North Carolina Zoo

Asheboro, North Carolina · Zoo Aquarium · Accessibility score 1.2/5

Address: 0444 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205

Phone: (800) 488-0444

About

The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro offers something rare among American zoos - animals living in spacious, natural habitats spread across 500 acres of rolling Piedic woodland. As one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world, it gives visitors the feeling of encountering wildlife in settings that closely mirror their native environments.

The zoo is divided into two main regions: Africa and North America. In the Africa section, you'll find elephants roaming wide savannas, gorillas in lush forest clearings, and giraffes on elevated viewing decks. The North America region showcases black bears, red wolves, bison, and polar bears among others. Each exhibit is designed to let animals behave naturally, which makes for a more rewarding and authentic experience.

Beyond the animal exhibits, the zoo features beautiful gardens, including the Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden where colorful butterflies land right on your shoulders. The Endangered Species Carousel at Junction Plaza is a family favorite, and the newer Treehouse Trek adventure area offers whimsical treehouses, rope bridges, and an oversized play nest with portions designed for visitors of all abilities.

For practical planning, the zoo is open year-round with seasonal hours. It's a big place, so comfortable shoes and a plan of action help. Tram services run between major areas, which is a real benefit given the distances involved. Food options are available throughout the park, and coolers with food or beverages needed for medical purposes can be checked at either entrance and brought inside.

The zoo sits in the heart of North Carolina, about 75 miles east of Charlotte and 80 miles west of Raleigh, making it a doable day trip from either city. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring, though summer mornings before the heat builds can be wonderful too. Plan for at least three to four hours to see the highlights, or a full day if you want to take your time and enjoy everything the zoo has to offer.

Accessibility

The North Carolina Zoo offers several accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis near both park entrances. In-park tram services and parking lot shuttles can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, which is especially helpful given the zoo's large footprint.

Caregivers and personal attendants receive free admission to the zoo. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the park. Several popular attractions are wheelchair-accessible, including the Endangered Species Carousel at Junction Plaza, the Acacia Station Giraffe Deck, and the Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden. A portion of the Treehouse Trek play area is ADA accessible as well.

Trained service animals (dogs or miniature horses as defined by ADA guidelines) are welcome throughout the zoo. Coolers containing food or beverages needed for medical purposes can be checked at either entrance, tagged, and brought inside the park.

The zoo's pathways connect exhibits across hilly terrain, so some routes may be more physically demanding than others. The tram service helps bridge longer distances between the Africa and North America sections. Contact the zoo directly at (336) 879-7000 for current details on specific pathway conditions, sensory accommodations, or any additional accessibility services that may be available for your visit.

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