Top 10 Things To Do at the Zoo!

It’s hard to believe that Summer is winding down, but before you know it, the vacations will be over, and the kids will be back in school. So, as you plan out those last memory-making moments with your friends and family for the Summer of ‘22, we thought we’d share our list of the “must see and do” things at the Zoo! 

1. Visit the Elephants and Rhinos. You’ll have great views of the world’s largest land mammals as they roam around the 40-acre Watani Grasslands. You may get a chance to watch the elephants take a quick shower in their watering holes or watch the rhinos roll in the mud to cool off!

2. Feed a Giraffe. Head to the Giraffe Deck, purchase a ticket, and come eye to eye with these tall, towering creatures! These friendly animals love to nibble on leaves, and the view is a great backdrop for a family photo or a selfie! 

3. Butterfly Garden. You will be wowed by the different species of butterflies you can walk thru and see. If you’re lucky, one may land on you and give you a butterfly “kiss”! 

4. Ride the Carousel. We don’t care how old you are, jumping on a carousel for a ride will make you feel like you’re five again! Our unique ride-figure is the polar bear, which was created and hand-painted just for the North Carolina Zoo. 

5. Have a Picnic! While we have plenty of food venues to choose from, bringing a picnic to share with your friends and family adds a nice touch to your visit. There are several picnic areas to choose from right outside the entry gates that are free of charge and include restrooms. 

6. Treat Yourself to Something Cold. Whether it’s Dippin’ Dots or a scoop of ice cream, nothing beats the heat of the day quite like a frozen treat.  

7. Cool Off in the Misters. Located throughout the park, sometimes you just need some cool mist to keep the heat at bay. Don’t be surprised if your kids want to linger just a little bit longer - getting the giggles is a guarantee! 

8. Spend Time at the KidZone. This spot is a great place to let your kids reconnect with nature. Whether they’re splashing in a stream, making mudpies, or playing in any of the areas, they (and you) will enjoy this shaded break from walking.

9. Check out the Giant Ostrich Eggs. This area gives you the chance to be “in” a giant ostrich egg. While you’re there, make sure you get pictures, or else it didn’t happen!

      10. Family Shot at the Entrance. Speaking of pictures, whether you do it before or after, no trip to the Zoo is complete without taking a family photo with our life-size elephants at the front entry!