Hope Ranch Zoo Expands Hours for Public Access

New operating schedule allows more visitors to meet the zoo's diverse animal residents.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:49pm

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Hope Ranch Zoo in Guyton, Georgia has announced expanded public hours, shifting from an appointment-only model to being open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The zoo, founded by Gilvan and Shannon Vilam, has grown its animal collection over the years to include a variety of species like sloths, lemurs, monkeys, zebras, and kangaroos. The owners say the zoo has become increasingly popular, with many visitors driving hours to see the animals, and they have made improvements to the property including adding handicap-accessible bathrooms and a gift shop.

Why it matters

The expansion of public access hours at Hope Ranch Zoo provides more opportunities for the local community and regional visitors to experience the zoo's unique collection of animals. This aligns with the owners' goal of sharing their passion for animals and educating the public, while also growing the zoo's popularity and financial sustainability.

The details

Hope Ranch Zoo was previously only open by appointment, but the owners, Gilvan and Shannon Vilam, have now shifted to regular public hours of Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The zoo has expanded beyond its original focus on birds, which was Gilvan's initial passion, to include a diverse array of animals such as sloths, lemurs, monkeys, zebras, and kangaroos. In preparation for the expanded hours, the Vilams have made improvements to the zoo's facilities, including adding handicap-accessible bathrooms and a new gift shop.

  • Hope Ranch Zoo first opened a few years ago.
  • The zoo held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 28, 2026 to mark the beginning of its new public operating hours.

The players

Gilvan Vilam

Co-owner of Hope Ranch Zoo, whose initial passion for birds led to the creation of the zoo.

Shannon Vilam

Co-owner of Hope Ranch Zoo, who discussed the zoo's growth and improvements in preparation for the expanded public hours.

Hope Ranch Zoo

A zoo located in Guyton, Georgia that has a diverse collection of animals including sloths, lemurs, monkeys, zebras, and kangaroos.

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What they’re saying

“We have to start talking about Brazil first, because he brought the love of the birds and the love of the animals all the way from Brazil. It has been a passion of his for a very long time.”

— Shannon Vilam, Co-owner of Hope Ranch Zoo

“We were getting the handicapped accessible bathrooms finished. We also built a gift shop. Just some extra, little nifty things that we can have here at the zoo for them to bring people in to be able to see the animals here.”

— Shannon Vilam, Co-owner of Hope Ranch Zoo

What’s next

The zoo plans to continue expanding its animal collection and enhancing the visitor experience at Hope Ranch Zoo. They will monitor attendance and feedback from the public during the new open hours schedule.

The takeaway

The expansion of public access at Hope Ranch Zoo reflects the growing popularity and community interest in experiencing the zoo's unique collection of animals. By improving facilities and increasing operating hours, the owners are positioning the zoo to better serve local and regional visitors interested in wildlife education and conservation.