Zoos of Georgia: The Seven Must-Go Zoos in the State
There are so many things to do in Georgia, from hiking and biking outdoors to exploring the many different towns and cities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or just looking for some new ideas, zoos are always a fun way to spend an afternoon. Georgia has seven major zoos, so there’s one close by, no matter where you are in the state. This list has something for everyone, from huge metropolitan zoos to small-town favorites. If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or even just want to see some amazing animals up close, then be sure to check out one of these seven zoos!
Zoos in Georgia Map
Cities That Have a Zoo in Georgia
A zoo can be a great place to visit on a hot summer day, and Georgia has no shortage of them. There are seven zoos in the state, each with its unique exhibits and animals. Whether you want to see primates, big cats, or marine life, there’s a zoo for you in Georgia. Here are the seven must-go zoos in the state.
Albany, Georgia
Chehaw Park Zoo
The zoo is dedicated not only to conservation but also to preservation and education. With over 700 acres of pristine land for animals, Chehaw offers visitors something new every time they visit! The zoo features over 500 animals from around the world including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, flamingos, wolves and more!
Visitors can explore Chehaw’s trails on foot or take a guided tram tour which showcases many of its exhibits. The main attraction at Chehaw Park Zoo is its African Savannah exhibit featuring giraffes, zebras, and ostriches roaming over 11 acres of open grasslands. Guests can also view cheetahs up close in the Cat Walkway as well as observe various species of birds in their aviary habitat.
Other highlights include interactive animal encounters with goats and sheep at Petting Farmyard and camel rides during summer months. There are also educational programs such as Keeper Talks where visitors learn about animal care practices while getting an insider look into life behind-the-scenes at Chehaw Park Zoo.
Address: 105 Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701 | Phone: (229) 430-5275 | https://chehaw.org/
Morganton, Georgia
Dewar Wildlife
Home for gorillas and chimps, Dewar Wildlife Trust is one of the smaller zoos in Georgia but offers a great experience for visitors. You can see the animals up close and learn about their conservation and care from the knowledgeable staff.
This non-profit zoo supports wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, as well as animal care and gorilla conservation education programs.
Cleveland, Georgia
North Georgia Wildlife Park and Safari
The North Georgia Wildlife Park and Safari is a unique wildlife park located in Cleveland, Georgia. This amazing park offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most fascinating creatures. The North Georgia Wildlife Park and Safari features over 100 species of exotic animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, giraffes, zebras, camels and more!
Visitors can explore the vast grounds on foot or take an exhilarating safari tour through the animal habitats. During these exciting tours you will be able to see all sorts of wildlife such as leopards lounging in trees or elephants munching on foliage while they roam freely among their natural surroundings. You may even spot a few playful monkeys swinging from tree branches! The North Georgia Wildlife Park also provides educational opportunities for children (and adults!) about conservation efforts for endangered species. There are various interactive exhibits throughout the park that focus on how we can help threatened species survive in today’s ever-changing environment. If you want an unforgettable experience full of adventure and fun then make sure you visit The North Georgia Wildlife Park & Safari soon!
Address: 2912 Paradise Valley Rd, Cleveland, GA 30528 | Phone: (706) 348-7279 | https://www.northgeorgiazoo.com/
Savannah, Georgia
Oatland Island Wildlife Center
Oatland Island Wildlife Center is a wildlife center located in Savannah, Georgia. It is part of the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission and is managed by the Coastal Plains Regional Education Center. The Center offers educational programs, guided tours, and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages to learn more about native flora and fauna. The Oatland Island Wildlife Center features over two miles of nature trails with interpretive signs that allow visitors to observe native plants and animals up close.
There are also interactive exhibits featuring live animal displays such as hawks, owls, snakes, turtles, foxes, bobcats and even an American bald eagle! Visitors can experience firsthand how these animals interact with their environment through demonstrations like raptor flight shows or species interaction talks given by knowledgeable staff members. The goal of Oatland Island Wildlife Center is to promote environmental awareness among both locals and tourists while providing an enjoyable experience for everyone who visits.
Address: 711 Sandtown Rd, Savannah, GA 31410 | Phone: (912) 395-1212 | https://spwww.sccpss.com
Pine Mountain, Georgia
Wild Animal Safari
Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, Georgia is an exciting and educational experience that offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with some of the most exotic animals on earth. Visitors can drive their own vehicles through the park, allowing them to observe lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, rhinos and more from just a few feet away.
