Essex County Turtle Back Zoo image

Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

Tourist attraction Zoo

One of the Best Places To Visits in West Orange


Address

560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052

Website

turtlebackzoo.com

Contact

(973) 731-5800

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (12K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Monday: 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 3 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 3 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: animals (113) kids (54) great (48) time (46) train (35) free (32) ride (32) good (28) family (28) experience (26)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Richard D. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a great little zoo that has a huge heart for its compact size. When you enter the Zoo you are met with the feeling that the staff care about the animals and that the animals enjoyed their life. The big cats had plenty of room to roam and the smaller exhibits had plenty of enrichment to keep their occupants entertained. The primates were our favorite. They were running around playing with each other and taking turns chasing around each other with a. 5 gallon water jug filled with their snacks. The turtle recovery tanks were well maintained and the cameras added a sense of closeness while still allowing the low stress environment necessary for the animals to recover from their ailments. We absolutely loved watching the cheetah and it's Labrador buddy chase each other around and then enjoy a good nap while cuddled up. You can really tell they enjoy each other's company. It was very sweet. Parking was super convenient and free so no argument there. This really is a must visit zoo for anyone capable. I may modify this in the future to award the 5th star but that won't be until I see how the construction finishes and the remaining animals return to their exhibits.
    17 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jennifer A. 2 years ago on Google
    Haven't been to TBZ in a while (ya know...pandemic & all 🙄). I grew up going to this zoo. It's truly a gem in the middle of the 'burbs. The upgrades over the years have been wonderful. So many wonderful additions, animals & esthetically. Mt family and I popped in last night for the lights at night and it was great! We had fun & catching the last train ride was a score!! Gotta do the train ride 😉 It's fun for all ages, even in the dark. Looking forward to visiting in the Spring again.
    15 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neha V. 2 months ago on Google • 209 reviews New
    We visited the lovely Turtle Back Zoo for the Christmas lights and had such a delightful time. The best part was that we had to donate food or clothes to enter instead of paying for a ticket, which was so thoughtful! Our visit included a fun train ride (with a half an hour wait time), face painting (for an extra cost), visiting Santa Claus, the touch tank for the rays, Christmas themed food and drinks and of course, the mesmerizing lights. We had a lot of fun here and can't wait to visit the zoo during summer and see the animals.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aimee R. 3 months ago on Google • 274 reviews New
    In town for the day with my 4-year-old nephew, with a few hours to kill, so we decided to check out the zoo! We were there from 11:30 to 3:30 on a Wednesday in December and it was the most perfect time I've ever had at a zoo. We had almost the entire place to ourselves. Even though it was just under 50° out. The sun was bright and shining and it wasn't windy so it was a gorgeous day to walk through the zoo. Not having any crowds or people meant we could stay as long as we wanted at each animal, we got perfect pictures with no people in the background, and my nephew had the entire playground to himself for almost an hour!!! Skip the food here, and eat before or after you go to the zoo because we paid $16 for a personal pizza and a small bag of goldfish and that was the worst pizza I've ever had!!! The staff were super friendly and very helpful, and the zoo was very clean. Bummed that we couldn't have been there a little bit later in the day to see the lights which started at 5:00 p.m., but with all the Christmas and holiday decorations it was still magical to walk around and see everything!!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jenny L. 8 months ago on Google
    Accessible and amazing zoo for people of all ages and interests! The paths are easy to navigate on foot, with a stroller or in a wheelchair. Misters located throughout the zoo for those hot days!My favorite stops were the Touch Tank, Giraffes and Otters. Somewhat unique to this zoo is the abundance of seating facing and very close to animal exhibits! Perfect for lunch breaks or just a walking break. Plenty of bathrooms around the zoo and clearly marked. The bathroom in the Touch Tank was never full and there was ample seating in the exhibit for those waiting. Bonus, you got to touch the rays again while you were there! The exhibits are beautiful, with adequate space for animals and tools to showcase natural behaviors. The educational signage is well placed and informative. We spent about 2-3hrs here, only doing a few of the paid attractions, and just had to explore the South Mountain Reservation while we were in the area. Touch Tank feed for the stingrays is $3. 1-2 pieces of fish but definitely something worth doing if it's your first time! The stingrays were very gentle and playful. Keep in mind, some of the attractions are cash only! Bonus stop at the sea turtle hospital to view the live feed! It was a wonderful exhibit, just wished they had a little more on their work with the turtles. Parking is free and only a couple steps from the zoo's entrance. Traffic cones, staff and signs were very clear. Plenty of staff at the entrance booths. To use AZA reciprocity, we had to go in-person but there were no lines. Daily shows vary and are posted by the entrance (which only means we'll have to come back again and again). For the avid pin collectors, there's a good variety in the gift shop by the exit.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aileen M. 11 months ago on Google
    This is definitely a top place to visit as a family, especially with young kids. They have an array of different animals and its a fairly large size zoo to walk through. I love that it's outdoors, and has clean smooth pathways where you can enjoy the walk in the process. Would 100% come back to visit again. We took our 9 month old baby and appreciated the time as a family of 3 making some new memories. Parking was super easy. We went on a Friday early afternoon and it was pretty empty which made it even more enjoyable. There's a McDonald's across the street, dunkin, and bagel shop. I also think they sell food indoors but we didn't get a chance to check it out. We paid $19 a ticket which was extremely affordable and valuable for the experience you receive.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tara W. 2 years ago on Google
    We had such a wonderful time here. We got to see so many animals. It was fun to feed the giraffe 🦒 and see the butterflies 🦋. We also loved the petting zoo and the train ride. Enjoyed the sprinklers they had set up at certain spots for a nice little cool off. The Cafe was nice also and good selection of food to pick from. This is definitely a all day event because there is so much to do and see. So I definitely suggest getting there first thing when they open so you can pace your day. Also make sure to have sunscreen the sun will beat you down without even realizing it. Have quarters handy for the petting zoo to feed the animals. Definitely grab a map. The signs are not posted to well around the park so you definitely want a map to help guide you. The restrooms were kept very clean while we were there. This was such a great place for kids to come because there is so much for them to see, do and touch. We had so much fun here today and the staff we encountered were extremely pleasant 😊
