Atatürk Forest Farm (AOÇ) - Image 1
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Atatürk Forest Farm AOÇ

4.2
·3k reviews·, Türkiye

A historic green lung of Ankara, offering picnic spots, a rose garden, and a farming museum, evolving alongside the Presidential Complex.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Enjoy a peaceful escape

CrowdLow
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Atatürk Forest Farm (AOÇ) - Image 1

Atatürk Forest Farm AOÇ

Best Time

Weekdays

Enjoy a peaceful escape

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic green lung of Ankara, offering picnic spots, a rose garden, and a farming museum, evolving alongside the Presidential Complex.

4.2
(3k reviews)

"A quiet place with green everywhere, perfect for relaxation if you want to escape the city."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Bring your own food and drinks for a delightful picnic experience in the green spaces. :picnic_table:

🚶‍♀️ Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and gardens. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Picnic Grounds

Picnic Grounds

Various locations within the farm

Sprawling green spaces perfect for a relaxing picnic amidst nature. Enjoy the fresh air and tranquility.

Rose Garden

Rose Garden

Designated garden area

A fragrant oasis showcasing a variety of beautiful roses. A lovely spot for a leisurely stroll.

Farming Museum

Farming Museum

Museum building

Discover historical agricultural tools and learn about the farm's heritage. An educational glimpse into the past.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

While the Atatürk Forest Farm (AOÇ) offers a green escape, some visitors report it's not the animal haven it once was. For a peaceful picnic, aim for weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural surroundings without the hustle.

Animal Welfare Concerns

Recent visitor feedback suggests concerns about the condition of animals at the farm. If your primary interest is seeing animals, it might be best to manage expectations or consider alternative attractions.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Enjoy a peaceful escape
Crowd
Low
When
Spring mornings
Why
Blossoms and fresh air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cumhurbaşkanlığı Külliyesi, Türkiye'nin başkenti Ankara'daki Atatürk Orman Çiftliği'nin içerisinde bulunmakta ve Türkiye Cumhurbaşkanı tarafından 2014'ten itibaren kullanılmaktadır. 🇹🇷 The Presidential Complex is located inside the Atatürk Forest Farm in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, and has been used by the President of Turkey since 2014. 🇹🇷 #cumhurbaşkanlığı #külliye #ankara #beştepe #bird...
@dunyakusbakisi
93K likes • 5.2M views

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Bring your own food and drinks for a delightful picnic experience in the green spaces. :picnic_table:

🚶‍♀️ Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and gardens. :athletic_shoe:

🧐 Manage Animal Expectations

Some visitors report limited animal sightings and concerns about their welfare. :thinking_face:

📍 Verify Location

Google Maps might show a zoo, but the farm is primarily a green space and Presidential Complex area. :round_pushpin:

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Bring your own food and drinks for a delightful picnic experience in the green spaces. :picnic_table:

🚶‍♀️ Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and gardens. :athletic_shoe:

🧐 Manage Animal Expectations

Some visitors report limited animal sightings and concerns about their welfare. :thinking_face:

📍 Verify Location

Google Maps might show a zoo, but the farm is primarily a green space and Presidential Complex area. :round_pushpin:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Atatürk Forest Farm for its peaceful green spaces and pleasant picnic opportunities, offering a tranquil escape within Ankara. However, some recent reviews express disappointment regarding the limited animal presence and potential welfare concerns, suggesting a shift from its historical role as a more diverse attraction.

"Isn’t that promising. There were only goats and some rabbits and that’s it. They literally don’t have enough water or food.. and no one there to clean that place up!
Those goats and rabbits looked distressed as hell, goats literally trying to chew on the fences trying to escape.. idk if that’s normal behavior but it didn’t look normal.
If anyone else wants to go there, you can, for Picknicks n such, but not for the animals."

Ypp Yhh

"It was a bad trip because I did not have the required address. This location on Google Map is a zoo, but in reality it seems to be a security headquarters."

Ashraf Anwar

"It is like a small forest and is really a quiet place and the green everywhere around you, and the small of nature everywhere. I highly recommend it if you want a place to relax, that would be one."

Eng Abood

What People Like

Peaceful green spaces
Great for picnics
Tranquil atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited animal sightings
Animal welfare concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Atatürk Forest Farm (AOÇ) is located in Ankara. While public transport options might exist, many visitors opt for taxis or private vehicles for convenience. It's advisable to confirm the exact entrance you wish to visit, as parts of the area are now associated with the Presidential Complex. TikTok

Information on direct public transport to all areas of the farm can be limited. It's recommended to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services for a more direct journey. Reddit

The farm is quite expansive. If you plan to explore extensively, consider using a car or a taxi to move between different sections like the picnic areas and the museum. Reddit

Parking availability can vary depending on the specific area you are visiting. It's best to inquire locally or look for designated parking zones upon arrival. Reddit

