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23 Virtual Zoo Field Trips, Tours, and Zoo Cams That Get You Up Close to the Animals

Bring the zoo to you.

We love field trips, but sometimes organizing an excursion just can’t happen. Fortunately, we live in a time when technology can bring the excitement to us. The pandemic encouraged many zoos and aquariums to put in the effort to bridge the gap for visitors at home. As such, we’re able to share this list of fantastic virtual zoo field trips, virtual zoo tours, and zoo cams you can enjoy from anywhere.

Best Virtual Zoo Field Trips, Virtual Zoo Tours, and Zoo Cams

San diego zoo.

The San Diego Zoo has a “Watch and Learn” section on its website. Here, students can check out the fantastic zoo cams including the burrowing-owl cam, giraffe cam, elephant cam, and many more.

Atlanta Zoo

While the Atlanta Zoo’s zoo cam is dedicated to pandas, they offer many videos and activities that feature bird watching, sloths, lemurs, monkeys, and more.

Reid Park Zoo

Located in Tucson, Arizona, this zoo features a variety of delightful zoo cams designed to give kids a virtual zoo tour of the elephants, giraffes, grizzly bears, lions, and more.

Tembe Elephant Park

Tembe Elephant Park is located in a remote area of South Africa. Renowned for having the largest elephants in the world, these zoo cams offer sights such as sand forests and wetlands, leopards, rhinos, and, of course, elephants.

GRACE Gorilla Forest Corridor

This extensive cam takes us inside the gorilla forest corridor in the Democratic Republic of Congo while connecting the habitat with the night quarters at the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE).

Houston Zoo

Take a virtual zoo tour down to Texas and enjoy the live zoo cams set up by the Houston Zoo, allowing you to peer into the lives of giraffes, gorillas, elephants, and flamingos.

Explore the Arctic

Head to Churchill, Manitoba, Canada, to witness the annual polar bear migration. Discovery Education has teamed up with Polar Bears International to host a series that explores some of the biggest questions about the Arctic.

Bring your virtual classroom to life with animals from the Oregon Zoo. The Wildlife Live videos are aligned to different subject content areas, which are listed on the page. New videos are also posted regularly on the zoo’s social media channels. A few times every week, they go behind the scenes for a live interview with animal-care staff. Each live video is accompanied by a kid-approved activity related to the featured animal .

PBS Zoo Field Trip

Let’s all go to the zoo with PBS LearningMedia! At Zoo Miami, Penny and the KidVision VPK kids wash rhinos, feed giraffes, study a zebra’s stripes, and ride a camel. Lions and tigers and apes, oh my! ADVERTISEMENT

International Wolf Center

The cool wolf-pack cam live-broadcasts the adventures of four ambassador wolves: Denali, Boltz, Axel, and Grayson. The exhibit stretches across 1.25 acres and includes two dens, a filtered pond, and a forested area.

San Antonio Zoo

While San Antonio Zoo virtual field trips aren’t free, they’re very engaging. Enjoy virtual encounters with okapis, hippos, rhinos, and more.

From a virtual zoo tour and chats with staff to showing what the animals are up to and posting activity ideas from their education and conservation teams, the Dallas Zoo’s Bring the Zoo to You web series is perfect for a virtual field trip.

Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo was the home of the late Steve Irwin, best known as the Crocodile Hunter. His wife, Terri, and children, Bindi and Bob, have continued his legacy. This fantastic YouTube channel offers captivating videos of some of the world’s most fascinating animals.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo

This virtual zoo field trip takes us to the nation’s capital. Check out animal zoo cams that share a glimpse into the daily lives of black-footed ferrets, naked mole rats, giant pandas, and more.

Chester Zoo

This British zoo has been going live on Facebook and YouTube to offer a fun and engaging virtual zoo tour packed full of fantastic facts and adorable animal antics.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium has created virtual zoo tour resources to support children’s learning for grades pre-K through 12. The site offers online courses, family-friendly science activities, crafts and printables, and fantastic video lessons (in English and en español) to help young learners who are excited about ocean animals.

Georgia Aquarium at Home

These wonderful guided virtual tours through Georgia Aquarium’s galleries allow you to explore the chilly unknown in Cold Water Quest , be immersed in a world of colors as a tropical diver , and more.

New England Aquarium Virtual Tour

Enjoy a virtual zoo tour of the New England Aquarium and check out the projects and activities available to both educators and families. New zoo cam videos premiere on Facebook , YouTube , and Instagram .

Folly Farm Sloth Cam

Witness the serene existence of Tuppee and Lightcap, two charming two-toed sloths residing in Sloth Forest, a habitat created as a comfortable “sloth retirement home.”

Aquarium of the Pacific Webcams

Peek into the lives of playful penguins, sleek sharks in the Shark Lagoon, the graceful sea nettles, the bustling Tropical Reef, the serene Honda Blue Cavern, and the intriguing coral predators. These webcams, complemented by resource kits, offer a vibrant, educational experience for all ages.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Giraffe Cams

Tune into the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s giraffe cams for a live peek into the lives of giraffes in the African Rift Valley exhibit. These cameras capture the giraffes as they roam, mingle, and interact with visitors hand-feeding them lettuce. It’s a “Way Beyond Watching” experience that brings you up close with these majestic animals from anywhere in the world.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Webcams

Dive virtually into the world of marine rescue at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Their live webcams offer glimpses into the new Ruth & J.O. Stone Dolphin Complex, home to rescued bottlenose dolphins in a sprawling 1.5 million gallons of Clearwater Bay’s filtered water. Additionally, explore more live cams like the Otter Cam, Pelican Cam, and Mavis’s Rescue Hideaway Cam for a closer look at other rescued marine animals.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Webcams

Catch a glimpse into the daily lives of Beardsley Zoo’s beloved animals with their live webcams. Be sure to switch between the Indoor and Outdoor Red Panda Cams, the Spider Monkey Cams, and the River Otter Cam to see these creatures exploring their habitats.

Did we miss one of your favorite virtual zoo field trips, virtual zoo tours, or zoo cams? Share it with us in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook!

Also, check out the best field trip ideas for every age and interest (virtual options too).

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40 Amazing Educational Virtual Field Trips

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Bored at Home? Here's a Massive List of Museums, Zoos, and Theme Parks Offering Virtual Tours

You can see Frida Kahlo at MoMA or visit the Shedd Aquarium without leaving the couch.

The effects of social distancing have left many feeling, well, a little stir-crazy. Though we all try to stay busy by keeping active and working from home during the COVID-19 outbreak , it's easy to fall into a rut. Luckily, there's more than one way to stave off boredom while staying indoors. Instead of binging the best of what Netflix has to offer for the second time, it's time to broaden your horizons with some virtual tours.

"Walk" through some of the world's most prestigious cultural institutions, like The Met and The American Museum of Natural History, then go for a "ride" on Disney's new Frozen rollercoaster with the kids. And regardless of your age, we think everyone will enjoy some live footage of pandas playing at the zoo!

• The Louvre: You don't have to book a ticket to Paris to check out some of the famous pieces in the world's largest art museum. The Louvre has free online tours of three famous exhibits, including Egyptian Antiquities.
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum: The works of Pablo Picasso, Piet Mondrian , Jeff Koons, and Franz Marc are just some of the 625 artists whose work are a part of the Guggenheim's Collection Online .
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Move at your own pace through the 360-degree room-by-room tour of every exhibit in the museum .
• Van Gogh Museum: You can get up close and personal with the impressionist painter's most famous work thanks to Google Arts & Culture .
• Getty Museum: Los Angeles's premiere gallery has two virtual tours , including "Eat, Drink, and Be Merry," which is a closer look at food in the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
• The Vatican Museum: The Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and Raphael's Room, are just some of the sites you can see on the Vatican's virtual tour .
• T hyssen-Bornemisza Museum: Madrid's must-see art museum has the works of some of the continent's most celebrated artists like Rembrandt and Dali available online .
• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: Six virtual exhibits are available online from this museum named for the "Mother of American modernism."
• National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City: Dive into the pre-Hispanic history of Mexico with 23 exhibit rooms full of Mayan artifacts.
• British Museum, London: The Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies are just a couple of things that you're able to see on a virtual tour of the museum.
• N ASA: Both Virginia's Langley Research Center and Ohio's Glenn Research Center offer online tours for free. Also, you can try some "augmented reality experiences" via The Space Center Houston's app .
• National Women's History Museum: Have a late International Women's Day celebration with online exhibits and oral histories from the Virginia museum.
• Metropolitan Museum of Art: Though the Met Gala was cancelled this year, you can still have a peak at the The Costume Institute Conversation Lab, which is one of the institution's 26 online exhibits .
• High Museum of Art, Atlanta: This museum's popular online exhibits include "Civil Rights Photography " — photos that capture moments of social protest like the Freedom Rides and Rosa Park's arrest.
• Detroit Institute of Arts: Mexican art icon Frida Kahlo is the focal point of two of the four available online exhibits .
• Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam: The Golden Age of Dutch art is highlighted in this museum which includes the work of Vermeer and Rembrandt .
• National Museum of the United States Air Force: You can't take a ride in Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidential airplane, but you can check it out, in addition to other military weapons and aircraft, online in the Air Force's official museum .
• MoMA ( The Museum of Modern Art): New York's extensive collection is available for view online .
• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston: The 16 virtual exhibits include a special section on 21st Century Designer Fashion.