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S M. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing experience! The animals are so well taken care of and you can see it in them. Today was a very lively day as far as animal activity! Everyone was up and at it! The employees are knowledgeable and friendly and they give you great information about the animals. It was such a pleasure. The employees in the Savanna Cafe were excellent as well. Everyone was smiling and attentive. Parking is free and ample! The train ride is so enjoyable. There is a lot to see. I love the touch tank!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashley M. 1 year ago on Google
    This trip was awesome! Parking is free, and close to the entrance. For 1 adult and 3 children (10 and 11yr) I paid $82.07. Bring cash! You can use your card, but for the amenities with-in it's cash mostly. I brought my daughter and her 2 cousins to enjoy some sun and fun with animals. Some exhibits were closed off due to renovations/upgrades. The price was still worth what they did have available. We definitely stayed from open till closing. I let the kids lead the way. Along the paths they have spray nozzles (few feet apart) that give you a mist of water to cool down. The kids really enjoyed that. The best part for us all was the Giraffes. They come really close to you. It's always amazing to see the animals up close. Not too close though....be careful.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amy Pasricha L. 3 years ago on Google
    Everything was awesome I just went here! The experience even with masks on was great..i recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks as the vending machines are closed but the savanna cafe was open..not to many options but good food. The treetop adventure, well no words. Amazing. The adult one is challenging in my opinion but that's just me. The zipline is great, I just wish we could go more than once and it's very short, but the view is very nice. Overall great experience. Definitely coming back
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Oleksii H. 2 years ago on Google
    I was a member for 3 years at this zoo. I spent many wonderful days here with the children. My term of membership has expired and I wanted to extend it today. But what I saw here today changed my mind. Half of the zoo was closed and the most interesting things for the kids as well. The train, touch tank, playground and much more are closed. Much dirtier in the park than usual. Even the water in the pool with the sea lions was so dirty that nothing could be seen. Green muddy Friends - You have something to do in the Zoo. I should not have spent my money here.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Shaik Abdul Cader Shaik D. 1 year ago on Google
    The zoo had a decent amount of animals. However, for the space could have had more species. It was unfortunate that the aviary was closed (due to a bird flu issue). The zoo was maintained well and clean. It would be better to have more canopies / shade, and perhaps fans with water sprinkler to cooldown the guests. Otherwise, it was a good experience overall, and a good day out. Would recommend a visit.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ryann 7 months ago on Google • 85 reviews
    I recently visited the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo and had an absolutely fantastic time! From start to finish, the experience was nothing short of enjoyable. The zoo's focus on wildlife conservation and commitment to providing an entertaining and educational experience was evident throughout my visit. The exhibits at the zoo were beautifully curated, showcasing a diverse range of turtle species in their natural habitats. From the tiniest terrapins to the grandest tortoises, each enclosure was well-maintained and provided ample opportunities to observe these incredible creatures up close. The information boards accompanying each exhibit offered valuable insights into the turtles' behaviors and conservation efforts, enhancing the overall experience. One of the highlights of my visit was the chance to capture videos of the turtles and other animals. This allowed me to share the excitement and beauty of the zoo with my friends and family, giving them a glimpse into the engaging and educational environment it offers. Being able to document my visit through videos was an added bonus that helped me create lasting memories and provide valuable content for others considering a trip to the zoo. If you're looking for a fun and informative day out, I highly recommend visiting the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo. The knowledgeable staff, well-maintained exhibits, and the ability to capture videos make it an excellent destination for individuals and families alike. I had a blast exploring the zoo, and I'm sure you will too!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 quest97223 1 year ago on Google
    Great little zoo. We are visiting from out of town and it's a really nice zoo. The additional things like feeding the giraffes and butterfly farm were very inexpensive at only $2 or $3 each. Small but not too busy and well worth it.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Keith Moore S. 4 months ago on Google • 83 reviews
    Just GO!! This place was awesome!! We found this gem while searching for something to do in the area and it did not disappoint!! The park was very clean, had a lot to offer and animals seemed very well taken care of with huge enclosures! They look like the recently added new areas and a lot of time/ effort put into new walking paths, buildings and landscapes. I WILL BE BACK! Also parking was FREE and they do have strollers for rent.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew V. 3 years ago on Google
    The Turtle Back Zoo is a fantastic place to take a family for a day! The animal exhibits are great and you always see most of what’s at the zoo! Would definitely recommend it!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lad B. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic! TBZ has been here for many years and never disappoints. Very clean and very professional staff. Animals seem very well cared for. On this summer day all animals were out and about. Water fountains and vending machines are unavailable due to COVID. Great varied exhibits. The park train ride is a great way to cool off and is included in the price of admission. Full COVID protocols are in place with face coverings required and temperature check prior to entry. Great new signage for exhibits as well as COVID reminders. They really thought of everything. Free covered safe parking. Very nice gift shop.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Candice C. 2 years ago on Google
