NC Zoo ... or ... Walking on the Wild Side ... .

Yesterday's post covered parks in general, and in the coming days I will zero in on some specific ones that my family has particularity enjoyed. This time I would like to highlight one of our favorite places, The NC Zoo!

First, I should start by saying I am NC born and raised, and the only zoo I have ever been to is the NC Zoo.  I have no comparison from other zoos in other states, so I can not say if our zoo is better, worse or the same as any other. However, I am a proud North Carolinian and I think our zoo is fantastic!

Located in the foothills of the Uwharrie Mountains, very near the of city of Asheboro, the NC Zoo has 500 acres of beautiful landscaped habitats for visitors to explore and enjoy. Divided into African and North American Continents, 5 miles of shaded walkways take you to see more than 1,600 animals and 52.000 varieties of plant life. Each habitat, whether outdoor or indoor,  is specially created to give the animals a homey and safe place to live and thrive.

If the 5 miles of trails sounds daunting there is a tram and shuttles that run every 30 minutes during the summer hours carrying people from on side of the park to the other.Our kids always loved the tram because as home schooled kids it was the only time they got to ride a bus! :-)

In addition to animals and plants, there are activities for the whole family to enjoy including a playground, hands on KidZone, and special 4D movie viewings throughout the year. Rangers and volunteers are available at many of the habitats to answer your questions, and if your lucky, you might even get to see them feed the sea lions! Also, the zoo is full of Art sculptures that the kids are allowed to play on and make perfect photo opportunities. If its a hot day check the surfaces to make sure they won't get burned, and then let them climb and play.

Some ways to make the most of your visit? Go online and print off a map of the zoo, and have your kids choose the 5 animals they most want to try to see. That way you can make sure you see them first, and then back track if you still have the every and time to see more. Create a scavenger hunt or zoo bingo for your kids to mark off as you go through the zoo. If  they have their own phones, have them take pictures and compile a collage or slide show when you get home. Find out what animals your kids want to read more about and head to the library so they can research on their own, watch a DVD and create a lap-book and you have an instant unit study.

One thing we also do is try to get a little something from the gift shop that represents our favorite part of the zoo that day, if you budget is really tight, skip the gift shop completely and use your photos to create a memory.  And don't forget to ask them what their favorite part of the day was as you ride home. You might be surprised at what they remember. Also, don't try to see everything in the zoo in one day. If you live close enough to make several trips focus on one continent per visit, or go on a rainy day and explore all the inside exhibits, or go and focus on the variety of plant life you see.

Schools and Groups! Schools and groups can get free or reduced admission. Policy's can change so check out the website or give the zoo a call to  find out criteria for free admission or group rates. http://www.nczoo.org/

So, are you ready??  Rain or Shine, Warm weather or Cold, Young, Old and In Between,  the Zoo is a fantastic place for a grand adventure! Why not plan a visit today, put on your  walking shoes, wear comfy clothes and get ready to enjoy a "walk on the wild side", the animals are waiting for you, so what are you waiting for??