Zoos and Aquariums

• The Cincinnati Zoo: Check in around 3 p.m., because that's the time the Zoo holds a daily Home Safari on its Facebook Live Feed .
• Atlanta Zoo: The Georgia zoo keeps a " Panda Cam " livestream on its website.
• Georgia Aquarium: S ea-dwellers like African penguins and Beluga Whales are the stars of this aquarium's live cam .
• Houston Zoo: There are plenty of different animals you can check in on with this zoo's live cam , but we highly recommend watching the playful elephants.
• The Shedd Aquarium: This Chicago aquarium shares some pretty adorable behind-the-scenes footage of their residents on Facebook .
• San Diego Zoo: With what may be the most live cam options , this zoo lets you switch between koalas, polar bears, and tigers in one sitting.
• Monterey Bay Aquarium: It can be Shark Week every week thanks to live online footage of Monterey Bay's Habitat exhibit .
• National Aquarium: Walk through tropical waters to the icy tundra in this floor-by-floor tour of the famous, Baltimore-based aquarium.

Theme Parks

• Walt Disney World: Set aside some time, because there's plenty to see here. Virtual tours you can take include Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot, just to name a few. There are also unofficial YouTube videos that feel just like you're on famous rides like the Frozen Ever After ride , It's a Small World , Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! , and Pirates of the Caribbean .
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort: The Great Lego Race and Miniland USA are just two of the attractions you can check out in a virtual tour of the park .

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Stuck at home with kids and going kooky? This epic list of virtual zoo tours and aquariums from around the world will (hopefully) provide kids with a few hours of entertainment, and grownups with a smidge of regained sanity.

Things are completely berserk right now – not gonna lie. But, you have to admit that living through a global pandemic in the 21st century really ain’t all that bad. I mean, on the bright side, we have the Internet, liquor stores and an infinite online catalogue of hilarious memes to keep us entertained.

Fellow parents, this enlightening virtual zoo and aquariums post aims to create an ‘occupation’ for the kids so that us poor souls can quietly resume watching Tiger King or scrolling through funny quarantine videos on Tik Tok.

Psst.. You can find us on Tik Tok here for a daily dose of quarantine laughs.

Alright, folks. Whip out your VR goggles or get the TV ready for casting – we are about to embark on a whirlwind trip around the world to experience the best aquariums and virtual zoo tours on all four corners of the planet. Best of all.. You won’t even have to lift a finger. Okay, maybe just one finger for clicking.

Looking for more travel tips for families?

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But first, watch our video on 12 genius ideas to enjoy a pretend ‘holiday’ at home for days where you and the littles are experiencing a serious case of travel withdrawals.

18 Best Virtual Zoos & Aquariums in the World

Strap on your ‘seatbelts’ and virtual reality headset (if you own a pair), we’re about to take you on a wild ride through four continents to experience a string of virtual field trips to the zoo and aquariums like you’ve never experienced before.

North America: Virtual Zoo Tours & Aquariums

Home to world-class zoos and one of the most remarkable aquariums we’ve ever set foot inside *ahem* Georgia Aquarium, North America is one virtual trip you have to take to ogle at pandas, Beluga whales and even piranhas via 24-hour live cams.

San Diego Zoo

If there’s one virtual zoo trip to place on top of your online ‘travel’ bucket list – it’s San Diego Zoo.

Slide into their live cams to take a peek at the daily shenanigans of tigers, elephants, baboons and more adorable four-legged fur friends that will steal your hearts away.

But wait, guys. There’s more to your San Diego Zoo virtual tour and online experience. Way more. Ensure that you pop a visit to the dedicated kids’ section of the website for a myriad of animal-focused learning activities, art and crafts video tutorials, home experiment ideas and educational games.

Oh, and if you have a VR headset handy, now’s the time to pop them over your head and check into their YouTube channel to immerse yourselves in 360º videos, like this one of giant tortoises eating watermelon.

Atlanta Zoo

In need of a cute animal fix that’s not your own household pet? Atlanta Zoo has got you covered with their world-famous live PandaCam . Meet the ridiculously adorable panda twins, Ya Lun and Xi Lun, who are melting hearts across the globe with their playful antics and just all-round cuteness.

Don’t forget to swing by their Facebook page to experience what basically feels like virtual field trips to the zoo, featuring regular keeper talks and behind-the-scenes insight into animals and their diets and lifestyle.

The website also offers a host of fun activities and lessons that support ‘at home learning’, like animal arts and crafts, backyard bingo and a storybooks packed with hands-on activities.

TIP: Download the WILDEVERSE mobile game, which features real-life characters from Atlanta Zoo. Transform your home into a digital jungle and embark on research quests and missions to find endangered apes. 

Cincinnati Zoo

Hopping over a couple of states north to Ohio, we’re going to spring into Cincinnati Zoo to meet the world’s most famous hippopotamus, Fiona. Follow this immersive virtual zoo tour to get a feel of the space, exhibits and animals.

Swing by their Facebook page to tune into The Fiona Show where you can watch videos of her birth and follow her astonishing progress and growth. She’s the only hippo ever to survive an almost 2-month premature birth.

They also host daily virtual safari live streams, in which you can learn all about the zoo’s resident animals, including their diets, personalities and lifestyles.

Toronto Zoo

Slip into your down jackets because I’m about to beam you further up to the chillier regions of the northern hemisphere. Ready? Get set. Click away.

Explore Toronto Zoo’s YouTube channel to get up close and personal to mighty grizzly bears,  fluffy white Arctic foxes, lynxes, and even Masai giraffes.

If you’re keen to experience a virtual zoo trip to this beautiful destination, take a look at this complete walkthrough which lets viewers enjoy the zoo on a snowy winter day.

Georgia Aquarium

Yes. We’re parents and.. yes, we love to travel, so I can safely say that we’ve been to a crapload of aquariums around the world. If there isn’t an aquarium on our city itinerary, then something has gone horribly wrong in the planning process.

Of all the aquariums we have visited, none have, so far, compared to Georgia Aquarium. Not even close. If you’re an aquarium nut like we are – you need to put a  physical visit to this spectacular place on your travel bucket list.

For now, you can, of course, experience this epic aquarium virtually via their virtual aquarium tour and live cam feed where you can soothe your soul gazing at dancing jellyfish or stare in awe at the Beluga whale. 

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Attention, please. It’s time to choose your snack, sink into the couch and get cozy; your self-guided Monterey Bay Aquarium virtual tour is about to begin.

Step one. Cast this 360° aquarium walkthrough to your TV or don your virtual reality headset ’cause things are about to go down in underwater town.

Virtually meet and learn about Monterey Bay Aquarium’s resident marine animals on their interactive website, or stalk your favourite sea animal’s live cam . 

You can even enrol in free online courses comprising guided activities to support learning at home or engage the kiddos in free virtual zoo games that both educate and entertain.

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Asia: Virtual Zoos & Aquariums

Exotic rainforest virtual zoo tours and thrilling night safaris – discover Asia’s most enchanting zoos and aquariums without having to peel yourself off the couch. 

Singapore Zoo

Okay, so Asia is off-limits right now. I mean, pretty much every continent is out of reach at this moment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take a virtual field trip to this incredible zoo in South East Asia that everyone raves about.

Get a feel of Singapore Zoo and what animals you can expect to encounter in our very own walkthrough guide that we filmed on one of our visits or read up on the zoo’s resident animals.

Hold up a second though. Your journey doesn’t end at the Singapore Zoo. Drop into the Singapore River Safari for a virtual walkthrough tour and meet weird and wonderful creatures that inhabit rivers around the world.

Your adventure continues onwards to the Singapore Night Safari where you can view a hypnotising fire show , witness an impressive animal show , and hop on a tram car to discover nocturnal animals in their open exhibits.

Check out our Singapore virtual zoo guide to see the highlights of this open zoo concept.

Jurong Bird Park

While we’re in Singapore, let’s take a hot moment to visit one of the biggest bird parks in the world where you can make a feeble attempt at identifying up to 3,500 birds across 400 species from all over the world.

Discover the diverse zones inhabited by bird species from all corners of the Earth, meet the winged residents of Jurong Bird Park or take a virtual stroll through the lush, green space that will give you all the jungle vibes 

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Aquaria KLCC

Swing into Aquaria KLCC in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on one of your free virtual field trips to zoos and aquariums around the world and tune into marine animal feedings and educational talks on their 24-hour live streaming cam .

Don’t forget to check their Facebook for the schedule.

Meet the spine-chilling Sand Tiger Shark and his stingray buddies, or chill out with laid-back Green Sea Turtles that all dwell inside the Living Ocean tank.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Set off on a virtual aquarium tour at the magnificent Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located in the glittering capital of the United Arab Emirates.

The tour isn’t just an ordinary virtual field trip of your average aquarium; this epic space also doubles as a zoo. Be prepared to encounter fruit bats, desert hedgehogs, cobras, chameleons.

Pop over to their Facebook page to learn fun animal facts and binge on videos of iguanas, hedgehogs and racoons freely roaming the empty aquarium.

Australia: Virtual Zoos & Aquariums

Kangaroos? Check. Koalas? No doubt. Tasmanian Devil? Yeah, baby. It’s time for a trip downunder to meet friendly Aussie animals and not-so-friendly creatures and crawlies that either bite or kill.

Taronga Zoo 

To experience one of the southern hemisphere’s best virtual zoos, you can’t go past Sydney’s newly launched Taronga TV . Tune into the live cams to view animal exhibits, shows, keeper chats, and even take a peek inside the Wildlife Hospital.

Hit up Taronga’s YouTube channel to witness funny animal antics and catch up on missed shows and performances. This video of a lemur baking in the sun is basically all of us right now when the sun touches our windows in quarantine.

