NC Zoo Now an Accredited Botanical Garden: What It Means for Visitors

Tips for Your Trip

• Best Seasons to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, summer for lush garden displays, and fall for seasonal colors.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The zoo has many family attractions, including a carousel, Giraffe Deck, Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden, and Treehouse Trek. They also have an Air Hike Ropes Course and Zoofari.  Your zoo admission includes the Garden Friends Playground, Kidzone, and 5 different hiking trails with various lengths and difficulty levels. 
• Photography Spots: There are perfect photo opportunities that capture North Carolina’s natural beauty throughout the entirety of the zoo.​
  

The North Carolina Zoo has long been celebrated as one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world, attracting visitors with its remarkable wildlife exhibits and strong commitment to conservation. Now, there’s even more to appreciate! The NC Zoo has recently earned accreditation as an official botanical garden, making it an exciting destination not only for animal lovers but also for nature and plant enthusiasts. This new designation enriches the zoo experience, adding a new dimension to its conservation mission and offering visitors unique botanical displays alongside its animal habitats.

​What Botanical Garden Accreditation Means
Botanical garden accreditation recognizes an institution’s dedication to plant conservation, education, and environmental stewardship, following standards set by Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI). To achieve this, the NC Zoo has strengthened its commitment to biodiversity and environmental education, including initiatives focused on the conservation of native plants and local ecosystems. This designation signifies the zoo’s expanding efforts to highlight and protect plant species as an integral part of North Carolina’s natural heritage.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience
With its new botanical status, the NC Zoo provides more ways for visitors to connect with nature. The zoo currently showcases an impressive array of plant species, including native flora and curated gardens that complement its animal exhibits. Botanical displays include a range of plant life, such as cacti to and shrubs native to the Southeast. This variety allows guests to enjoy the beauty and diversity of the plant kingdom while learning about its role in the ecosystem.

For families, the botanical garden features offer engaging opportunities for children to connect with the natural world, complementing the zoo’s animal exhibits. These areas aim to inspire a lifelong interest in nature and conservation, enriching the overall experience for visitors of all ages.  

How to Make the Most of Your Botanical Garden Visit
To fully enjoy the NC Zoo’s botanical offerings, plan your visit to align with the seasonal highlights. Spring and summer are ideal for vibrant blooms and lush plant displays, while autumn brings the beauty of fall foliage and late-blooming flowers. Bring along a camera to capture the scenic gardens, and keep an eye out for upcoming tours or special events that provide insights into the zoo’s conservation work.
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Families can plan a full day exploring both the animal exhibits and botanical areas, making the visit educational and enriching. Be sure to check the zoo’s calendar in advance for any special events, such as gardening workshops or seasonal plant displays, to maximize your experience.

The NC Zoo’s accreditation as a botanical garden is an exciting development, enhancing its appeal for visitors of all ages. By integrating plant conservation with its renowned animal exhibits, the NC Zoo now serves as a leader in preserving North Carolina’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Plan your visit today to experience the unique combination of animal and botanical displays in one extraordinary location. Whether you're marveling at the animals or exploring the diversity of native plants, the NC Zoo offers a meaningful reminder of the importance of conservation, education, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
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