Zoo Atlanta claims the title of Atlanta's oldest attraction. The zoo began in 1889 by chance when a traveling circus abandoned several cages of animals near downtown Atlanta. One hundred years later, it became recognized as a world-class operation with the new Ford African Rain Forest exhibit, and then with the Giant Panda exhibit in the late 1990s.
How to get to Zoo Atlanta
From Interstate 20, access exit 59A (Boulevard) and travel south approximately 0.5 miles. From Interstate 75/85,access exit 246 (Fulton Street) and go east. Make a right turn onto Capitol Avenue and then make a left onto Georgia Avenue. Travel along Georgia Avenue until it changes to Cherokee Avenue.
Best and worst time to go to Zoo Atlanta
Any sunny day is a good day at the zoo, but avoid mid-day times because many of the animals will be sleeping, and thus, hidden from sight.
Admission to Zoo Atlanta
Adult tickets are $22.99 and tickets for children ages 3-11 are $17.99. Children ages 2 and under are free and parking is free. Military, senior, and college students can get discounted tickets for $18.99.
Must see/do at Zoo Atlanta
Be sure to check the schedule for Giraffe feedings. Currently, the zoo does these feedings from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., and then again from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the animals up close.
Other places to visit near Zoo Atlanta
Animal lovers are sure to enjoy a visit to the nearby Georgia Aquarium.
Insider tip for visitors to Zoo Atlanta
Did you know you can spend the night at the zoo? Family packages begin at just $65.00 per person. You will have special access (beginning at 6:00 p.m. through 10:30 a.m. the following morning) after the park normally closes. Keeper for a Day is another special program that allows guests to shadow a zookeeper for a day. Prices start at $265.00 per person.
Author's bio: Jamie Davis is a freelance writer and top-selling author with Llewellyn Worldwide. She lives on Wilmington Island, an area of Savannah, Georgia. She loves all things coastal Georgia and if pressed to describe herself in one word, she would choose "traveler." She can be found at http://jamiedaviswrites.com.