Updates and events on Facebook Stevens Creek Nature Center, 15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill (new nature center opening soon) Its free to visit. In Africa, you can get eye-to-eye with a giraffe, castaway to Lemur Island and head for an "immersion walkway" above the Watani Grasslands. Hodges Farm is an open farm environment where you can get to know our animals. She's lived in the Carolinas for nearly three decades and currently resides in Charleston. Cup of feed: $5. Children younger than 2 are admitted for free. 3224 Medlin Road, Monroe From feeding a giraffe to even nursing a newborn big cat, you're sure to love the animal encounters found at this unique sanctuary. Hux Family Farm fun4charlottekids.com/Fun-Around-Town/Animal-Encounters/, Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; CPU iPhone OS 15_5 like Mac OS X) AppleWebKit/605.1.15 (KHTML, like Gecko) GSA/218.0.456502374 Mobile/15E148 Safari/604.1. Prodigal Farm creates award-winning goats milk and cows milk cheeses. Select from many unique behind-the-scenes tours of our animal habitats with the North Carolina Zoo Society! Each tour is 45 minutes long and youll have the opportunity to see and touch the alpacas, as well as take a selfie and as many pictures as you want. Seniors 62+: $11.77 "Aggressive" bears charged at . 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 Of course. Lots of them! The Raptor Trail is a 3/4 miles walking trail that features more than 30 birds of prey, including falcons, eagles, owls, hawks, vultures and more. Top 10 Best animal encounter Near Charlotte, North Carolina. You need to make an appointment in advance for a tour, and the only way is to text the above number. Favorite of many Charlotte families is Riverbanks Zoo. Plus, it is just not nice. Triangle on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Here are all the free and cheap things for them to do. Join us on June 13 and June 22 for all the fun! You can meet a horse, mini horse, camel, alpaca, miniature llama, teacup pig, mini goat, rabbits, mini donkey and mini cows. The zoo has two sections that each focus on one continent: North America (bears, bison, wolves) and Africa (lions, chimpanzees, lemurs, elephants, gorillas). The zoo is known for its spectacular natural habitats and you'll love exploring each country represented. read about the timed tickets and safety protocols. This popular science center includes several outdoor habitats where you can learn about black bears, wolves, lemurs and tortoises. Please note that the Duke Lemur Center is closed to visitors right now. Find discounts on concerts, live performances, art events, and more. The Lazy 5 Ranch is a drive through animal park that will be a sure hit with the whole family. From outdoor recreation to animal feeding sessions, the Zoo has activities for people of all ages. The farm activities take place in the fall. Carolina Raptor Center, on 57 acres within Latta Nature Preserve, is devoted to rescuing and rehabilitating birds of prey. Kids under 2 are admitted for free. Learn more from, How many of your friends can say they've ridden a camel? Spring Haven Farm also sometimes offers Goat-a-Gram, goat yoga, and various farm experiences. They offer animal encounters as well, and even have a mini golf area now!more, a large drive thru area of the zoo AND you can purchase an extra and have an animal encountermore, animals that you encounter, including goats, pigs, elk, emu, llama, giraffes, deer, and zebras! North Carolina is teeming with ways to get outside and enjoy our lovely state! This site requires that javascript is enabled. Sweetwater Farms is just outside of Charlotte, but can feel like its miles away, with plenty of open space, gardens and a menagerie of rescued farm animals, including chickens, horses (including miniature horses), donkeys, goats and pigs. Tickets: $15 for adults, $13 for seniors 62+, and $11 for children age 2-12. Get up close and personal with the fascinating creatures that share our state at aquariums, zoos, wildlife refuges and more. Find upcoming budget-friendly Charlotte events. Age 65+ and military member: $21. 919-401-7240 North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a great place to get up close to a wide variety of animals, including more than 50 species of reptiles and amphibians, more than 100 species of fish and aquatic invertebrates, many arthropods and insects. Updates on Facebook The wagon rides arent happening right now, but you can buy a bucket of feed, drive through Lazy 5 Ranch, and get VERY close to elk, deer, giraffes, camels, kangaroos and more, as they approach your car for the feed. Have fun identifying the pieces while enjoying a zoo tour. The safari walking tour is normally $30 a person, but right now is $15 a person. The Duke Lemur Center is a non-invasive research facility that holds the worlds largest and most diverse population of lemurs outside Madagascar. Some are rescue and rehabilitation facilities. 