There are several places around Atlanta where you can see live animals. How about trying something new?
Southern Belle Farm – This Belle is a working farm in McDonough, about an hour southeast of Atlanta. Depending on the season you can pick your own fruits or vegetables and visit farm animals. There are rides for the kids and seasonal events like hayrides, pig races and visits from Santa. Did we mention it's owned by Jimmy Carter? Not that one. $8.
Amicalola Deer Park – Just off 575 in Cherokee County, you'll find a family-friendly attraction unlike other animal-centric attractions. In addition to petting deer, Amicalola Deer Park invites you to hike on their trails, picnic, skip stones in the river and enjoy the great outdoors. Adults, $8; children over three years old, $5; children under three years old receive free admission.
Noah's Ark – Twenty minutes south of Atlanta you'll find an animal sanctuary that is home to 1,500 animals on 250 acres of mostly shaded land. A herd of emu? Check! A lion, tiger and bear living in the same enclosure in harmony? Check! No large admission fees? Check! There is no cost for self-guided tours at Noah's Ark but donations are accepted and appreciated. Two other experiences - WOW Tour and Keeper for a Day are pricey but worth it for true animal lovers.
Chehaw Park – Only two zoos in Georgia are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Zoo Atlanta and Chehaw Park. The first one is right here, Chehaw is in Albany. Its 800 acres includes a zoo that features both Georgia natives such as alligators, corn snakes and bobcats along with camels, cheetahs, lemurs and rhinos. There's also a BMX bike track, a train ride and a trailer tour through 40 acres similar to an African Veldt with animals native to that region. Spend the weekend by staying in an RV or tent site or a cabin. A park and zoo pass is $7.30 for kids (3 and under free) and $11.20 for adults.
Wild Animal Safari – Just north of Callaway Gardens, Wild Animal Safari is a drive-thru animal park. Don't want to drive your car? Take a complementary bus tour that will take you on a tour of the grounds which features over 650 animals of over 65 different species. Adults, $24.95 online; children, $21.95 online.
The Rock Ranch – In addition to zip lines, a rock climbing wall, train rides, a carousel, tiny town, pedal boats and pedal cars, visitors to The Rock Ranch will find a petting zoo where adults and children can get up close with a donkey, miniature horse, pig and more. $13.91 per person get you in, some attractions such as zip lines and the carousel have additional fees.
Hillcrest Orchards – When you go apple picking this fall, (Sept.-Nov.) head over to Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay where your family can enjoy animals "gentle enough to be held and fed by hand" including chickens, cats, goats and deer. Your admission charge includes the petting farm, wagon rides and playgrounds. $8 per person.
Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo – Open seven days a week, Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo in Dahlonega isn't your typical zoo. They have 10 pathways covering 25 acres where you can see animals including lions, tigers, zebras, elk, alligator and servals in natural enclosures. Adults, $10; children, $5.
Chattahoochee Nature Center – The animal sanctuary is the home to eagles, a beaver, opossums, snakes, turkeys, vulture and hawks among other species. Keepers frequently invite guests to watch feeding time and learn more about species at the Center. Adults, $10.00; students and seniors, $7.00; children, $6.00; children two years old and younger receive free admission.
Phinizy Center for Water Sciences – Plan a day trip to Augusta where your family can explore the scenic canal area and spend time communing with nature at the Center. Explore trails, boardwalks and bridges that all make ideal spots for viewing animals including birds, beavers, water moccasins and fish. The park is free to visit and open seven days a week.
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