Description: Zoo Atlanta has historic roots in the city, having started as a traveling circus and settling in Grant Park, where it remains today. After loosing it's accreditation in the 1980s, the Zoo worked hard to change and fix it's exhibits into what is now a fun and educational place for families to visit.
The tickets are $18 for adults, $13 for kids, and $14 for students, military and seniors - which some consider to be a bit pricey. The zoo is open from 9:30-5:30, so go late in the day or you'll miss out. I'd also advise going about the middle of the morning during the summer, because when it gets hot the animals aren't as active. Cool days are the best days to go, and rainy ones are ok, although some animals hide during showers. There are two parking lots, one in Grant Park with requires you to walk though the park (about a half mile) to get to the zoo, and another right in front of the zoo.
The Zoo's main attractions are the Gorillas and the Pandas. The Gorilla exhibit is the largest, with a large number of apes and multiple viewing areas for guests. There is an inclosed viewing area for visitors that the gorillas seem to like to sit in front of. The pandas are in a smaller exhibit, which is good since there are few (only three) of them. The baby panda isn't as "baby" as she used to be, but she's still cute. Other exhibits include elephants, zebras, kangaroos, bird enclosure, petting zoo, a reptile house and more.
There are usually a lot of zoo employees around to talk about each animal. Near most exhibits are clocks that will mark lecture or feeding times. Time your visit around some of these and learn & see more.
The route through the zoo is somewhat fluid. Make sure that you are constantly reviewing the map you're given with your ticket or else you might get turned around and skip some exhibits.
Placed throughout the zoo are also souvenir shops, snack stands and "photo spots." The food and souvenirs can be pricey, so be prepared. But a bottle of water and a hotdog really hit the spot, or you can eat in the cafeteria.
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