Sea Life & Wild Life Sydney

Sea Life and Wild Life Sydney have recently launched their fun and super educational online virtual zoo and aquarium experiences. Prepare yourselves for hours worth of fun family activities and homeschooling content.

Dive into the virtual aquarium experience and meet dugongs and King penguins in live streams, or gape at aquarists throwing themselves into the shark tank to feed hungry sea predators.

If you’re running low on learning activities for the kiddos, you’ll also find a bunch of marine animal-themed craft activities and free downloadable homeschooling resources and activity sheets .

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A virtual visit to Sea Life wouldn’t be complete without popping into Wild Life Sydney to learn all about Australian animals that are slightly more.. grounded.

Peek into live streams to see what Rocky the croc is up to or join in on storytime events run by the zoo staff on the virtual zoo tours page. You’ll also find printable animal-themed colouring pages, plus fact and activity sheets.

Before you leave, don’t forget to drop by  Merlin’s Education Toolbox for even more activities and workbooks, especially helpful for parents seeking homeschooling resources or teachers looking for lesson content. 

READ MORE: 21 Romantic Date Ideas in Sydney

Europe: Virtual Zoos & Aquariums

The last continent we’ll be virtually teleporting you to on this worldwide virtual safari, zoo and aquarium tour is, of course, good ole Europe. Home to the world’s oldest zoo and the first zoo in the world to house and breed penguins – your roundtrip will end with a little history and class.

Germany’s capital can proudly claim to have the most popular zoo in all of Europe. Berlin Zoo houses a whopping collection of over 20,000 animals across 1,500 different species – more than any zoo on the planet.

Considering none of us can currently visit in person, we can thank the Internet once again for this high-resolution walkthrough , making it possible to meet some of the friendly furry residents of the zoo, virtually.

Oh, and I’m just gonna casually mention that they have PANDA CUBS, guys. *Hyperventilating*. Jump onto their Facebook to meet the twinning cuties, Pit and Paule. Right now. It’ll be the most adorable thing you’ll see all week.

You can stalk them trying to catch some snoozy time below…

Speaking of stalking animals (cos that’s socially acceptable, right?), Prague Zoo houses a baby elephant that online visitors can attempt to spot on their live Elephant Valley cam . Pop by their YouTube channel for more adorable moments and to follow its journey from birth.

Watch this 4k  walkthrough of the zoo and try to spot mighty Western Lowland gorillas, polar bears, hippos, Asian elephants, red pandas and many more cute and intimidating animals.

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Edinburgh Zoo

This was the first zoo in the world to house and breed penguins – in fact, Edinburgh Zoo is popularly known for its Penguin Parade, where waddling little penguins are let free their enclosure for a stroll around the space.

Observe the antics of King and Rockhopper penguins on live cams , as well as koalas, tigers and pandas.

They’ve made their learning portal readily accessible – the online hub is packed with free activities, games, quizzes and fact files for kids of all ages.

Hang tight – just gonna beam you over to our final leg of virtual zoo tours around the world in Vienna. The city is home to the world’s oldest zoo, Tiergarten Schönbrunn, which opened its doors in 1752.

Soak in this gorgeous space in this virtual zoo stroll and meet animals from all around the world and, of course, explore the picturesque landscape that surrounds the zoo. 

Keep an eye out for the zoo’s newest sensation, Finja – a polar bear cub. Watch her birth and everyday life on Vienna Zoo’s YouTube channel .

Have you got more ideas to add to the list?

Hit me up in the comments and let me know what virtual little gems you’ve found in isolation, so that together, we may survive being confined inside four walls with perpetually bored kids.

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Get your Tampa Trio - Triplet Pass today and enjoy discounted admission into 3 of Florida's favorite family attractions - The Florida Aquarium, Tampa'…

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Discover Our world together

Today's Hours: Saturday (Creatures of the Night) 9:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Purchase tickets or become a Member

Join us to protect & preserve wildlife

Pay for a Day and Visit All 2024 Free!

Unforgettable Adventures

Experience wildlife like nowhere else! Voted one of USA Today’s 10Best Zoos in the country and 12-time winner of TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award, ZooTampa offers one-of-a-kind experiences that connect people to wildlife and each other in fun and immersive ways.

Come nose-to-nose with an endangered Florida panther, witness life-saving care at our David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center, go on a safari through Africa, and so much more! Every visit supports our commitment to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for animals and continues to inspire future generations to join us in saving animals and preserving the world we share.

Experiences

Go wild this summer, member offers, escape the heat, animal experiences.

Visit Again and Again!

Seasonal events, creatures of the night, christmas in the wild, now open - new areas to explore, stingray shores, manatee experiences, can't miss animal experiences.

Wade in the water with stingrays or get up-close to an amazing clouded leopard. You don’t want to miss these animal encounters on your next visit!

Stingray in-water Experience

Clouded leopard encounter.

Limited availability. Book now!

Experience all this & More with admission options for everyone

Select nights in October

Select nights in November and December

April 6, 2024

Can't Miss Adventures

Member exclusive: toddler tuesday october, conservation connections: reptile awareness day, day of discovery, zootampa’s new year celebration, zoo happenings, stingray shores is now open.

This new interactive habitat gives guests a chance to touch, feed, and even get in the water with stingrays! Upgrade your day and join a professional aquatics team member in the water for an adventure that connects them with these amazing species like never before.

New manatee Live stream!

ZooTampa has exciting changes happening at the manatee viewing and hospital facilities over the next several months. While these renovations are taking place, we welcome guests to join us underwater to view a live stream of some of the manatees in our care.

Reserve Your Spot for Creatures of the Night

Tickets on sale now!

Join us at Tampa Bay’s number one family Halloween event, Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa for a night of eerie family frights! 

ZooTampa Members and Pay For A Day ticket holders get admission to seasonal events like Creatures of the Night. Become a member and get early access to reservations for events like Creatures of the Night and Christmas in the Wild.

Champions for Wildlife

We are a leader in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of Florida species. From majestic manatees and critically endangered Florida panthers to iridescent indigo snakes and playful otters, our team is at the forefront of helping the diverse species that call the sunshine state home.

Our conservation efforts don’t stop in our backyard. We are committed to protecting animals from all over the world. We focus on creating strong and successful partnerships with conservation organizations and field programs positioned at the forefront of species survival.

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, we participate in various Species Survival Programs which help in the long-term sustainability of vulnerable, threatened, and endangered species.

Our Stories

Galyn’s Trip Volunteering at SANCCOB

Through ZooTampa, I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer at the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) for two weeks in South Africa. SANCCOB is a

Working with Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA) in Namibia

This past June, I had the pleasure of volunteering for two weeks with Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA) with their home base located in the Ugab region of Namibia, Africa. Namibia

Stay Cool this Summer!

Stay cool this summer! Stingray In-Water Experience Billabong Splash Pad, Presented by Bank of America Ice Cream at ZooTampa Lil Joey’s Family Stop, Presented by Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH

Get Involved

Partnerships, our community.

Can you spy Kayu this fine #Caturday? 🔍️ Answer is on the second slide!⁠ ⁠ A Malayan Tiger`s stripes provide them with essential camouflage when they are on the hunt or hiding from potential threats. 🐅 The stripe patterns are called disruptive coloration, which breaks up the cat`s shape and size as they lurk in tall grasses and other greenery. 🌾⁠ Can you think of another animal that uses disruptive coloration? 🐯

Stations, everybody! 🔴⁠ ⁠ 🦘Jasper, the Yellow-Footed Rock Wallaby, is participating in something called station training, or stationing! Stationing involves training an animal (using positive reinforcement, like treats) to go to a designated area and stay there. 🛑⁠ Not only does station training provide an opportunity for Jasper to be engaged in learning, but it can also increase his confidence and reduce the likelihood of disagreements with the other wallabies. 🥬⁠

Leave it to Sulu to show off her acrobatic skills! 🦧⁠ With nearly identical hands and feet, Orangutans are well adapted for their tree-dwelling (arboreal) lifestyle. 🌳 Sulu is likely one of the most adventurous members of our band and is often found swinging and climbing about under the watchful eye of her mother, Hadiah. 👀

‼️ZooTampa closure announcement‼️⁠ ⁠ Due to the incoming severe weather predicted to impact the Tampa Bay Area by hurricane Helene, ZooTampa will be closed on Thursday, September 26.⁠ ⁠ Thankfully, we are well-prepared to ride out the storm safely! As hurricane Helene path moves towards Florida, our team has commenced initial preparations. Additional precautions will be taken in the next 24 hours to ensure the security of our animals, including moving larger animals into their night houses, which are built to withstand major storms, and smaller mammals and birds into ancillary buildings. ⁠ ⁠ We are currently planning to resume normal park operations on Friday (including the Creatures of the Night member preview event) following a thorough safety assessment of the entire Zoo. Please check our website and follow our social media channels for updates on park hours and operations!⁠ ⁠ Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the storm. Stay safe! ⛈️

One of the prettiest pairs out there, Ubi and Munah! 🫛⁠ This mom and daughter duo knows how to hit the hay on habitat. 💤 With Munah`s increasing outside time, we have had even more opportunities to take note of her snoozing specialties! 😴

Go long!⁠ This week`s #TongueOutTuesday 👅 is brought to you by Sekani, the Masai Giraffe! 🦒 Sekani is the tallest and oldest giraffe at ZooTampa, being around sixteen feet tall and 16 years old. With a determination for foraging, Sekani uses his height and 18-inch-long tongue to help him reach all of the snacks around his habitat. 🌴

