Summer Trip Tips
Parking and Park Entry
The North Carolina Zoo has two entrances and parking lots: North America and Africa. Admissions/ticket sales for Park entry are open 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day during the summer season. Please note the Zoo closes at 5:00 p.m., and last entry is at 4:00 p.m.
Rentals
Rental strollers and wheelchairs are available at the Earth Explorer and Safari gift shops located just inside the North America and Africa entrance gates.
Transportation
Free transportation is available inside the Park between our North America, Junction Plaza, and Africa tram stops throughout the summer season and run approximately every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on visitation. We also operate a free shuttle service from parking lot to parking lot from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Strollers and wagons must be empty and folded prior to boarding the shuttle.
Seeing the Animals
Our animals may seek shaded areas during extreme heat and may not be as visible to our guests during this time. We suggest arriving early before temperatures rise. The Zoo's transportation system takes you to each tram stop, but most animals are not visible from the tram.
Experiences
All of the Zoo's seasonal attractions are open during the summer months, depending on the weather. Kidzone and Garden Friends playground are open year-round, but check
Dress Appropriately
We are a walking Zoo, so we recommend wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes and staying hydrated! We strongly encourage guests to bring a refillable water bottle—the Zoo has water fountains located throughout the Park to refill your bottle. Bottled water is permitted inside the Zoo.
Keep Cool
Walk at an easy pace, rest often, and drink plenty of water. Look for our misting stations throughout the park. Misting stations are available in four locations:
- Kidzone (North America)
- Near Polar Bear (North America)
- Treehouse Trek (Africa)
- Near Elephant (Africa)
Water refill stations are available in four locations:
- Wild Burger Cafe (North America)
- Near the Black Bear habitat (North America)
- Prairie Outpost (North America)
- Near Watani Grasslands (Africa)