ZOO ATLANTA: SO MUCH TO DO!

There’s always something happening at Zoo Atlanta! It’s a top destination for Atlanta families and out-of-towners, and for good reason. Home to more than 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world— many of them endangered—the Zoo connects us to animals, educating and inspiring conservation.

Experience the African Savanna and learn about elephants, zebras, giraffes, ostriches and warthogs. Wander the Ford African Rain Forest, home to gorillas, monkeys and an array of reptiles and amphibians. See giant pandas, naked mole rats, clouded leopards and more in the Asian Forest. A large kids’ area has a fun combination of animals and activities for kids.

MUST-SEE ANIMALS

n Giant pandas: Meet Yang Yang and Xi Lun as they eat, tumble and play, and learn about the Zoo’s conservation efforts in China.

n Giraffes, zebras and ostriches: The African Savanna features a mixed-species area, where guests can get a ground-level view of the earth’s tallest living mammals.

n African elephants: Kelly and Tara are always up to something. Kelly loves to throw mud on herself and scrape bark off the logs in her habitat for a snack, and she occasionally paints.

n Western lowland gorillas: The Zoo is home to the largest population in North America, with family groups in five natural habitats.

n Reptiles: The Zoo’s Scaly Slimy Spectacular has kids oohing and aahing at snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators and other creatures that slither and snap.

Play Areas To Explore

n Treetop Trail: This adventure is situated atop the playground near the main gate, and it is shaded underneath trees so kids really feel like they are in the canopy. Check out the new Treetop Tykes Trail for kids under 48 inches.

n KIDZone: Kids can play, climb, slide and burn off energy in KIDZone, which has a rock wall, Canopy Climber and Naked Mole Rat playground.

n Splash Fountain: Playing in the spray is a perfect way to cool off on a hot day (opens April 1).

n Outback Station Petting Zoo: It’s fun to reach out and touch goats, sheep and other critters.

n Carousel: Take a ride on one of the Endangered Species Carousel’s 38 carved wooden animals.

n Zoo Train: This replica of an 1863 locomotive is one of the Zoo’s most popular attractions.

The Details

Zoo Atlanta 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta 404-624-9453; zooatlanta.org n General Admission: $25.20-$31.70; ages 3-11, $20.20-$25.45; ages 2 and younger, free. Kids’ activities including Treetop Trail, Carousel and Train, extra.

Nighttime At The Zoo

Get an after-hours perspective though these familyfriendly experiences.

n Twilight Trek: Take a tour of the Zoo after hours, use night-vision technology, search for animals and enjoy special activities. $25; March 11, April 7, May 11 and 26.

n Twilight Tots: This program is designed for ages 5 and younger, with an after-hours mini tour, stories and activities. $24; March 17 and April 1.

n Zoo NightCrawlers: Spend the night at the Zoo and create some fun and wild memories with your family as you learn, do activities, participate in team challenges and enjoy a special animal encounter. $89; March 18 and May 20.

More Fun At The Zoo

n Wildlife Presentations and Keeper Talks: Check the Zoo’s daily calendar for in-depth presentations on mammals, birds, reptiles and more, held throughout the Zoo (included with admission).

n Adventure Cubs: Explorers age 5 and younger will learn about a new animal through a game, craft, story, and singalong; afterward, enjoy a themed scavenger hunt. $24; see website for dates.

n Wild Encounters: Get a close-up, behind-thescenes look at your favorite animals, from lemurs and elephants to giant pandas. Pricing varies and is not included with Zoo admission.