Brightening up the beginning of your week with a bit of #ManateeMonday! 🥬⁠ Visiting the ZooTampa manatees is always a breath of fresh air (get it).🌬️ Even as we work on new and exciting things for the beloved manatee tunnel, 👷 the manatees are still visible from a bird`s eye view! Take a stroll to behold the David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center and our manatee patients, who are on the road to recovery and, hopefully, eventual rerelease. 🫶

What better way to celebrate World Rhino Day than with Gronk`s fourth birthday? 🎉⁠ ⁠ Recently, we celebrated Gronk`s special day in true Tampa Bay style with a tastefully themed cake and plenty of spoils! 🎂 Not only are we happy to see Gronk grow and thrive, but we are also thrilled to play a role in the conservation of the vulnerable Indian Rhino, which has around 4,000 individuals in the wild. 🦏⁠ ⁠ In honor of the belated birthday festivities, we encourage you to help his species by supporting institutions that participate in conservation and spreading the word! 🔊

Naturally, we had to squeeze in one more #Caturday post for Kayu, the Malayan Tiger, as the last Saturday of Save the Tiger Month! 🐅⁠ 🐯 Kayu may be napping, but we never sleep on the importance of tiger conservation. From smart shopping to directly supporting conservation work, there are so many ways to make a difference for this critically endangered species. 🌳⁠ How are you dedicated to saving the world`s tigers this month and every month? 🫵

Have you ever wondered what a Koala’s call sounds like? 🐨 Luckily, we’re koala-fied to show you. 👀 Thank you to Katie, one of our amazing Asia/Australia Animal Caretakers, for capturing this video of Ceduna and Heathcliff! 🎥 Koalas have an impressive bellow that can be heard from a long distance. Typically, males will make this bellowing call when searching for a mate, but the females can bellow, too! 🔊

Kitsune is unique! 🐧⁠ With so many African Penguins that call ZooTampa home, you may wonder how we can tell these endangered birds apart. 👀 Almost all of the penguins can be easily identified by their fashionable colorful bands! 🧡Kitsune sports an orange band with a smaller black band attached to it on her left flipper. 🖤

Your Wednesday can be a little bit more magical with Wizard, the goat! 🐐⁠ Wizard hangs out in our Australian barnyard area with many of his other livestock friends.🦙 Goats are typically under estimated when in reality they are incredibly intelligent and love to learn! Wizard works closely with his trainer, Tori, to discover new behaviors and out his brain to work. 🧠

1101 W. Sligh Avenue Tampa, FL 33604

Open today from: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

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Please review our booking tips before continuing

To qualify for a group rate, you need a minimum of 15 people.

1. Please make one field trip per reservation order. Complete one and start a new one if you have multiple days you are booking. 2. Headcount can be approximate. Please include children and adults in your headcount. Please do not include pass holders in your headcount for a ticket. 3. On the ticket page, choose the correct grade level (to the left of your screen) to receive the correct chaperone ratio. 4. On the ticket page, when on the calendar section, the number of tickets available will appear in the top right corner for each particular day. Tickets available include children and adults. If you have more people than tickets available, please choose another day. 5. Anyone that is ordering lunch, even pass holders and adults that receive free chaperone tickets, do need to pay for a lunch IF they are ordering one. Free chaperone tickets and pass holders are for admission only. Boxed lunch orders must be received 5 business days prior to your field trip arrival. Groups will be responsible for all boxed lunches that were confirmed at that time. 6. Payment does not need to be paid at the time of registration. Choose the pay upon arrival option if you would like one person to pay for your entire trip on the day of your visit. 7. The prices of adult and children’s tickets are different. 8. You will receive a confirmation number and confirmation letter via email when your trip is confirmed. If you do not, please contact [email protected]  right away.

Join our Summer Camp Waitlist

Important information.

To complete your camp registration, you must:

• Add camps to your shopping cart.
• List all people that are authorized to pick-up your child from camp.
• No camper will be released unless the adult picking up the child is on the authorized pick-up list and shows a photo ID.
• Camp Waiver
• Liability Release
• Camp Handbook
• Make payment.
• Upon payment, you will receive a Confirmation Email with the above documents attached. Please print, sign, and return the Camp Waiver and Liability Release to [email protected] or ZooTampa Summer Camp, c/o Jamie Elkington, 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. All waivers MUST be received no later than 2 weeks prior to the start of your camp program or your registration is subject to cancellation.

By clicking the registration button below, I confirm that I have read and agree to the Camp Waiver and Liability Release and Camp Handbook and will print, sign, and return the Camp Waiver and Liability Release to complete my registration.

‘Tis the Season For Giving!

Donate to the zootampa giving tree.

Trustees of the Lowry Park Zoological Society, Directors of the Lowry Park Zoo Endowment Foundation, and the Employees and Volunteers of ZooTampa understand and appreciate the vital role of philanthropy to accomplish our work. That’s why we subscribe to the Donor Bill of Rights developed by the American Association of Fund Raising Counsel, Association for Healthcare Philanthropy, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, National Society of Fund Raising Executives:

“Philanthropy is based on voluntary action for the common good. It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To assure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public, and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the not-for-profit organizations and causes that they are asked to support, we declare that all donors have these rights:

• To be informed of the organization’s mission, of the way the organization intends to use donated resources, and of its capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.
• To be informed of the identity of those serving on the organization’s governing board, and to expect the board to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.
• To have access to the organization’s most recent financial statements.
• To be assured their gifts will be used for the purposes for which they were given.
• To receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition.
• To be assured that information about their donation is handled with respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by law.
• To expect that all relationships with individuals representing organizations of interest to the donor will be professional in nature.
• To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers, employees of the organization or hired solicitors.
• To have the opportunity for their names to be deleted from mailing lists that an organization may intend to share.
• To feel free to ask questions when making a donation and to receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers.”

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is committed to protecting your privacy. We value the trust of our donors, volunteers, employees, and other supporters and recognize that maintaining this trust requires us to ensure the confidentiality of personal information that you share with us.

As a non-profit organization, ZooTampa relies on your support, depends on the support of generous contributors, and achieves ambitious fundraising objectives by communicating with and understanding donors. We know that it is essential to protect the privacy of that information. ZooTampa, the Lowry Park Zoological Society, and the Lowry Park Zoo Endowment Foundation will neither sell nor trade a donor’s personal information to any other entity without the written permission of the donor.

FLORIDA STATE REGISTRATION

Lowry Park Zoological Society of Tampa, INC. : Registration No. CH140 Lowry Park Endowment Foundation, INC. : Registration No. CH20389

