Family travel has taken us to the North Carolina Zoo many times but this was our first during the pandemic. As usual, we did our research & hit the road prepared. This is our routine for every trip but travel during this time requires leveling-up precautions. Listed below is information to better help you plan your own visit.

Know Before You Go…

-Reservations are encouraged (A limited number of people are allowed inside daily to ensure social distancing)

-Walk-ups welcomed but you’ll only get in if capacity has NOT been reached

-Special passes still need a reservation

-Masks/Face coverings are mandatory for ages 5+

-Parking & entering at the North America gate ONLY

-No re-entry allowed (Have everything you need before leaving your vehicle)

-If bringing food, you can eat at the Solar Pointe Picnic area

-Have your own bottled water for convenience (you’ll need it no matter the weather)

-Junction Plaza has food for purchase (In my opinion, prices are expensive. I suggest packing your own. For instance, we payed $15 for 3 plain pretzels & they did not come with sauce. We were not happy.)

-Places serving food only have outdoor seating available

-One-way free tram service

-One-way guest traffic flow where possible (arrows/signs keep everyone moving fluidly)

-Hand sanitizing stations are plentiful & convenient

-Many indoor habitats are currently closed

-Restrooms are available in various locations

-There are benches to rest along the way

-Wear comfy shoes (A LOT of walking required so bring a stroller/child carrier backpack for little ones, or wheelchair if applicable)

-Pack ponchos or small umbrellas that fit in your backpack (Always check the weather beforehand!)

-Dress weather appropriate (Have gloves, hats, earmuffs, & thick socks if visiting in winter. Remember, everything is outside.)

Overall…

We had no problems with any of the changes. It was an amazing experience visiting with less people. To give you an idea… we arrived right after the opening & a staff member had to let us know the zoo had already closed. LOL! We were there almost 8 hours.

To say we took our time is an understatement.

It was a relief to actually see the animals clearly & observe them. There are usually so many people, we have to fight to get a good look. This visit was the most enjoyable of any prior & we appreciated the precautions taken.

Visit the website for any additional information & feel free to call the zoo for clarity.

Be sure to come back for more posts as we #VisitNC & make our way to other places. For additional in & out-of-state adventures, head to this page.

The North Carolina Zoo

4401 Zoo Parkway

Asheboro, NC 27205

tel:800.488.0444