The WNC Nature Center celebrating 100 years with new interactive exhibits.
The WNC Nature Center in Asheville is preparing for its 100th anniversary in 2025 with exciting renovations and new exhibits. Originally opened as a zoo in 1925, the center has evolved to focus on education about the Southern Appalachian ecosystem. Upcoming projects include a new interactive exhibit, changes to existing animal habitats, and a grand reopening in spring 2024, aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while emphasizing wildlife conservation.
Asheville residents and visitors can look forward to a time of celebration as the WNC Nature Center gears up for its centennial milestone in 2025. Originally opened as the Recreation Park Zoo in 1925, this beloved local attraction has come a long way over the past century, evolving from a simple zoo to an educational resource focusing on the environment and wildlife of Southern Appalachia.
The Recreation Park Zoo first opened its gates on May 30, 1925, welcoming the community to see a variety of animals, including black bears, deer, and even an elephant! However, history took a significant turn during World War II when the zoo had to close its doors and sell off its animals in 1943. After a long wait, the zoo finally reopened in 1959, but it was clear that changes were needed.
By the early 1970s, the zoo faced serious challenges once again. The USDA suggested closing it due to poor conditions, prompting a monumental shift driven by the Junior League of Asheville. This led to the creation of the Nature Society in 1975, which is now known as the Friends of the WNC Nature Center. This organization played a pivotal role in steering the zoo towards its current mission of educating the community about the rich ecology of the Southern Appalachians.
In anticipation of its centennial, the WNC Nature Center is undergoing some exciting renovations that are set to transform the experience for guests. Among the most significant changes is the new Gateway to the Southern Appalachians project. This innovative exhibit is set to include a 75-foot timeline chronicling the center’s storied history, showcasing all the highs and lows over the last century.
While the center is currently closed due to storm impacts, plans are in motion for a grand reopening in spring 2024, leading into the summer when the new exhibit will be unveiled. During the closure, the center has been keeping busy by hosting small events and members-only walk-throughs, ensuring that the community stays engaged and excited.
With the implementation of a new $1.7 million exhibit, the WNC Nature Center is saying goodbye to the old elephant house, which once housed a beloved elephant named Henrietta until her passing in 1982. Although it holds a piece of the center’s past, the space will be transformed into an area for more interactive features, including a butterfly garden and a new plaza for guests to enjoy.
The center aims to enhance the overall experience for visitors by providing new areas for goats and sheep, allowing them to access a hillside and improve the farmyard experience. Additionally, future projects are in place for redesigning the coyote exhibit, creating a butterfly gallery, and upgrading the gift shop and domestic animal spaces.
The WNC Nature Center continues to thrive, welcoming nearly 200,000 guests in 2023, a record year! With ongoing construction and renovations, the center is anticipating even more visitors in the coming seasons as it gears up for celebrations of its significant milestones.
In the past year alone, the center has seen remarkable growth, with 19 animals of seven species born or relocated, including critically endangered red wolf pups and adorable bobcat kittens. This highlights the center’s commitment to wildlife conservation and education, all while remaining a welcoming space for both permanent and temporary animal residents.
As the director emphasizes the center’s ongoing growth, it’s clear that the support of the community plays a crucial role in its success. As the WNC Nature Center approaches its next exciting chapter, it invites everyone to join in the celebration, learn more about the natural world, and explore the beauty of the Southern Appalachians.
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