Zoo City Den

06/09/2026

This sign is one I wish the zoo didn’t need 😕

As someone who has worked at the North Carolina Zoo for more than 20 years, I know how often staff respond to calls about dogs left in hot cars during the summer. Most people don’t have bad intentions. they just underestimate how quickly a vehicle can become dangerous for a pet ‼️☀️

Every time I walk past this sign, I’m reminded why being dog-friendly was so important to me when we created Zoo City Den!

I never want guests to have to choose between visiting the North Carolina Zoo and bringing their dog on vacation. While you’re spending the day exploring the zoo, your pup can stay cool, comfortable, and safe back at the house.

Because our dogs are family too ❤️🐾

If you’re planning a zoo trip this summer, please make a plan for your pets before you arrive 🦓🏡🦒

Have you ever seen a dog left in a hot car?

📍 Zoo City Den
🐶 Dog Friendly
🚗 Just minutes from the North Carolina Zoo

06/06/2026

Join us at the Zoo on Saturday, June 13th from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. for Deaf Culture Awareness Day! We hope to see you there! ☺️

ASL Keeper Talks Schedule (Each talk will be appx. 15 mins):
10:00 a.m. Polar Bear
10:45 a.m. Red Wolf
11:30 a.m. Desert
1:00 p.m. Gorilla
1:45 p.m. Chimp
2:30 p.m. Elephant

Inclusive Features:
- ASL interpreters at select programs
- Interpreted keeper talks
- Visual program guides available

This event is included with zoo admission.

https://www.nczoo.org/events/deaf-awareness-day

06/04/2026

05/31/2026

🦒 Story Time at Zoo City Den 🐘

Hi, I’m Kelly 🙋🏻‍♀️ the former zookeeper behind Zoo City Den.

For 13 years, I cared for animals at the North Carolina Zoo, helping guests connect with wildlife and create memories that would last long after their visit.

When I left zookeeping, I knew one thing for certain: I still wanted to help families create meaningful experiences 🫶🏻🐘

That’s how Zoo City Den was born 🦒🏡🦓

Located just minutes from the North Carolina Zoo, Zoo City Den is more than an Airbnb. It’s a place created by someone who genuinely loves this community, this zoo, and the families who travel here to experience it.

This page is where I share zoo tips, local favorites, behind-the-scenes stories from my years as a keeper, family travel ideas, and hosting adventures ✨

Whether you’re planning a zoo trip, looking for your next getaway, or simply love animals, you’re in the right place.

When you follow Zoo City Den, you’re not just following a vacation rental - You’re following a former zookeeper who still believes the best memories begin with a little curiosity, a little adventure, and a lot of heart 💗

05/28/2026

A family heads to Asheboro, North Carolina, explores the sights, sounds, and sweet nostalgia of the world's largest natural habitat zoo.

05/25/2026

Wild spaces, family time, and the freedoms we cherish wouldn’t be possible without the sacrifices of so many.

Remembering and honoring our heroes this Memorial Day 🇺🇸