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES

Phone: (800) 435-7352 FloridaConsumerHelp.com

Christmas in the Wild Reservation Changes

• Name * First Last
• Email * Enter Email Confirm Email
• Order number/Web confirmation number * This can be found in your original purchase or reservation confirmation email.
• Number of tickets/reservations to modify *
• Date of existing reservation * Select a date Friday, Nov 24 @ 4PM Friday, Nov 24 @ 5PM Friday, Nov 24 @ 6PM Friday, Nov 24 @ 7PM Saturday, Nov 25 @ 4PM Saturday, Nov 25 @ 5PM Saturday, Nov 25 @ 6PM Saturday, Nov 25 @ 7PM Friday, Dec 01 @4PM Friday, Dec 01 @5PM Friday, Dec 01 @6PM Friday, Dec 01 @7PM Saturday, Dec 02 @4PM Saturday, Dec 02 @5PM Saturday, Dec 02 @6PM Saturday, Dec 02 @7PM Friday, Dec 08 @4PM Friday, Dec 08 @5PM Friday, Dec 08 @6PM Friday, Dec 08 @7PM Saturday, Dec 09 @4PM Saturday, Dec 09 @5PM Saturday, Dec 09 @6PM Saturday, Dec 09 @7PM Sunday, Dec 10 @4PM Sunday, Dec 10 @5PM Sunday, Dec 10 @6PM Sunday, Dec 10 @7PM Friday, Dec 15 @4PM Friday, Dec 15 @5PM Friday, Dec 15 @6PM Friday, Dec 15 @7PM Saturday, Dec 16 @4PM Saturday, Dec 16 @5PM Saturday, Dec 16 @6PM Saturday, Dec 16 @7PM Sunday, Dec 17 @4PM Sunday, Dec 17 @5PM Sunday, Dec 17 @6PM Sunday, Dec 17 @7PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @4PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @5PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @6PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @7PM Thursday, Dec 21 @4PM Thursday, Dec 21 @5PM Thursday, Dec 21 @6PM Thursday, Dec 21 @7PM Friday, Dec 22 @4PM Friday, Dec 22 @5PM Friday, Dec 22 @6PM Friday, Dec 22 @7PM Saturday, Dec 23 @4PM Saturday, Dec 23 @5PM Saturday, Dec 23 @6PM Saturday, Dec 23 @7PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @4PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @5PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @6PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @7PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @4PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @5PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @6PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @7PM Thursday, Dec 28 @4PM Thursday, Dec 28 @5PM Thursday, Dec 28 @6PM Thursday, Dec 28 @7PM Friday, Dec 29 @4PM Friday, Dec 29 @5PM Friday, Dec 29 @6PM Friday, Dec 29 @7PM Saturday, Dec 30 @4PM Saturday, Dec 30 @5PM Saturday, Dec 30 @6PM Saturday, Dec 30 @7PM
• New date requested (first choice) * Select a date Friday, Nov 24 @4PM Friday, Nov 24 @5PM Friday, Nov 24 @6PM Friday, Nov 24 @7PM Saturday, Nov 25 @4PM Saturday, Nov 25 @5PM Saturday, Nov 25 @6PM Saturday, Nov 25 @7PM Friday, Dec 01 @4PM Friday, Dec 01 @5PM Friday, Dec 01 @6PM Friday, Dec 01 @7PM Saturday, Dec 02 @4PM Saturday, Dec 02 @5PM Saturday, Dec 02 @6PM Saturday, Dec 02 @7PM Friday, Dec 08 @4PM Friday, Dec 08 @5PM Friday, Dec 08 @6PM Friday, Dec 08 @7PM Saturday, Dec 09 @4PM Saturday, Dec 09 @5PM Saturday, Dec 09 @6PM Saturday, Dec 09 @7PM Sunday, Dec 10 @4PM Sunday, Dec 10 @5PM Sunday, Dec 10 @6PM Sunday, Dec 10 @7PM Friday, Dec 15 @4PM Friday, Dec 15 @5PM Friday, Dec 15 @6PM Friday, Dec 15 @7PM Saturday, Dec 16 @4PM Saturday, Dec 16 @5PM Saturday, Dec 16 @6PM Saturday, Dec 16 @7PM Sunday, Dec 17 @4PM Sunday, Dec 17 @5PM Sunday, Dec 17 @6PM Sunday, Dec 17 @7PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @4PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @5PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @6PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @7PM Thursday, Dec 21 @4PM Thursday, Dec 21 @5PM Thursday, Dec 21 @6PM Thursday, Dec 21 @7PM Friday, Dec 22 @4PM Friday, Dec 22 @5PM Friday, Dec 22 @6PM Friday, Dec 22 @7PM Saturday, Dec 23 @4PM Saturday, Dec 23 @5PM Saturday, Dec 23 @6PM Saturday, Dec 23 @7PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @4PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @5PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @6PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @7PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @4PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @5PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @6PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @7PM Thursday, Dec 28 @4PM Thursday, Dec 28 @5PM Thursday, Dec 28 @6PM Thursday, Dec 28 @7PM Friday, Dec 29 @4PM Friday, Dec 29 @5PM Friday, Dec 29 @6PM Friday, Dec 29 @7PM Saturday, Dec 30 @4PM Saturday, Dec 30 @5PM Saturday, Dec 30 @6PM Saturday, Dec 30 @7PM
• New date requested (second choice) * Select a date Friday, Nov 24 @4PM Friday, Nov 24 @5PM Friday, Nov 24 @6PM Friday, Nov 24 @7PM Saturday, Nov 25 @4PM Saturday, Nov 25 @5PM Saturday, Nov 25 @6PM Saturday, Nov 25 @7PM Friday, Dec 01 @4PM Friday, Dec 01 @5PM Friday, Dec 01 @6PM Friday, Dec 01 @7PM Saturday, Dec 02 @4PM Saturday, Dec 02 @5PM Saturday, Dec 02 @6PM Saturday, Dec 02 @7PM Friday, Dec 08 @4PM Friday, Dec 08 @5PM Friday, Dec 08 @6PM Friday, Dec 08 @7PM Saturday, Dec 09 @4PM Saturday, Dec 09 @5PM Saturday, Dec 09 @6PM Saturday, Dec 09 @7PM Sunday, Dec 10 @4PM Sunday, Dec 10 @5PM Sunday, Dec 10 @6PM Sunday, Dec 10 @7PM Friday, Dec 15 @4PM Friday, Dec 15 @5PM Friday, Dec 15 @6PM Friday, Dec 15 @7PM Saturday, Dec 16 @4PM Saturday, Dec 16 @5PM Saturday, Dec 16 @6PM Saturday, Dec 16 @7PM Sunday, Dec 17 @4PM Sunday, Dec 17 @5PM Sunday, Dec 17 @6PM Sunday, Dec 17 @7PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @4PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @5PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @6PM Wednesday, Dec 20 @7PM Thursday, Dec 21 @4PM Thursday, Dec 21 @5PM Thursday, Dec 21 @6PM Thursday, Dec 21 @7PM Friday, Dec 22 @4PM Friday, Dec 22 @5PM Friday, Dec 22 @6PM Friday, Dec 22 @7PM Saturday, Dec 23 @4PM Saturday, Dec 23 @5PM Saturday, Dec 23 @6PM Saturday, Dec 23 @7PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @4PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @5PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @6PM Tuesday, Dec 26 @7PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @4PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @5PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @6PM Wednesday, Dec 27 @7PM Thursday, Dec 28 @4PM Thursday, Dec 28 @5PM Thursday, Dec 28 @6PM Thursday, Dec 28 @7PM Friday, Dec 29 @4PM Friday, Dec 29 @5PM Friday, Dec 29 @6PM Friday, Dec 29 @7PM Saturday, Dec 30 @4PM Saturday, Dec 30 @5PM Saturday, Dec 30 @6PM Saturday, Dec 30 @7PM

We will do our best to accommodate your request, however changes are based on availability. A member of our team will reach out to you via the contact information provided above within 48 hours. Note: an additional fee may apply to event tickets being changed to a higher priced event night. Thank you!

Commemorations

• Name (Required) First Last
• Your Email (Required) Please provide us with the email that you would like to receive more details about commemorations at. Enter Email Confirm Email
• Your Phone Number Please provide your phone number.
• Comments Leave your questions or commemoration details below and a member of our team will reach out to you with more information.

Outside Food & Drinks Policy

 acceptable items.

• Bottled water (max 20oz bottle, sealed) one per guest
• Small snacks for young children
• Baby food/baby formula
• Soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5” wide x 6” high x 6” deep (limit one per child)
• Pre-purchased empty ZooTampa souvenir cups
• Any food required for medical purposes and medically-indicated nutritional supplements

 Prohibited Items

• Prepared or packaged food or meals
• Glass or any open containers or water bottles filled with beverages
• Hard-sided coolers of any size
• Soft-sided coolers larger than 8.5” wide x 6” high x 6” deep
• Suitcases and soft-sided bags with wheels larger than 24” long x 15” wide x 18” high

Prohibited Items

For the safety of our animals, guests and employees, the following items are not permitted to be brought into ZooTampa:

• Any type of explosive or weapon 
• Knives or other sharp objects
• Pepper spray
• Alcoholic beverages
• Illegal drugs
• Clothing likely to create a danger or disturbance
• Any hazardous items or materials

The following items are also prohibited to avoid blocking of walkways and/or trip hazards:

• Hover boards
• Two-wheeled scooters
• Self-balancing electric vehicles
• Shoes with wheels

Please leave any unnecessary articles secured within your vehicle to expedite your entry into the park.

We reserve the right to deny entry to anyone not observing Zoo Rules.

Pay For A Day Tickets

With a new Pay For A Day Get Rest of Year Free ticket, you get free admission through December 31, 2024 including access to our seasonal event series. Some blockout dates apply — see below for details. Not valid with any other discounts.

When does my Pay for a Day ticket expire?

All Pay for a Day Get Rest of Year Free tickets (purchased after 9/30/2023) expire 12/31/2024.

What are the blockout dates?

11/29/24 – 11/30/24 11/29/24-11/30/24, including Christmas in the Wild 12/26/24 – 12/31/24 3/15/25-3/23/25 10/4/25, including Creatures of the Night 10/11/25, including Creatures of the Night 10/18/25, including Creatures of the Night 10/25/25, including Creatures of the Night 11/28/25-11/29/25, including Christmas in the Wild 12/26/25-12/31/25

Blockout dates apply to admission before 4:00 PM on the above dates unless listed otherwise.

Can I purchase a Pay for a Day ticket on a blockout date?

Yes! You can purchase a Pay for a Day Get Rest of Year Free ticket for first-time use on a listed blockout date and have full access to the park on that day. Blockout dates apply to repeat visitation.

Can I use my Pay for a Day ticket on blockout dates?

If you already have your Pay for a Day Get Rest of Year Free ticket and wish to visit during a listed blockout date, please stop by the Zoo’s ticketing windows for alternate options:

• During blockout periods, Pay for a Day ticket holders have access to significantly discounted single-day tickets.
• For a limited time from the date of purchase, Pay for a Day tickets can be upgraded to a Zoo Membership (with no blockout dates).

I purchased a Pay for a Day ticket online. How do I get my actual ticket?

Bring a copy of your confirmation (or show the confirmation email on your mobile device) to expedite entry into the Zoo. At your convenience during your visit you can stop by the Tours & Guest Services kiosk located just inside the Zoo to print your physical pass. No need to stand in line at the ticket windows. Walk right in!

How do blockout dates affect seasonal events?

To guarantee entry to select seasonal events with limited capacity,  Pay for a Day  ticketholders are encouraged to secure reservations in advance. A $5 per ticketholder reservation fee would be reimbursed in the form of a voucher for use in the park at select dining and retail locations. Blockout dates may apply on some seasonal event nights for  Pay for a Day  ticket holders. A blockout ticket upgrade is available to gain entry on those select nights. Blockout dates do not apply to Members.

15 killed in Georgia after Hurricane Helene leaves path of flooding, trees down; public health emergency declared

Gov. kemp to tour storm damage in south georgia.

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - As Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida late Thursday night and moved into Georgia just after 2 a.m. Friday, metro Atlanta and its surrounding communities experienced torrential rain, heavy flooding and widespread power outages. Helene weakened to a tropical storm just before 5 a.m.

Below are Atlanta News First’s live updates on Helene and its impacts in Georgia from Wednesday to Friday. We had crews spread out from Florida, south Georgia and beyond to bring you the latest as it develops.