The Wild Animal Safari also includes educational programs such as animal feeding demonstrations, keeper talks and much more. Guests can even book overnight stays in safari tents or luxury cabins for an unforgettable experience. The Wild Animal Safari spans over 600 acres of land in beautiful Pine Mountain Valley. Here you will find a wide variety of habitats ranging from open grasslands to wooded areas which are home to hundreds of different species including African elephants, cheetahs, antelope and many others. The park also has several riverside trails perfect for exploring the natural beauty of this area while observing wildlife along the way.
Address: 1300 Oak Grove Rd, Pine Mountain, GA 31822 | Phone: (706) 663-8744 | https://animalsafari.com
Valdosta, Georgia
Wild Adventures Theme Park
Wild Adventures Theme Park is a 170-acre theme park, waterpark, and animal preserve all in one for your family’s enjoyment. Located just outside of Valdosta, GA it has something to offer everyone or thrill-seekers alike! Step into an entertaining world with coasters galore as well diverse concerts on site after you’ve had enough time spent adventuring through this fantastic place.
Wild Adventures has a wide variety of events throughout the season. The parks are not open all days, and hours may vary depending on what’s happening that day or how many people want to visit for it to stay open longer than usual!
Address: 3766 Old Clyattville Rd, Valdosta, GA 31601 | Phone: (229) 219-7080 | https://www.wildadventures.com/
Atlanta, Georgia
Zoo Atlanta
The zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals from around the world, including giant pandas, African elephants, gorillas, tigers, and many other species. Zoo Atlanta also offers educational programs for children and adults alike. Additionally, visitors can take part in interactive experiences such as feeding giraffes or watching a sea lion show.
The mission of Zoo Atlanta is “to inspire value and preservation of wildlife through education.” To this end they work with conservation organizations across the globe to help protect endangered species. They also participate in research projects aimed at understanding animal behavior better so that appropriate management strategies can be developed for their long-term survival.
Visitors can explore the different areas of Zoo Atlanta on foot or aboard one of their train rides which provide an up close look at some of the animals living there. There are several dining options available throughout the park as well as gift shops where you can pick up souvenirs from your visit!
Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 | Phone: (404) 624-5600 | https://zooatlanta.org
Tips on Visiting a Zoo in Georgia
A zoo is a great place to take the family for a day of learning and fun. Zoos can be educational and a lot of fun for people of all ages. There are many zoos in Georgia, so there is sure to be one close by, whether you live near Atlanta or Savannah. Here are some tips on visiting a zoo in Georgia.
Check Zoo Info
Before you go, make sure to check the zoo’s website for hours of operation and ticket prices. Most zoos have a variety of ticket prices, so be sure to pick the one that fits your budget. Zoos often have discounts for military members and their families and seniors. Many zoos also offer free admission on certain days or for children under a certain age.
Check Weather Conditions
Before you go, be sure to check the weather conditions. Zoos are open rain or shine, but some exhibits may be closed in bad weather. Also, be prepared for the possibility of thunderstorms. Zoos often have indoor exhibits where you can take shelter from the rain.
Visit on Weekdays
If you want to avoid the crowds, be sure to visit the zoo on a weekday. Zoos are busiest on the weekends, so weekdays are the best time to go if you want to have more space to move around.
Plan Your Itinerary
If you’re short on time, be sure to plan your itinerary. Zoos can be large and it’s easy to get lost. Pick the exhibits and animals you want to see and map out the route ahead of time. That way, you won’t waste time wandering around.
Dress Appropriately
Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Zoos can be pretty large, so you’ll want to be able to walk around without feeling cramped. Also, be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent, especially during the summer months.
Bring Snacks and Water
Most zoos have food courts, but the prices can be a bit high. It’s a good idea to bring some snacks and water so you can save money and not have to wait in line. It is also recommended to bring refillable water bottles, as most zoos have water bottle refill stations.
Be Mindful of Wildlife
Remember that you are visiting a zoo and the animals are living in captivity. Do not touch or feed the animals and be mindful of your surroundings. Zoos have staff to help keep you safe, but it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings.
Make Use of the Lockers
Most zoos have lockers available for a small fee. If you’re visiting with a large group, it’s a good idea to use the lockers to store your belongings. That way, everyone can enjoy the zoo without having to worry about their belongings, and you won’t have to carry a heavy bag around.
Conclusion
As you plan your summer vacation, be sure to add a zoo visit to your list of things to do. Georgia has several great zoos that are worth a visit. We’ve put together a list of some of the best zoos in the state so that you can choose the one that is right for you and your family. Whether you live in Atlanta or somewhere else in Georgia, there is bound to be a zoo close by that will provide hours of fun for everyone.
We hope that you have learned about some of the best zoos in Georgia and what they offer visitors. Zoos are a great way to get up close and personal with animals from all over the world, and they are perfect for a summer day out. Be sure to check out at least one of these zoos during your time in Georgia. Have fun!
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