1923 Shaw Road, Durham, NC 27704 You need to reserve the tour in advance, and they sell out early. Other features of the museum include a naturalist lab and outside fun at Fort Wild and the Paw Paw Nature Trail. Feed a majority of the farm animals. Price to visit: $10/person 6016 US 401 North, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 Events never stop at the North Carolina Zoo. $10. We support wildlife conservation by raising and rehabilitating orphaned and injured wildlife so they may be released back to the wild. Youtube. Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary | Charlotte, North Carolina. We do not close for the winter, only closed on Christmas Day and the first. Live well in the Triangle on a budget. Choose a tour of up to 4 hours where you can have close animal encounters with species from all over the world. 1041 Brevard Place Road, Iron Station The Schiele Museum of Natural History creatures. Good Karma Ranch also offers yoga with the alpacas, and macrame and quilting classes. Eager to explore the wild side of North Carolina? The North Carolina Zoo hosts events from April to December that aredesigned to be enjoyed by guests of all ages. The safari takes place near dusk, just when the wolves begin to howl for the night. CONTACT | 364 Leigh Farm Road Durham, NC | 919-489-0900 Piedmont Wildlife Center is an IRS designated 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Share The North Carolina Zoo offers a variety of outdoor recreation activities for visitors of all ages. Dallas Lavender Lane Farm If there are animal lovers in your family, you're in luck, because there are many places in the Charlotte area where you can visit animals of all kinds. Enjoy one of the Zoo's seasonal attractions, open from Spring through Fall. Pleasant, NC Sylvan Heights Bird Park The Touchpool, soft play area, photo station, dive logs, stamp stations, educational talks and feeds, and behind the scenes tours are temporarily closed, for safety reasons. Make bank when you save 50-80% off local attractions, restaurants, and other things to do. At the Sylvan Heights Bird Park, you'll get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to feed a Pink Flamingo. Evan Moore. One thing you can depend upon in North Carolina is never being bored. Get the details from, This exotic animal sanctuary is filled with rescues who love attention. You might also want to check Groupon for deals. Visit the North Carolina Zoo today and take part in many Zoo activities. List 11 Places for Animal Adventures in North Carolina Eager to explore the wild side of North Carolina? The nature centers are free to visit . From watching the polar bears to hopping on the zoofari tour or hand-feeding the giraffes, a day at the North Carolina Zoo is sure to please everyone in the family! Please follow the links to the attractions pages. we'll be attending with adoptable dogs. From hiking trails to the world-famous Mile High Swinging Bridge, a day spent at Grandfather is sure to create lasting memories. A natural healing center for injured and distressed birds of prey, this wonderful center takes visitors to the inner circle and also offers educational raptor encounters. Children under 2 are free. 910-249-2258 Ticket to Petting Barn and Walking Tour: $10. Learn more in, Few things compare with the magical experience of witnessing the wild Mustangs that have roamed (and survived!) Our write-up on the nature centers. Slingshot Social Game Club is holding a fundraiser and two events that 3705 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705 Price of buggy tour: Effective October 1st, the cost is $15 per adult, $7 per child age 5-15, and free for children under age 5, with a minimum charge of $100. Ill check that out! **You can have up to 10 people in the hour long encounter, the first five admissions are included, after that it is an additional $17 per person. When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. Please check in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled encounter time. 937 Old Willis School Road, Dallas You can donate to these programs by providing a monetary donation or always-needed supplies. Extremely friendly pigs? While youre in Latta Nature Preserve you might want to also check out the hiking trails and Historic Latta Plantation. Rockwell, NC 28138 6350 Smith Road, Midland Regardless of where you are in the Tar Heel State, youre never far from your next wholesome, family adventure. bucket of feed is $3. They are always adding something new, so keep checking back. Yes, I want to receive exclusive updates via Email and/or SMS. Enjoy the North Carolina Zoos animal experiences and stay tuned for future zoo events. The North Carolina Zoo is an agency of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. When the center is open, make sure to make a reservation to see and learn about these amazing creatures. You'll find the largest collection of waterfowl species in the world right here in North Carolina. Our write-up on Good Karma Ranch. Once you see these, you simply wont be able to pass them up. We made the mistake of coming themore. Discovery Place Nature Some of the animals you can watch during our Meet the Keeper encounters include the Harbor Seals in the North American region and Chimpanzees in the African region. Contact us at 704-245-6446 We accept both cash and card! Two by Two Petting Zoo Red and gray wolves, cougars, bobcats, and coyotes prowl in the predator habitat, and river otters