Animal museums in North Carolina

Each of the three North Carolina Aquariums offers a variety of interactive experiences, including dive shows, live animal encounters, and feeding programs. These activities provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about aquatic life in an engaging and hands-on way.

The Duke Lemur Center, located at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, is an 85-acre sanctuary for rare and endangered strepsirrhine primates. It holds the distinction of being the largest sanctuary for these primates in the world.

The North Carolina Zoo is strategically located approximately 100 kilometers west of Raleigh and 100 kilometers northeast of Charlotte. This central location in the state makes it easily accessible for visitors from both cities and beyond.

Discovery Place Science is a science and technology museum situated in Uptown, Charlotte, North Carolina. It offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that cater to all ages, making it a great destination for families, school groups, or anyone with a curiosity for science and technology.

The Museum of Life and Science, which was previously known as the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science and the NC Children's Museum, is a large science museum located in Durham, North Carolina. The museum spans an impressive 84 acres and offers a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.

Carolina Tiger Rescue, located in Pittsboro, North Carolina, is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and protection of wildcats. The sanctuary is home to a variety of rescued animals including tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, caracals, servals, bobcats, and other wild species. The organization is committed to the preservation and protection of these animals, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is dedicated to educating visitors about the waters of the Cape Fear region. Recognized as one of the Best Aquariums in the United States by the Travel Channel, it offers a variety of exhibits and programs that highlight the diverse aquatic life and ecosystems of the region.

Currently, Kaleideum operates two locations, providing a variety of experiences for visitors. Kaleideum Downtown, formerly known as The Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, and Kaleideum North, previously SciWorks, each offer unique exhibits and programs. This allows visitors to choose the location that best suits their interests or even visit both to get the full Kaleideum experience.

The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, located at 814 Market Street in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, is the oldest history museum in the state, having been founded in 1898. This museum is a testament to the rich history and scientific discoveries of the region, making it a significant destination for those interested in learning more about North Carolina's past.

Tregembo Animal Park, located in Wilmington, North Carolina, has a rich history dating back to 1952. Originally known as the Tote-Em-In Zoo, it was founded by George and June Tregembo. The park underwent a name change in 2004, becoming the Tregembo Animal Park we know today.

Have a look and learn how it was when people had to be self-sufficient. Also there is a raptor center on the way to the Plantation.

The Greensboro Science Center, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a unique combination of a science museum and a zoological park. Established in 1957, the center has been a hub for scientific exploration and animal encounters for over six decades. Whether you're interested in learning about the natural world or getting up close with a variety of animals, the Greensboro Science Center offers a diverse range of experiences.

The North Carolina Aquariums is a network of three public aquariums situated in Kure Beach, Roanoke Island, and Pine Knoll Shores. These aquariums have been managed by the Aquariums Division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources since 1976. Each location offers unique exhibits and programs, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the state's diverse aquatic ecosystems.

The Neuseway Nature Center and Planetarium houses a 52-seat planetarium, along with permanent exhibits that focus on public health, courtesy of Lenoir Memorial Hospital. Additionally, it features an exhibit of space memorabilia, donated by a former NASA engineer. These exhibits provide a comprehensive understanding of health and space exploration.

The Aurora Fossil Museum, located in Aurora, North Carolina, is a natural science museum. It is a place where visitors can explore the fascinating world of fossils and learn about the geological history of the area. The museum's collection is built around fossils recovered from the nearby phosphate mine and includes specimens from around the world.

The Textile Heritage Museum, situated in Glencoe, North Carolina, is a history museum that provides a deep dive into the textile industry and the life in mill towns in North Carolina and the American south. This museum offers a unique opportunity to understand the historical context and significance of the textile industry in the region.

Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve is a state park located in Moore County, North Carolina. It spans across 915 acres in the Sandhills region of the state. This region is known for its unconsolidated sand, which is part of the Quaternary Pinehurst Formation. This sand is believed to have been blown by the wind and mobilized episodically from approximately 75,000 to 6,000 years ago.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS) is a significant institution located in Raleigh, North Carolina. As the oldest museum in the state, it holds a rich history and a vast collection of exhibits. The museum is a division of the State Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, further emphasizing its importance in preserving and showcasing the state's natural and cultural heritage.

The Western North Carolina Nature Center, a 42-acre zoological park, is managed by the City of Asheville's Parks and Recreation department. This expansive park offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. It's a great place to learn about the local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord is an interactive aquarium situated in Concord Mills, Concord, North Carolina, a suburb of Charlotte. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. The aquarium offers a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to interact with a variety of aquatic creatures.

Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary is a unique destination in Charlotte, North Carolina. It serves as a habitat for a variety of birds and wildlife, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature. The sanctuary is a peaceful retreat from the city, where one can enjoy the beauty of the gardens and the company of the local wildlife.

Find out about estuaries and what makes them a special part of the environment. Plus fascinating sculpture in the lobby!

From the petting zoo for the little ones to the viewing areas e.g. with wolves. You can appreciate that animals look well cared for.

Clemmons Educational State Forest (CESF) is a significant natural attraction located in Clayton, North Carolina. Spanning over 825 acres, this state forest is managed by the North Carolina Forest Service. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

The Museum of Coastal Carolina is a natural history museum situated in the beautiful locale of Ocean Isle Beach in Brunswick County, North Carolina. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural history of the region, making it an interesting destination for tourists who are interested in nature and history.

All about the wild mustangs of Corolla in this old schoolhouse. Everybody pashionate about horses should pay a visit!

Fantastic nature museum that covers all time periods from Jurrasic to the present. Check it out with the kids!