ASHEBORO, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — April marks the official start of the busy spring/summer season at the North Carolina Zoo, bringing back seasonal attractions and more.
As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, the zoo is preparing for its busiest time of year. Last weekend, the zoo opened the Africa entrance, parking, and plaza. On April 1, the North Carolina Zoo will officially shift to it’s spring/summer hours, operating from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
While the new Asia section is still over a year away from opening, there’s plenty to see and do this year at the North Carolina Zoo.
Canine Champions for Conservation Returns
Back for another year, Canine Champions for Conservation is an exciting, high-energy show featuring rescue dogs performing impressive acrobatic tricks with their trainers. These talented dogs, all rescued from shelters, help raise awareness for important conservation efforts.
The show takes place in the Africa section of the zoo, between the Junction and Gorilla Habitat. It is included with regular zoo admission and begins April 1. Shows run twice a day, Tuesday through Friday, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. On weekends and holidays, additional shows are at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. The show runs through June 30.
Seasonal Attractions
Air Hike
This elevated ropes course, located in the Africa section near Lemur Island, offers 23 obstacles designed to test your balance, climbing skills, and self-reliance. After gearing up with a harness and helmet, you’ll navigate through obstacles like swinging logs, plank walks, tight ropes, and a spider web, with a skilled guide offering tips along the way.
Air Hike opens April 1, with weekly hours from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The last entry is at 3 p.m. The cost is an additional $18 per person, and tickets can be purchased at the Air Hike entrance. Expect to spend 30 to 60 minutes on the course. Ticket sales end at 4 p.m., and the course closes for the season on October 31.
Zoofari
Hop aboard a specially outfitted, open-air vehicle for an exclusive tour of the 40-acre Watani Grasslands. Led by an experienced zoo educator, you’ll have the chance to see nine species, including nearly 100 animals, such as rhinoceroses, gazelles, greater kudus, and a variety of exotic antelope. Plus, you may even get a special view of the elephants!
Zoofari begins its season on April 4, with tours available Thursday through Sunday (and select holidays) at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and noon, running through the end of October. Public tours are $25 per guest. Tickets can be purchased on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket booth in Junction Plaza. Find out more about Zoofari on the zoo’s website.
Butterfly Garden
The Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden is tentatively scheduled to open May 1, depending on the weather. Located in Junction Plaza, this walk-through habitat showcases a stunning collection of native U.S. and exotic butterfly species, all living among tropical plants and colorful flowers. It’s a peaceful, immersive experience perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
The garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with an admission fee of $3 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth near the Junction Tram Stop. Please note that children under 12 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. The garden is weather dependent and will close on September 30.
Carousel Renovations
The zoo’s 36-foot Endangered Species Carousel, located in Junction Plaza, is a family favorite. While the carousel normally opens for the season with other attractions, it will remain stationary this year as it undergoes renovations. Zoo officials say the renovations are likely to continue through July, but guests can still hop on for a unique photo opportunity. After renovations are complete, the ride will cost $3 per person and will run through October 31.
Quiet Days
While the North Carolina Zoo is sensory-friendly every day, but can still be overwhelming for some guests on busier days. That’s why the zoo offers dedicated “Quiet Days.” These special days, usually once a month, offer a more sensory-friendly experience for guests with sensory issues. On these days, the zoo does not book reservations for large groups or field trips and all loud music and messaging are turned off. The zoo also offers free sensory bags for checkout at the Guest Services Office or Kidzone, and designated quiet areas are available throughout the zoo.
While construction on Asia was in progress, the Zoo recommended attending on Sundays when construction were not working. With the end of major construction, quiet days during the week are a great opportunity to enjoy a visit to the zoo with those who have sensory issues.
To see a full list of Quiet Days or to learn more about visiting the zoo with sensory issues, visit the zoo’s website.
Upcoming Events at the Zoo
- April 19-20: Party for the Planet at Kidzone
- April 22: Earth Day activities
- May 10: Spring Plant Sale
- May 11: Mother’s Day Promo
- May 20: Quiet Day
- June 7: National Trails Day
- June 14: Run Wild 5K
- June 15: Father’s Day Promo
- June 17: Quiet Day
- June 30: Canine Champions for Conservation Ends
- July 13-19: Snake Week
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