

On weekends, the Zoo may experience high attendance. For your safety and guest experience, the Zoo may need to limit parking once the lots are full. We typically reopen the parking lots once guests start leaving and spaces open. Check on our social media or website for up-to-date information on parking status. Read our tips for visiting.
We are overjoyed to announce the arrival of our giraffe calf! The Zoo’s giraffe Leia gave birth to her calf—already about six feet tall—on Saturday, May 20. Leia and the calf are doing very well and will remain behind the scenes to continue to bond.
Follow us on social for updates on the new calf!
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Weather Permitting
Additional Fee $5 per person
Heads up! On the Giraffe Deck, you'll be able to get eye-to-eye with these long-legged giants, an experience you'll never forget. The deck has a beautiful treetop view looking downward on the habitat, so it's a great place for group photos and for viewing our herd of giraffes. The Acacia Station Giraffe Deck is listed as "View 4" on the Park Map. The giraffes may also be visible from three other free viewing areas labeled as View 1, 2 and 3. Views 1 and 2 provide an upward view of the habitat and are closest to the Africa Entrance.
Please note: When the ground is wet, the giraffes will not be in their habitat for their safety. Giraffes also move about their habitat and may not be near the Acacia Station Giraffe Deck. Tickets can be purchased at the Giraffe Deck only.
Why are the Giraffe not out today?
There are a number of reasons the giraffe may not be on habitat; the most common reason is turf conditions. If the ground is wet or muddy there is a danger of the giraffe slipping and falling. The habitat may be closed for maintenance or if temperatures are below 45 degrees.
I don't plan on feeding the giraffe why do I have to pay?
Acacia Station is a giraffe viewing deck and the charge of $5 per person is for access to the deck. Feeding is optional for you and the giraffes and is not guaranteed.
If the giraffe leave the deck viewing/feeding area how soon will they be back?
Sometimes our giraffe choose to walk away from the deck. On average we have observed that they usually return within 15-20 minutes in those cases.
Select from many unique behind-the-scenes tours of our animal habitats with the North Carolina Zoo Society! Choose a tour of up to 4 hours where you can have close animal encounters with species from all over the world. Discover a wide range of animal habitats with our zoo tours. Furthermore, you can even partake in an exclusive animal experience through our VIP tours where you can get up close and personal with some of our most popular animals.