoo with the Atlanta Zoo entry ticket. 

Here are some of the must-visit animals in the zoo. 

Giant pandas

As they feed, tumble, and play, get to know Yang Yang and Xi Lun and discover the Zoo’s conservation initiatives in China.

Giraffes, zebras and ostriches

A mixed-species habitat in the African Savanna allows visitors to see the tallest living creatures up close.

African elephants

Kelly and Tara are constantly getting into mischief. 

Kelly enjoys smearing mud on herself, eating the bark the logs in her environment have shed, and even painting.

Western lowland gorillas

With family groupings living in five different natural habitats, the Zoo is home to the most significant population of Gorillas in North America.

Reptiles

At the Zoo’s Scaly Slimy Spectacular, children ooh and aah at snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators, and other slithering and snapping creatures.

Things to do in Atlanta Zoo for children

Atlanta Zoo offers a range of things to do for the little explorers of the family. 

Here are some things to do in Atlanta Zoo for children. 

Treetop Trail

The Treetop Trail is a play area located atop the playground close to the main entrance. 

It is shaded by trees, giving children the impression that they are in the canopy. 

Visit the brand-new Treetop Tykes Trail if your child is under 48 inches tall.

Playgrounds for Children 

Zoo Atlanta offers two playgrounds for children – the KIDZone and the Naked Mole Rat Playground. 

The playgrounds are suitable for kids under 4.2 feet in height. 

The playgrounds are animal themed and provide much room for the kids to play, jump, slide and climb. 

You can get access to these playgrounds with the Atlanta Zoo entry tickets. 

Splash Fountain 

For all guests visiting during the warm weather, you can beat the heat at the Atlanta Zoo with the Splash Fountain. 

The splash fountain can be found in the KIDZone section. 

This fountain spreads over 2500 square feet and has 18 water jets. 

Admission to this fun fountain experience is available with regular admission tickets

Evening at the Zoo

What goes on at the Zoo after hours? Through these fun activities, the whole family gains a fresh viewpoint.

Take a tour of the Zoo after hours, look for animals using night vision technology, and participate in unique activities during Twilight Trek. 

Ages 5 and under can participate in the Twilight Tots program, which includes a brief tour after hours, stories, and activities.

With the Zoo NightCrawlers program, you can: 

  • Spend the evening at Zoo Atlanta with your family while you learn
  • Participate in activities
  • Compete in team challenges
  • Have a unique animal encounter

More Animatronics at Zoo Atlanta

 Run Like Wild 5K is the only run where you might see lions, elephants, or gorillas.

Participating in this 5K run and 1-mile family walk can help Zoo Atlanta’s work in animal care, education, and conservation. 

Check the Zoo’s daily schedule for in-depth presentations on mammals, birds, reptiles, and more conducted throughout the Zoo.

Kids and adults can participate in a themed scavenger hunt after learning about a new animal through a game, craft, story, and sing-along with Adventure Cubs. 

Get a close-up, behind-the-scenes look at your favorite creatures, from lemurs and elephants to enormous pandas, in the documentary Wild Encounters.

FAQs about Atlanta Zoo

1. Is the Atlanta Zoo worth it?

The Atlanta Zoo offers an incredible experience for animal lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and families.
With a diverse range of species, engaging exhibits, and educational programs, it’s a fantastic place to explore wildlife and support conservation efforts.

2. What animals can you see in Atlanta Zoo?

You can encounter a wide array of animals, including giant pandas, gorillas, elephants, lions, reptiles, birds, and many endangered species like Sumatran tigers and orangutans.

3. Is the Atlanta Zoo free for kids?

Yes, children below two years can enjoy free entry to the Atlanta Zoo.
Children between three and 11 years old get discounted entry at the price of $28.
Visitors above 12 years old must pay the general price for the Atlanta Zoo entry ticket.

4. Can you bring food into the Atlanta Zoo?

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own food and beverages into the zoo. Picnic areas are available, making it convenient for families to enjoy meals during their visit.

5. Does the Atlanta Zoo have rides?

The zoo doesn’t have amusement park-style rides. However, it offers a train ride that circles the grounds, providing a unique view of some animal habitats.

6. Does Zoo Atlanta have pandas?

Atlanta Zoo is one of the four zoos in the United States that have pandas.

7. What is Atlanta Zoo known for?

The Atlanta Zoo is famous for its conservation efforts, diverse animal collection, particularly its giant pandas, and its commitment to education and research in wildlife preservation.

8. How big is the Atlanta Zoo?

The zoo spans about 40 acres, housing various exhibits, habitats, and attractions for visitors to explore.

9. Does Atlanta have a zoo or aquarium?

Yes, Atlanta is home to both Zoo Atlanta and the Georgia Aquarium, offering fantastic opportunities to explore wildlife and marine life.

10. Can you get tickets for the Atlanta Zoo and Aquarium?

You can purchase separate tickets for the Atlanta Zoo and the Georgia Aquarium, or you might find combo tickets or passes available for both attractions.

11. Is Atlanta Aquarium the largest in the world?

While the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in the world, it’s not the absolute largest.

It’s renowned for its size and impressive marine life exhibits, offering a captivating experience for visitors.


Other zoos to visit in North America

Miami ZooSan Antonio ZooCleveland Zoo
Central Park ZooBronx zooQueens Zoo 
Prospect park zooCentral Florida Zoo San Francisco Zoo
Austin Zoo  Tampa ZooWoodland park 
Columbus ZooDallas ZooHouston Zoo
Philadelphia zooLincoln Park Zoo

Featured Image: Zooatlanta.org

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