>> ANF HURRICANE CENTER

>> LATEST FORECAST

>> LIVE WEATHER RADAR

>> CHECK GEORGIA POWER OUTAGE MAPS

LIVE UPDATES:

Friday, sept. 27.

8:26 p.m. | The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency for Georgia to address health impacts from Hurricane Helene. “We will do all we can to assist Georgia officials respond to the health impacts of Hurricane Helene,” said Secretary Xavier Becerra. “We are working closely with state and local health authorities, as well as our partners across the federal government, and stand ready to provide additional public health and medical support.”

7:58 p.m. | As of 7 p.m. on Friday, Georgia Power said power has been restored for 250,000 customers. The utility company said around 620,000 customers are still without power.

7 p.m. | The death toll from Helene rose to 43.

6:50 p.m. | A large tree took down a power pole on Wesley Road NW in Buckhead.

6:48 p.m. | Gov. Brian Kemp thanked first responders for their actions in response to Helene. “(First Lady Marty Kemp) and I join all Georgians in thanking these heroes for their bravery and tireless work as they help their fellow Georgians,” the governor said in a tweet on X.

We’re hearing numerous accounts of lifesaving actions by first responders and emergency response teams across the state. @GAFirstLady and I join all Georgians in thanking these heroes for their bravery and tireless work as they help their fellow Georgians. — Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) September 27, 2024

6:30 p.m. | Gov. Brian Kemp will tour storm damage from Hurricane Helene in Valdosta Saturday morning.

4:25 p.m. | The death toll in Georgia has climbed to 15. Two kids, 4 and 7, were killed when a tree fell onto a burning home in Washington County. The total death toll across Georgia, Florida and the Carolinas is 35. READ MORE.

4:10 p.m. | In East Point, there are 380 power outages affecting the Desert Drive and Lakemont community.

**Hurricane Helene Update - City of East Point** ⚠️ We currently have 380 power outages, primarily affecting the Desert... Posted by City of East Point Government on  Friday, September 27, 2024

3 p.m. | Woodrow Wilson Park in Douglas County has flooded. Mt. Vernon Road by the park is closed.

Woodrow Wilson has flooded. Mt. Vernon Rd has been closed by the park. Please do not try to drive through this area. Posted by Douglas County Parks & Recreation on  Friday, September 27, 2024

2:42 p.m. | Holly Hill Way near Fitzgerald Road in Jonesboro has washed away, according to the Clayton County Police Department.

The roadway on Holly Hill Way (near Fitzgerald Rd) in Jonesboro, has been completely washed away at the river, making it... Posted by Clayton County Police Department on  Friday, September 27, 2024

2:33 p.m. | The death toll from Hurricane Helene has reached at least 30 across four states, according to reporting from the Associated Press. READ MORE

1:51 p.m. | Atlanta Fire Rescue Department crews are now evacuating survivors in flooded areas.

AFRD crews are in action conducting swift water rescue evacuations for Atlanta residents in need. Continue to stay connected with local authorities for updates and safety instructions. #AFRD #AtlantaFireRescue #MovingAtlantaForward 🚒🔥 pic.twitter.com/rXyKCf0TrT — Atlanta Fire Rescue (@ATLFireRescue) September 27, 2024

1:41 p.m. | Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has issued a state of emergency in the city.

“This declaration will allow us to access vital federal and state resources to expedite our recovery efforts and ensure the safety and well-being of all Atlanta residents,” he said in a statement.

The state of emergency will last for 72 hours, according to the order. It assigns additional employees from several city departments — including watershed management, parks and recreation, public works and transportation — to help clear the roads and other debris.

READ THE FULL ORDER:

1:37 p.m. | Sandy Springs Police are asking people to avoid the Morgan Falls Dam because of rising waters.

Morgan Falls Dam as of 1:25pm. Please stay clear of the area. pic.twitter.com/JLs6BOKLBv — Sandy Springs Police (@SandySprings_PD) September 27, 2024

1:35 p.m. | The City of South Fulton has opened a hurricane relief shelter at Burdett Park, which is at 2945 Burdett Road.

1 p.m. | A large tree has fallen on a University of Georgia building in Athens at the corner of Carlton Street and Sanford Drive.

12:14 p.m. | Agriculture damage east of I-75 has been reported across the state, including to pecan crops and chicken coops, Georgia officials said. There will be a water release of Lake Rabun due to flooding. People will be evacuated downstream.

11:49 a.m. | Gov. Brian Kemp said there have been 11 deaths from the storm. One of those killed was a first responder. Kemp did not say who the people killed were. He also said first responders believe there are 115 structures in Valdosta with people trapped inside. Hundreds of soldiers and airmen are deployed throughout the state to respond to recovery efforts.

11:30 a.m. | Gov. Brian Kemp and state officials will give an update on recovery efforts from Helene.

10:20 a.m. | Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens gave an update on the city’s recovery efforts.

10:11 a.m. | Large tree down on Castlegate Terrace in Decatur.

10:05 a.m. | Several roads closed due to floodwaters surrounding Southern Regional Medical Center in Riverdale. Deputies tell Atlanta News First that the hospital is still accessible.

9:55 a.m. | Georgia Power says there are 40,000 customers without power. They have restored power to more than 120,000 customers.

9:52 a.m. | Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the Gateway Center is open for the unhoused in the aftermath of the storm.

9:50 a.m. | Flooding on Peachtree Battle Avenue in Buckhead.

9:25 a.m. | What is normally a small lake at Rodney Cook Sr. Park in Vine City has overflowed, ANF’s Harry Samler shows.

9:21 a.m. | The Chattahoochee River is turbulent in Helen, Georgia, after Helene dumped several inches of rainfall on the state.

9:11 a.m. | Several yards have flooded in the Peachtree Battle Avenue area in Buckhead. Resident Christina Hull said both of her cars are completely submerged, and she can’t access her house. Hull said neighbors told her the area had a similar flood in 2009, but she has never seen anything like it since she moved into the home in 2011.

9 a.m. | The highest wind gust at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport over the past 12 hours was 41 mph.

8:54 a.m. | There are 1,724,161 people in metro Atlanta under a flash flood emergency.

8:42 a.m. | Cammie Wages Road near Greeson Road in Gwinnett County is blocked due to a large tree in the road, according to police.

8:40 a.m. | Indian Trail - Lilburn Road just off I-85 is shut down due to flooding.

8:12 a.m. | A tree fell across an apartment building in Atlanta -- near Sandy Springs off Roswell Road.

8 a.m. | More than 1 million Georgia residents are without power as now-Tropical Storm Helene sweeps through the state. READ MORE

7:42 a.m. | Gov. Kemp signs executive order authorizing an additional 1,000 Georgia National Guard troops “to assist in those ongoing recover efforts as needed.” This is in addition to the 250 heading into the field already, he said.

This morning, I’ve issued an Executive Order authorizing an additional 1,000 @GeorgiaGuard troops to assist in those ongoing recovery efforts as needed in addition to the 250 heading into the field already. Read more here: https://t.co/ceubTJ02pT — Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) September 27, 2024

7:33 a.m. | Battleview Drive continues to flood in Buckhead as Peachtree Creek overflows.

7:29 a.m. | Fulton County Emergency Management is warning of high winds in the county. Residents are asked to stay indoors and avoid travel.

7:20 a.m. | A Portion of the downtown connector southbound is blocked past I-20 due to a tree in the road.

TRAFFIC ALERT >> Most of the Connector (I-75/85) south is blocked past I-20 due to a tree down. Heads up in Atlanta. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/ksoXvhujxA — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 27, 2024

7:09 a.m. | The National Weather Service has upgraded its flash flood warning to a flash flood emergency in central Fulton County, southwest DeKalb County and Clayton County. The areas affected by the emergency include Midtown, College Park, the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Forest Park, Riverdale and Jonesboro.

“This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. SEEK HIGHER GROUND NOW!” the weather service said in its statement, calling the damage threat “catastrophic.”

Flash Flood Emergency including Atlanta GA, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport GA and East Point GA until 1:00 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/mXST44J2f0 — NWS Atlanta (@NWSAtlanta) September 27, 2024

6:05 a.m. | A woman, baby and two dogs were rescued from a car submerged in high waters near Peachtree Creek.

6 a.m. | The Colquitt County Emergency Management says a person died in relation to Helene. They said the person was in a vehicle. We will update as we learn more.

5:45 a.m. | Several lanes of I-75 north shut down near Delk Road due to jackknifed tractor trailer.

5:30 a.m. | Swift water rescue crews are actively working near homes off Bohler Road in northwest Atlanta. Across the city, particularly near Peachtree Creek and Peachtree Battle, 25 people have been rescued so far, the fire department said. MARTA buses are being used to shelter the civilians.

5:28 a.m. | The ramp to I-285 south on I-20 east in DeKalb County is completely shut down due to standing water.

5:20 a.m. | Across the state of Georgia, there are more than 700,000 customers without power.

4:50 a.m. | Helene has weakened to a tropical storm, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Tropical Storm #Helene Advisory 16: Helene Weakens to a Tropical Storm as it Moves Farther Inland Over Georgia. Life-Threatening Storm Surge, Winds, and Heavy Rains Continue. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 27, 2024

4 a.m. | North Druid Hills Road at Lenox Park Boulevard is shut down due to a tree down on power lines and an unoccupied car, police said. All lanes are blocked in both directions.

