ZooNorth Carolina, US

Greensboro Science Center

Greensboro Science Center is a unique destination offering a zoo, aquarium, and science museum under one roof.

About

Greensboro Science Center is a unique destination offering a zoo, aquarium, and science museum under one roof.

This premier family attraction sparks curiosity and wonder, providing education and entertainment through its diverse exhibits. It's also North Carolina's only facility dually accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), signifying its commitment to high standards in animal care, education, and visitor experiences.

Visitors can explore the Animal Discovery Zoological Park, home to animals like Sumatran tigers, red pandas, okapis, and pygmy hippos, along with the recently expanded Revolution Ridge. The Wiseman Aquarium features charismatic African penguins, playful Asian small-clawed otters, sharks, stingrays, and moon jellies. Inside the museum, guests can journey through Prehistoric Passages: Realm of Dragons, featuring a Komodo dragon and dinosaur models, or engage with interactive exhibits in SciPlay Bay and the OmniSphere Theater.

With its combination of indoor and outdoor attractions, including the SKYWILD treetop adventure park and the Rotary Club of Greensboro Carousel, the Greensboro Science Center offers a full day of engaging activities for all ages. It’s a place where science comes alive through immersive experiences, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and scientific principles. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

The Greensboro Science Center (GSC) was established in 1957 as the Greensboro Junior Museum, born from a community effort led by the Junior League of Greensboro. Over the years, it expanded significantly, evolving from a small nature center into a leading science destination in North Carolina. The facility gained accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums in 1985 and from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in 2008, affirming its dedication to quality and conservation. Major developments include the opening of the SciQuarium (now Wiseman Aquarium) in 2013, the SKYWILD treetop adventure park in 2015, and Revolution Ridge in 2021, the largest addition in its history, further enhancing its diverse offerings.

What to do here

Watch the charismatic African penguins glide through the water and catch their feeding times.

* Experience the hands-on fun at the stingray touch tank.

* Observe the elusive red pandas climbing and the playful meerkats.

* Walk through the Dinosaur Gallery and encounter a Komodo dragon.

* Explore the innovative Revolution Ridge, home to unique species and designed for "Science of Survival."

* Consider a "Behind the Scenes" experience like Penguin Encounter or Zoo Trek for an up-close look at animal care (separate booking/tickets).

* Enjoy a ride on the Rotary Club of Greensboro Carousel.

Seasonal info

Winter Wonderlights: A seasonal holiday-themed light display that runs from November through early January. The GSC closes early during Winter Wonderlights.

Animals may be off-exhibit due to weather conditions.

Accessibility

The GSC is committed to inclusivity, offering accessible parking with reserved spaces for handicap placards. Wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis, and all restrooms are wheelchair-accessible. ADA service animals and those in recognized training programs are welcome and should be checked in at admissions. Sensory backpacks are available for guests with sensory-processing differences, and the GSC hosts "Sensory Friendly Nights" for visitors with sensory-related challenges. Many walkways, including parts of the SKYWILD treehouses, are ADA accessible.

Don't miss

Wiseman Aquarium

Don't miss the African penguins, Asian small-clawed otters, the Shark Reef tank, and the stingray touch tank.

Animal Discovery Zoological Park (Zoo)

Explore Revolution Ridge to see red pandas, okapis, pygmy hippos, cassowaries, and servals. Also, visit the Sumatran tigers, maned wolves, meerkats, and the Friendly Farm for goats and sheep.

Museum

The Prehistoric Passages: Realm of Dragons exhibit, featuring a Komodo dragon and dinosaur models, is a must-see. The OmniSphere Theater offers immersive 2D and 3D shows. SciPlay Bay is great for younger visitors.

SKYWILD

An animal-inspired treetop adventure park with zip-lining, climbing, and balancing challenges, located above the zoo. (Requires additional tickets and minimum age of 8).

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Duck

Canada Goose

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Great Blue Heron

Northern Cardinal

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

White Tailed Deer

Northern Water Snake

Eastern Bluebird

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

The center opens at 9:00 am year-round. Arriving close to opening can help you avoid larger crowds and maximize your visit time.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

With both indoor and outdoor exhibits spread across the campus, you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Check the Daily Schedule

Look for feeding times for animals like penguins and sharks, keeper talks, and OmniSphere Theater showtimes upon arrival to plan your day efficiently.

Consider a Membership or Reciprocity

If you have a membership with another AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium, or an ASTC museum, you might receive discounted or free admission through their reciprocity program. Check before your visit.

Utilize Sensory Resources

If visiting with someone with sensory sensitivities, inquire about sensory backpacks and check for information on Sensory Friendly Nights.

Don't Miss Revolution Ridge

This newer expansion features many unique animals and offers insights into conservation efforts.

Frequently asked questions

: The Greensboro Science Center is unique in North Carolina for combining an accredited zoo, aquarium, and science museum all in one location. Visitors can explore the Animal Discovery Zoological Park, the Wiseman Aquarium, and the museum's interactive exhibits, including the OmniSphere Theater and Prehistoric Passages: Realm of Dragons.
: Yes, the Greensboro Science Center is dedicated to accessibility. It provides accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and a limited number of wheelchairs for loan. ADA service animals are welcome, and sensory backpacks are available. The center also hosts special Sensory Friendly Nights for guests with developmental disabilities or autism.
: Yes, coolers and outside food are welcome at the Greensboro Science Center. For those looking to purchase food, the Meerkat Café is available on-site, along with vending machines.