Topics Related to North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo has claimed the top spot in a nationwide contest for “Best Zoo” in the United States. The North Carolina Zoo was first nominated in the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards in July 2024, with public voting open daily from July 3-31.Contest nominees were proposed and vetted by a panel of travel writers and tourism experts before a final voting selection was made by Newsweek editors. Top-10 results were made public on Aug. 8, with North Carolina Zoo ranking #1: 

The North Carolina Zoo will commemorate its 50th anniversary with a special admission deal for Randolph County residents.In the early 1970s, residents of Randolph County advocated tirelessly for the state zoo to be built in the heart of North Carolina. To show its appreciation, the Zoo will be offering a $5 flat rate zoo admission Aug. 5-30 for residents who show a valid ID with a Randolph County, NC zip code. This special admission rate may be extended to up to four people per party (the resident plus three people, who do not need to be from Randolph County).

Endangered species are getting a new “leash” on life thanks to the four-legged stars of the Canine Champions for Conservation program at the North Carolina Zoo. This is the second season the Zoo has hosted the high-energy act, which features rescue dogs executing awe-inspiring stunts and agility challenges to support the Zoo’s global conservation efforts.

The North Carolina Zoo is excited to celebrate National Trails Day at Ridge’s Mountain on June 1.The North Carolina Zoo invites visitors to celebrate National Trails Day by hiking Ridge’s Mountain, located at 504 Summit Court, Asheboro, N.C. On June 1, Zoo staff will be available at the trailhead from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to greet hikers and talk about the history of the dramatic landscape.

The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro was nominated for “Best Zoo” in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2024. As the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, the North Carolina Zoo spans over 2,800 acres and cares for over 1,700 animals. The North Carolina Zoo also turns 50 this year, making the nomination an added treat for its golden anniversary.

The North Carolina Zoo expanded its lands for local wildlife conservation by adding 139 acres to Ridges Mountain Nature Preserve, increasing it to 423 acres. This addition was a gift from The Conservation Fund made possible by the North Carolina Land and Water Fund and private donors Fred, Alice, Brad and Shelli Stanback.

The North Carolina Zoo, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, is world-renowned as an oasis for families, nature enthusiasts, and conservation advocates alike. With its diverse array of animal habitats, interactive programs, and immersive naturalistic design, the Zoo captivates audiences from all walks of life, as evidenced by the Zoo’s latest milestone: exceeding one million guests in a calendar year.

To celebrate the season of giving, the North Carolina Zoo is delighted to announce a December promotion to give back to the community: Jingle in the Jungle! From Dec. 18-22, all general admission is $5 for entry to the North Carolina Zoo. No other discounts apply; in-person sales only (no online reservations).

The North Carolina Zoo is heartbroken to announce the untimely death of Fenn, the beloved six-month-old giraffe calf, whose birth and presence at the Zoo delighted individuals around the world. A grief counselor has been brought in to support staff members as they navigate the emotions associated with this tragic loss.

The North Carolina Zoo and North Carolina Zoo Society announce a new public art opportunity for artists and artist teams to design art for the new continent of Asia. With a budget of $250,000 provided through the Zoo Society, this project will join the more than 150 works of art in and around the Zoo.