Pandas at Zoo Atlanta: When Can You See the Giant Pandas in 2026?
After saying goodbye to its beloved giant pandas in 2024, Zoo Atlanta has welcomed pandas back to Atlanta.
On September 27, 2026, male Ping Ping and female Fu Shuang arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport aboard a dedicated “FedEx Panda Express” Boeing 777. The two pandas are now at Zoo Atlanta, but visitors cannot see them yet.
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang are behind the scenes ahead of their announced public debut on November 6, 2026, in the Arthur M. Blank Panda Grove. Zoo Atlanta will open later than usual on debut day; check the official announcement for the latest opening-time information.
If you’re planning a trip to Atlanta, this guide covers the zoo’s panda history, who Ping Ping and Fu Shuang are, and what you need to know about seeing them.
Visit the Zoo Atlanta
Opening Hours: Open Daily; Weekdays 9:00am-5:00pm, Weekends 9:00am-6:00pm
1-Day Passes: Timed/dynamic pricing – generally runs $23–$32+ adult, $17–$25+ child. There’s no flat rate. Daytime admission is free for children under 3 years old.
Membership Option: Starting at $129/yr
Panda Location: Arthur M. Blank Panda Grove, in the Asian Forest section of the Zoo (public debut November 6, 2026)
Parking: $3/hour, $12/day max, in the Cherokee Avenue lot or the Grant Park Gateway lot
Shuttles & Public Transit: King Memorial MARTA station (Blue/Green lines), about a 30-minute walk to the zoo; Relay Bike Share hubs are also right outside the entrance
Phone #: +1 404-624-9453 (WILD)
Location: 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
Does Zoo Atlanta Currently Have Giant Pandas?
Yes – but visitors cannot see them yet.
Zoo Atlanta welcomed two giant pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, to Atlanta on September 27, 2026. The pandas arrived from China aboard a dedicated FedEx Panda Express Boeing 777.
Zoo Atlanta has announced that Arthur M. Blank Panda Grove will open on Friday, November 6, 2026, when visitors can meet Ping Ping and Fu Shuang.
So if you are planning a trip specifically to see the pandas, check Zoo Atlanta’s latest panda announcements before you go.
Curious where Ping Ping and Fu Shuang were born? Learn about the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the world’s leading panda conservation and breeding centers.
Why Did the Pandas Leave?
Zoo Atlanta’s beloved giant pandas returned to China in October 2024 when the zoo’s 25-year loan agreement with China came to an end. Lun Lun, Yang Yang, and their youngest cubs, Ya Lun and Xi Lun, all returned to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Their departure marked the end of an incredible chapter, but a new conservation agreement announced in 2026 brought Ping Ping and Fu Shuang to Atlanta on September 27, 2026.
The Rule on Panda Cubs
Even if giant pandas have cubs at Zoo Atlanta, the cubs do not stay permanently. Under China’s international conservation program, all giant pandas, including those born in U.S. zoos, remain the property of China. Once they are old enough, the cubs return to China to support future breeding and conservation efforts, just as Lun Lun and Yang Yang’s seven cubs did.
Zoo Atlanta isn’t the only place welcoming giant pandas. Find out everything you need to know about the giant pandas at the San Diego Zoo in my updated 2026 guide.
Meet Zoo Atlanta’s New Giant Pandas
Although visitors cannot see the pandas yet, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang are now at Zoo Atlanta. They arrived on September 27, 2026, and are currently completing their routine quarantine behind the scenes.
Their trip to Atlanta covered nearly 8,000 miles, making it one of the longest journeys either panda has ever taken.
Ping Ping
Ping Ping is a male giant panda born on March 17, 2020, at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Base.
According to his caretakers, Ping Ping has an excellent appetite and especially enjoys eating fresh bamboo. He spends much of his day eating, resting, and exploring his habitat.
Fu Shuang
Fu Shuang is a female giant panda born on October 18, 2020, at the same breeding center.
Her name means “Double Happiness.” Keepers describe her as playful but a little shy. Besides bamboo, she enjoys apples and has an adorable habit of resting her chin on her paw while relaxing.
When Can You See the Pandas at Zoo Atlanta?
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang are behind the scenes ahead of their announced public debut on November 6, 2026, in the Arthur M. Blank Panda Grove. Zoo Atlanta will open later than usual on debut day; check the official announcement for the latest opening-time information.
The renovated habitat includes expanded dayrooms, new climbing structures, and a pool in each dayroom. See Zoo Atlanta’s official panda debut announcement before your visit, especially for the delayed opening on November 6.
Zoo Atlanta’s Giant Panda Journey
For more than 25 years, Zoo Atlanta has played an important role in giant panda conservation. Here’s a look at the milestones that made its panda program one of the most successful outside China.
Giant Pandas Arrive at Zoo Atlanta
Lun Lun and Yang Yang arrived from China aboard a specially chartered UPS cargo plane, affectionately nicknamed the “Panda Express.” After landing, they were escorted by police to Zoo Atlanta, where they began a conservation partnership that would span 25 years.