swim and play in their own special area at the Western North Carolina Nature Center. Robin Jarvis is a travel writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. What's included with Darby Acres Farm appointment: Walking tour of the petting farm. Please turn on for a full experience. Get up close and personal with the fascinating creatures that share our state at aquariums, zoos, wildlife refuges and more. Find daily food and drink specials at area restaurants, and events that feature food. Updated Virtual Events Calendar Concerts, zoo visits, dance classes, more, COVID-19 vaccine available to those age 75+. Part of the Schiele Museums outside exhibits is a farmyard that includes goats, chickens and pigs. You will receive your first newsletter soon. The event will take place on July 3 and 4 at the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center. What are people saying about zoos in Charlotte, NC? Updates on Facebook. listeners: [], A Zoo 2 You Check. 5306 Homer Ruffin Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 Its honestly the best kept secret in the piedmont. Here are some of our favorites (although there are many more!). 919-542-4684 M&M Alpaca Farm More information is available in, It may come as a total surprise that we have an entire sanctuary devoted to Lemurs right here in North Carolina. The North Carolina Zoo has re-opened, with timed tickets. Tickets: $12. Birthday Parties at Darby Acres Farm. 910-897-1555 McDowell Nature Center, 15222 South York Road In general, you should expect to be required to wear a mask indoors, and when you cant maintain a safe distance from other people outdoors. The best success story is when they can release a rehabilitated bird into the wild. ! Learn all about Animal Care & Control the municipal shelter for both the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. This a one of a kind privately owned safari. From encounters of the hand-feeding variety to seeing those famously beautiful horses in the Outer Banks, these adventures will make you feel a spectrum of emotions but bored wont be among them. . You can also visit Jennettes Pier in Nags Head for a variety of educational programs from fishing lessons to kids science camps. And it also offers a variety of tours year-round, including some specifically for kids and families, as well as seasonal tours. Theres an Educational Farm outside, plus 42 acres of interactive exhibits in the Nature Center. I have toured A LOT of farmsmore, We love Tiger World. Free to visit. Phone: 704.494.0777 Fax: 980-920-1900 Email: Info@pioneersprings.org Campus Address: 9232 Bob Beatty Road Charlotte, NC 28269 Mailing Address: P.O. Lions, tigers and bobcats are just three of the many species totaling more than 70 exotic animals youll see up close. Admission is free. Don't miss out! Heres how to get the vaccine, Subscribing to Charlotte on the Cheap's email list, Best skyline views in Charlotte for photos, 50+ walks and hikes in and near Charlotte, Charlotte art museums, galleries and events. Check out our Facebook page for more information on the event. >>, We have many programs that need funding or items to keep it going strong. Or drive your own vehicle on the 3.5-mile route and expect shrieks of laughter from your kids as they hand-feed ostriches, llamas, zebras and other animals that come right up to your windows. Visit our Facebook Page for potential weather-related closings. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville NC 28138 704.279.6363. Free things to do in the Triangle this weekend, Civil War Trolley Tours in Raleigh (pre-registration is required). Like Darby Acres, A Zoo 2 You offers private tours, which you have to schedule in advance. Darby Acres Farm & Safari They arent holding public tours right now, but you can arrange a private tour for $50 for three people. Age 16+: $12 The tours are offered Sundays through Fridays and you need to contact the ranch to reserve your time. Dallas Lavender Lane Exhibits at the Pine Knoll Shores aquarium near Atlantic Beach lead you from the mountains to the sea as you follow a streams journey to the ocean, watching river otters, fish and reptiles along the way. Additional fees apply. Prices vary. 64-oz. It's got more animals than most of the normal zoos nowadays and you can actually see them all! 14412 Beatties Ford Road, Huntersville on: function(evt, cb) { >>. The farm tour is also an hour. Good Karma Ranch callback: cb Updates on Facebook. The nature centers are all within nature preserves, where you have a very good chance of spotting some wildlife when you walk the trails. You left out two of the coolest ones in the area! If you forget your mask, theyll provide one for you. Some are private zoos or aquariums. Tickets: $8. Host your Birthday Party or event at the Farm! Age 3-12: $9.63 They host Family Fun Days on the Farm, as well as baby goat snuggles, holiday events and more, where you can interact with goats, sheep, pigs and more. Get notified when there are new posts at Triangle on the Cheap and never miss a deal. We are open to the public for educational guided tours and walkabout self-guided tours in Rockwell, NC (20 mins from Charlotte). The North Carolina Zoo is the largest natural animal habitat zoo in the world. I really hate giving up my local secrets, but here goes for my fave: Another great option is Dan Nicholas Park in Salisbury. You ARE allowed to take pictures during your encounter. 