Exploring the Africa Exhibit: North Carolina Zoo Adventures

The weather was perfect. We decided it was the perfect time for a fun outing to the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro. We made it a special mommy playdate and invited two friends along with their kids! It was a great way to catch up and enjoy the wonders of the zoo together.

Exploring the Africa Exhibit

Our main focus for the day was the Africa section, which is filled with amazing animals and beautiful landscapes. The kids were fascinated by the elephants, giraffes, and gorillas. It’s a great opportunity to teach them about different animals and ecosystems while having fun at the same time!

Zoo Trekker Adventure for Kids

One of the highlights of our visit was the Zoo Trekker program. This is a fun, interactive way for children to explore the zoo. They can pick up a booklet. They search for clues throughout the zoo to fill out. This turns the visit into a fun scavenger hunt! It’s a great way to keep the little ones engaged and excited as they learn about the animals.

Timing Your Visit

We decided to visit in the afternoon to avoid the heat. But, everyone else had the same idea! It was a very crowded day, and we quickly realized that the zoo gets pretty packed later in the day. I highly recommend going first thing in the morning. If possible, plan your visit during a weekday for a quieter experience.

Food and Snacks

The zoo offers a variety of food and ice cream for sale, which was a hit with the kids! They even have Dippin’ Dots, which was a refreshing treat on such a warm day. We had trouble finding water filling stations. It’s worth noting, so make sure to bring extra water with you just in case. Staying hydrated is essential, especially on busy days when the zoo gets crowded.

Important Information for Your Visit

Here’s some important info that will help you plan your trip:

• Ticket Prices:

• Adults (Ages 13-61): $15

• Seniors (Ages 62+): $13

• Children (Ages 2-12): $11

• Children Under 2: Free

• North Carolina Zoo Members: Free

• Military (with ID): $13

• Hours:

• April–October: 9 AM–5 PM

• November–March: 9 AM–4 PM

• The zoo is closed on Christmas Day.

• Discounts and Offers:

• EBT Card Discount: $5 per person (up to 6 people) for North Carolina EBT cardholders.

• Group Rates: Available for 15+ people

• Online Discounts: Check online for any current offers.

• Extra Information:

• Pets: Not allowed inside.

• Food: Outside food is not permitted.

• Water: Bring refillable water bottles; fountains are available for refills.

• Parking: Free parking available.

• Tram/Transport: Free in-park tram and shuttle services.

• Stroller Rentals: Strollers are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to bring your own stroller if you can.

Final Thoughts

The North Carolina Zoo is an incredible place to explore. It is perfect if you’re looking for a fun, educational day out with the family. Whether you’re wandering through the African savannas or engaging in the Zoo Trekker adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to arrive early to beat the crowds. Bring plenty of water. Take advantage of the great food options! And don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and good walking shoes—there’s a lot of ground to cover!

Have you visited the North Carolina Zoo before? Share your experience in the comments!