Between the matches at Zoo Atlanta

As the world’s attention turns to Atlanta during the World Cup, Zoo Atlanta is the ideal destination for the inspirations of wildlife and family fun in a welcoming atmosphere in the home of hundreds of animals from around the globe.

Located just minutes from downtown Atlanta (three miles or five kilometers) and the city’s major transportation corridors, Zoo Atlanta offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and connect with animals and conservation while enjoying a break from the excitement of the World Cup.

“At such a global moment for our city, we are proud to offer an unforgettable experience that is also uniquely Atlanta,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO. “Whether guests have a few hours between matches or are looking to build out an entire day’s itinerary with us at the Zoo, Zoo Atlanta is a wonderful way for visitors to make the most of their time in Atlanta.”

Immersive animal habitats

With more than 200 species, Zoo Atlanta is home to wildlife representing nearly every continent. Highlights include one of North America’s largest populations of western lowland gorillas living in four distinct social groups throughout the Zoo’s lush Ford African Rain Forest. Recent transformations include the African Savanna, home to dynamic habitats for African elephants, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, warthogs, meerkats, kori bustards and blue cranes, as well as the Delta Air Lines Rhino Habitat, redesigned for southern white rhinos. A newly updated African lion complex features multiple vantage points for memorable observations of these apex predators. The indoor Scaly Slimy Spectacular, which houses a Siamese crocodile and scores of other reptiles and amphibians from around the world, is the perfect escape from Atlanta’s characteristic summer pop-up showers.  

Conservation

Interpretive experiences throughout the Zoo’s highly walkable 40 acres connect visitors to Zoo Atlanta’s role in conservation on both a global and local scale while highlighting everyday actions guests can take to make a personal impact on the future of wildlife and wild places. Each visit to Zoo Atlanta supports the Zoo’s Conservation Fund, which annually benefits vital programs and partnerships for wildlife on other continents as well as in our own backyards in Georgia.

And much more

Behind-the-scenes Wild Encounters invite guests to meet some of their favorite animals up-close and learn more about their care. Giraffe Feeding offers the chance to admire one of Earth’s tallest land mammals. The Splash Fountain water play area is always a popular option for children on summer days (bring bathing suits and a dry change of clothes). Adventurers will enjoy aerial playgrounds on Treetop Trail and Treetop Tykes Trail presented by Kaiser Permanente. The Endangered Species Carousel and the newly reimagined Safari Express Aboard the Norfolk Southern Zoo Train are classics for the young and young-at-heart. At the Zoo’s Wild Explorer VR Theater, visitors can take a seat for thrilling virtual reality experiences, including the new Dinosaur Evolution. Additional ticket purchases are required for some experiences.

Visit Zoo Atlanta’s World Cup Resources Page for travel tips, tickets, and more.