Last updated July 22, 2026.
Looking for an original wildlife experience in Rowan County? Just a short drive from Salisbury, Tiger World in Rockwell, N.C. offers an up-close look at endangered species from around the globe - making it one of the most memorable family-friendly attractions in the area.
Whether you're planning a weekend outing, a day trip with kids, or an educational adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Tiger World.
Tiger World Endangered Wildlife Preserve
4400 Cook Rd. Rockwell, NC 28138
What is Tiger World?
Tiger World is an endangered species preserve and educational center located in Rockwell, North Carolina. Unlike a traditional zoo, Tiger World focuses on conservation, animal care, and education - giving visitors the opportunity to learn about rare and threatened species in an interactive environment.
With animals from five continents, hands-on experiences, and guided tours, it’s a must-visit for animal lovers and families exploring Rowan County.
Animal Exhibits at Tiger World
One of the highlights of visiting Tiger World is the wide variety of animals you can see in one place. The preserve features species from around the world, including big cats, primates, reptiles, birds, and more.
African Animals
- African Lions & Timbavati White Lions
- African Leopards & Servals
- Barbary Lion
- Mandrill & Olive Baboon
- Ring-Tailed Lemur
- East African Crowned Crane
- African Spurred Tortoise
Asian Animals
- Bengal Tigers (including White & Golden Tabby)
- Siberian & Indochinese Tigers
- White-Handed Gibbon
- Japanese Snow Macaque
- Syrian Brown Bear
- Eurasian Eagle Owl
- Indian Blue Peacock
Australian Animals
- Red Kangaroo & Wallaroo
- Red-Necked Wallaby
- Emu & Kookaburra
- Australian Black Swan
- New Guinea Singing Dog
North & South American Animals
- Black Jaguar
- Arctic & Timber Wolves
- Linnaeus’s Two-Toed Sloth
- Green Iguana & Anacondas
- Blue & Gold Macaw
- Galápagos & Red-Footed Tortoises
- Bobcat & Amazon Parrot
Find the full list of all the animals you can visit at Tiger World on their official website.
Tours, Animal Encounters & Mini Golf
Tiger World offers more than just walking exhibits - there are several interactive experiences that make your visit even more memorable.
Educational Guided Tours
Explore the preserve with a licensed animal handler who shares fun facts, conservation insights, and behind-the-scenes knowledge.
Carnivore Feeding Safari Tour
One of the most exciting experiences at Tiger World - watch big cats up close as they are fed by trained specialists.
Animal Encounters
Get closer than ever during a hands-on experience with select animals. A fan favorite is the two-toed sloth encounter with “Nacho.”
WILD Adventure Golf
Enjoy a safari-themed mini golf course that takes you “around the world” while you play.
- $5 (9 holes)
- Combo option available with Parakeet Jungle
Parakeet Jungle
Step inside this interactive walk-through habitat where you can feed and mingle with colorful Australian parakeets. This unique experience is fun for all ages and offered daily - just ask about it at admissions when you arrive.
- $3 per person (zoo admission required)
Combo Experience
Make the most of your visit with both attractions:
- $6 Wild Adventure Mini Golf + Parakeet Jungle combo
(Zoo admission required)
Check out Tiger World's website to find all their exhibits and activities.
Tiger World Hours, Tickets & Pricing
Hours
- Open daily: 9 AM - 5 PM
- Closed Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Day
Admission Prices
- Adults: $15
- Children (ages 2-17): $12
- Seniors (62+): $12
- Homeschool groups with valid ID: $10
- Children under age 2: Free
- Group rate (10+ visitors): $10 per person
- Group rate (50+ visitors): $8 per person
- Public service admission with valid ID (military, police, EMT, firefighters, etc.): $10
Special Experiences & Add-On Activities
Enhance your visit with one of Tiger World’s unique animal experiences:
- Feed Cups: $5
- Feed-a-Carnivore Experience: $10 (available weekends and holidays)
- Thursday Evening Carnivore Feed Safari Tour: $20
- Educational Animal Encounter: $100 (when available)
Annual Passes
Planning to visit Tiger World more than once? Annual passes offer a great way to enjoy the preserve throughout the year:
- 1-Person Annual Pass: $40
- 2-Person Annual Pass: $75
- 3-Person Annual Pass: $110
- 4-Person Annual Pass: $120
- 5-Person Annual Pass: $150
- 6-Person Annual Pass: $180
Parking
- Free onsite parking available
Visit Tiger World's official website for more information on tickets and to purchase tickets online.
Annual Events at Tiger World
Throughout the year, Tiger World hosts seasonal events that make each visit a little different. If you’re planning a trip, timing your visit around one of these can add even more fun to your day.
January - Recycle a Christmas Tree, and get in FREE!
February - Valentine’s Day (Couples buy 1, get one FREE!)
March - Wild Easter Egg Hunt
April - Celebrate Earth Week (Bring a tree, get in FREE!)
May - Mother’s Day (Mom FREE admission)
June - Father’s Day (Dad FREE admission)
July - Independence Day Celebration
August - Back to School (Kids ½ admission 1st-15th)
September - Heroes Week (Heroes in FREE)
October - Boo At The Zoo
November - Pumpkin Pals
December - Christmas with the Claws
Tip: Check the Visit Rowan County event calendar for exact dates each year.
Tips for Visiting Tiger World
- Arrive early to make the most of your day and catch active animals
- Book tours in advance, especially animal encounters
- Wear comfortable shoes - you’ll be walking outdoors
- Bring water and sunscreen during warmer months
- Plan extra time for mini golf and special experiences
Click the image below to check out our Instagram Reel to catch a glimpse
of what to expect at Tiger World!
