Carolina Raptor Center

Spread over 57 acres, Carolina Raptor Center is a "living museum" and avian medical facility that highlights more than 25 species of raptors, including eagles, owls, falcons, hawks, vultures and others. Located in Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, the center features a .75 mile Raptor Trail and year-round live bird presentations.

Best and worst time to go to the Carolina Raptor Center
Offseason is the best time to visit -- meaning any time other than summer. Weekdays are better than weekends, in terms of crowds. Although, given its spread-out nature, even on its busiest days, Carolina Raptor Center never seems too crowded.

Must see/do at the Carolina Raptor Center
The main attraction at the center is the Raptor Trail, which covers .75 miles and features more than 25 species of raptors. Other special features include behind-the-scenes tours (usually once a month on weekends) and vulture feedings on Saturdays. And don't miss a tour of the Marcy's Eagle Research Observatory, where you can see baby eagles. It includes a presentation on eagle nesting at Carolina Raptor Center and time inside the observatory -- just feet from nesting eagles and the eaglets.

Admission to the Carolina Raptor Center
Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors/military/teachers and $6 for students. Behind the scenes tours are $5 extra with admission.

Parking at the Carolina Raptor Center
The Carolina Raptor Center is located in Latta Plantation Nature Preserve and features plenty of parking.

Public Transportation to the Carolina Raptor Center
Located in the small town of Huntersville, there are no public transportation options to reach the center.

Food at the Carolina Raptor Center
There are occasionally food trucks that visit, but the center does not have a dedicated food facility. There are several restaurants located less than two miles away, including Lancasters BBQ, T's Fat Parrot and Fu Shing II.

Insider tip for visitors to the Carolina Raptor Center
You can plan a whole day around your visit, because after you leave the Carolina Raptor Center, you can explore Historic Latta Plantation or the Latta Plantation Equestrian Center. Admission to both is separate from the center.

Author's bio: Tim is a freelance writer from North Carolina currently living in uptown Charlotte. He can be seen at local theatres, museums, bars and restaurants, and sporting events.