Memorial Park and Bear Hollow Zoo

Memorial Park is one of the most popular family attractions in Athens. Nestled in the Five Points neighborhood, the park home to Bear Hollow Zoo, the Birchmore Trail, a small lake, and expansive picnic and playground equipment. The number and size of the trees make a wonderfully-shaded spot on even warm summer days. Admission to all areas and attractions is free.

BEAR HOLLOW ZOO:
Bear Hollow Zoo is a popular place for families to come and see Georgia’s native wildlife. This small wildlife trail is home to black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, owls, and many other species of wild, free-living animals.

• ***JULY 28, 2020 Update: Bear Hollow is temporarily closed as a result of the changing health indicators in our community, state, and nation.
• Every Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the exhibit hall is open to the public, featuring projects for younger visitors and live animals to see and touch.  
• Named one of the "Top ten fun and free places to take your family," in Georgia Magazine, June 2013

BIRCHMORE TRAIL:

• The Birchmore Trail is a 1.25-mile trail that winds through an urban forest and is highlighted by the Great Wall of Happy Hollow, which was built single-handedly by local legend Fred Birchmore while in his 70s.

LAKE WALKWAY LOOP:

• This paved walking path runs three-eights of a mile around the Memorial Park lake.