Cherokee Bear Zoo: A Wild Adventure in the Heart of North Carolina
Discover the wonders of wildlife at Cherokee Bear Zoo, where unforgettable animal encounters await in beautiful North Carolina.
Nestled in the scenic beauty of Cherokee, North Carolina, the Cherokee Bear Zoo offers an intimate experience with wildlife. Visitors can encounter bears, exotic animals, and enjoy engaging exhibits perfect for a family outing.
A brief summary to Cherokee Bear Zoo
- 1204 Tsalagi Rd, Cherokee, North Carolina, 28719, US
- +1828-497-4525
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and better chances to see the animals active.
- Check the zoo's schedule for special animal feeding times for a unique experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful moments with the animals, but be respectful of their space.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through various exhibits.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions in Cherokee to make a full day of adventure.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance at Cherokee. Head east on Newfound Gap Road (US-441) and follow the signs for Cherokee. After approximately 10 miles, turn left onto Tsalagi Road. Cherokee Bear Zoo will be on your right at 1204 Tsalagi Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719. There is no toll for this route.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a regional bus service that operates in the area, such as the Smoky Mountain Transit. You will need to check their schedule for routes heading towards Cherokee. The bus will likely drop you off near the main street in Cherokee. From there, you can either walk or take a local taxi service to reach Cherokee Bear Zoo at 1204 Tsalagi Rd, which is about a 1-mile walk. Be sure to check the bus fare before boarding.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you're in the vicinity of Cherokee but prefer a more direct route, you can opt for a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input the address '1204 Tsalagi Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719' into the app. Fares will vary based on your starting location, so check your app for an estimated cost before confirming your ride.
Discover more about Cherokee Bear Zoo
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Oconaluftee Island Park
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Cherokee Welcome Center
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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