Animals & farms · zoo aquarium

WNC Nature Center

Small zoo focusing on Appalachian wildlife with interactive exhibits, a playground, and educational programs.

4.7 (4279 Google reviews)$$Ages 1–12Outdoor
  • animals
  • toddler friendly
  • educational

75 Gashes Crk Rd, Asheville, NC 28805, USA

What locals say

Insider tip 📍 Western North Carolina Nature Center

Visit on rainy days; it is less crowded and animals are often more active due to the lack of noise and fresh scents.

“It’s less crowded and often the animals are a little more active due to the lack of loud children”

Overheard on r/asheville · 80 upvotes

Insider tip all 📍 WNC Nature Center

Rainy days are great for visiting; animals are often more active, crowds are thinner, and the reptile house provides indoor shelter.

“I actually prefer it, the animals are more likely to be out and about if the sun isn't beaming down.”

Overheard on r/asheville · 15 upvotes

Insider tip under 3 📍 WNC Nature Center

Great for toddlers; annual pass is $79 for two adults and children under 3 are free.

“Nature center is a frequent go-to and worth the pass ($79 annual pass for two adults and children < 3 are free).”

Overheard on r/asheville · 5 upvotes

Insider tip toddler 📍 Western North Carolina Nature Center

Get a family membership; it is a hit with toddlers.

“get a family membership to the nature center. My toddler loves it.”

Overheard on r/asheville · 3 upvotes

Insider tip 📍 Western North Carolina Nature Center

Great local spot for frequent visits; consider getting an annual pass if you plan to go often.

“We have passes to the nature center so we visit often and love it.”

Overheard on r/asheville · 1 upvotes

all 📍 WNC Nature Center

The reptile house is the best indoor spot to retreat to if the rain becomes too heavy.

“They have a really great reptile house that’s indoors”

Overheard on r/asheville · 19 upvotes

📍 WNC Nature Center

A reliable, kid-friendly destination for viewing local wildlife.

“The WNC Nature Center is usually good for kids.”

Overheard on r/asheville · 9 upvotes

1.5-3.5 📍 WNC Nature Center

Great outdoor spot for toddlers to see animals; highly recommended for families.

“WNC Nature Center”

Overheard on r/asheville · 7 upvotes

📍 YMCA of Western North Carolina

Offers pool party rentals; check the specific aquatics center rental page for details.

“I think the YMCAs do this too”

Overheard on r/asheville · 5 upvotes

all 📍 WNC Nature Center

Bring rain gear to fully enjoy the outdoor exhibits; the experience is pleasant even in light rain.

“Got rain gear? It will be great!”

Overheard on r/asheville · 4 upvotes

📍 Nature Center

Consider the Nature Center for an outdoor-focused party.

“Nature Center”

Overheard on r/asheville · 3 upvotes

13 📍 WNC Nature Center

A solid option for a group outing if the birthday girl enjoys animals and nature.

“WNC Nature Center”

Overheard on r/asheville · 3 upvotes

📍 WNC Nature Center

Great for kids and animal-loving adults, provided the weather is nice.

“Weather permitting, the WNC Nature Center is great for kids”

Overheard on r/asheville · 3 upvotes

📍 WNC Nature Center

A popular local attraction for families.

“Wnc nature center!”

Overheard on r/asheville · 2 upvotes

📍 North Carolina Arboretum

Visit the troll sculptures on display at the Arboretum.

“You could go see the trolls at the Arboretum!”

Overheard on r/asheville · 2 upvotes

📍 WNC Nature Center

A recommended destination for families with young children.

“WNC Nature Center is good place to take kids.”

Overheard on r/asheville · 1 upvotes

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