With this week's cold weather, N.C. Zoo slashes admission

With temperatures forecasted to dip below freezing this week, the N.C. Zoo in Asheboro, about 90 minutes from Raleigh, is slashing its admission prices.

Through Jan. 6, visitors get half off admission. Because of the cold weather, many of the African animals, like the elephants, gorillas and lions, will remain in their behind-the-scenes quarters and out of view of guests, according to a press release.

But visitors will still get to see plenty of native animals from North America, who don't mind the cold weather. On view will be the popular polar bears, along with Arctic foxes, seabirds, cougars, elk, bison, black and grizzly bears and red wolves.

Heated habitat complexes also are dotted throughout the zoo so you can warm up. For instance, at the Streamside building, you can see native fish, copperheads, timber, diamondback rattlesnakes, otters and bobcats. The Desert building offers a warm immersive experience among free-flight birds, reptiles, interesting cacti, vampire bats and the adorable sand cats. The Aviary, a domed building, features plants and free-flight exotic birds from the tropics.

Heated transportation is available inside the zoo and is included with the discounted admission. The Iron Hen Express and Junction Café are open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily to serve hot meals. The Carousel and 4-D Theater, however, are closed for the winter season.