Information
Landmark: Zoo AtlantaCity: Atlanta
Country: USA Georgia
Continent: North America
Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, USA Georgia, North America
Zoo Atlanta is a zoological park situated in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. It houses a diverse collection of animal species from various global habitats.
Visual Characteristics
The zoo covers 40 acres. It features a mix of naturalistic habitats designed to mimic native environments, including African savanna exhibits, a reptile house, and a primate center. Enclosures utilize rockwork, water features, and varied vegetation to simulate natural landscapes.
Location & Access Logistics
Zoo Atlanta is located at 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30315. It is approximately 3 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta. Parking is available on-site for a fee. Public transport options include the MARTA bus line 196, which stops directly at the zoo entrance.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The zoo was founded in 1889. Its initial collection was formed from animals donated by the Grant Park Zoo. The current site in Grant Park was established in 1901. The zoo's ecological focus is on conservation and education, with exhibits representing a range of biomes.
Key Highlights & Activities
Observe giant pandas in the Georgia Pacific Asian Passage. View gorillas and orangutans in the Ford African Rainforest. Explore the Scaly Slimy Spectacular: The Amphibian and Reptile Experience. Attend scheduled keeper talks and animal feeding demonstrations.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available throughout the park. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees and covered pavilions. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent within the zoo grounds. Food and beverage vendors operate within the park, and nearby restaurants are accessible outside the main entrance.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal animal activity, visit in the morning shortly after opening or in the late afternoon. The months of April, May, September, and October offer moderate temperatures suitable for outdoor exploration. Avoid midday during summer months due to heat.
Facts & Legends
Zoo Atlanta is one of only four zoos in the United States to house giant pandas. The zoo's conservation efforts include breeding programs for endangered species such as the Appalachian flame salamander.
Nearby Landmarks
- Grant Park (0.2km Northwest)
- Oakland Cemetery (1.5km West)
- Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park (3.0km North)
- Centennial Olympic Park (4.5km West)