Pandas Become Zoo Atlanta’s Biggest Attraction
The giant pandas quickly became the zoo’s biggest stars. Visitors traveled from across the country to see the rare bears, helping Zoo Atlanta reach record attendance and making giant pandas one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions.
The First Panda Cub Is Born
After years of careful planning and collaboration with giant panda experts in China, Lun Lun gave birth to Mei Lan. She was the only giant panda cub born in the United States that year and marked the beginning of an extraordinary breeding program.
Seven Panda Cubs Born at Zoo Atlanta
Over the next decade, Lun Lun became one of the world’s most successful panda mothers outside China.
She gave birth to seven cubs:
- Mei Lan (2006)
- Xi Lan (2008)
- Po (2010)
- Mei Lun (2013)
- Mei Huan (2013)
- Ya Lun (2016)
- Xi Lun (2016)
Each cub later returned to China to contribute to the international giant panda conservation program.
The First Panda Twins Since 1987
The birth of twins Mei Lun and Mei Huan made headlines around the world. They were the first giant panda twins born in the United States since 1987.
Zoo Atlanta Raises a Second Set of Panda Twins
When twins Ya Lun and Xi Lun were born, Zoo Atlanta became the first U.S. zoo to successfully raise two sets of giant panda twins.
Lun Lun and Yang Yang Return to China
After 25 unforgettable years, Lun Lun, Yang Yang, Ya Lun, and Xi Lun returned to China when the zoo’s original panda agreement ended. Zoo Atlanta celebrated their remarkable legacy with a special farewell event called Panda-Palooza.
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang Are Coming to Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta announced a new International Cooperative Research Agreement on Giant Panda Conservation with the China Wildlife Conservation Association.
As part of the agreement, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang will travel to Atlanta in the future, beginning an exciting new chapter for the zoo’s panda program.
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang Arrive in Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta welcomed male Ping Ping and female Fu Shuang to Atlanta on September 27, 2026. The pandas arrived aboard a dedicated FedEx Panda Express Boeing 777. They are currently behind the scenes completing a routine quarantine period and are not yet visible to visitors.
Zoo Atlanta Panda Conservation Efforts
Zoo Atlanta’s giant panda program has always been about much more than allowing visitors to see these incredible animals. Since welcoming its first pandas in 1999, the zoo has worked closely with conservation partners in China to help protect giant pandas and their mountain forest habitat.
Over the years, Zoo Atlanta has contributed more than $17 million toward giant panda conservation. These funds have supported habitat restoration, nature reserve management, wildlife ranger programs, scientific research, and conservation education.
In April 2026, Zoo Atlanta renewed its commitment by signing a new International Cooperative Research Agreement on Giant Panda Conservation with the China Wildlife Conservation Association.
In September 2026, that new agreement became the basis for bringing Ping Ping and Fu Shuang to Atlanta. Zoo Atlanta says the partnership will continue conservation work with the China Wildlife Conservation Association and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Although giant pandas are no longer classified as endangered, they are still considered Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Ongoing conservation work remains essential to protect their bamboo forest habitat and ensure healthy wild populations.
Learn how Pandas International supports giant panda conservation through research, education, and habitat protection.
Panda Studies at Zoo Atlanta
Some of Zoo Atlanta’s most recent research projects on giant pandas have focused on the maternal behaviors of mother pandas and on pandas’ ability to differentiate colors – both have added a lot of new insights into the lives of the giant bears. Research done by Zoo Atlanta found that panda vocalizations contain information about the centers, identity, gender, and reproductive.
Female giant pandas are only fertile for a few days each year, so the zoo is currently involved in several reproductive studies focusing on hormone levels. Veterinarians at Zoo Atlanta have also done extensive work in the detection and monitoring of giant panda pregnancies via ultrasonography.
Research at the zoo has shown that male cubs initiate play more often than female cubs. Giant pandas also have many distinct vocalizations, ranging from bleats and chirps to moans, barks, growls, and roars.
Want to see pandas up close in China? My guide to the Dujiangyan Panda Base covers panda volunteer programs, rescue efforts, and visitor information.
What Other Animals Can You See at Zoo Atlanta?
Located in historic Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and one of Georgia’s most popular family attractions.
The zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals representing over 200 species, including African Elephants, Western Lowland Gorillas, Sumatran Orangutans, Sumatran Tigers, Red Pandas, Giant Tortoises, and many more. Zoo Atlanta is internationally recognized for its conservation work, especially its successful giant panda breeding program and one of North America’s largest collections of great apes.
Here are the highlights I always point people toward.
- Western Lowland Gorillas: The Ford African Rain Forest is home to one of the largest gorilla populations in North America, spread across four distinct family groups. If you only have time for one exhibit, I’d pick this one.
- Orangutans: The Asian Forest houses one of the largest zoo populations of orangutans in the country, including Bornean and Sumatran orangutans. Some even “play” on touchscreens as part of the zoo’s Orangutan Learning Tree Project – it’s genuinely fascinating to watch.
