Asheville – As part of its centennial celebration, the WNC Nature Center announced that May 30, 2025, will be officially recognized as WNC Nature Center Day. This proclamation, made by Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer, commemorates the opening of Recreation Park Zoo in 1925 and acknowledges the Nature Center’s significant contributions to conservation and biodiversity in the Southern Appalachian region.
Celebration Highlights
On the centennial anniversary, the Nature Center plans to host a full day of activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. “We are so grateful to be marking a century of inspiring visitors to foster a deep connection with wildlife,” said Chris Gentile, Director of the Nature Center. He emphasized that this celebration is a tribute to both the wildlife park and the community that has supported it for 100 years.
The day will feature several special offerings, including free admission for the first 100 non-member adults and children, thanks to community partners. The Duke Energy Foundation sponsored 100 free adult tickets, while The Junior League of Asheville provided 100 free children’s tickets. Gates will open at 10 a.m., allowing early attendees to take advantage of these offers.
In addition to free admission, members of the Friends of the WNC Nature Center will receive a complimentary native seed packet at the Membership Office, encouraging them to grow their own wild plants at home. The celebration will also unveil a new mural and a history panel detailing the Nature Center’s past, marking one of twelve panels that will be revealed throughout the year.
Families can participate in a unique BINGO game by picking up cards at the Front Ticket Office or Membership Office, allowing them to explore the park in an interactive way. Starting at 11 a.m., volunteer docents will be stationed throughout the park to provide insights into the animals and conservation efforts.
Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to symbolically adopt animals that represent the zoo’s history, such as elephants and lions. This adoption program will include a 15 percent discount on May 30, with proceeds supporting the animals currently residing at the Nature Center.
Community Impact and Legacy
The WNC Nature Center has played a vital role in connecting people with the natural world since its inception as Recreation Park Zoo in 1925. Over its century-long history, it has evolved into a significant conservation organization. The Friends of the WNC Nature Center, established in 1975, has been instrumental in supporting its mission through fundraising and educational outreach.
Gentile noted, “This once-in-a-century celebration is a tribute to the wild heart of Asheville.” The Nature Center not only serves as a wildlife park but also as an educational resource for understanding and preserving the unique biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
The WNC Nature Center is located at 75 Gashes Creek Road in Asheville, North Carolina, and operates daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to check www.wildwnc.org for directions, especially following recent disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene.