Best Petting Zoos in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia has always had a way of making visitors feel right at home, especially when it comes to family fun in the great outdoors. Among the city’s charming squares and moss-draped oaks, families often find a little slice of joy at the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia. These destinations blend Southern hospitality with hands-on animal adventures that kids of all ages instantly fall for. Whether looking for a morning activity or planning a full family stopover, petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia deliver gentle goats, curious llamas, clucking chickens, and fuzzy bunnies—all eager for a visit. And hey, the joy doesn’t stop with the animals. These spots are often packed with playful zones, educational moments, and open air perfect for letting small adventurers burn off early energy.

Let’s break it down—what makes visiting one of the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia such a delightful outing?

Family Activities and What to Expect in Petting Zoos in Savannah, Georgia

Families walking into petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia are usually greeted by laughter, soft bleating, and wide-eyed kids ready to meet their new barnyard friends. Most locations are built with tots in mind. Fenced-in play areas, paved or mulched walkways, and plenty of gentle creatures ensure even timid toddlers can join in.

Common animals include dwarf goats, miniature horses, pigs that wiggle when you scratch them, and chickens that follow kids like feathered puppy dogs. There are usually donkeys dozing under shady trees and the occasional llama that stares a bit too intently—comically, not creepily.

Activities extend beyond feeding and petting. Many petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia have small play barns, tiny pedal tractors, and low climbers so kids stay active. Other stations may offer duck feeding, egg hunts, or corn-shucking fun during fall festivals.

Age-wise, these spots shine for kids between 2 and 10. Toddlers get a safe space to explore living creatures. Grade-schoolers soak up facts about animal habitats offered at posted signs or by friendly staff. Slightly older kids often latch onto learning how farmers care for livestock. Bonus? These places do wonders for building empathy. Seeing how an animal responds to kindness has a way of sinking in fast.

And here’s why so many parents come back—the layout. Most petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia are compact and intuitive. Kids don’t wander too far. Strollers glide smoothly. Bench seating? Plentiful. A few even have shaded pavilions so the grown-ups can sip iced tea while watching small hands scratch the fuzzy ears of pygmy goats.

Next steps: check each spot’s daily schedule. Some features are seasonal. Others have “baby animal” times or “chick hatching days” that bring extra excitement.

Pricing and Hours Information in Petting Zoos in Savannah, Georgia

Visiting one of the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia rarely burns a hole in your wallet. Most charge what feels fair for an up-close farm experience—anywhere between $6 and $12 per person for ages 2 and up. Children younger than 2 often get in free. That’s under a popcorn and soda at the movies.

A few farms bundle admission with other activities. For $15, a ticket might include entrance to a corn maze, a hayride, or pumpkin painting on weekends. These value-packed options are popular during fall.

Membership plans or punch cards are sometimes available. After 5–10 visits, savings stack up. Great news for families who stop by regularly or love themed weekends, like Sheep Shearing Day or Barnyard Birthday Bashes.

Cash or card? Most now take cards, but a few still prefer cash. Better to bring both.

Hours vary, but consistency is key. Many petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia stay open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a few opening on Friday afternoons. Weekday visits may be reserved for school groups unless otherwise noted. Spring and fall tend to have longer operating hours. Summer? Some reduce hours midday because, well—Georgia heat. Arriving early can help dodge both the heat and weekend crowds.

Check online or call before heading out. The last thing anyone wants is to show up when the doors are closed for private events or animal care time.

Next steps: write down just two things—price and opening day. Then decide between a quick afternoon visit or saving it for a weekend when events may be happening.

Planning Your Visit: What to Expect in Petting Zoos in Savannah, Georgia

A little planning goes a long way. Especially with kids who may not appreciate waiting in line or standing in a sun-soaked yard. Planning helps ease the pressure and maximize fun for every member of the group.

First tip: dress for messy. Let’s be real. Petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia mean dirt paths, sweet-smelling hay piles, and the chance a goat might lick your toddler’s fingers. Clothes that can handle a little muck are a better bet than Sunday whites. Closed-toe shoes or rubber boots? A brilliant idea. Sandals may not survive the farm floor.

Bring wipes. Hand sanitizer too. Feeding bins and railings are cleaned—but not sanitized after each tiny hand touches them. Clean-up stations help kids—and parents—end on a germ-free note.

When it comes to timing, mornings win. Cooler temps, fresh animal energy, and fewer crowds can make the visit smooth as a country lane. On weekends, 10 to 11 a.m. is usually the sweet spot. Some petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia open early during school breaks. Keep an eye for Facebook updates or newsletters that announce surprise hours.

Avoid peak holiday weekends if possible. Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day—popular times mean packed paths, longer lines at concessions, and fewer open swings at the play area. Pick a rainy Friday in spring or a crisp weekday in October? Gold star family decision.

Season also affects animals. Spring means baby goats. Spring and late summer bring newborn bunnies or chick arrivals—super cute and wildly popular. Fall ushers in harvest themes: hayrides, gourd decorating, pumpkin patches mixed in with the animal fun. Winter months can be quieter, even closed for parts of January to give caretakers a break and animals winter rest.

Strollers aren’t always ideal. Loose gravel, grassy zones, or raised ramps might slow things down. But carriers or baby vests still work—kids like feeling close to the animals.

Need snacks? Pack your own. Most petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia are cool with outside drinks and food. Just avoid eating near the pens. Animals love snacks too—often too much, so feeding them anything off-menu is a hard no, unless it’s provided on-site.

