Did you know that you can see zebras, wolves, and otters right here in North Georgia? The North Georgia Zoo in Cleveland is home to over 80 species of exotic animals. All of these creatures reside in naturalistic habitats and receive constant care and enrichment by their keepers. This unique facility has tons of opportunities for guests to take a walk on the wild side! If you’re an animal lover, you need to come and experience this fabulous zoo. Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know before visiting.
Feed Your Wild Side at the North Georgia Zoo
If holding a baby kangaroo or cuddling a crocodile is on your bucket list, this wildlife oasis in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains will make all of your dreams come true. Plus, when you stay at Glen-Ella Springs Inn in Clarkesville, you’ll be a quick 45-minute drive from all of the fun! Here are some of our favorite things to do at this zoo.
Winter Wonderland Tours
The animals at the zoo tend to be more active during the cooler months, making Winter Wonderland Tours especially interesting for guests. From December through February, you can enjoy watching the animals romp in the snow, learn how the animals adapt to colder weather, and even help feed them some tasty treats. This 45-minute, guided tour includes petting camels, a meet-and-greet with one of the zoo’s friendly animal ambassadors, and a hands-on encounter with three exotic animals. You certainly won’t forget this experience!
Wildlife Encounters
On this 30-minute animal encounter, you’ll be able to spend time with your favorite species on a customized, once-in-a-lifetime tour. Guests can choose to visit with kangaroos or deer, train/handle a bird of prey, meet a reptile, wolf, primate, or wildcat, or explore a nursery full of baby animals.
Other Great Places to Explore
The North Georgia Zoo isn’t the only place in the Blue Ridge Mountains to get up-close and personal with cute critters! For even more furry fun in North Georgia, you’ll love spending time at these spots:
- Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo: Experience native and exotic species from around the world in a friendly and clean environment at this wildlife preserve in Dahlonega, GA.
- Tanglewood Farm Miniatures: This unique farm in Cherokee County has been named one of Atlanta’s best attractions and features more than 150 miniature petting zoo animals that provide a day of adorable fun for the whole family.
- Goats on the Roof: While this unique spot in Tiger, GA, isn’t quite a zoo, the young and young at heart will delight in watching multiple goats explore their aerial enclosure. Bring some cash so you can feed these friendly, climbing creatures!
Come Back to Your Cozy Den at Glen-Ella Springs Inn
After a memorable day at the North Georgia Zoo, head back to our rustic-chic bed and breakfast, where you can relax in one of our beautiful rooms or suites. As you wind down for the day, join us for a delicious gourmet dinner at our on-site restaurant! Nothing is finer than enjoying a good night’s sleep in your plush bed with silky sheets, welcoming the mountain morning from a rocking chair on your wraparound porch, then savoring a complimentary gourmet breakfast. We can’t wait to welcome you!