- African Elephants: Kelly and Tara are longtime favorites in the African Savanna, known for throwing mud on themselves and occasionally “painting” for enrichment.
- Giraffes, Zebras & Ostriches: The African Savanna’s mixed-species habitat lets you get a ground-level view of some of the tallest animals on Earth. From March through November (weather permitting), you can even do a giraffe feeding on Twiga Terrace.
- Southern White Rhinos: Found in the Delta Air Lines Rhino Habitat, a rare and wonderful sight since they are a threatened species.
- African Lions: Hondo, Hatari, and Azizi live in a newly renovated 1,200-square-foot habitat that opened in 2025.
- Red Pandas: If you’re disappointed that the giant pandas haven’t arrived yet, don’t miss the zoo’s adorable red pandas. Their reddish fur, bushy tails, and playful personalities make them one of the zoo’s most photographed animals.
- Reptile House: Discover snakes, turtles, lizards, crocodilians, and amphibians from around the world inside the zoo’s fascinating reptile collection.
Planning a California vacation? My San Diego Zoo Travel Guide includes admission prices, must-see exhibits, visitor tips, and everything you need for a great day at one of America’s top zoos.
Nearby Attractions
Since Zoo Atlanta sits right in historic Grant Park, it’s easy to turn your visit into a full day (or even a full weekend) in this part of Atlanta. Get Atlanta CityPASS, a multi-attraction package that includes admission to city highlights including Atlanta’s Famous Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and much more!
Here are a few of my favorite nearby stops to pair with your trip.
Grant Park itself: Atlanta’s oldest park, with over 130 acres of walking trails, natural springs, and playgrounds. If the weather’s nice, it’s a great spot to unwind after a few hours on your feet at the zoo.
Georgia Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and thousands of marine animals.
World of Coca-Cola & Centennial Olympic Park: A short drive from Grant Park, these make for an easy add-on if you’re spending a full day downtown.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: Visit Dr. King’s childhood home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the historic sites that celebrate the life and legacy of the civil rights leader.
Want to learn more about pandas? Check out my Top Amazing Panda Facts blog!
FAQs: Pandas at Zoo Atlanta
Below are some questions commonly asked about pandas in Zoo Atlanta along with my expert answers to each question.
How long have pandas been at Zoo Atlanta?
Pandas first arrived at Zoo Atlanta in 1999. The original panda pair, Lun Lun and Yang Yang, and their offspring spent 25 years in Atlanta before returning to China in October 2024. New giant pandas Ping Ping and Fu Shuang arrived at Zoo Atlanta on September 27, 2026. They remain behind the scenes until their announced public debut on November 6, 2026.
Which U.S. zoos currently have giant pandas?
As of September 2026, three U.S. zoos have giant pandas, according to Zoo Atlanta: Zoo Atlanta, the San Diego Zoo, and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. However, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang are currently behind the scenes at Zoo Atlanta and are not yet visible to visitors.
When can I see the pandas at Zoo Atlanta?
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang arrived on September 27, 2026, but they are currently completing a routine quarantine period and are not yet visible. Their public debut is set for November 6, 2026, in Arthur M. Blank Panda Grove. The zoo will have a delayed opening that day; check its official website for the latest opening time.
Is Zoo Atlanta worth visiting before the pandas go on exhibit?
Absolutely. Zoo Atlanta is home to one of the largest great ape populations in North America, plus elephants, giraffes, rhinos, lions, red pandas, and a reptile house with over 70 species. There’s easily 3+ hours of things to see even without pandas on exhibit.
Why did the previous pandas leave?
Zoo Atlanta’s original giant panda agreement with China ended in October 2024. Lun Lun, Yang Yang, Ya Lun, and Xi Lun returned to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding after 25 years in Atlanta.
Can visitors see the panda habitat?
The pandas are currently housed behind the scenes in a biosecure area of Zoo Atlanta’s new giant panda complex. Arthur M. Blank Panda Grove opens November 6, 2026. Its renovated dayrooms feature new climbing structures and pools.
How long should I spend at Zoo Atlanta?
Most visitors spend between 4 and 6 hours exploring the zoo. Animal lovers and families with children may wish to spend the entire day.
If you’re planning a trip to Washington, D.C., don’t miss my guide to seeing giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, including visitor tips and what to expect.
Final Thoughts: Pandas at Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta has been one of the world’s leading giant panda conservation centers for more than 25 years. Zoo Atlanta has now welcomed its next generation of giant pandas. Ping Ping and Fu Shuang arrived on September 27, 2026, although visitors cannot see them yet while they complete their routine quarantine period.
If seeing the pandas is the main reason for your visit, plan for November 6, 2026, or later and check Zoo Atlanta’s official announcements before booking.
In the meantime, Zoo Atlanta remains one of the best zoos in the United States, with world-class exhibits featuring gorillas, elephants, orangutans, red pandas, and hundreds of other animals. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see the next chapter of its giant panda program, there’s plenty to experience.
The pandas are already in Atlanta, and their announced November 6 debut gives panda lovers a date to plan around. Check the zoo’s latest visitor information before setting out.