3:20 a.m. | Atlanta Fire crews are working to rescue people at the Peachtree Park apartments off Peachtree Park Drive in the Buckhead area. They said it is due to flooding down hill. Water can be seen over the top of cars in the parking lot.

2:53 a.m. | Residents living near Nancy Creek in Sandy Springs should evacuate to higher ground due to extreme flooding, according to the city.

2:04 a.m. | Helene is now a Category 1 hurricane moving through Georgia.

1:47 a.m. | A woman was hospitalized after a tree collapsed on a home on the 400 block of Hammond Drive in Griffin, according to city officials.

1:43 a.m. | The Windsor Parkway Bridge over Nancy Creek between Northland and Peachtree Dunwoody Road in Sandy Springs is closed due to flooding.

12:58 a.m. | Valley View Road in Dunwoody is closed because of a downed tree.

12:44 a.m. | Hundreds of thousands of power outages have been reported in Georgia as Helene nears the state.

12:14 a.m. | Flooding has closed the Windsor Parkway Bridge over Nancy Creek, which is between Northland and Peachtree Dunwoody Road.

12:12 a.m. | Thousands are already without power across Georgia as Helene approaches the state. KEEP UP WITH POWER OUTAGES HERE.

Thursday, Sept. 26

11:24 p.m. | Two people were killed in a possible tornado in Wheeler County as Hurricane Helene approaches the state, the Associated Press reported. Wheeler County is 171 miles south of Atlanta.

11:09 p.m. | Helene made landfall in Florida late Thursday night as a major hurricane.

10:55 p.m. | Four southbound lanes of I-285 are closed because of flooding. It is at E Ponce de Leon and Church Street.

9:36 p.m. | Several counties, including Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett, are under a flash flood warning. The warning is until 3:15 a.m. on Friday.

9:33 p.m. | Several roads in Spalding County are closed. They include O’Dell at Lakeshore, the 475-500 blocks of School Road, Rehoboth Road at Barnesville Road and 25 Hidden Covey Lane. The bridge on Moon Road is also closed.

9:15 p.m. | Helene reached 140 mph winds Thursday night. It is 90 miles south of Tallahassee.

9:01 p.m. | Richard Russell Scenic Highway from Alt 75 in White County to 180 in Union County is closed until conditions improve, according to White County EMA officials.

8:59 p.m. | Reinhardt College Parkway at Garland Mountain in Cherokee County is closed.

8:49 p.m. | Flooding has been reported on Old Bill Cook Road and Old National Highway.

8:35 p.m. | “Multiple sinkholes” have been reported in the 3450 block of Buford Highway, according to the Brookhaven Police Department.

Brookhaven Alert: Buford Hwy (Southbound) in the 3540 Block. Multiple sinkholes are in the roadway. Use caution. — Brookhaven Police (@BrookhavenGaPD) September 27, 2024

8:22 p.m. | The National Weather Service said metro Atlanta is starting to see the beginnings of river flooding.

8:09 p.m. | A flash flood warning has been issued for Rabun County.

8:05 p.m. | Lake Forrest Drive in Atlanta near Sandy Springs is closed because of a sinkhole, which police said was caused by a culvert failure in the City of Atlanta.

8 p.m. | As of the 8 p.m. update on Helene, the storm is a Category 4 hurricane with 130 mph. The storm is about 135 miles south of Tallahassee and is expected to make landfall late Thursday night. Conditions in Atlanta will deteriorate overnight, with the strongest winds between 3-11 a.m.

7:17 p.m. | The City of Atlanta has announced that trash collection will be suspended on Friday. Officials said residents whose regular service day is Friday should not place any trash bins, recycling bins, or yard debris curbside until after the storm passes. Curbside and backyard collections are expected to resume on Saturday, depending on weather conditions. If conditions are not favorable on Saturday, Friday services will be moved to Sunday.

7:02 p.m. | Emory outpatient facilities will be closed Friday, except for clinics “with limited and clinically time-sensitive services” for the following:

• Oncology infusion (for selected patients who will be confirmed through the oncology infusion team)
• Radiation oncology (for selected patients who will be confirmed by the oncology team)
• In vitro fertilization (patients will be confirmed by that team)
• Dialysis (patients will be confirmed by that team)

All Emory clinics, Emory specialty associate clinics and ambulatory surgery centers will be closed Friday. All Emory hospitals and business offices will operate as usual.

6:56 p.m. | Gwinnett County government offices will be closed Friday, though essential services required for the safety and well-being of residents will remain operational, county officials said.

6:50 p.m. | The City of Forest Park’s non-essential offices will remain closed on Friday, city officials announced.

They also said Waste Management will not run residential services on Friday. Routes will instead be serviced on Saturday. Residents are asked to bring their trash carts inside Thursday to prevent trash or other debris from spreading.

6:22 p.m. | Helene has been upgraded into a category 4 hurricane.

6:18 p.m. | A downed tree has closed Powers Ferry Road in the 5000 block. It is estimated that it will take at least three hours to clear, Georgia Power says.

‼️Road Closure‼️ Powers Ferry Rd will be closed on both sides of the road in the area of 5045 Powers Ferry Rd due to a tree down. GA Power is estimating 3+ hours to clear. Please seek alternate route. Posted by Sandy Springs Police on  Thursday, September 26, 2024

5:35 p.m. | A downed tree was reported in Buckhead on West Wesley Ridge.

5:31 p.m. | A hurricane warning has been issued for Butts, Jasper, Lamar, Pike and Spalding counties.

4:41 p.m. | A downed tree and power lines were reported on Ridgeview Trail in Bartow County.

4 p.m. | CobbLinc will suspend all routes Friday due to the oncoming storm.

CobbLinc routes will be suspended Friday due to the arrival of the remnants of Hurricane Helene. For updates on that, the county's State of Emergency, closures, important numbers, and weather maps, please visit https://t.co/v0eBU95nrw pic.twitter.com/XkOO6gejme — Cobb County, GA (@cobbcountygovt) September 26, 2024

3:20 p.m. | A flash flood warning has been issued in Atlanta, including for Sandy Springs and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport until 9:15 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Flash Flood Warning including Atlanta GA, Sandy Springs GA and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport GA until 9:15 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/zEyqXH6sP9 — NWS Atlanta (@NWSAtlanta) September 26, 2024

3:13 p.m. | A flash flood warning has been issued for Griffin, McDonough and Thomaston until 9:15 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Flash Flood Warning including Griffin GA, McDonough GA and Thomaston GA until 9:15 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/xLmSb9X5pB — NWS Atlanta (@NWSAtlanta) September 26, 2024

3:03 p.m. | The Khruangbin show at the Fox Theatre has been canceled. Tomorrow’s concert is set to go ahead as scheduled.

2:25 p.m. | Hurricane Helene has been upgraded to a Category 3 storm.

2:25 PM Thursday Update: Air Force hurricane hunters ( @53rdWRS ) find #Helene a dangerous major hurricane. The maximum sustained winds have increased to 120 mph (195 km/h). Follow the latest at https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/ODkUzeFpc1 — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 26, 2024

1:50 p.m. | All Cobb County government offices will be closed through Friday. That includes courts, libraries, parks and tag offices.

1:40 p.m. | “We will respond with full force, as soon as it’s safe to do so,” Gov. Kemp said regarding the state’s plan. The governor said it doesn’t really matter what category the storm is when it comes into Georgia because of its size and strength.

1:35 p.m. | State has called up 250 national guard members, Gov. Kemp said, adding that they can call up 250 more, if needed.

1:30 p.m. | Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, state emergency officials speak:

1:15 p.m. | The flash flood risk just got upgraded across the area to a “high” risk, which extends into Atlanta and beyond.

1 p.m. | Tropical storm-force winds are expected in north Georgia as Hurricane Helene sweeps through, especially Friday morning.

WIND: Here's an update on when the wind will increase in North Georgia. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/0t61M2VCqr — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 26, 2024

12:50 p.m. | New models show that heavy rain should be largely out of metro Atlanta by 10 a.m. Friday.

TIMELINE: Here's an updated look at how long the rain will last in North Georgia. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/vSMFcVIXAz — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 26, 2024

12:40 p.m. | GEMA recommends that all schools in the state of Georgia be closed on Friday. On Thursday, they said that schools south of Macon should consider an early dismissal.

Due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene, GEMA/HS recommends that ALL schools (public and private) south of Macon consider early dismissal September 26. We also recommend the closure of ALL schools throughout the State for September 27. pic.twitter.com/c4xOcBL7HY — GEMA/HS (@GeorgiaEMAHS) September 26, 2024

12:38 p.m. | The High Museum of Art in Atlanta will be closed on Friday.

12:01 p.m. | Large portions of metro Atlanta have a high risk of flash flooding, new data shows.

Due to all of the rain yesterday and some heavy pockets of rain starting to set up early this afternoon, the HIGH risk of flash flooding has now been expanded to include Atlanta and areas as far south as Central Georgia. Dangerous flooding looking more likely. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/OprZdC8ou5 — Courteney Jacobazzi (@Cjacobazzi_wx) September 26, 2024

12 p.m. | Georgia Power tells us they have more than 10,000 personnel on the ground currently – and “continues to refine plans as the storm gets closer to ensure a safe and effective response.”

11:50 a.m. | The Georgia Aquarium will be closed on Friday but plans to reopen on Saturday, it announced.

Due to inclement weather from Hurricane Helene, Georgia Aquarium will be closed on Friday, Sept 27 and plans to reopen on Saturday, Sept 28 (9 a.m. - 9 p.m.) This is out of safety of our guests and staff. Our animals will still be cared for + this has not affected their exhibits. — Georgia Aquarium (@GeorgiaAquarium) September 26, 2024

11:35 a.m. | Watch live as our First Alert Meteorologists give you an update on Hurricane Helene’s current activity.

