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OPEN TODAY: 10AM-4:30PM Last Admission @ 3:30

Membership FAQs

What’s the best way to buy or renew a membership?
You can purchase your membership at any time on our website. Memberships may also be purchased daily in person at the Nature Center from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm or over the phone by calling (828)259-8092.
Can I apply my ticket purchase toward a membership?
If you choose to purchase a membership on the day of your visit and have already purchased admission tickets, we can refund the cost of the admission tickets for anyone who will be included on the new membership. This option is available until 3:30pm on your day of entry. Please visit the Membership Office to start the process!
When will I receive my membership cards?

In an effort to go green, our membership cards are digital. To download your Digital Membership Card, go to the App Store or Play Store and download the eMembership Card app. Under Institutions, select Friends of the WNC Nature Center. Click “Find my Membership Card,” then enter the phone number you used when you joined or your member ID# and your last name. Start using your card right away!

Please allow up to 24 hours after purchase for our system to process your membership.

How do I download my Digital Membership card?

To download your Digital Membership Card, go to the App Store or Play Store and download the eMembership Card app. Under Institutions, select Friends of the WNC Nature Center.  Click “Find my Membership Card,” then enter the phone number you used when you joined or renewed and your last name. Start using your card right away!

Please allow up to 48 hours after purchase for our system to process your membership.

What if I prefer a physical card to a digital card?

If you prefer not to download the digital app, you can download and print your card by clicking here. 

Please email [email protected] to request a physical membership card.  Please note that paper cards will only be available for a limited time.

Can I upgrade my membership?

Absolutely! But keep in mind that your added benefits will expire at the same time as your current membership.

Are memberships refundable or transferable?

No, all membership purchases are final and cannot be refunded, partially refunded, or transferred.

I misplaced my membership card. Can I still visit?

Yes! Please show your photo ID at the Nature Center Membership Office to have your membership verified.

Then, download your digital card. Go to the App Store or Play Store  and download the eMembership Card app. Under Institutions, select Friends of the WNC Nature Center.  Click “Find my Membership Card,” then enter the phone number you entered when you joined or your memberID# and your last name.  

If you prefer not to download the digital app, you can download and print your card by clicking here. 

How long is my membership valid?
Your membership begins on the date of purchase and expires 12 or 24 months from the date of purchase, depending on whether you selected a 1-year or 2-year membership. When renewing early, 12 or 24 months will be added to your current expiration date.
How many membership cards will I receive?
All adults listed on your membership can download the digital membership card to their phone. If paper cards were requested, you will receive two membership cards. Please note that paper membership cards will need to be returned before any changes can be made to the membership.
I’m already a member, but a gift membership was purchased for me. Will these memberships overlap?
Don’t worry! Your membership will be extended for another 12 months.
Why do I have to show a photo ID if I’m a member?
A photo ID is required to ensure you are a member of the WNC Nature Center. This prevents misuse of memberships.
I have a guest on my membership. Can the guest use my card without me?
No, the named member must be present for guests to enter.
My children’s names aren’t listed on my family membership. How does the membership work for them?
Under our family membership, up to four children in your household will receive free admission to the Nature Center when you enter.
Can someone else use my membership to bring my children?
Yes, but they must present the membership card for the member child’s family, and they will be responsible for their own admission.
Are my children’s friends covered under my family membership?
A family membership covers up to four dependent household children only.
My child will be visiting the Nature Center with their school group. Will our membership cover their visit?
School visits are not included in basic membership benefits.
Who can receive member discounts?
Any adults named on the membership, as well as children included in a family membership, can take advantage of membership benefits!
Do you reciprocate with other zoos and aquariums?

Yes, the WNC Nature Center participates with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Association of Science – Technology Centers (ASTC) reciprocal programs. In addition, we reciprocate with several other facilities outside of these organizations. That list can be found on our membership page under benefits.

Please contact the zoo, aquarium, or museum you are planning to visit for prices before you visit as their policies or participation may change without notice. While reciprocal partners will honor the named members and a certain number of dependent children, they are not required to honor the extra benefits of your WNC Nature Center membership.

Reciprocal members do not share databases, so please take your membership card and photo ID with you.