North Carolina Zoo has reopened: What you need to know before you go

The North Carolina Zoo, at 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, re-opened on June 15th, after an extended closure.

Some things will be different. Here’s what you need to know for the 2020 operating season, including required reservations and more.

2020 North Carolina Zoo Modifications

The North Carolina Zoo has put safety precautions and protocols in place for the well-being of guests and staff.

Advance purchase of timed tickets

The biggest change is advance purchase of timed tickets for entry into the Zoo. Walk-up entry is not available at this time; everyone must arrange their visit, including Zoo members or those holding previously purchased tickets. Any guests without an advance purchased timed-entry ticket will not be admitted into the Zoo.

Reservations/timed-entry ticketing will be accepted three weeks in advance. The Zoo is also limiting the number of guests per day.

Guests can only enter and exit through North America. You can see the entire Zoo from this entrance. The Zoo’s pathways are configured into a one-way walking experience, where possible, through North America and Africa. This is to help encourage social distancing while still ensuring every guest can stop by each outdoor habitat. You will see directional signs and decals to help you navigate your visit.

The following habitats and amenities are temporarily closed during this initial phase.

Indoor habitats – this is Seabirds, Polar Bear Underwater Viewing and Ice Cave, Aviary, Streamside and Desert
Indoor dining — outside dining is available
Seasonal attractions — Giraffe Deck, Carousel, Butterfly Garden, VR Experience, Zoofari, Air Hike Ropes Course and Treehouse Trek
Education Smart Carts, Kidzone and playgrounds
Keeper Talks and Public Feeding Times

General Admissions Timed-Entry Tickets:

The Zoo offers general admission tickets for adults $15 (13-61), seniors $13 (62+) and children $11 (2-12). Children under the age of 2 are free but must also have a ticket/reservation for entry.

Refunds, rain checks, or exchanges on timed-entry tickets are not available during this time. Timed-entry tickets are valid only for the date and time stated on your ticket.

General admission timed-entry tickets may be purchased on the day of a visit if space is available.

Current NC Zoo Society members:

Our members are our valued supporters and we can’t wait to see you again! Please bring your printed or electronic reservation, valid North Carolina Zoo Society membership card and photo I.D. The member’s name listed on the card must be present with photo I.D. at the time of entry. You will only be allowed to make reservations up to what is included with your membership.

Member reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance of your planned visit date.

For All Guests and Members

Please arrive no more than 30 minutes before your reserved entry time. We are unable to accommodate earlier entries.

Please print your reservation confirmation and tickets or bring your smartphone for scanning. Having your tickets ready is the most efficient entry.

Face coverings

Face coverings are strongly encouraged, but not required, of guests. Face coverings/masks, along with bandanas and scarves, will be available for purchase at the Earth Explorer gift shop in North America Plaza, while supplies last.

All Zoo staff will be wearing masks.

Remember — wearing a mask protects the people around you.

Discounts

During this initial stage of resuming public-facing operations, we are unable to offer group sales, discounts, reciprocal membership from other zoos and aquariums or accept any coupons.

Expired tickets

Any previously purchased Zoo tickets that have expiration dates between March 16 and September 30, 2020 have been extended through Dec 31, 2020. You will need to call and make a reservation for an entry date/time to use your tickets. Reservations can be made by calling the Zoo reservations line at 336.879.7700 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. seven days a week.

More safety measures

Zoo staff will be cleaning and sanitizing restrooms, dining areas and frequently touched surfaces throughout the day.
Additional hand sanitizer stations have been placed throughout the Zoo for your convenience.
Dining tables have been placed six feet apart for social distancing.
Timed entry and limited capacity will help to ensure social distancing.
One-way traffic will be set up in the Zoo where feasible to help control the flow of guests and promote social distancing.
Acrylic barriers are in place at guest and staff interaction areas.
Social distancing markers are placed at all animal viewing areas to help remind guests to keep a safe distance from other groups.
All Zoo staff will be wearing masks for everyone’s protection.
All staff are required to pass a health assessment before working each shift
Outdoor sculptures are roped off or covered
All drinking fountains are closed, but water refill stations are available. Please bring a refillable water bottle.

This map also shows additional safety measures.