While it's a significant distance, it can be done as a long day trip if you fly into Ankara. However, to truly enjoy the farm and its surroundings, an overnight stay in Ankara is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general picnic and green areas of Atatürk Forest Farm is typically free. However, specific attractions within the farm might have separate admission fees. Reddit

The farm is generally accessible during daylight hours for recreational purposes. For specific museum hours or any restricted access due to the Presidential Complex, it's best to check locally. TikTok

While the farm itself is largely free to enter, the farming museum may have a small admission fee. It's advisable to confirm current pricing on-site. Reddit

The Presidential Complex is a separate, secure area and is not generally open to the public for casual visits. Access is restricted. TikTok

No, picnic spots are generally first-come, first-served. You don't need to book in advance for a picnic. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Recent visitor feedback indicates a limited number of animals, primarily goats and rabbits. Some visitors have expressed concerns about the animals' welfare. Reddit

The main activities include picnicking, walking through the green spaces, visiting the rose garden, and exploring the farming museum. Reddit

Yes, the green landscapes, rose garden, and historical farming tools offer good opportunities for photography, especially during the spring and summer months. Instagram

Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Playgrounds might be present in some picnic areas, but it's best to check on-site. Reddit

Take a leisurely walk through the open fields and gardens. Find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there might be occasional kiosks or small eateries, it's not a place with extensive dining options. Bringing your own food for a picnic is highly recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is the most popular way to enjoy a meal at the farm. Reddit

Barbecue facilities are generally not provided. Picnicking with pre-prepared food is the standard. Reddit

You'll likely need to purchase food items before arriving at the farm, as options within or immediately surrounding the area are limited. Reddit

It's advisable to check local regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public parks and green spaces. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The rose garden, the open green fields with mature trees, and the historical farming museum offer diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' provide the best natural light for landscape and portrait photography. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in public areas, especially near government facilities like the Presidential Complex. It's crucial to check local drone regulations before flying. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos of any animals present, but remember to be respectful of their space and well-being. Reddit

Nature photography, landscape shots, and casual portraits are very popular due to the serene environment. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families looking for a relaxed day out can enjoy the picnic areas and open green spaces at Atatürk Forest Farm. It's a great spot for kids to run around and enjoy nature. While the farm's animal attractions have diminished, the rose garden offers a pleasant visual experience. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are scarce. Reddit

It's advisable to manage expectations regarding animal sightings, as recent feedback suggests a limited number of animals. Focus on the simple joys of a picnic and exploring the natural environment. Ensure children are supervised, especially near any water features or if exploring less-maintained areas. Reddit

🌳 Nature Lovers & Relaxation Seekers

For those seeking a tranquil escape, the Atatürk Forest Farm offers a welcome respite. The expansive green areas and the fragrant rose garden provide a serene environment perfect for unwinding. Visitors often praise the natural beauty and the sense of peace found here, making it ideal for leisurely walks and quiet contemplation. Reddit

To maximize your experience, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the natural ambiance. Bring a book, a picnic, and simply enjoy the fresh air and the quietude. The farming museum also offers a touch of historical interest for those who appreciate it. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Atatürk Forest Farm

The Atatürk Forest Farm (AOÇ), established in 1925, was envisioned by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk as a model farm to promote modern agricultural practices and provide agricultural education. It was a significant project aimed at making Turkey self-sufficient in agriculture and a hub for innovation. Over the decades, it evolved, incorporating various facilities and becoming a beloved green lung for Ankara.

Today, while its original agricultural mission continues in some capacity, parts of the land have seen development, including the construction of the Presidential Complex in 2014. This has led to changes in accessibility and the overall character of the farm. Visitors seeking the original, expansive agricultural experience might find it different from its past, but the core idea of a green space for relaxation and connection with nature persists. TikTok

Understanding this historical context helps visitors appreciate the evolution of the AOÇ. It's a place that bridges agricultural heritage with modern governmental functions, offering a unique, albeit sometimes complex, experience for those who visit. The farming museum serves as a tangible link to its foundational purpose. Reddit

Navigating the Farm: Practicalities and Perceptions

Visiting the Atatürk Forest Farm requires a bit of practical planning, especially given its size and the presence of the Presidential Complex. While the farm offers ample green space for picnics and relaxation, recent visitor accounts highlight a shift from its past as a vibrant zoo. Some travelers have noted a scarcity of animals and expressed concerns about their welfare, suggesting that expectations for an animal-centric experience should be tempered. Reddit

For those planning a visit, focusing on the picnic grounds and the rose garden is often recommended for a peaceful outing. Weekdays are generally less crowded, allowing for a more serene experience. It's also wise to verify your intended destination within the farm, as the Google Maps location might not always accurately reflect current access or facilities, particularly concerning the Presidential Complex's proximity. TikTokReddit

When it comes to amenities, bringing your own food and drinks is the most common and recommended approach, as dining options within the farm are limited. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the expansive grounds. The farm remains a valuable green retreat for Ankara residents, offering a quiet escape from the urban bustle, provided visitors have realistic expectations about its current offerings. Reddit

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