11:18 a.m. | North Georgia is under several weather alerts. Here’s a refresher on which ones are active right now and what they mean.

There are a lot of alerts for north Georgia. Here's a breakdown of each alert and what it means for you! @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/9Adj0D74ez — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 26, 2024

11:13 a.m. | Hurricane Helene is still a Category 2 storm, the National Weather Service’s 11 a.m. update said. It is still expected to reach Category 3 status before it hits Florida.

Helene strengthens slightly as it moves quickly to the North Northeast. Landfall still expected tonight along the big bend @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/4Nce7RRoWY — Courteney Jacobazzi (@Cjacobazzi_wx) September 26, 2024

10:44 a.m. | Zoo Atlanta is closing at 12 p.m. today and said they have protocols in place to make sure animals and staff are protected from the elements. Check zooatlanta.org for operational updates for Friday.

10:40 a.m. | President Joe Biden approved a Georgia emergency declaration, ordering federal assistance to supplement state and local response efforts from Hurricane Helene. This authorizes the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate all disaster relief efforts.

10:35 a.m. | A large sinkhole formed this morning in Chamblee at Chinatown Mall, 5383 New Peachtree Road.

10:30 a.m. | Gov. Brian Kemp announced he’ll be at the state’s emergency operations center where he’ll hold a briefing with the media. We will stream that in this story.

10:15 a.m. | Hundreds of flights already impacted by Helene at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson. MORE

10 a.m. | Watch live coverage:

9:06 a.m. | The Georgia Insurance & Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office has decided to close.

Due to Hurricane Helene, our office will be closed to the public this Thursday and Friday, September 26-27. Consumers can still reach our office toll-free at 1-800-656-2298. pic.twitter.com/t1SnZejLcm — GA Insurance & Safety Fire Commissioner's Office (@GA_DOI) September 26, 2024

8:30 a.m. | Heavy rain is expected to hit metro Atlanta by 3 p.m. on Thursday.

Heavy rain increasing this afternoon; Here's your complete rain timeline. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/8gpcDGdUWZ — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 26, 2024

7:41 a.m. | Hurricane Helene has been upgraded to a Cat. 2 hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane #Helene Advisory 12A: Helene Becomes a Category 2 Hurricane With Significant Additional Strengthening Expected Before Landfall in Florida. Preparations to Protect Life and Property Should Be Rushed To Completion. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ — National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 26, 2024

6:42 a.m. | The highest winds will likely be east of metro Atlanta overnight on Friday, data shows.

GOOD NEWS: Latest data is showing that the highest winds will be east of Metro Atlanta overnight tonight. Still seeing gusts 30-60mph, but gusts over 70 look unlikely for Metro. The further east you live, the more likely you are lose power. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/KqjD1dlixF — Ella Dorsey (@Ella__Dorsey) September 26, 2024

5:58 a.m. | Helene’s winds have intensified.

Winds in Helene have increased to 90 mph; Here's an update on when you can expect conditions to get worse. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/VuRldH6iyl — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 26, 2024

5:44 a.m. | Hurricane Helene is now expected to be a Cat 3 when it makes landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Helene now expected to be a category 3 rather than a category 4 at landfall along the big bend. The forecast cone has also shifted slightly East which will promote a lesser severe threat for metro. Tropical storm conditions still likely in North Georgia. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/jgPKLiNKlT — Courteney Jacobazzi (@Cjacobazzi_wx) September 26, 2024

LATEST VIDEO:

Wednesday, sept. 25.

10:54 p.m. | A fallen tree is blocking Lenox Road at Center Road in Atlanta. Power lines have also fallen in the area.

10:42 p.m. | A tree fell on a car on the 800 block of Inman Village Parkway in the Inman Park neighborhood of Atlanta.

10:06 p.m. | A large tree is down on the 2100 block of Beecher Road in southwest Atlanta.

10 p.m. | All DeKalb Public Health regional health centers will be closed on Thursday and Friday.

9:58 p.m. | A downed tree on wires was reported on Parkdale Lane in Atlanta.

9:48 p.m. | All City of Chamblee facilities will close at 3 p.m. Thursday because of anticipated severe weather, city officials announced. All after-hour meetings and events scheduled for Thursday have also been canceled. On Friday, Chamblee City Hall and the Public Safety Building will be closed to the public.

8:55 p.m. | Flooding was reported on I-285 in DeKalb County. The flooding was reported shortly before 3 p.m. and is still causing issues on the interstate, according to an alert from Georgia 511. A crash also happened on the interstate, at U.S. 278 and Covington Highway. It is not known if the two are related.

8:45 p.m. | The Douglas County government has declared a local state of emergency ahead of impacts expected from Helene.

“Douglas County joins several other metro counties in declaring a local ‘State of Emergency’ following Governor Brian Kemp’s Statewide Emergency Declaration on Tuesday,” county officials said in a press release.

Officials said the declaration “provides governments greater access to state and federal resources amid an emergency” and “outlines prohibitions on price gouging for critical and necessary goods and services, along with detailing closed and restricted areas.”

8:30 p.m. | WANF’s Fred Campagna joins meteorologists from around the country for a roundtable discussion on Hurricane Helene.

8 p.m. | Helene’s intensity and speed did not change in the latest update from the National Hurricane Center. Helene is expected to make landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida.

6 p.m. | DeKalb County Schools announced they will close Thursday and Friday. FULL LIST

5:45 p.m. | The main campus of the University of Georgia will be closed on Thursday, Sept. 26 and Friday, Sept. 27.

5:30 p.m. | There have already been nearly 70 flights canceled at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport tomorrow ahead of Hurricane Helene, according to the flight tracker website FlightAware .

5:15 p.m. | Atlanta Braves games postponed Wednesday and Thursday. Will play doubleheader against New York Mets on Monday at 1:10 p.m. with playoff implications on the line. Monday is a single-admission doubleheader with only one ticket required for both games, they said. If you have a ticket for Wednesday’s game, it is not valid for Monday. If you have a ticket for Thursday’s game, that will be honored for Monday’s double header.

The remaining games vs the New York Mets scheduled for 9/25 and 9/26 have been postponed due to current and forecasted weather impacting the Atlanta area. Both games have been rescheduled as part of a traditional doubleheader on Monday, September 30th. The first game will begin… — Atlanta Braves (@Braves) September 25, 2024

5:10 p.m. | A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for north Georgia and metro Atlanta until Friday with winds of 39 mph. It is expected to make landfall as a category 4 hurricane. READ MORE

5 p.m. | State officials are providing an update.

4:45 p.m. | Flooding has been reported on I-285 Northbound past US 278/Covington Hwy. The Ga. Dept. of Transportation says one right lane is blocked.

4:20 p.m. | Gwinnett County will have a digital learning day on Thursday and will be completely closed on Friday. All events on Saturday are also closed. FULL LIST

4:15 p.m. | City of Chamblee will close all city facilities on Thursday at 3:00 p.m. All after-hour meetings and events scheduled have also been canceled. On Friday, Chamblee City Hall and the Public Safety Building will be closed to the public.

4:10 p.m. | Atlanta Public Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday. FULL LIST

3:30 p.m. | Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens and city leaders discuss Hurricane Helene storm preparations:

2:45 p.m. | A tornado warning has been issued for Habersham and Rabun counties until 3:30 p.m.

TORNADO WARNING FOR RABUN & HABERSHAM COUNTY UNTIL 3:30OM. Take cover in Clarksville, Turnerville, Demorest and Tallulah Falls. A severe storm capable of dropping a tornado is moving northeast at 30mph. Lake Burton/Rabun you are in eventual path ! pic.twitter.com/Mv8w3sxVHW — Ella Dorsey (@Ella__Dorsey) September 25, 2024

2:20 p.m. | Banks County Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday. FULL LIST

2:10 p.m. | Hall County School District, Union County and Polk County opt for remote learning on Thursday and Friday. FULL LIST

1:48 p.m. | MARTA said there are no schedule changes at this time. However, the transit agency said riders should allow extra travel time for potential delays and weather-related disruptions.

1:15 p.m. | GNR Public Health, the health department that serves Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale counties, is closing all health centers, environmental health offices, and its district office at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, and will remain closed on Friday, September 27.

1 p.m. | Watch chief meteorologist Jennifer Valdez give the latest update.

12:25 p.m. | Clayton County Public Schools cancels all activities for Wednesday and Thursday. This includes all athletic and non-athletic extracurricular activities, they said.

12 p.m. | Sen. JD Vance postpones Thursday visit in metro Atlanta.

11:15 a.m. | A tropical storm watch has been issued in metro Atlanta until Friday morning.

NEW: Tropical Storm Watch issued for all of north Georgia; Here's what this means for you. @ATLNewsFirst pic.twitter.com/uT9366arMf — Rodney Harris (@RodneyHarrisTV) September 25, 2024

11 a.m. | Helene upgraded to a hurricane with maximum sustained winds at 80 mph. It continues to rapidly strengthen in the Caribbean while moving north along Mexico’s coast toward the U.S. Forecasters warned of the possibility of tornadoes Wednesday night over parts of the western Florida peninsula and southern Alabama and said the tornado risk would increase Thursday, expanding across Florida and into parts of Georgia and South Carolina. Helene is expected to become a major hurricane — a Category 3 or higher — on Thursday, the day it’s set to reach Florida’s Gulf Coast, according to the hurricane center.

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