Whether you are a curious kid, a nature-loving grown-up, or just looking for a memorable day out, Zoo Atlanta is bursting with wild encounters, festive fun, and behind-the-scenes magic this season. From feeding giraffes to meeting a “Van Goat,” here’s your guide to the can't-miss experiences happening now through the holidays!
🐘 Up Close with Giants
African Elephant Wild Encounters
📅 Fridays – Mondays | 🕑 2:00 PM
Meet Kelly or Tara, Zoo Atlanta’s majestic African elephants, and get a behind-the-scenes look at their care. Yes, you can feed them too! Discounted for Members
🎨 Art with Heart (and Hooves!)
Petting Zoo Painters Wild Encounters
📅 Saturdays | 🕒 3:15 PM
Meet a real animal artist—like “Van Goat” or “Baaahlo”—and take home a one-of-a-kind masterpiece created during your visit. Discounted for Members
🐗 Warthog Wild Encounters
📅 Fridays – Mondays | 🕐 1:00 PM (through November 10th)
Feed a warthog their favorite snack and learn how these quirky creatures are cared for behind the scenes. Discounted for Members
🏥 NEW! Rollins Animal Health Center Tour
📅 Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays | 🕐 1:15 PM
Go behind the scenes of Zoo Atlanta’s cutting-edge veterinary facility and discover how hundreds of animals receive top-tier care. Discounted for Members
🦒 Giraffe Feeding
📅 Daily (weather permitting) | 🕙 10 AM–1 PM & 2 PM–3:30 PM
Feed one of Earth’s tallest mammals from Twiga Terrace. This is an unforgettable experience for all ages!
🧸 Adventure Cubs
Presented by Carter’s Charitable Foundation
📅 November 20th, December 6th & December 18th.
Little ones (ages 0–5) and their caregivers enjoy themed Zoo tours, games, crafts, stories, and sing-alongs.
🦎 November: Cool Komodos
🦙 December: Amazing Alpacas Discounted for Members
✨ Gather & Glow featuring IllumiNights
📅 November 20th | Ages 21+
Sip, stroll, and sparkle during this adults-only evening at the Zoo. Enjoy a complimentary holiday beverage, tunes from DJ Dmark, and a visit from Buddy the Elf. Discounted for Members
🎇 IllumiNights at the Zoo
Presented by Georgia Power
📅 November 21st – January 18th
Step into a glowing wonderland filled with handcrafted lanterns celebrating the beauty of nature.
🌟 Member Preview: November 13th – 16th. Discounted for Members
🦎 NEW! Keeper for a Day: Reptiles & Amphibians
📅 November 22rd, December 3rd & December 13th | Ages 16+
Join the Herpetology Team and dive into the science of caring for cold-blooded creatures. Discounted for Members
🐦 NEW! Keeper for a Day: World of Wild Theater
📅 November 23rd & December 7th | Ages 16+
Become a bird trainer for a day and learn how Zoo Atlanta connects guests with feathered friends through Fantastic Flights. Discounted for Members
🐘 NEW! Keeper for a Day: Elephants
📅 November 29th, December 6th & December 11th | Ages 16+
Work alongside the Elephant Care Team to prep habitats and meet the specialized needs of these gentle giants.Discounted for Members
🎅 Cookies with Santa
📅 December 6th & 7th
Santa’s first stop? Zoo Atlanta! Enjoy a personal visit, professional photo, holiday treats, and festive fun.
🎟 Reservations required. Discounted for Members
🎉 Zoo Year’s Eve
📅 December 31st
Ring in the New Year early with a daytime celebration full of countdowns, live entertainment, and family-friendly festivities.
Whether you're feeding giraffes, painting with goats, or glowing under lantern light, Zoo Atlanta has something magical for everyone. Do not forget many experiences are discounted for Members, so join today and make the most of your wild season!
