Three Animal Encounters for Your Family Bucket List
Every kid loves seeing the animals, but there are some experiences that just take your visit to the next level. We've got three your family will adore.
Feed giraffes at Zoo Atlanta
Head over to the giraffe exhibit at Zoo Atlanta for the opportunity to feed these long-necked creatures. $3 buys you a bit of romaine lettuce. The line is often long for this experience, but it goes very quickly.
Please prep the kids: these are wild animals. Sometimes they are just not hungry for salad, so they may not be interested in eating (and if it is too cold or raining, then the feeding area is closed.) But overall, this is a fun experience for kids of all ages. Even very young children can participate with an adult.
Snorkel with whale sharks at Georgia Aquarium
Kids 12 and older (and their awesome adults) are encouraged to take to the water for an up-close view of the ocean's Gentle Giants. The Georgia Aquarium is the only place in the Western Hemisphere to encounter these endangered species.
Your snorkel session not only allows you to see four whale sharks, but also zebra sharks, sawfish, leopard whiprays, bowmouth guitarfish, humphead wrasses, pompano, several species of rays…and more! Whew!
Plan to spend a peaceful 30-40 minutes in the water, though the memories will last a lifetime. You can see a video and read more about our Gentle Giants Journey here.
Feed baby camels at Pettit Creek Farms
Head to Cartersville to see zebras, horses, donkeys, peacocks, lemurs and more…but for the ultimate animal encounter, try feeding a baby camel. This isn't available on every farm tour because there isn't always a baby, but Pettit Creek boasts the largest camel herd in the state, so there is usually a good chance.
While you're there, be sure to stop by the petting zoo. The Allens have hand-raised many of the animals from birth in pristine living conditions. A visit here makes a great fall field trip.
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