Adventure brief
General Admission
Atlanta Safari Park offers a rare drive-thru safari experience just outside Atlanta. Feed free-roaming animals up close, then discover walk-thru exhibits with giraffes and a bird aviary for a truly interactive wildlife day.
Just an hour northeast of Atlanta lies Commerce, Georgia, home to the expansive Atlanta Safari Park—a 160-acre wildlife haven where visitors come face-to-face with animals from continents around the world. This park stands out as a rare opportunity in the southeastern U.S. to combine a drive-thru safari experience with a walk-thru exhibit, blending convenience with immersive animal encounters. Visitors drive along two miles of paved roads, where free-roaming species—zebras, bison, camels, and more—approach vehicles with curious friendliness, eager for a hand-fed treat.
This hands-on connection is a thrilling way to witness animal behavior up close without leaving your car. Beyond the vehicle loop, the walk-thru section delivers a dynamic shift in pace. Here, a free-flight bird aviary surrounds you with vibrant, fluttering wings while the gentle giants at the giraffe feeding station stand tall, inviting guests to feed leaves just inches from their long tongues.
The petting zoo adds another layer, especially for families, offering tactile encounters with smaller, approachable animals. Each zone is thoughtfully designed to showcase the diversity and scale of life represented on the park’s grounds. What makes Atlanta Safari Park truly unique is this seamless mix of drive-in and walk-about adventure set against Georgia’s rolling landscape—providing a rare chance to experience global wildlife in a single day trip.
The park’s accessibly scaled layout and interactive approach create an engaging outing for all ages, making it a standout destination for locals and travelers alike seeking a wildlife experience beyond the traditional zoo visit. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, Atlanta Safari Park offers a fresh perspective on animal encounters and an accessible outdoor adventure that connects you with animal species you won’t often see outside far-flung reserves. For anyone craving a touch of the wild without extensive travel, this Georgia gem delivers authentic safari excitement steps from a major metropolitan hub.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Keep Your Windows Partially Openessential
Sliding your window open about halfway lets animals comfortably access food while preventing curious visitors from trying to climb in.
- 02Bring Your Own Approved Animal Foodinfo
Purchase park-approved feeding bags onsite or bring suitable snacks to safely feed the animals and enhance your interaction.
- 03Arrive Early to Avoid Crowdsinfo
Mornings are quieter and animals tend to be more active and social near vehicles before the afternoon heat sets in.
- 04Hold Cameras Steady Inside Vehicleswarning
Bring a wrist or neck strap for your camera or phone to avoid accidents while photographing animals right at your window.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during the sunny drive-thru and walk-thru sections.
summerEssentialComfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for roaming the walk-thru aviary and petting zoo without discomfort.
EssentialBinoculars
Great for spotting distant animals along the drive-thru route and observing bird details.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your visit, especially in warmer months.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet viewing areas near the giraffe feeding platform during late morning, Shaded benches inside the bird aviary for a restful wildlife observation spot
Local fauna
Reticulated giraffe, Barbary sheep
Historic heritage
Atlanta Safari Park has offered an accessible version of an African-style safari experience since its establishment, bringing global wildlife interaction to Georgia residents and travelers.
Mindful exploration
The park supports animal conservation efforts by providing large, naturalistic habitats and educational programs fostering awareness of species preservation.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Drive-thru roads for close-up animal portraits, Giraffe feeding station for eye-level shots, Inside the bird aviary capturing dynamic flight
- Subjects
- Large mammals, Colorful birds, Interactive visitor moments
- Best times
- Early morning, Golden hour before sunset, Afternoon when animals are active
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Can I bring my own food to feed the animals?
Only park-approved animal feed purchased onsite or given by staff is allowed to ensure animal health and safety.
Are pets allowed in the park?
For the safety of all animals and guests, pets are not permitted within the park boundaries.
Is the drive-thru safari wheelchair accessible?
Yes, since you remain in your vehicle during the drive-thru, the experience is accessible. Some walk-thru areas may have varied accessibility.
How long does the drive-thru portion take?
The drive-thru safari covers about two miles and takes approximately one hour to complete.
Can I visit the walk-thru exhibits without doing the drive-thru?
Admission includes access to both areas, so you’re welcome to enjoy the walk-thru sections independently after the safari drive.
What animals can I expect to see up close?
Guests commonly encounter zebras, bison, camels, giraffes, exotic birds, and friendly farm animals in the petting zoo.