Discover the Best Zoos in New Jersey: Top Spots for Wildlife Adventures
If you're looking to explore wildlife and enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends, New Jersey zoos offer a variety of experiences. From large, well-known zoos to smaller, free-to-enter sanctuaries, you can get up close to exotic animals, learn about conservation efforts, and enjoy interactive exhibits. Here’s a guide to the best New Jersey zoos that provide fun and education for visitors of all ages.
1. Turtle Back Zoo
Located in West Orange, Turtle Back Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in New Jersey. Featuring a diverse range of animals, from lions and giraffes to penguins and sea lions, this zoo offers plenty of attractions for families. The zoo’s interactive experiences include a train ride, carousel, and treetop adventure course, making it a day packed with fun and excitement.
Why Visit: Turtle Back Zoo is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to conservation. Don't miss seasonal events like "Holiday Lights" during the winter.
Top Animals: Giraffes, lions, penguins, sea turtles.
Best Features: African Adventure section, Sea Turtle Recovery Center, train rides.
Admission: Adults (13+) $17, Children 7 Seniors (2-12) $15, under 2 are free.
2. Cape May County Park & Zoo
The Cape May County Park & Zoo is a hidden gem located in Cape May Court House. It is a free-to-enter zoo that boasts a variety of animals, from big cats and zebras to primates and exotic birds. With over 550 animals and sprawling enclosures, this zoo is a top family destination, offering fun without an entrance fee (though donations are encouraged).
Why Visit: This free zoo is a favorite for families due to its size, well-kept facilities, and beautiful park setting. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or nature walk after your zoo visit.
Top Animals: Tigers, lions, zebras, primates.
Best Features: African Savannah exhibit, Reptile House, nature trails.
Admission: Free (Donations appreciated).
3. Popcorn Park Animal Refuge
Located in Forked River, Popcorn Park Animal Refuge is a sanctuary for abandoned, injured, and abused animals. This unique zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and farm animals. Visitors can feed select animals with popcorn and learn about rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
Why Visit: Popcorn Park focuses on animal rescue and welfare, making it a meaningful visit for those who want to support rescued animals.
Top Animals: Big cats, bears, farm animals.
Best Features: The sanctuary is home to a mix of exotic animals and farm animals, with opportunities to learn about animal rescue efforts.
Admission: Adults $10, Children (3-12) $5.
4. Cohanzick Zoo
As New Jersey’s first zoo, Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton offers a charming, small-scale zoo experience. Home to over 100 animals, including Bengal tigers and black bears, this free zoo is set in a picturesque park that also offers picnic areas and playgrounds.
Why Visit: Its small size makes it ideal for families with young children. Seasonal events like "Boo at the Zoo" are a hit with locals.
Top Animals: Bengal tigers, black bears, bison.
Best Features: The quaint setting within Bridgeton City Park adds to the zoo’s charm.
Admission: Free (Donations appreciated).
5. Space Farms Zoo & Museum
In Sussex, Space Farms Zoo & Museum offers a unique combination of a zoo and a museum, featuring over 500 animals, including leopards, kangaroos, and wolves, as well as a large collection of historic artifacts and antique cars. The museum gives visitors a glimpse into New Jersey’s rural past, while the zoo offers a chance to see rare and exotic species.
Why Visit: The blend of history and wildlife makes Space Farms a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy both animals and history.
Top Animals: Leopards, kangaroos, wolves.
Best Features: Antique car collection, large carnivore exhibits.
Admission: Adults $24, Children (3-12) $20.
6. Jenkinson’s Aquarium
Though not a traditional zoo, Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach is a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts. Located on the boardwalk, the aquarium features sharks, seals, penguins, and other ocean creatures. The touch tank and interactive exhibits make it especially popular with children.
Why Visit: For a fun beach day, pair your boardwalk visit with an educational tour of the aquarium’s marine exhibits.
Top Animals: Sharks, penguins, seals.
Best Features: The touch tank and shark exhibit are fan favorites.
Admission: Adults $18, Children (2-1`) $12
7. Lakota Wolf Preserve
For a truly unique wildlife experience, visit the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Columbia, NJ. This preserve allows visitors to observe wolves, bobcats, and foxes in a natural environment. The guided tours provide insights into the behavior and habitats of these magnificent animals, making it an educational and thrilling experience.
Why Visit: It’s one of the few places in the region where you can see wolves up close in a natural setting.
Top Animals: Wolves, bobcats, foxes.
Best Features: Wolf Observation and guided educational tours.
Admission: Ranges from $7 - $18 tours must be booked. Walk ins not avaible.
New Jersey is home to an impressive variety of zoos and wildlife preserves, each offering something unique. From the expansive Turtle Back Zoo with its diverse range of animals and attractions, to the free-to-visit Cape May County Zoo, there’s something for every animal lover in the Garden State. Whether you’re interested in exotic wildlife, local animal rescues, or marine life, these New Jersey zoos provide educational and fun experiences for families, children, and nature enthusiasts alike. Plan your visit to one of these top-rated zoos and enjoy a day of adventure, learning, and unforgettable encounters with wildlife!
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