    A fantastic zoo for your family, specially if you have younger kids. We became annual members and have gone back again a and again. Good social distancing and some great opportunities to see different animals (lots of giraffes, flamingos, stingrays). There’s good food options for all or bring your own food. Plenty of places to sit and eat with your family. And the little (but fast moving) train around the lake is fun for the family. Parking is free, there’s stroller renting too.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jan R. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful small zoo. We spent 5 hours there and loved every minute. Great train ride. Reasonable price $17 for adults. Yay for the senior discount $14 for 62 and up. Beautiful aviary where you can feed the birds. We didn't do the Treetop Adventure but it looks great. Maybe next time.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 REBECCA H. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s a nice, small zoo that can be completed in one day. The zip lining at the zoo wasn’t open, and the entrance to the zoo has been relocated so I would recommend following the attendants on where they tell you to park. Tickets are affordable -$14 per adult and $12 per child. Tickets were a gift so I’m not sure if military veterans discount is offered. I would recommend ordering tickets online before going to the zoo though. In the evening during holiday season, admission is free for the holiday lights that begin at 5pm. Park closes at 3pm. The kids enjoyed looking at the animals and playing in the grassy areas as these areas are spacious. There’s even a train that takes you around a part of the zoo next to the hiking trail. There’s a petting portion of the zoo where children can touch sting rays. Amazing Asia isn’t complete yet. According to the signs, it will be open spring 2022. The zoo even has a playground for kids to play in. The kids enjoyed feeding the birds but the food sticks do cost $2. I would recommend bringing some cash as some things do require payment like the bird food and the carousel ride. In the evening during the holiday lights, s’mores and hot chocolate are available for sale. Keep in mind, because evening admission is free, the zoo is more congested. If you don’t want to lose your little one in crowds because it is dark and lighting isn’t everywhere, have your child wear something so that they stick out in the dark and in the crowd so you don’t lose them. Overall, I would revisit the zoo for a day trip again.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sneha H S. 11 months ago on Google
    Get here to see animals, reptiles, fish, and birds, and be in awe of our fellow beings on earth! Walk around and watch them, eat delicious food at the Savanna Cafe, and take a train ride or the carousel. There are many exhibits for the entire day. Well maintained grounds and friendly staff.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Josh B. 6 months ago on Google
    Awesome place to go with the family. The kids love to see all of the animals and there are even a few that they get to feed. The place is big enough for a day trip but not so big that you feel like you didn’t get a chance to see everything when you leave. Prices for food aren’t even too terrible. Overall would solidly recommend and would definitely go back again.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Qi C. 1 month ago on Google • 32 reviews New
    16 dollars for entrance all season long. Their on season is early March. March 6 I believe so. If you go before that, you miss a few animals. But it's not a bad place to spend a few hours.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Doreen R. 2 months ago on Google • 38 reviews New
    It blew my mind that this was a donation only exhibit. It was beautifully done!!! Glad to see that county's don't just want money from people, but are collecting foods and coats for the less fortunate and families can enjoy a great night out! Well done!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jo V. 3 years ago on Google
    Now during the pandemic, there is a tent for temperature screening before you are even able to approach the gate. There are signs everywhere to remind people to not touch the glass. They have one way paths for indoor areas. This place is well prepared for the state's current situation. The animals also looked to be in great condition! I enjoyed my time here!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kedarcity I. 3 years ago on Google
    nice here ❤️
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shukhrat M. 3 years ago on Google
    Very attractive zoo for family. Very clean and very huge zoo. We didn't even get to see a lot. This was voted as number one zoo in New Jersey and we can see why, there's a lot of good photo p opportunities in the zoo for the kids. They try to maintain social distance signs everywhere. sanitizers I wish there was more of around the zoo. There is also train that goes through the forest since it's part of bigger park and a Lake nearby. Definitely recommend a good day trip with the kids but closes early at 3 o'clock and we didn't know that
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Victor C. 2 years ago on Google
    Great zoo you can do in a day. Clean, organized, free parking, reasonable day pass rates, friendly, kid orientated, lots of disinfection, masks in exhibits, etc. Loved feeding the birds and the giraffes. Petting the sting rays was the kids favorites. Gets a bit congested with all the strollers, so be prepared to bob-and-weave a lot as you explore the park.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 MSK 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful small zoo with varieties of African, Australian, Asian, South American, great plans, our own New Jersey and many animals. You can view some of the wild animals just inches away from the glass. Train ride is a must do not miss and it was free. Touch water animals, enjoy feeding the birdies, giraffe 🦒 and many more. Ample parking available and they also offer free parking near by… Kids will enjoy, have fun 🤩
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Molly M. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a fantastic zoo! Right now, they have a special Christmas light event happening. The zoo is very clean, the staff are friendly, they have a great gift shop, & they make it pretty interactive! There are also lots of photo ops & a park for small children! If you go into the bird exhibit, make sure to buy the stick of bird seed they have! Feeding the birds is an unforgettable experience!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ernest D. 2 years ago on Google
    If you love nature ♥️ is the best place to visit and take a second look at what nature offers. Opens 10am to 3pm Eastern Time zone all week. Great advantage if you get a year subscription. As the $155 a year through is a free gift 🎁 for a family of 6. and $175 for a family+1.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Katherine 5 months ago on Google
    Great visit! Although it was very crowded and the line for the food area was super long, still had a great time with my sisters and friend. My favorite stop was the Touch Tank! Make sure you go early.. Missed seeing a lot of the animals because of the time but overall it was a good visit. Hoping to visit again soon.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arif S. 5 months ago on Google
    This place is fun to visit. Kids will love to spend time here Visited on weekday and it was almost empty. You can easily spend 3-4 hours getting information about all the animals. You can feed the giraffe for $5. Train ride is scenic and it was free. Not sure if it was free on weekday. Parking is free.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Temur S. 2 months ago on Google • 27 reviews New
    I had a fantastic experience at Turtle Back Zoo! The exhibits are well-maintained, and the variety of animals, especially the diverse cat family species, is impressive. What truly stood out was the thoughtful design – exhibits were aligned with their respective continents. For instance, the Asian exhibits were beautifully crafted in an authentic Asian style, enhancing the immersive experience. The friendly and knowledgeable staff added an educational touch by sharing interesting facts about the animals while making rounds. The zoo's commitment to conservation and education, coupled with its attention to cultural details, makes it a great place to spend a day reconnecting with nature and learning about wildlife. I highly recommend it!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amy P. 3 months ago on Google • 38 reviews New
    Great zoo for little kids. It's definitely worth the membership if you live close by. The members only events are especially fun. The habitats are well done, and you can tell the animals are healthy and cared for. I also appreciate that they are using a lot of native plants on the grounds, and hope they continue expanding that effort.