Next steps: choose a light backpack. Fill it with water, a change of clothes, wipes, and maybe a small towel. Hit the petting zoo in the early daylight hours. Trust the rhythm: shorter waits, calmer animals, happier smiles.

Educational Programs and Special Events in Petting Zoos in Savannah, Georgia

There’s a growing charm to the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia, and it’s not just the goats—it’s how these places support learning. They’ve turned animal encounters into immersive lessons.

School field trips are common. Teachers bring kids from kindergarten through fifth grade to meet baby calves or tour chicken coops. These tours often align with science units on life cycles, animal care, and ecosystems. Guides may lead interactive talks or handouts to help kids label parts of sheep or match animals to habitats.

Some petting zoos even host full-day workshops. Students bottle-feed lambs, collect eggs, or groom ponies with real horse brushes. A few farms partner with local extension services for 4-H activities or “Junior Farmer” badges.

Birthdays get the spotlight, too. Book a party at one of the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia, and packages usually include an hour in a reserved pavilion, animal encounters, guided feeding, and sometimes pony rides or a hay bale maze. Themes range from “Barnyard Blast” to “Little Cowboy Galore.” They even handle setup and cleanup. Cake? Just bring it.

Seasonal events are where things truly come alive. Think Easter egg hunts with real bunnies wiggling in a pen. Or autumn weekends filled with corn mazes, face painting, and pet parades. Some spots do night-time hayrides during Halloween, complete with flashlight tours down shadowed paths, spooky (but still kid-friendly) stories, and warm apple cider.

Veteran’s Day weekend often includes farm festivals with music, pie baking, and veteran recognition. Winter may hold holiday markets, with animal-adoption gift trees and hot cocoa stands.

Some petting zoos also welcome therapy groups or sensory-friendly mornings. Lights stay dim, noise stays low, and staff slow down interactions for children with cognitive or neurological needs. These moments are a win for inclusivity—and heartwarming to witness.

Next steps: check the calendar. Most centers post events three months ahead. Save the date for egg-collecting Mondays or story time with sheep.

Nearby Attractions in Savannah, Georgia

Ready to stretch the day into a full Savannah adventure? Sweet—you’re surrounded by options.

The historic district isn’t far from most petting zoo locations. Spend the morning feeding goats. Then cruise downtown by early afternoon and hop aboard a Savannah Trolley Tour. Narrators dressed in Colonial wear keep the kids laughing with ghost tales and fun facts about pirates and pastel homes.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is about a 30-minute drive. Kids love climbing the ramparts and pretending to be Union soldiers. The salt marshes here teem with egrets, herons, and maybe even an alligator sighting. Pair it with a picnic.

If it’s raining? Head indoors at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens in nearby Chatham County. They’ve got one of the largest covered picnic spots in the Southeast and walking trails where kids weave through lush greenery. Occasionally the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia collaborate for garden pet days.

Back in town, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum keeps curiosity floating with toy boats, treasure chests, and real captains’ logs. Hands-on activities here beat textbook descriptions any day.

Parks? Forsyth Park is perfect. The fountain is iconic. Open grass invites running, frisbees, and the inevitable chase-after-the-ball-in-the-pond. The playground is modern and well-maintained. Bonus dog lovers: bring the pup. Many Savannah dog parks even hold playdates.

For post-adventure snacks, local favorites like Vic’s Ice Cream or Back in the Day Bakery have cookies so fresh, they melt. Vegan? No issue. River Street Sweets sometimes has dairy-free goat-milk caramels—funny twist, but worth a taste.

Next steps: mix city culture with country calm. End the day not tired—proud. From hay bales to cobblestones, it’s been a full-family win.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia safe for young children?

Yes, safety is a top focus at petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia. Animals are selected for temperament—often bottle-raised or trained to be gentle. Staff supervise feeding and interactions. Handwashing stations are posted at exits. Fencing prevents escape and ensures children stay close. While bites or kicks are extremely rare, staff are trained in basic first aid. Parents are advised to stay within arm’s reach of toddlers at all times.

Can I host a private event like a birthday party at a petting zoo?

Of course. Multiple petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia offer private bookings. Whether for birthday parties, baby showers, or school outings, most welcome rentals. Pricing varies, usually starting around $150 for a two-hour package that includes a covered area, guided animal time, and feed tokens. Some offer add-ons like bounce houses, pony rides, or craft stations. Reservations should be made at least three weeks ahead, especially during popular seasons like spring and fall.

Are the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

Most facilities are fully accessible. Paved or packed gravel paths handle strollers and wheeled devices. Ramps lead into viewing areas, pavilions, and restrooms. Designated parking spots are near entrances. Play zones may have soft surfaces but are usually safe with wider wheelbases. Families note that electric scooters do well in open barn areas. If accessibility is a concern, calling ahead helps confirm specific entry points or accommodations.

Petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia offer more than just a quick animal stop—they spark moments of wonder, education, and connection. The blend of farm life and city charm makes them ideal for families who want experiences that aren’t flash but full of heart. From soft feathers to fuzzy foreheads, each visit leaves kids—maybe even adults—with a smile that lingers well past the drive home. Whether new to the city or returning season after season, the petting zoos in Savannah, Georgia promise a gentle moment in nature, shared with creatures who moo, baa, and, honestly, steal the show.