There really is no better “all day” trip than the NC Zoo. You could literally spend a day – or two – here and not get bored. No matter the age of your kids, it’s one of those spots that truly has something for all ages to see and enjoy.
Best of all, it’s an easy drive down I-74, which is usually one of the lighter traffic highways in our state. You can also check out the many restaurants and things to do in Asheboro while at the NC Zoo.
Why Visit the NC Zoo?
Did you know North Carolina is home to the world’s largest natural habitat zoo and it’s only an hour away from Winston-Salem? The NC Zoo, located in Asheboro, is currently home to North American and African animals. Plus, the Asia continent is coming soon and will feature a large assortment of Asian animals. Not far behind Asia is Australia and the Amazon! It’s important for kids and families to see the animals in their natural habitats and their roles in our delicate ecosystem.
Top 5 Things To Do at NC Zoo
The zoo is massive, so it’s easy to not get to see everything or even all the animals, but below are a few don’t miss attractions and ideas for your zoo day trip.
- Giraffe Deck – Get up close and personal with the giraffes and even feed them! The deck is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and access is $5 per person.
- Kidzone & Garden Friends Playground – Let the little ones get out some energy playing in this space crafted especially for kids.
- Art Installations – Many people don’t think of art when they think of the zoo, but the NC Zoo is home to more than 150 art pieces, located throughout the park, from murals to sculptures. Try to find them all!
- Picnic – There are picnic areas and tables just outside both the North America and Africa entrances. It’s a great add on to the day and way to save money. Just be sure to get a stamp to re-enter the zoo. Also, grilling is not permitted.
- Hiking Trails – The zoo has multiple hiking trails, many with entrances at the North America or Africa parking lots, that are open year round.
What to Know Before You Go
Given the zoo’s size, it’s best to start at either the North America or Africa parking lot and end at the other continent’s parking lot. Then, you can take the shuttle bus once outside in the parking lot to the other lot. The shuttle service is free. There is also a tram inside the zoo that stops at both continents with Junction Plaza located in the middle.
The zoo is stroller friendly and handicap accessible, but bear in mind there are a lot of hills. We used separate smaller umbrella strollers for our two toddlers. There were several people using wagons for multiple kids, but it definitely looked like a struggle pulling them up some of the hills!
You are allowed to bring in food and drinks, if there are no glass beverages, alcoholic beverages or large or rolling coolers. There are also multiple food options located throughout the zoo for those who want to purchase food there.
From March 15th to November 15th, the NC Zoo is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the last entry is at 4:00 p.m.
If you have a Kaleideum membership, you can get 50% off admission. They also offer discounts for children, seniors and NC EBT cardholders. If you purchase tickets online, you’ll save $2/person. Plus, children under three get in free!
Details to Visit NC Zoo
Distance from Winston-Salem: Around an hour
Address: 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC
Learn more about NC Zoo: nczoo.org
Instagram: @nczoo
Parking: Two lots – North America Parking Lot & Africa Parking Lot