  • 5/5 Chris C. 3 years ago on Google
    Turtle Back Zoo is really amazing! They have all kinds of animals, and most look very well cared for. My favorite exhibit was the reptile area. Food is a bit pricey, but they do have some meal deals. I skipped the petting area, because of covid.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 C. S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great outdoor activity to do with your kids when weather permits. Their COVID19 new rules made me feel more at ease. everyone is required to wear a mask at all times. my kids ages 8 and 12 enjoyed it too. I noticed lots of changes since my last visit a few years ago.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mike G. 3 years ago on Google
    The kids had a great time at Turtle Back Zoo. We purchased our tickets ahead of time. The process was very smooth. They check your temperature before entering the zoo and there are many sanitizer stations throughout.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Karthikeyan R. 3 years ago on Google
    The ongoing pandemic has definitely taken a toll on a lot of businesses and public places since a consumer’s mindset to buy anything outside of essentials or to visit a public place like a park or beach, has crippled down significantly. Now by living with what has become the new normal, it is commendable on how these businesses and public places continue to remain open and cater to the general public by following the safety standards. It is now all the more important that we as customers, support these heroes during these dark hours to mankind. It’s only a 15 min drive from where I live and I didn’t know about this gem of a zoo until recently. I was impressed by the reviews from fellow Yelpers and Google Local guides that I couldn’t stop myself from going here. When you get here and drive to the parking, you start realizing that you are in a little park like zoo and feel rest assured that the animals wouldn’t be cramming for space in little cages. The parking is inbuilt in their facility and is pretty huge. We booked our slots through online in December during holidays and the checkin was as smooth as a butter and top of all, it was FREE (May be because of off-season). They have a mandatory mask policy inside their facility and their staff are masked up at all times and their kindness will beam out beyond their masks. They were kind and answered to all our questions about the animals that were in their facility. The ladies who takes care of the reptiles facility and the Manta ray facility are very knowledgeable and seem to be enjoying what they are doing. We went here towards end of the day and could not cover the entire space. Was lucky enough to capture a very active young Leopard, a snow leopard, Hyena, Lions, Flamingos, sea lions and a gentle Peacock. The giraffes and cheetahs were locked away due to the cold weather and we could not see all of the attractions. The zoo is currently closed temporarily for the whole month of January 2021 and I would love to return here for taking more photographs, once they are open again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ayushi M. 3 years ago on Google
    We went on Sunday of the Thanksgiving weekend with our 22m old son. The entire zoo took about 2.5 hours from start to finish. There were a few animals missing - they'd been removed from the enclosure but at the same time, there was more than enough entertainment for my 22m old. He enjoyed petting the sting rays and watching the sea lions play in the water. We didn't go on the train as the line for it was massive and also Covid-19. Overall, we enjoyed our day and was completely worth the the $34 we paid for the 2 adults. Kids under 2 are free.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 alex _. 3 years ago on Google
    this is honestly one of the worst zoos i have ever been to. the animals spaces were so small and they were pacing back and forth. a sign of stress anxiety and boredom. the bears had no interest in us or the people, it was so sad. the animals looked depressed. plus the farm animals were all aggressive . which is so weird dude. ive never seen animals behave in that way. even the llamas, the sheep, and the goats all had warning signs. really has me questioning the treatment and amount of interaction they get. animals are not supposed to be that aggressive.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tiffany M. 2 years ago on Google
    My godson and I went to this zoo a couple days ago for the first time and we both had a great time! The zoo is larger and has more animals than I originally thought. Along with just being able to see all the animals my godson also rode the carousel and train, fed the goats and birds and touch the stingrays and sharks. The bathrooms and the zoo itself were very clean. The price of admission and the additional price to ride the carousel and feed the goats and birds was reasonable in my opinion. We will definitely be returning. P.S. - the peacocks roam free at the zoo so don't be alarmed. Lol.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sanja M. 2 years ago on Google
    Deff a great zoo if you want a fun day adventure! A train ride! You can feed the giraffes and some of the other farm animals! Most of the animals are able to be seen !
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shadow D. 2 years ago on Google
    Fun place to spend the day! Very clean park, employees are very nice/friendly. Lots of goodies in the gift shop. So many animals to look at. They have stroller & wheelchair rentals for free. Prices are reasonable, $14/adult, $12/senior, off season prices, but still worth going. There was about 2 exhibits that didn't have animals though. Touch tanks was super fun with the stingrays. Definitely be back again!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mio N. 2 years ago on Google
    Note: we came to see the lights, but my friend took us close to closing time so we may have missed stuff. Although I lived in NJ, I never heard of the Turtle Back Zoo in East Orange. So glad I did. The Zoo Lights were open to the public. Free parking and admission from 5pm to 9pm. Limited time only. Not sure when it ends, but soon. I had a great time just walking around and seeing the displays, taking pictures, and walking off the pizza. Unfortunately we arrived light. I plan to return to see the animals.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica P. 1 year ago on Google
    This is the best zoo I've been to next to the Bronx zoo! There is such a variety of animals ( well cared for) and there are so many fun activities. My 2 year old and I have the absolute best time every time we visit. We especially love that you can get a very up-close and personal view of the lions and other wild animals, while also getting to feed the goats and giraffes. The grassy area in the center of the park is great to just hang with the family and rest. All around my fave zoo!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amit S. 1 year ago on Google
    It's a very nice place to spend time with you kids and loved ones. The management and keepers have done an excellent job in keeping our animal friends healthy and happy. The place is very clean and has ample amenities for little visitors and adults. This place has a healthy cheetah, red panda, and jaguar to name a few. Support staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ryan F. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a great time at the turtle back zoo. Everyone in our party was over 23 and still had a great time. The park was clean definitely was not overcrowded, and most of the animals were out in active. The bald eagle, unfortunately was not on display along with a few of the other birds due to the avian flu
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 What’s Michael T. 1 year ago on Google
    We spent a lovely Autumn day at the zoo. It has been years since I’ve last visited and the changes are huge, all for the good. The layout is well planned so that even crowds never make it seem packed. We even tried the Zip Line! We stopped for a snack and we’re surprised with the quality and reasonable prices at the cafe. Don’t miss the train ride which is included with admission. Plenty of parking is available.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Leonard C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great day at the zoo, I haven’t been to this zoo since I was kid, now I take my son. It’s a good size zoo for younger kids to walk through with over tiring them. The train ride was fun, as well as the otter exhibits. It’s a great place for kids and adults to learn about animals. Feeding the giraffes was amazing. There is a petting section with pigs and goats. The feed machines take quarters, there is a change machine nearby as well. I purchased tickets online $12 each for adults.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hardik B. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s an amazing zoo. Must to visit with kids/family or by yourself if you are nature lovers. Tons of animals from all around the world like Africa, Australia, Asia to rest of the continents. Kids friendly and well maintained things around. Also Free parking is provided.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Travel C. 8 months ago on Google
    Perfect place to take kids of all age. Huge zoo with al animals great cafe. Friendly staff fun place to spend 3-4 hours.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Bhavik S. 8 months ago on Google
    Pros: great zoo with many animals. Clear directions Theme based areas like african safari, world of asia Great food court. It was self-service, so you pick what you like and then pay while going to the dining area. Loved it. Cons for me: It was difficult to cover the whole zoo with less than a year old kid It was too hot, and there were very few areas with shade The adult ticket is $19 (free for kids younger than 2 years). Because of the weather and the kid could cover just a fraction, and so the ticket felt pricey
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Darie M. 1 month ago on Google • 33 reviews New
    Very nice place to go with kids. The animals are well kept and you have a lot to explore. Feeding the giraffe was something special. The small train was enjoyable for the kids.