919-244-1800 Aloha Safari Zoo - Cameron. If there are animal lovers in your family, youre in luck, because there are several places in the Triangle where you can visit animals of all kinds. And story time definitely caters to older kids. Get the details on Duke's Lemur Center in, Not many people know that 45 minutes outside of Charlotte there's an endangered wildlife preserve dedicated to the biggest cats in the world. Check. 4720 Bahama Road, Rougemont, NC 27572 Historic Oak View County Park is part of Wake County Parks. Free to visit. This Downtown Loft On Top Of A Food Market In North Carolina Is The Coolest Place To Spend The Night, Adventure Awaits At This Drive-Thru Safari Park In North Carolina, This North Carolina Trail And Park Is One Of The Best Places To View Summer Wildflowers, Here Are The Most Dangerous Animals Roaming The Lands Of North Carolina, Youll Want To Plan A Day Trip To North Carolinas Magical Butterfly House, The One-Of-A-Kind Park In North Carolina Where You Can See Wild Cats Up Close, 10 Amazing Places You Can Go On One Tank Of Gas In North Carolina, A Wildlife Park In North Carolina, Lazy 5 Ranch Is A Fantastic Family Day Trip, Facebook/Shackleford Wild Horse and Shelling Safari. Piedmont Wildlife Center connects the community to wildlife, including raptors, turtles, and reptiles. Instagram Age 3-12: $18 Zootastic Park 4 299 reviews #3 of 5 things to do in Troutman Zoos Open now 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About A visit to Zootastic Park is a trip to the zoo that's both fun and educational. Otherwise, it is small. The zoo has two sections that each focus on one continent: North America (bears, bison, wolves) and Africa (lions, chimpanzees, lemurs, elephants, gorillas). Check. Free for kids under 2. At the Roanoke Island aquarium on the Outer Banks, you can see the largest collection of sharks in our state and touch a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures in the Sea Senses tank. Hux Family Farm is home to goats, sheep, ducks, geese, pigs, horses and rabbits. Extremely friendly pigs? Even when lavender isnt in season, there is plenty to do. Charlotte, NC, 28112. Most seasonal attractions are scheduled to open on April 1, 2023. Charlotte, NC 28216. Get the scoop on this awesome NC animal ranch in, Combine two of your faves into one amazing safari in this Outer Banks excursion to see the wild horses of Corolla. No matter where you vacation on the NC coast, an aquarium is never far away. Age 2 and under: Free. Ready to add some wild to your online life with an Owl Bomb or other virtual animal encounter? Dallas Lavender Lane is a family-owned lavender farm in Gaston County. Learn all about the Bear Safaris at Alligator River from, Or, just sip wine and pet the cute, lovable llamas at Devine Llama Vineyards! 4. Visit the small native animals that call the nature centers home. By subscribing you agree to theterms and conditionsformessaging and mobile givingand to theprivacy policy. Questions? Enjoy! Updates on Facebook. Weve noted any changes in opening status or procedures that we know about. (Who doesn't?) Welcome Spring! We have seasonal events such as Halloween and Christmas activities. We first found out about this place from the tiger cub and baby kangaroo they brought to Birkdale Village in Huntersville. During your encounter, you'll learn interesting facts about the animal from the professionals on staff while enjoying its unique personality traits firsthand. Her love for travel has taken her to many parts of the world. Thank you! Hi, This is a review for zoos in Charlotte, NC: "This is a backyard zoo that outgrew the backyard. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Love North Carolina? OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Spring Haven Farm They offer tours at times that vary greatly. Ready to start planning your family adventure at Zootastic Park in North Carolina? Tours, including a seasonal twilight tour, bring you close to the animals at their most active times. We've done one with a kinkajou and one with the lemurs. 1489 Live Oak Road, Coats, NC 27521 Monday through Saturday- 9am-5pm, please arrive by 4pm. Enjoy the Coral Reef Exhibit, Jellies Exhibit, Tropical Ocean Exhibit, Shipwreck Exhibit, Stingray Bay Exhibit, Seahorse Mangrove Exhibit, Shoaling Exhibit and more. The Zoo features over 50 art pieces that range from wall art, to animal sculptures and paintings that emulate natures diversity. Animal Encounters Drive Thru Rules Summer Camp Membership What People are saying about Zootastic Park! Our write-up on Dallas Lavender Lane. Youll want to buy your ticket in advance, because the farm is limiting the number of people on site, and often sell out, especially the movie nights. Animal Encounters - Reciprocal Zoo - Tiger World Rules; ABOUT . Museum of Live and Science 919-444-8850 Nine different sections make up the zoo, including the African Plains, Aquarium Reptile Complex (ARC), Australian Animals, Birdhouse at Riverbanks, Large Mammals, Lemur Island, Ndoki .