WNC Nature Center: The Family Anchor
When it comes to Asheville’s top attractions, the Biltmore Estate, the NC Arboretum, and the Blue Ridge Parkway are frequently cited. However, one of the most beloved attractions is located in the heart of East Asheville near the intersection of Tunnel Road and Swannanoa River Road: the WNC Nature Center. This family-friendly spot has been a staple of the Asheville community for over 100 years, and it’s largely home to native wildlife such as black bears, cougars, river otters, and red wolves. The Center’s history is a testament to Asheville’s longstanding legacy of conservation and wildlife rehabilitation. It is also frequently listed as one of the top things to do with kids in Asheville and a staple of East Asheville family life.
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Ultimate Guide to Living in East Asheville.
Animal Residents of the Nature Center
Open 7 days a week from 10 am to 4:30 pm and 361 days a year (except four major holidays), the Nature Center is managed by the City of Asheville and houses over 60 species of animals. While this list is not exhaustive, it includes highlights like black bears, cougars, bobcats, river otters, and red wolves—all major exhibits at the center. There is even a red panda whose earlier counterpart once lived in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, as evidenced by fossils found at the Gray Archeological Site in TN. Interestingly, WNC’s ecosystem is very similar to the forests of Central Asia, where red pandas live and thrive today. The current red panda duo at the center is Phoenix and Ban Li (BB). The Center’s Reptile exhibit has an impressive variety of snakes, salamanders, a Musk Turtle named Linus, Meatloaf the Hellbender, frogs, and more. Another major highlight is the barnyard area with its Cotswold sheep, chickens, pygmy goats, and Sicilian Donkey.
Exhibitions and Activities at The Nature Center
Animals are just part of the fun at the WNC Nature Center. Children are sure to be delighted with the nature play areas, which include everything from a rope net climbing structure, outdoor musical instruments, fort-building materials, a puppet show booth, a water painting wall, an old restored tractor to perch on, and the list goes on. Another favorite activity sits right at the entrance – gem & fossil mining. Gem and fossil bags can be purchased at the Nature Center Gift Shop.
The History of the WNC Nature Center
With origins dating back to 1925, the WNC Nature Center was originally known as the Recreation Park Zoo. Throughout its history, it has gone by other names such as Craig Park Zoo and Asheville City Zoo. It has previously housed animals ranging from native to non-native species. After nearly closing in the 1970s, the location was incorporated and renamed the WNC Nature Center. The reimagined space could now emphasize education and be committed to native wildlife in the Southern Appalachians. The shift and revitalization into a children’s zoo and education facility was largely driven by members of the Junior League of Asheville, who proposed the model still in use today and played a key role in its overall transformation.
Today, the Nature Center is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums—requiring the highest standards in animal care and welfare—reinforcing its commitment to exceptional and ethical animal care.
Special Events at the Nature Center
The Nature Center’s list of experiences is seemingly endless. For example, each year the Center hosts a “Holiday Critter Check Up” where kids can bring their favorite stuffed animal for a check-up with a volunteer veterinarian. In the spring and fall, there is a “Painting with the Animals” event. Junior Wild Walks allow kids, ages 5-12, to meet an animal ambassador and get a behind-the-scenes look at animal care at the Nature Center. There is also a Wolf Howl event in the fall, along with a Night at the Nature Center.
In recent years, the Nature Center introduced Brews & Bears, an after-hours summer fundraising event on the second Friday every month from May to September, from 5:30-8 pm. The event features black bears Uno and Ursa enjoying popsicle enrichment and a BearWise Education session, all while strolling this amazing park with a Highland beer or Devil’s Foot soda in hand. The nature center also fulfills its mission by offering space for classroom rentals and private events like birthday parties in its Education Center. With incredible exhibits, engaging events, and hands-on educational experiences, the beloved WNC Nature Center is a top cited things to do with kids in Asheville —and kids at heart!