  • 5/5 T H. 2 months ago on Google • 12 reviews New
    Had a really great time at the holiday lights! The decorations were beautiful with ample photo op areas. Also liked that the reptile house was open to observe some animals. The red pandas exhibit was also open/ they were one of the only animals active at night. We passed on the smores activity but it’s another fun seasonal activity they offer (8 dollars for a kit with marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers).

  • 5/5 Beatrice F. 3 years ago on Google
    Seeing the wolf, lion and sea life animals was amazing... its a fantastic zoo and there's hand sanitizer in every nook and cranny of the zoo. I felt safe being there.

  • 5/5 Yana Robert C. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice place to go with kids. Not too big and not too small. It's nicely decorated with statues of animals. Kids liked the train.

  • 5/5 Sachin n. 3 years ago on Google
    This is one of the largest zoo I’ve ever had the chance to visit. Essex county turtle back zoo is huge and during these uncertain times, is well prepared to handle people while abiding the guidelines in regards to social distancing and masks. There were signs all over to not touch the glass walls and maintain appropriate distance. Even before you enter, there was this large tent to check your body temperature. You have to buy tickets online and the price for an adult is around $17 while for kids it’s $14 for general admission. They also have a membership which would have different pricing (please do check online because prices may vary). You also have to pick your time of arrival and can’t be late than 30 minutes of your posted time of arrival on your ticket. The online ticket process was a little broken when we tried but we still managed to get a few when everything was working. Also, they close at 3pm so you might want to plan a day trip accordingly. Let’s talk about the zoo itself. It’s huge and has lots of places to explore. There were flamingoes, lions, bisons, sea lions, chickens, horses and everything else that you’d expect from a zoo. They have a reptile only place as well as underwater viewing of sea lions which were fantastic. There were also a lot of places that weren’t open for the public due to the ongoing pandemic but rest assured, you won’t be disappointed to explore tons of other places and animals within this zoo. The food options were limited (as expected) and to be honest, weren’t at all good. We went to this Savana cafe to try something out. To begin with, we didn’t have a lot of options since by the time we went at around 2pm, the staff told us that they were closed and the food that was on display was the only thing they could offer and so we got what was left there - chicken tenders, fries, grilled chicken burger and hot cocoa. The food was soggy due to the pre packaging and wasn’t that good. The only good thing out of this was the hot cocoa. If you’re planning to have a dine in experience (which you shouldn’t given the current circumstances), you will be disappointed. Overall, this is great place to enjoy with family and kids and will entertain you for hours. If you’ve never been to a zoo and want to experience one, this place should be on your bucket list ✅

  • 5/5 Tiffany L. 3 years ago on Google
    Great outdoor heated dining experience with an overhang and an umbrella. Spectacular views of the changing leaves on the mountainside across the water. Great service, fabulous fall beverage menu and broad menu. Many gluten free options as well.

  • 5/5 Biagio P. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place with a wonderful approach to animal viewing. Animals look happy and content in a natural simulated habitat. Looking forward to going back.

  • 5/5 Cristina R. 3 years ago on Google
    I love this zoo, I was sad to see that it was closed right now for the month. But best believe I’ll be here once it opens in feb, it’s a gem and I only live 10 min away. I bring here every month my Siblings to enjoy and support the zoo. The staff is amazing great for gatherings

  • 5/5 Kelly P. 3 years ago on Google
    Ever since I moved to NJ, I enjoy going to this zoo with the family. It’s always a blast. Not to mention the zip line! They have pony rides, feeding sticks for the parakeets, carousel for the kids, train rides and much more!

  • 5/5 joanna s. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place to be with children!

  • 5/5 Andy C. 3 years ago on Google
    We enjoyed a great day at the zoo. Felt very safe in both indoor and outdoor locations. Really enjoyed a charity drive event they held where you got free entry with a donation!

  • 5/5 PABLO D. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place to take kids

  • 5/5 Jeffrey R. 3 years ago on Google
    Great local zoo

  • 5/5 Joanne A. 3 years ago on Google
    Clean, beautiful,Fun!!! Don't get close to the peacocks.Little boy's forehead was pecked

  • 5/5 Oscar P. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful place for family

  • 5/5 Keisha 3 years ago on Google
    Although it was cold outside today, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Staff was friendly and inviting.

  • 5/5 Liza M. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome place to come during covid. Even on “busy days” it is nothing. Great place for kids to run and be kids and experience animals. Even as an adult I’d enjoy coming here with no kids just to be outside. PLUS free admission if you bring stuff to donate! total win win being outside, kid friendly, lots of space, lots of different things to do and experience!

  • 4/5 Lisa B. 3 years ago on Google
    This is such a wonderful place to see many animals that you wouldn't ever get this close to anywhere else. I do have a hard time seeing the small spaces that several animals are alotted; esp the cats. I hope that an expansion is planned for them as there seems to be plenty of acreage for it. It's still a nice place to spend a couple of hours wandering around.

