Our Zoo will close at 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, and reopen at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10. Thank you for your support!
Experience the new Asia area at NC Zoo.
The North Carolina Zoo values its relationships with media outlets. If you are a reporter and would like to arrange an interview, get more information or be added to the media list to receive media alerts and press releases, please contact Media@nczoo.org or 800.488.0444.
The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) will open the North Carolina Zoo’s new Asia expansion on March 1, 2027. The new continent will be the Zoo’s first major development in more than 30 years.
Volunteers at the North Carolina Zoo recently surpassed 1 million hours of service.
The North Carolina Zoo Council will meet in person on Wednesday, May 13, beginning at 10 a.m.
Dr. Mark Penning will begin as Director of the North Carolina Zoo this August.
The North Carolina Zoo is mourning the death of 51-year-old C’sar, the Zoo’s longest-tenured resident and the oldest African bull elephant in the United States.
The North Carolina Zoo and Botanical Gardens will host an American Indian Powwow at its Solar Pointe picnic area this weekend.
Diane Villa is named the North Carolina Zoo's Interim Director.
The North Carolina Zoo is grieving the loss of Leia, a 15-year-old giraffe, who has been a beloved part of the Zoo family since 2010. Leia passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources announces the passing of Pat Simmons, Director & CEO of the North Carolina Zoo, on July 14, 2025.