Back in the 1980s, Zoo Atlanta was considered a horribly unethical zoo that kept animals in poor conditions. The facility has undergone major improvements since then and is now considered one of the very best zoos in the country. The zoo participates in worldwide conservation efforts for endangered species and is home to a number of animals, like giant pandas, that are quite rare to see in person. This is such a great day trip in Georgia that the entire family can enjoy.

Amazingly, Zoo Atlanta was ranked as one of the worst zoos in the country in a 1984 survey. Many reforms were changes were made within the zoo's organizational structure and standards of animal care were greatly improved. Within a little over a decade, the zoo became one of the very best in the country.
Valerie Renée/Flickr
The 40-acre zoo houses 1,500 animals of 220 different species.
Lars Juhl Jensen/Flickr
You'll see all kinds of critters here, from exotic elephants to native species of turtles and snakes.
Tom Driggers/Flickr

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One of the most popular attractions here is the giant panda exhibit. Zoo Atlanta is one of only three zoos in the United States to house giant pandas.
Lars Juhl Jensen/Flickr
Interestingly, all giant pandas in the U.S., even those who were born here, are owned by China and considered on loan from the Chinese government.
This zoo is a great size: it doesn't take all day to walk through the exhibits, but it's long enough that you feel like you got your money's worth.
brokinhrt2/Flickr
The enclosures are large and designed to be as naturalistic as possible.
Lisa Sammons/OnlyInYourState
This is a must-see stop if you're spending a day or two in Atlanta. It's one of the best zoos in Georgia and is definitely worth a visit.
Matt Barnett/Flickr

For discounted admission rates to Zoo Atlanta and several other Atlanta attractions, check out the Official Atlanta CityPASS.

You can get more information about Zoo Atlanta and its conservation mission on the zoo’s website.

Have you ever been to Zoo Atlanta? Share your favorite animal in the comments!

 

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Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA