Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta

This marvelous zoo, spreading across 40 acres of land, came into existence in the year 1889, when the great George W. Hall, fondly known as "Popcorn George", arrived in the town with his traveling circus. The story goes that employee claims for back wages forced Popcorn George to relinquish his menagerie, which was later purchased by a notable Atlanta businessman, who then generously donated the collection to the city, thus laying the foundation for a zoological garden in Grant Park. Over the years, the garden flourished into a beloved local attraction but lost its charm in the mid-1980s. To rescue it from obscurity, a director named Terry Maple was brought in to oversee the multimillion-dollar renovation.

The metamorphosis of Zoo Atlanta has been nothing short of impressive. It has now evolved into one of the finest zoos in the country, where animals roam in vast open enclosures that simulate their natural habitats. From well-known native wildlife to critically endangered species on the brink of extinction, the Zoo offers memorable close encounters with more than 1,500 animals from around the world.

Flamingo Plaza is sure to be your first stop, followed by Mzima Springs and Masai Mara, where you'll find elephants, rhinos, lions, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and other African animals and birds. The landscape in this section resembles the plains of East Africa, with honey locust trees and yuccas. The lion enclosure replicates an East African kopje, complete with a rocky outcropping. Particularly impressive are the reptile room and the section that showcases some of Georgia's native animals: while the former is just awesome visually, the latter gives a nice local slant to an otherwise world-class zoo.

Highly recommended to individuals of all ages!