Homeschool Programs

Homeschool groups can participate in any of our school programs such as EDventures at the Zoo (onsite programs), Zoo to You (offsite programs), Zoo Classroom (distance learning), and through our Homeschool Day Events hosted four times a school year.

The North Carolina Zoo Homeschool Days for the 2025-2026 school year are all about Environments Around The World! The earth has many different habitats that are home to animals who must overcome natural challenges and emerging threats. The North Carolina Zoo is caring for wild animals in wild places and you can too! Join us as we explore a different environment each day! Purchase your tickets here.

October 23rd, 2025 "Survival on the Savanah" Educational Stations around Africa
December 9th, 2025 "Built for the Cold" Educational Program
March 10th 2026 "Life in the Clouds" Educational Program and Guided Hike
May 7th, 2026 "Canopy Kingdoms" Educational Program

Please email schoolprograms@nczoo.org if you would like more information! These visits will not count towards the free NC Homeschool visits.

Can NC Homeschools Visit Free of Charge?

Yes, North Carolina registered home schools can access the Zoo free of charge through individual reservations. Home schools can call 336.879.7700 Monday - Friday to make reservations. We will verify that you are a state registered home school to complete your reservation.

Eligible dates for the 2025-2026 school year are between September 2, 2025 through June 10, 2026. Blackout dates apply on some holidays and school break periods.
The Zoo will take reservations starting August 23rd for this upcoming school year. The school-aged children and one adult registered to the homeschool will be granted free admission. Any additional adults, seniors or children that you bring can purchase tickets online in advance or at the gate for Zoo entry.

EDventures at the Zoo

Looking for a wild experience for your students? The North Carolina Zoo offers various engaging educational programs for school groups visiting the Zoo. These programs enrich students' learning about animals, meet educational standards, and provide actions they can take to help protect and preserve Earth's natural resources. Our programs value hands-on experiences and participation in STEM activities.

Zoo to You EDventures (Offsite Programming)

Educational Programs for classrooms or assemblies that are brought to your location within 90-mile radius of the Zoo.

A woman with short blonde hair, wearing a blue NC Zoo uniform, stands in a wooden area next to a natural wooden fence holding a medium sized brown turtle in her gloved hands. She is looking into an Ipad that seems to be recording a video of her teaching about the turtle.

Zoo Classroom - Virtual Programs

We are bringing many of our education programs right into your classroom.

A group of children gathered in front of a glass barrier wall, looking out into a vast field that is sprinkled with trees and large rocks. Two elephants stand near the wall looking out towards the children.

School Field Trips

The North Carolina Zoo offers unique learning experiences for children grades K-12 all the way to college. Visit the Zoo for a fun-filled trip while learning about our animals and conservation.

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