  • 4/5 Qamar H. A. 3 years ago on Google
    Good zoo

  • 5/5 Moe E. 3 years ago on Google
    WOW! I absolutely love animals, especially all kinds of cats (including big cats). Went here with my girlfriend and it was absolutely a blast seeing the animals! You can buy some food for the goats and hand feed them! You can also pet the stingrays! So cute! Its very tiny, and you can go through the whole zoo in about a few hours, but it's so fun!

  • 4/5 Erzuli M. 3 years ago on Google
    Empty

  • 5/5 siva c. 3 years ago on Google
    Clean zoo

  • 5/5 Dad_Millenial 3 years ago on Google
    Extremely beautiful park fir kids. Even in winters it’s good walk, takes around 2 hours to completely see it.

  • 4/5 doris elena reyes p. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) So cute (Original) Muy lindo

  • 5/5 Jonathan T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great zoo!

  • 5/5 Just S. 3 years ago on Google
    Must see Zoo especially on spring & summer

  • 1/5 Greek S. 3 years ago on Google
    Animals should not be incarcerated (in zoos) like criminals.

  • 5/5 Sundar Ananda d. 3 years ago on Google
    Lot of interesting stuff for kids .. and the train!

  • 5/5 Karen O. 3 years ago on Google
    Fun day

  • 4/5 eloy r. 3 years ago on Google
    I like it its very funny

  • 5/5 Kristen D. 3 years ago on Google
    It's always fun to come walk around for a few hours. Friendly, safe and clean!

  • 5/5 SHIMON K. 3 years ago on Google
    Just great!

  • 5/5 Αρτέμη 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place remind me of the movie Madagascar

  • 4/5 Vickie W. 3 years ago on Google
    My son enjoys coming here soooo much. So close to home and not as crowded as the LA ZOO. Every time we have a chance we come here loves the tiny monkeys.

  • 3/5 Jen C. 3 years ago on Google
    The zoo is great. The enforcement of masks is severely lacking. We've been multiple times since spring and besides the train ride employees no one was enforcing masks being worn.

  • 5/5 Chris B. 3 years ago on Google
    Even though there were lots if renovations being done, and covid restrictions in place, they did a wonderful job directing you around the park to see everything. Lot of close encounters with thr animals which the kids love. Great job. Not very expensive either. 45 fit kids and 1 adult and we were there for 3 hours.

  • 1/5 Balls deep In b. 3 years ago on Google
    Very horrible most animals weren’t on site. Do not recommend it at all!

  • 5/5 Denise W. 3 years ago on Google
    I love walking the zoo frequently. It is a great place to get a relaxing walk in while seeing the animals.

  • 2/5 Luba B. 3 years ago on Google
    Attractive at first glance but seeing some animals and raptors inside the small cage made me uncomfortable. I stood by the cage of two raptors that were placed inside the small cage. I saw hawk flying above us and raptors were very responsive to hawk. I can tell that they wished they could rock the sky once again. I just left feeling uncomfortable with the fact that the quality of life isn't really there for them. I prefer to enjoy animals in the wild. I saw some animals depressed and it is just not right. A lot of families bring kids to look at quite lonely and depressed animals - sad reality. Nature and location is not bad but the small cages dedicated to animals is a joke.

  • 5/5 Yoann L. 3 years ago on Google
    I would never have expected a nice zoo as this one in West Orange since it isn't a metropolis but was very happy from that visit. What I've noticed here is that enclosures seem quite larger than ones in larger cities and animals seem to have a pleasant and amusing nature when we visited.

  • 5/5 Amy X. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place for family.

  • 5/5 Dylan M. 3 years ago on Google
    Our only complaint is not everything was open, but we also went a day or two after a snow storm so i understand why nit everthing was open or cleared

  • 5/5 Jeremy K. 3 years ago on Google
    On our second year long membership, and this is a great membership to have. Best money spent probably ever. Fun for the whole family. My daughter loves it, as do I. Very affordable and a great activity. Can't say enough good things. I love that they have a sea turtle rehabilitation center as well.

  • 5/5 KPhil 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect day for the zoo, all of the animals were out and about with the cool but sunny day. Cannot wait to go again. Even had the opportunity to watch the lab dog playing with cheetah.

  • 5/5 A 3 years ago on Google
    My family love this place and enjoy the cleanliness!

  • 5/5 Muriel R. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful small Zoo! Perfect for a full day or half day outing. Lots of things to do and clean and appealing. Hidden gem!

  • 5/5 Shaneka Q. 2 years ago on Google
    My kids had fun, the zoo was clean and organized. Please get there early, we struggle to find parking around 1pm on a Saturday. But overall amazing experience.

  • 5/5 Manali Y. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing experience! Must visit for kids , well maintained and clean too. Lots of different varieties of animals for kids to explore and enjoy!

  • 5/5 Leila W. 2 years ago on Google
    Had an amazing time !! It was son's first time being at the zoo. The animals were really great to look at and experience. Definitely going back again

  • 5/5 JV D. 2 years ago on Google
    I love zoos and I love love love turtleback zoo! It is not as prices as the bronx zoo but also have a lot to see and explore! We did giraffe feeding and it was a fun experience. You'll see that most of their animals are sociable a good sign that they are happy and healthy!

  • 5/5 nelson c. 2 years ago on Google
    Great zoo. Small enough to get it done in a few hours, but big enough to spend a good chunk of a day with the kids. The train rude is shirt but it's good to sit for 10 minutes or so while catching the view of the lake.

  • 5/5 Chris G. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved it here. A little bit of a drive for us but well worth it. Even had the opportunity to feed the giraffes. We'll be back for sure. The big cats were all sleeping, but don't they always?

  • 5/5 Fred B. 2 years ago on Google
    Went for holiday lights. Lots of walking. Bring strollers if you have kids. The light show is free, the train ride is free. Had a pizza truck and hot chocolate by the train. The food cost money. Bring donations if you can. Food or toys.

  • 5/5 Bill D. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent, 1st class zoo, very clean, very well maintained, modern infrastructure, many new exhibits in top condition, very good proximity to animals—usually from multiple vantage points, great train ride for kids at no additional charge, wonderful walking loop around the zoo with lots of options and turn offs. Delightful water touch tank where adults and kids can pet and feed small sharks and rays. Excellent new giraffe exhibit where guests may meet and feed the giraffes at eye level. Overall, the zoo is very well designed and maintained. It’s evident that the County of Essex has prioritized the funding this wonderful zoo. Deserves more than 5 stars!

