3 places to see animals in NC

My oldest questioned me recently about returning to the zoo. The last time we visited was at the start of 2021. I know there are differing opinions about zoos and the intention behind this article isn't to change yours.

Both of my daughters love animals. They always have. And if there's an animal park around of any kind, they want to be there! Below are a few N.C. places we've visited and feel are worth telling you about.

This is a 3.5 mile drive-through zoo featuring more than 750 domestic and exotic animals from six continents. There are animals such as elk, ostriches, giraffes, cattle, zebras, camels and potbellied pigs.

You'll be mind-blown by the variety. We couldn't believe this place is just under two hours from us but we'd never heard of it!

Driving through the gates is an experience in itself. Watch the video below to witness our excitement. It's our most popular vlog to date.

Under normal circumstances, Lazy 5 Ranch has petting areas and wagon rides available. Our visit was back in the summer of 2020 so I'm unsure of current policy changes.

Also important to note: The park is closed yearly during the early part of February. For instance... Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, is the last day to visit for a few weeks. During this time, animals are getting yearly tests and vaccinations. Other maintenance is being conducted as well.

This is an endangered wildlife preserve committed to rescuing, rehabilitating and preserving the lives of exotic animals. There are African, Asian, Australian, and North and South American animals on the premises.

We were definitely intrigued watching the animals but witnessing staff members interact with them was a treat as well. Any questions from visitors were also acknowledged and addressed.

If you'd like to watch my family's visit, it's recorded in two parts:

From the zoo to a bird park, 5 places to see animals right now in North Carolina

This is the world's largest natural habitat zoo. More than 1800 animals call this place home. Land and marine life can be found here.

We've gone many times and always see something new. It's easy to spend the entire day there. During our last visit, February 2021, that's exactly what we did. A staff member actually had to tell us the park was closed!

At that time, appointments were required to enter. The zoo did its best to make social distancing a priority. According to the website today, appointments are no longer necessary but face masks are. If you have additional questions, I'd suggest calling to speak with someone directly: 800-488-0444

See what our last visit was like in the video embedded below: