What to Know About Visiting Zoo Atlanta in Winter

Winter might just be one of the most surprising times to visit Zoo Atlanta. Some of the zoo’s cold-loving residents are at their most active when the temperatures drop! Of course, not every animal loves chilly weather, so knowing what to expect when you visit Zoo Atlanta in winter can make your trip even better.

Even if you’re not a fan of the cold, a winter day at Zoo Atlanta can be totally worth it. The crowds are lighter, the air is crisp, and many animals that usually nap through the heat are suddenly wide awake and roaming around.

As a Zoo Atlanta member, I’ve visited the zoo in every season, and I can tell you that winter is far from a bad time to go — in fact, it might become your new favorite! Here’s everything you should know before planning a winter visit.

Tips For Visiting Zoo Atlanta in the Winter

1. Look for the Wild Winter Days Discount

Zoo Atlanta knows that winter isn’t the most popular time for walking around outdoors and that some of its most popular animals are not cold weather animals, so it offers a Wild Winter Days discount.

The zoo typically offers this discount during the winter months and on those random unseasonably cold days.

Book your advanced Zoo Atlanta ticket here.

2. Expect Fewer Crowds and Easy Parking

Visiting the zoo in the winter is perfect if you don’t like dealing with crowds. You could walk half the park without running into another person.

This also means you can get close to the habitats and not have to crane your neck just to catch a glimpse of an animal sighting.

The parking lot is nearly empty on some winter days, which is incredible because on most summer days you’ll have to find street parking.

Parking costs $3 per hour ($12 for the day). Zoo Atlanta estimates the average visit is about 3 hours, but you may spend less time if it’s very cold.

3. Visit the Cold-Weather Animals

If you’ve only been to the zoo in the summer, then you’re not getting the full Zoo Atlanta experience! Some of my favorite animals are more active in the cooler weather.

• Red panda: Red pandas are well-adapted for cold weather, but they probably prefer when Atlanta’s winters are mild as their natural habitat ranges from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to give Jackie and Rose a visit!
• Alpacas: Tuscany, Warrior, and Smurf are never too cold in the winter with their fluffy fleece.
• Elephants: The elephants are usually out year-round, and you can also see them in their new indoor exhibit. Kelly, Misholo, and Tara are waiting for your visit!
• Flamingos: These birds are apparently very tolerant of weather conditions and will be found outside unless their pond freezes over.
• Scaly Slimy Spectacular: The indoor amphibian and reptile house is the perfect place to defrost and see animals from an array of climates.

4. Know Which Animals Don’t Come Out in the Winter

Some animals have temperature restrictions and won’t come outside. Basically, if their natural habitat doesn’t get too cold, don’t expect to see them roaming about in below-freezing weather.

You aren’t likely to see primates and monkeys in the winter, as they don’t come outside if it’s below 50 degrees.

Other animals may still pop out from time to time, as the animals have the option of moving between their indoor and outdoor habitats. For instance, the clouded leopard who is not usually fond of cold was running all over its habitat for us, and we just barely saw the sun bears poking around after being fed.

I hope this helps plan your perfect winter trip to Zoo Atlanta! Give a wave to bears for me when you go!

Book your advanced Zoo Atlanta ticket here.

Visiting Zoo Atlanta in Winter FAQ

More Things Happening at Zoo Atlanta

See what’s happening at Zoo Atlanta with these fun posts!

• IllumiNights at the Zoo: Atlanta Chinese Lantern Festival
• A Guide to Visiting Zoo Atlanta
• Visiting Zoo Atlanta on a Rainy Day
• Boo at the Zoo – Zoo Atlanta: Review
• Zoo Atlanta Panda Encounter Review

• 11 Magical Things to Do in Atlanta in Winter
• 33+ Christmas Lights in Atlanta You Won’t Want to Miss
• Top Things To Do During Winter in Atlanta
• Where To Go Outdoor Ice Skating in Atlanta
• License to Chill Snow Island at Margaritaville is Full of Winter Fun
• Stone Mountain Christmas: Your Complete Guide
• Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Atlanta Christkindl Market Offers a Taste of German Holiday Spirit

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Ready to visit Atlanta, Georgia? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Get Familiar With the City: Check out my Ultimate Guide to Atlanta to help plan your trip!
• Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
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• Save on Attractions: Save 50% on admission to Atlanta’s top attractions using the Atlanta CityPASS.

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Cheers!

Paige

Have you visited Zoo Atlanta in winter? Let me know in the comments!