Need a Reset? Plan a Day Trip to the North Carolina Zoo

Sometimes we think we need a beach vacation, a trip to the mountains, or a week completely off the grid to recharge and lift our mood. While those trips can be amazing, the truth is that a simple change of scenery can do more for you than you might expect.

Don't get me wrong, I love a good vacay. But sometimes I need a vacation from the vacation, ya know?

A day trip. A walk through a new town. A visit to a coffee shop you've never tried before.

These little adventures can do a lot for your mindset because they give us something many of us don't realize we're missing: a break from our routine. They also give us something to look forward to, and sometimes that's all it takes to lift your mood during a busy week.

Our pick: The North Carolina Zoo

If you're looking for an easy adventure, we've got the perfect suggestion.

The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is an easy day trip from both the Triangle and the Triad, making it a great excuse to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors.

Fun fact: It's the world's largest natural habitat zoo, spanning more than 2,800 acres with over five miles of walking trails.

I hadn't been to the zoo in years, and I forgot just how great it is. We spent the day wandering through the exhibits, taking our time, and just enjoying being outside. It really felt like a mini getaway without the stress of packing for a week-long trip.

Easy Tips for a Great Summer Visit

Start early. Beat the summer heat and the biggest crowds. Plus, many of the animals are more active in the morning before they are looking for the shade.

Dress for comfort. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle will make the day much more enjoyable, trust me on this one.

Pack a picnic and save a little money. The zoo has public picnic areas just outside the entrances, so you can enjoy your own lunch before heading back inside to continue exploring. If you'd rather eat inside the zoo, no problem. There are plenty of restaurants and snack stops inside the park.

Standouts from the Day

It's hard to pick a favorite part of the day, but I absolutely loved seeing the sand cats. They're tiny, adorable, and I wanted to take one home with me lol. The elephants came in a close second.  Who doesn’t love an elephant?!

I'm already looking forward to another visit once the new Asia region opens. Construction is well underway, and it will bring even more incredible animals and experiences to the zoo.

A Mini Vacation Close to Home

By the end of the day, we felt like we'd been on a mini vacay, but we were back home that evening, and yes... I still got to sleep in my own bed.

Sometimes that's the best kind of getaway.

If you make it to the North Carolina Zoo this summer, let us know your favorite animal.  We'd love to hear what made your day memorable!

Back to the Blog