Zoo Atlanta is located near downtown in historic Grant Park and was first opened in 1889. It is best known as the former home of the famous Willie B., a male silverback gorilla who lived at the zoo for 39 years before passing away in 2000. A giant outdoor area was built for Willie B. that now houses an impressive number of gorillas, some of which are Willie’s offspring.
The 40-acre zoo has plenty of free parking and the entrance fee is a little steep, but well worth the admission price. Zoo Atlanta has a leisurely pace about it and most visitors spend hours at the park, which is heartily encouraged. With close to 1000 animals and 250 different species, Zoo Atlanta provides endless entertainment for people of all ages.
Popular Exhibits at Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta houses some of the most famous animals in the world, including:
- Gorillas, the zoo’s most popular attraction. The Willie B. Gorilla Conservation Center allows access to view dozens of gorillas, as well as shows videos of the beloved silverback from his stay at the zoo.
- Xi Lan, a male giant panda cub born in 2008. He was the only panda born in a zoo in the U.S. last year. The zoo also posts weekly updates of Xi Lan for those who can't make it to the zoo.
- Giraffes, zebras, black rhinos, and warthogs in the “African Plains” section.
- Other African animals such as lions, elephants, meerkats, and lemurs.
- An exotic bird exhibit. Birds around the park include flamingos, ostriches, kookaburras, and vultures.
- Kangaroos, wallabies, giant tortoises, and other Aussie animals.
- Tigers, clouded leopards, monkeys, orangutans, and red pandas.
- A petting zoo for children with different species of goats and pigs.
- The World of Reptiles houses snakes, lizards, alligators, and Komodo dragons.
More on Zoo Atlanta
- The park has some hills, but is generally flat and easy to navigate. Paths are definitely big enough for strollers and most exhibits offer enough room for them as well.
- The zoo has many affordable programs for students and children to partake in, including overnight stays. The price to participate includes the price of admission and are typically $8-18.
- Areas of the zoo can be rented out for birthday parties, weddings or other events.
- The Cyclorama is literally next door to the zoo, which offers a history of the Civil War.
- The zoo lets the public watch gorilla and orangutan feedings every day and have a special Q&A at the giant panda exhibit daily.
Gift Shops, Cafes, and Refreshments
There are five cafes around the zoo, with carts and snack machines placed around the park as well. The gift shop also sells food and drinks. You can find Dippin’ Dots, pizza, Philly cheesestakes, candy, and a plethora of other choices in the cafes, and salads and wraps for vegetarians.
Zoo Atlanta Operating Hours
The zoo is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Monday - Friday: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., ticket booths close at 4:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., ticket booths close at 5:30 p.m.
