Created: 8/30/2008 3:47:33 PM 
Ashboro, NC -- Gas prices at $3.60 a gallon forced many families to spend the Labor Day holiday closer to home.
"We filled up the tank yesterday so we wouldn't get the overnight hike today and we weren't expecting such big crowds to be out coming out here but we thought it would be a great idea," said Arlene Butler, a visitor to the North Carolina Zoo visitor.
The Butler's live in Wake Forest, that's two hours away from the zoo, but close enough to take a trip that doesn't break the family budget.
The Butlers spent $34 on their trip, possibly saving hundreds just by staying close to home.
"It's a good bang for the buck. Get to take him out, take mom out and with a little bit of luck by the end of the day, they'll be both tired and be in bed early tonight," said Mike Butler. The zoo drew 19,500 visitors last Labor Day weekend. Zoo leaders expect they'll top those numbers this year.
The zoo is open from 9 to 5 this holiday. Tickets for children under $12 are $6.
Adult admission is $10. Seniors cost $8. Parking is free.
WFMY News 2
