Looking for unforgettable experiences which blend wildlife, wonder, and hands-on adventure? Zoo Atlanta has your family covered with a jam-packed lineup of interactive encounters, seasonal events, and behind-the-scenes tours that bring you closer to the animals and each other.
🐘 Wild Encounters You Will Never Forget
Zoo Atlanta’s Wild Encounters offer rare opportunities to meet and feed some of the Zoo’s most beloved residents:
- African Elephant: Meet Kelly or Tara Fridays–Mondays at 2 p.m.
- Lemurs: Fridays–Sundays at 11 a.m.
- Warthogs: Fridays–Mondays at 1 p.m.
- Petting Zoo Painters: Saturdays at 3:15 p.m.—take home a masterpiece from a “Van Goat” or “Baaahlo”!
All Wild Encounters are discounted for Members and offer a one-of-a-kind peek into animal care and the fun loving behavior.
🦒 Daily Fun & Behind-the-Scenes Tours
- Giraffe Feeding: Daily from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m. (Weather permitting)
- NEW! Rollins Animal Health Center Tour: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 1:15 p.m. See how Zoo Atlanta’s Veterinary Team cares for hundreds of animals. This is really fun insight.
🎨 Seasonal Events & Family Favorites
- Play the Animal Way (August 30th): Dive into animal enrichment with puzzles, scents, and surprises. Free with admission.
- Twilight Tots (September 5th): Evening Zoo tour for ages 0–5 with crafts, singalongs, and animal encounters.
- Adventure Cubs (September 6th & 18th): Monthly themed fun for little ones—September’s theme is “Exciting Elephants!”
🌙 After-Hours Adventures
- ZooDunit Mystery Series (September 6th): Solve a Zoo mystery with friends—ages 18+.
- Twilight Trek (September 12th & 26th): Explore the Zoo at dusk with night-vision gear.
- Rise and Dine with Gorillas (September 13th): Enjoy breakfast and a morning gorilla encounter.
🎓 Special Events for Students & Seniors
- U at the Zoo (September 14th): Free for current college students; discounted for guests in college swag.
- Senior Day (September 30th): Free admission for guests ages 55+, presented by Kaiser Permanente.
🧪 Keeper for a Day Experiences
For ages 16+, these immersive programs offer a chance to work alongside Zoo professionals:
- Reptiles & Amphibians (September 20th)
- World of Wild Theater (September 21st)
- Elephants (September 25th)
🍷 Sippin’ Safari Returns!
On September 20th, enjoy Zoo Atlanta’s signature wine festival with tastings, live music, and evening animal viewing. Ages 21+ only.
Whether you are feeding giraffes, painting with goats, or solving mysteries under the stars, Zoo Atlanta is your go-to destination for family fun this fall. Do not forget to tag your adventures with #OnlyZooATL and #WeLOVEMacKID!
