Circle M Safari Park
📍 Shelby, NC
Interactive zoo experience featuring direct animal feeding, a wagon ride, knowledgeable staff-led encounters, and an on-site playground. Reviewers note a strong variety of animals and staff who clearly know and care for each one.
We had such an amazing time here! The people that work here are so kind and know so much about all of the animals. You can tell they truly love what they do. We had a group of kids and they loved seeing all the animals. The wagon ride was really fun. You get to feed the animals. There is a play ground area and a picnic area too.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Works well for children of all ages, including very young kids who can be carried or ride the wagon. The hands-on feeding format is a standout for kids who want more than a standard behind-the-fence zoo experience. Group visits — birthday parties, school outings — are well-supported by the attentive staff.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →250 Google reviews
Sharon Moses
“We had such an amazing time here! The people that work here are so kind and know so much about all of the animals. You can tell they truly love what they do. We had a group of kids and they loved seeing all the animals. The wagon ride was really fun. You get to feed the animals. There is a play ground area and a picnic area too.”
Mari H
“Couldn’t recommend this zoo more. It’s fairly priced and has a good variety of animals. Theres plenty of staff that is friendly & very knowledgeable.”
Twisted Writer
“Great place, the encounter was awesome. Staff was very friendly and helpful. The animal were very friendly and socialable.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Circle M Safari Park in Shelby delivers an up-close animal experience where visitors can hand-feed animals and participate in staff-led encounters. A wagon ride covers the grounds and gives younger kids a guided view of the animals without requiring them to walk the full route. Staff are consistently praised for their knowledge and genuine affection for the animals — multiple reviewers noted they could tell the team truly loves what they do.