  • 5/5 Ralphy F. 2 years ago on Google
    I absolutely love this zoo. They have a really good variety of animals that you can see. The views to see most of the creatures are perfect. It's a very friendly and clean environment as well. This is a really good zoo to go to as a fun and family event. Definitely recommend going.

  • 5/5 Jacqueline C. 2 years ago on Google
    The zoo lights was a very great experience for my children. There was no line to enter and donation area was quick and easy. Only thing I would change is the Smore's area. There was only 3 fire pits and and a whole bunch of parents and children waiting. It was a really great experience for the kids to go to the zoo at night see the Christmas lights.

  • 5/5 Custom Wedding Gowns By Debra Green D. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a cute little zoo. Even in the rain. This zoo has animals I haven't seen in a while. Tiny wallabys, white leopards, alpacas. Even in the pouring rain it was fun to walk about. I'd it was charming in the rain, imagine how perfect it would be on a sunny day. You should go. Enjoy!

  • 5/5 Wynne T. 2 years ago on Google
    We went to see their Christmas lights. It is beautiful. It's free to see the Christmas lights with non perishable recommended.

  • 5/5 Emely V. 2 years ago on Google
    Went 2021 for Christmas lights this time and loved it. Park & Entrance were free. Lots of fun things to do with my kids. We smoked marshmallows $6 in the fire, ride the carousel for $2 and Train $0. So much fun! My #1 to go during summer.

  • 5/5 Zack 1 year ago on Google
    I visited the zoo with my wife and young son. The zoo was very busy because it was a school holiday however there was still plenty of room and it did not feel crowded. The zoo is beautiful and well kept we spent a few hours there and still have more to see We got to feed the giraffes and ride on the train.

  • 5/5 Iris D. 1 year ago on Google
    There so much too do at this zoo. I love the fact that even though it was busy we were able to do everything with no wait time. We arrived at 11am parking was free which it was a plus. $17 per adult & $14 for my 4th year old, (2 and under free) it was well worth the money. My son had a great time and most of the exhibits were open. We fed the giraffes 🦒 this activity has an additional charge $2.00 for 2 lettuce 🥬 leaves. My son also did the pony ride and that was $3.00 (you have to be under 48’ to be able to ride) We petted goats, hands 🙌🏼 on for stingrays & sharks 🦈 There’s was a butterfly 🦋 conservatory (additional fee) Plenty of ice cream and water distributed around the zoo. It was a lovely experience!

  • 5/5 Mercedes Del P. 1 year ago on Google
    Fantastic!!! It has grown exponentially since the last time I visited. It is impeccably clean and the exhibits are designed to invite you into the life of the animals. Animals are well kept and healthy. The enclosures are more like a park setting than you would normally expect from a Zoo. The train ride is a must as it takes you on a quick trip to the peaceful waterfront view. To truly see it you need at least 4 hours, i woild recommended spending the entire day so that you get to enjoy the waterfront activities and mini golf as well. Truly worth the trip. The other thing worth mentioning is their prices. The admission fee is under $20,and they offer senior and military discount. In addition, things like pony rides, bird food and carrousel ride are only $2...so more than affordable. Truly an exceptional experience for the entire family.

  • 5/5 Nina D. 1 year ago on Google
    My friend and I decided to go see the Holiday Lights at Turtle Back Zoo, and we ended up having a lot of fun. This free event is a great way to celebrate the holidays with your family. The train was up and running the entire time for all guests. They played the Polar Express music during the ride, which was awesome. There were food venues set up throughout the zoo in case you got hungry. We even got to see some animals. The lights were beautiful! You should go check it out while there's still time.

  • 4/5 Chloé 8 months ago on Google
    I went here for brew at the zoo. Great event, but a lot of animals weren't out. Even still, it was great to walk around. The zoo itself is really pretty and there are plenty of places to sit and relax.

  • 4/5 Daniel M. 9 months ago on Google
    It was a class trip so maybe it was 5 stars but the pain of arriving .. nothing seemed organized.. and leaving, waiting for bus in hot sun for 40 minutes. Need waiting area. Lots of animals, very clean, plenty of places to eat, bring your own food and drinks. Butterfly exhibit cost $3 person, but pretty cool. Lots of feeding areas. Lots of walking. Not sure of price because school trip. Would return.

  • 3/5 Neil R. 1 year ago on Google
    Well when they complete the zoo excavation and half the animals are not out they may get 4 stars. For a small zoo and easy to get around, this is decent zoo. The staff is great and food good. The exhibits are small but beautiful...it's just that once again half the animals being off site, kills what could be a better than decent zoo!

  • 4/5 Joseph A. 9 months ago on Google
    Some fun stuff to see here - had more than I expected. Sea Lion, penguins, flamingos, and giraffe were the highlights for our family. Waited on a long line for a train ride - was cool - but think it's one of those things you go to first right after they are open to avoid the wait. There were a bunch of sleeping animals but I can't blame em.

  • 3/5 Kevin M. 11 months ago on Google
    We came on April 1 2023. Parking is free, and adult tickets were $19 each. I think there are a few downsides to visiting here during the offseason. Several exhibits were closed for the season, and quite a few others just had empty pens. Our walk through the "Asia" section was a little disappointing, I don't think we saw a single animal there. With that said, we still had a good time. It's affordable and extremely family-friendly.

  • 5/5 Bhargava V. 8 months ago on Google
    Cute and fun zoo especially for taking young kids. Loved how easy it was to navigate with strollers. We visited on a hot & humid day so understandbly a few animals were in their dugouts escaping the heat. Nonetheless, made good memories with the children. Thank you!

