Zoo Atlanta | Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta, nestled in Grant Park, is one of the oldest and most respected zoological parks in the United States. Established in 1889, it has grown from a small menagerie into a world-class facility that combines wildlife conservation, public education, animal care, and research. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and has gained national recognition for its specialized exhibits and conservation programs.

Historical Background

Zoo Atlanta was originally founded when a bankrupt traveling circus left its animals in the city. The citizens of Atlanta decided to make use of this unexpected collection, which included a bear, lion, hyena, camel, and more. Over the next several decades, the zoo expanded organically but suffered from poor management and deteriorating conditions by the mid-20th century.

By the 1980s, the zoo had become widely criticized and even labeled a “national disgrace.” This prompted city and community action. In 1985, the Atlanta-Fulton County Zoo, Inc., a nonprofit organization, assumed management. A complete overhaul began, emphasizing professional animal care, public engagement, and modern zoological practices. The turnaround became a textbook example of successful urban zoo revitalization.

Major Exhibits and Animal Highlights

African Savanna

The African Savanna exhibit is one of the largest and most immersive habitats at Zoo Atlanta. Redesigned and expanded in 2019, it mimics the open grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa and features:

African elephants in a multi-acre habitat

Giraffes, which guests can feed from an elevated platform

Lions, housed in a specially designed enclosure with panoramic viewing areas

Zebras, warthogs, meerkats, white rhinos, and ostriches

This area is focused not only on display but also on naturalistic behaviors, with features like mud wallows, shaded rest areas, and mixed-species exhibits.

Ford African Rain Forest

This is a flagship zone of the zoo, dedicated to western lowland gorillas, for which Zoo Atlanta is internationally known.

Home to one of the largest populations of gorillas in North America

Focuses on gorilla family groups in environments that stimulate natural behaviors

The legacy of Willie B., a famous gorilla who lived at the zoo for nearly four decades, is preserved here. His descendants still live in the habitat.

The area also houses chimpanzees and offers insights into the zoo’s groundbreaking behavioral studies and primate enrichment programs.

Giant Panda Conservation Center

Zoo Atlanta is one of the few institutions in the U.S. to have housed giant pandas, on loan from China since 1999.

Notably, the zoo welcomed twin pandas Ya Lun and Xi Lun in 2016.

The exhibit is climate-controlled and designed to mimic the bamboo forests of China.

As of 2024, plans were announced to return the pandas to China, marking the end of a conservation partnership that lasted over two decades.

Asian Forest

This area features species from Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, such as:

Komodo dragons

Binturongs

Clouded leopards

Red pandas

Sun bears

Each habitat is built to reflect the animals' native environment, with ample climbing space, foliage, and hiding areas.

Scaly Slimy Spectacular

This reptile and amphibian house is a modern facility with over 70 exhibits showcasing:

King cobras

Gila monsters

Poison dart frogs

Alligators

Tortoises

Various turtles, lizards, and snakes

The building uses interactive digital displays and immersive design, making it one of the most engaging reptile houses in the country.

Other Notable Areas

Australian Outback: Home to red kangaroos and emu

World of Wild Theater: Bird of prey and wildlife presentations

KidZone: Domestic animal petting zoo, themed play areas, and educational programming

Conservation and Research Efforts

Zoo Atlanta contributes significantly to global conservation and is involved in over 40 field projects. Its efforts include:

Gorilla and orangutan conservation in Central Africa and Borneo

Red panda conservation in the Himalayas

Amphibian rescue in Panama through the El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center

Turtle Survival Alliance projects in Madagascar

Southeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

Through its “Quarters for Conservation” program, 25 cents from each ticket sold goes directly to wildlife conservation initiatives worldwide.

Zoo Atlanta is also heavily involved in the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP), which manages breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity among threatened species in captivity.

Animal Care and Veterinary Services

The Rollins Animal Health Center, opened in 2023, is a state-of-the-art veterinary facility featuring:

Surgery suites

Diagnostic imaging

ICU and quarantine areas

Laboratory and research space

Zoo Atlanta’s veterinary and enrichment teams employ science-based strategies to ensure animal health and wellness. Enrichment includes training for medical procedures, sensory stimuli, environmental complexity, and social dynamics.

Education and Visitor Programs

Zoo Atlanta places strong emphasis on public education:

Offers daily animal presentations, behind-the-scenes tours, and keeper talks

Hosts school programs, summer camps, and community outreach

Operates the ZooMobile, which brings educational animal presentations to schools and organizations throughout Georgia

Provides online learning modules and virtual tours

Interpretive signage throughout the zoo combines biological facts with conservation messaging, ensuring that visitors leave more informed and engaged with wildlife issues.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Location: 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, offers sensory maps and quiet zones, stroller rentals

Dining & Amenities:

Multiple cafes and snack stands

Gift shops with educational toys and eco-friendly merchandise

Picnic areas and indoor/outdoor seating

Seasonal Events:

Boo at the Zoo (Halloween)

IllumiNights (holiday lights festival)

Spring Fling and Earth Day programs

Conclusion

Zoo Atlanta is a model of transformation, innovation, and dedication to conservation. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a respected institution, it provides meaningful experiences for families, researchers, and conservationists alike. Its diverse collection of animals, cutting-edge care facilities, and rich educational programs make it not just a place to see wildlife, but a platform for understanding and protecting it.