Atlanta Zoo Ticket Prices: What to Expect Before You Go

Planning a day at Zoo Atlanta and trying to figure out how much tickets cost? This guide walks through Atlanta zoo ticket prices, typical discounts, and smart ways to save—specifically with Atlanta visitors and locals in mind.

Where You’re Going: Zoo Atlanta Basics

Zoo Atlanta
800 Cherokee Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30315
Located in Grant Park, just southeast of downtown Atlanta.

Zoo Atlanta uses date-based pricing for general admission, so the exact ticket price can change depending on:

• Day of the week
• Time of year (weekends, holidays, and peak seasons often cost more)
• How early you buy your tickets online

Because of this, you’ll see a range of prices rather than one flat amount.

Typical Zoo Atlanta Ticket Price Ranges

While exact prices change over time, most visitors can expect rough ranges like these:

*These ranges are approximate and depend on the date, demand, and promotions at the time you purchase.

Key takeaway:
💡 Buying online in advance is usually cheaper than buying at the gate, especially on busy weekends and holidays.

How Pricing Works in Practice

1. Date-Based Pricing

Zoo Atlanta often adjusts prices by date. Common patterns include:

• Weekdays: Often lower-priced than weekends
• Summer, spring break, and holidays: Typically higher
• Off-peak days (like midweek in the school year): Often the best value

If you live in Atlanta or nearby and your schedule is flexible, you can usually save money by choosing:

• A non-holiday weekday
• Cooler months or non-peak periods

2. Online vs. Walk-Up Tickets

• Online tickets: Usually the best price and sometimes required for timed entry.
• On-site tickets: Often more expensive and can sell out on very busy days.

If you’re visiting from out of town, it’s usually worth checking online ticket options before you travel to avoid day-of surprises.

Discounts and Ways to Save on Zoo Atlanta Tickets

Atlanta Resident Discounts

Zoo Atlanta sometimes offers special pricing or promotions targeted at Atlanta-area residents. These offers can change, but common patterns include:

• Limited-time resident days or promotions
• Discount codes promoted through local partners or city programs

If you live in the city of Atlanta or Metro Atlanta, it can be worth:

• Checking for resident-focused offers before picking your date
• Following Zoo Atlanta’s official channels for local deal announcements

Membership: When It Can Be Cheaper Than Day Tickets

If you’re an Atlanta local or visit several times a year, a Zoo Atlanta membership can often pay for itself quickly.

Membership typically includes:

• Unlimited admission for a year (for the member or household, depending on level)
• Discounts on food, gifts, and some experiences
• Special events or member preview days

For Atlanta families, once you compare:

• Two or more visits per year vs.
• Total membership price for your household

…it’s common to find that a membership becomes more cost-effective than buying multiple single-day tickets.

Military & First Responder Discounts

Zoo Atlanta commonly offers discounted admission for:

• Active-duty military
• Veterans or retired military
• Often, spouses and dependents (policies can vary)

You’ll need to show valid ID at the ticketing point. If you’re stationed at Fort Moore, Dobbins Air Reserve Base, or you’re an Atlanta-based veteran, it’s worth confirming what’s currently available before you go.

Group, School, and Camp Tickets

If you’re organizing for:

• A school group in APS, DeKalb, Fulton, or surrounding districts
• A daycare, camp, or youth group in Metro Atlanta
• A large family group or reunion

You can often qualify for group pricing when you reserve ahead and meet minimum group size requirements. These rates usually require:

• Advance registration
• A single payment for the group

For Atlanta-area teachers or camp leaders, group rates can significantly reduce the per-person ticket cost.

Special Experiences and Add-On Costs

Zoo Atlanta general admission gives access to the core exhibits, but some activities can have extra charges. These may include:

• Animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours
• Rides (for example, a carousel or train when in operation)
• Temporary attractions or seasonal add-ons
• Certain special events outside regular hours

When planning a family day from Atlanta or nearby suburbs (Decatur, East Point, Smyrna, etc.), it’s smart to budget for:

• Base admission
• Parking (if you’re driving)
• Food and snacks
• Possible extras if your kids will want rides or experiences

Parking and Transportation Costs

Parking Near Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta is located inside Grant Park, and parking can be a separate cost from your ticket.

Typical parking situations:

• Zoo-designated lots near the main entrance
• Paid parking structures or designated areas
• Limited free or street parking in surrounding residential streets (often time-limited or restricted)

If you’re coming from Midtown, Buckhead, or the northern suburbs, factor in:

• Parking fees near the zoo
• Possible event-day surcharges during large Grant Park events

MARTA and Rideshare Options

To avoid parking costs and traffic, some Atlanta visitors and residents choose:

• MARTA train + bus:
  • Train to King Memorial or Five Points, then connect via bus or rideshare
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) directly to 800 Cherokee Ave SE

While this doesn’t change your ticket price, it can affect your overall cost for the visit and may be more convenient on busy weekends.

Tickets for Kids and Families

Kid-Specific Pricing

Zoo Atlanta usually breaks tickets into these age groups:

• Age 2 and under: Often free
• Ages 3–11: Child ticket
• Ages 12+: Adult ticket

If you’re an Atlanta family with multiple children, it’s helpful to:

• Double-check age cutoffs before purchasing
• Bring proof of age if your child is close to a boundary (for example, 2 turning 3 soon)

Stroller, Snacks, and Budget Tips for Families

While not part of the ticket cost itself, Atlanta parents often plan ahead to keep the visit affordable:

• Bringing refillable water bottles (within posted rules) to avoid multiple drink purchases
• Timing your visit to avoid needing multiple meals inside
• Considering an annual membership if your kids love animals and you anticipate return trips

When Is the Best Time to Buy Zoo Atlanta Tickets?

To get the best prices and experience:

1. Check ticket prices for several dates
   • If your schedule is flexible, compare a Wednesday vs. a Saturday.
2. Buy online early
   • Prices can be better the earlier you purchase.
3. Avoid peak holidays if you’re price-sensitive
   • Spring break, Memorial Day weekend, and summer Saturdays often cost more and feel busier.
4. Look for local deals
   • Atlanta-focused promotions, memberships, or partner offers can lower your overall cost.

Quick-Glance Summary for Atlanta Zoo Ticket Costs

• General admission typically falls in the $20–$40 per person range, depending on age and date.
• Kids 2 and under are often free.
• Weekdays and off-peak seasons usually offer lower prices.
• Online advance purchase tends to be cheaper than day-of at the gate.
• Membership can save money for Atlanta locals who visit more than once or twice per year.
• Discounts may be available for military, groups, and sometimes local residents.
• Parking and extras (rides, experiences, food) are separate costs to budget for.

By checking your date options and planning around how often you’ll visit, you can choose the most cost-effective way to experience Zoo Atlanta—whether you’re an Atlanta local spending a Saturday in Grant Park or a visitor trying to make the most of a short trip.