Tuckasegee Farm Animal Rescue & Petting Zoo

Looking for a heartwarming family experience in Bryson City? Tuckasegee Farm Animal Rescue & Petting Zoo offers an intimate, hands-on encounter with rescued farm animals that's especially meaningful for young children. Owner Josh's passion for animal welfare shines through as he personally introduces visitors to each resident, sharing their individual rescue stories and rehabilitation journeys.

Unlike commercial petting zoos, these animals genuinely enjoy human interaction—particularly the friendly goats who actively seek out attention and pets. The facility maintains clean, spacious enclosures where visitors can observe and interact with various rescued farm animals in a respectful environment. The $10 all-day admission fee includes unlimited access to the animal areas plus a bonus gem mining activity that kids particularly enjoy.

What sets this tourist attraction apart is the educational component. Josh regularly discusses proper animal care, rescue operations, and his plans for expanding the facility's capacity to help more animals in need. Visitors learn about responsible pet ownership and farm animal welfare while enjoying quality time with the rescued residents.

For the best experience, wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes that can get a bit dirty. The facility provides hand-washing stations and sanitizer throughout. Morning visits often catch the animals at their most active, though the rescue welcomes visitors throughout the day. Consider bringing carrots or apples to feed the animals (with staff permission), but the facility also sells approved animal feed on-site.

Before planning your visit to this Bryson City tourist attraction, it's recommended to call ahead to confirm current hours and admission prices, as these may vary seasonally.