When I moved to Atlanta, I promised myself to experience everything the city had to offer (within reason). That meant tourist attractions I would have explored as a tourist (museums, state parks and the like), but it also meant taking advantage of activities that even tourists might not think of.

I came across an article a few week ago reminding the general public that the free access to Atlanta’s Zoo that Atlanta library card holders enjoyed was coming to an end on June 1st, I knew I had to take action before I missed my opportunity (yes, I am a proud library card holder). I should have done some research though, because on the day I got there (bright and early, I might add) I was told I needed to have gone to my library and collected some kind of pass. Epic fail, but I was still not going to give up on all my effort to get there early, so I bought tickets and entered.

The first animal you’re greeted with is the majestic flamingos, strategically positioned to your left. I thought I had some pictures of them, but a quick search confirmed that I had not, in fact, bothered. Possibly preferring to enjoy them in the moment.

When you enter the zoo, you’re asked whether you’d like a map (get one at all costs…. it’s free;) and I decided a right to left approach would suit me best based on my interests.

The approach I decided upon, took me through the dedicated children’s section first. And let me tell you it was an exercise in restraint (and not the way you might think!). First of all, all the fun activities are located in this section and to be quite honest, I wasn’t sure this was like Disney land where adults can enjoy the children’s attractions. There was what I would call a jungle gym (that my inner child would have gone crazy for) but in fear of being viewed weird (I didn’t see any other adults on it) I swifted walked past.

In hindesight, I wish I had paid extra for the experience. I mean, I could have served as a female firefighter, saving adventurous kids from swinging walkways and certain broken arms, but I didn’t come prepared with the courage, so you know…. I just carried on my merry way, delighting in the various exotic birds until I found a sign that prmoised to lead me to tigers.

Unfortunately, the tigers were not on their stage (I suspect it might have been too hot for them) and, with the trusted guide of an upside down map (I needed to read it properly), I made my way to the gorillas.

Kojo, or whatever his beloved keepers call him, was a delight to see. He was the first animal I saw at the zoo that took my breath away. He didn’t have anyone else in his enclosure, but I kinda like to think he prefers it that way. A little, “don’t come here unless you add value” LOL! But in reality, there must be a lot of breeding going on.

Next, I came across this enclosure. I want to call it gorilla as well, but…… I’m not sure. Was there a male there? This group seemed pretty content. Either that male has his shit locked down or the zoo is doing things. Either way, this was my favourite part of my experience.

But to conclude, it was a valuable immersive experience that was worth the cost of the entrance. If I had more money than I knew what to do with, I would definitely invest it here, but at the same time I cannot pretend not to have seen the uninhibited joy on children’s faces nor the aligned reaction of the animals to them. Maybe one day…