Family & Learning · Huntersville
Carolina Raptor Center
A three-quarter-mile Raptor Trail with more than 30 birds of prey, inside Latta Nature Preserve.
What it is
The Raptor Trail is a zoo devoted to birds of prey; daily programs include keeper chats and flight demonstrations. It also runs seasonal events such as Owl-o-ween and Birds & Brews.
The center offers free general admission to Tribal nation members and reduced or free admission through Museums for All for SNAP/WIC cardholders.
Before you go
- Admission is charged; the center posts closure dates in advance.
- Parking is free; picnic tables are first come, first served.
Planning your visit
Admission or registration is required. The operator sets prices, discounts, timed entry and closure dates, and these change; check the operator’s own information before you go rather than relying on any figure you have seen elsewhere.
We have not independently verified accessibility features such as step-free routes, accessible restrooms or parking unless they are listed under confirmed features. Contact the operator for specifics before your visit.
Planning a family outing
Family destinations in Huntersville cluster in two places: downtown, home to Discovery Place Kids, and Sample Road in Latta Nature Preserve, where Quest and the Carolina Raptor Center sit close together.
Admission, timed entry and daily programs are set by each operator. Check before you go, and pair a stop with a nearby park or lunch to make a half day of it.
Upcoming here
- Birds & Brews — Sat, Nov 7
- Thanksgiving with the Raptors — Fri, Nov 27
Plans & guides that include it
More family & learning
Explore nearby
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Latta Place
A 16-acre county historic site inside Latta Nature Preserve, closed to regular visits since 2021.
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Latta Nature Preserve
A large county preserve on Mountain Island Lake with more than 16 miles of trails.
Family & Learning · Huntersville
Quest
A free county nature center just inside the Latta Nature Preserve gate.
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Hugh Torance House and Store
A c.1779 homesite and what the site describes as North Carolina’s oldest surviving store.