  • 5/5 chris c. 8 months ago on Google
    - My mom and I (two adults, no children) went on a day trip to this place and got here as soon as it opened around 10 AM. In about 3 hours, we visited every exhibit except for the essex farm, interactive aviary, the bird of prey section and the train ride. - I am a massive animal enthusiast and humane care/husbandry is a deep moral concern of mine. Because of this, I was paying close attention to how this zoo operates. I am pleased to say that this is probably one of the best zoos an animal could end up in. Staff & Faculties; - The staff are all very nice and clearly care about the animals. Employees are very watchful of visitors to the more hands-on exhibits, like the touch tank and butterfly house, and are protective of the animals. The sea lion feeding show was canceled because the seal wanted to rest; I think that decision shows where the priorities of the staff lay. The catering staff were even very nice. - Catering in the Zanzibar was good. It was an average cafeteria with lots of fast food and snacks but made for an appreciated rest stop during the visit. - Bathrooms are located near the entrance, in the cafeteria and in the Touch Tank exhibit building. The Animals; - Enclosures are clean and have lots of enrichment for the animals, containing toys, shelter, and naturalistic habitat decoration. - The only abnormal behavior I took notice of was a black bear pacing around its enclosure. However, the bear could've been waiting for its breakfast from a keeper, as the zoo had just opened. Aside from that, all the animals appear healthy and content. There was no other stereotypy or distressed behavior to speak of. (notes regarding the pictures; the wolf pictured is geriatric, and as such looks a little beat up naturally from his age. the hyena pictured did have access to shelter, it just happened to fall asleep in that peculiar spot.) - I noticed a lot of animals would also come over to "entertain" visitors, looking at them through the barriers, begging for food, or doing "tricks" for them. This was especially the case for the gibbons, penguins, prairie dogs, and giraffes. Some of the stingrays of the Touch Tank were also friendly, approaching visitors and seeming to enjoy being pet. It was all very adorable :) (please treat the animals with respect and encourage your children to respect the boundaries of the animals aswell. don't be a jerk.) Conclusion; - All in all, this place gets double thumbs up from me and I have zero complaints. (pictured are; prairie dog, wolf, hornbill, spotted hyena, giraffes, dwarf alligator, turtle, monarch butterflies, gibbon, african penguins and a pelican, flamingos, komodo dragon, tree skink, and golden puffer)

  • 5/5 Hank T. 8 months ago on Google
    Great place to spend with family. Zoo has been updated . So if you haven't been here in a few years you'll have new things to see. Looks like every year they add something new.

  • 5/5 Babs A. 7 months ago on Google
    Wonderful adventure for any age and any size group. Not huge but has everything you need for a great time. Many beautiful animals and plants with plenty of seating and rest areas throughout. Food and vending is also available throughout the park and at the Cafe.

  • 5/5 Alfonso V. 7 months ago on Google
    Highly recommend this zoo for a family fun day. The food is good and served by Aramark company at the moment. The enclosures were clean and well kept. All the animals were out and about except for the wolves and cheetahs, but that's not the zoos fault. I can't lower the stars on the review based on the animal's mood that day that would be unfair. Butterfly experience was great I just wished they had a bigger variety of flies I could only notice 4 different species of butterflies. We attended a birthday party and the designated areas were clean and organized.

  • 4/5 Samantha O. 7 months ago on Google
    First time visited a zoo in US. Took our 7mo girl there. All spots were accessible with strollers. It wasn’t too crowded, maybe because weather was predicted to be stormy. We were lucky to get there before the storm come. The entire place wasn’t big, not too many animals, but we could still spent 2-3hrs. Couldn’t finish all the animals since the rain started to pour. The train ride was fun, queue wasnt too long. It only took you to see some outside lakeview, and wave hands with the people walking in the park. I was hoping to see some animals with the train ride since walking whole day is a bit tiring. Trainride was about 5-10mins. Still fun to ride on with kids. Not sure if theres a time for animals to be active but most animals we saw were sleeping or lying down, or hidden behind a bush or trees. Only active animals were giraffe, otters, beaver, birds, flamingo and the sea animals. They only have one of each kind of animals mostly. So you either see them or not. Couldnt really see lion or hyena at all as they weren’t out. If you are expecting more animals, maybe should go to a bigger zoo, but if this is just for a walk, sure~ its still pretty big place to walk around. Some places are under construction the time we were there (ard early July 2023). There were some places for you and your kids to experience / touch the animals, like the bird zone, stingray aquarium, pony ride. Good for kids.

  • 4/5 SJ The G. 7 months ago on Google
    The scale of this zoo is awesome, you can do it in an afternoon easily. You have to pay extra for any of the interactive exhibits and the zoo is already pretty pricey for groups. The most interesting animals on display are the cheetah and the dog, who seem to to be friends lol. Africa area with giraffes had the best landscaping/enclosure. The security guard kicked us out at 5:05.

  • 5/5 Dmitriy Z. 7 months ago on Google
    Very nice zoo! Have free train for kids. Parking possible free, if you found parking spot. Highly recommend. Also other side lake have a playground for kids and boats.

  • 5/5 Jancy R. 6 months ago on Google
    This is the best zoo I’ve ever been too.. it is smaller than the Bronx zoo but you get to see all the animals awake or at sleep., my 2 year old loved it. Will definitely be back.

  • 5/5 Stefanie W. 6 months ago on Google
    I recommend coming when it opens because it gets so busy around 1pm. There is a parking garage that is free, along with ground parking, with a very short walk to the front of the zoo. The park is SO clean and is 100% stroller/wagon/wheelchair friendly. There is now a bar that serves beer, wine and liquor above the cafe and even though the chicken tenders were expensive for 4 of them ($8), they were delicious! The animal enclosures were actually really large, which was nice for the animals. You can tell they put a lot of love into this zoo!

  • 4/5 Christopher K. 5 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    This was an enjoyable Zoo! Haven’t been since I was very young. A lot of animals were not out due to colder weather but it was still fun and interesting! Cute little train ride too. Went on a Tuesday so no crowds at all. Overall great time!

  • 5/5 Adrian R. 4 months ago on Google
    Great family atmosphere. Great if you have kids to take to enjoy seeing some of the great species that the Earth has to offer. Went with my teenage baby sister and a friend of mine. Had a blast. Definitely recommend to visit if you are in the area.


Call (973) 731-5800 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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