North Carolina Zoo

Over Fifty Years of Saving Wildlife and Wild Places

The North Carolina Zoo protects wildlife and wild places and inspires people to join us in conserving the natural world.

Located just south of Asheboro, the North Carolina Zoo is seated on a 2,200-acre tract of land in the Uwharrie Mountains. Approximately 500 acres of this property have been developed into one of the largest "natural habitat" zoos in the United States. You won't find cages made of steel and concrete here. Our animals are given enclosures that mimic their natural habitats to include trees, ponds, rocks, grass and dirt.

The North Carolina Zoo offers a variety of outdoor recreation activities for guests of all ages. Visit animal habitats of North America and Africa species and catch a Keeper Talk! Additionally, guests can explore and engage with our expansive outdoor public art collection or participate in an educational hike.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful stroll through the Butterfly Garden or your little ones want to ride an elephant on the Carousel, the North Carolina Zoo has options for you and your family!


Just a reminder… this is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo. It's a really big place! With roughly five miles of walking trails to navigate, make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a refillable water bottle. Animals are visible primarily from the walking paths.

To support accessibility and help Guests reach key areas more easily, transportation service is available between major stops throughout our Zoo. Trams and buses are available daily between North America, Junction Plaza (the center of the Zoo), and Africa. Service operates on two routes: North America ↔ Junction Plaza and Africa ↔ Junction Plaza. Parking lot shuttle service between the North America and Africa parking lots is available March 15–November 15, starting daily at 11:00 a.m.