Turtle Back Zoo: Explore Wildlife & Fun In West Orange!

Turtle Back Zoo: Explore Wildlife & Fun In West Orange!

Ever wondered where the wild things truly are? At Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, you'll discover a vibrant world where nature's tales unfold, captivating visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary, venturing into diverse habitats teeming with life. Here, the roar of majestic big cats and the playful antics of primates are just the beginning of an unforgettable experience. Explore the wild wonders of Turtle Back Zoo, where each animal tells a unique story of nature and conservation. Encounter the incredible creatures that call this haven home, and discover the beauty and strength of wildlife up close.

Turtle Back Zoo isn't just a place to see animals; it's a commitment to preserving them. Through education, conservation efforts, and a deep-rooted appreciation for the natural world, this zoo strives to make a difference. The zoo has a history dating back to its opening in 1963 and spans 20 acres, hosting a diverse collection of animals representing over 100 species and 1,400 animals.

Located at 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052, Turtle Back Zoo is conveniently nestled within the South Mountain Recreation Complex. This complex is a hub of entertainment, offering a variety of activities including the Codey Arena, Minigolf Safari, the Children's Regatta Playground, paddle boating, a 1.7-mile walkway, and the Clipper Pavilion picnic shelter. The zoo also features a miniature train ride that departs from Turtle Back Junction, taking visitors on a scenic tour through the beautiful South Mountain Reservation. The train ride is wheelchair accessible and departs approximately every 15 minutes. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day!

To further our mission of conservation, education, and stewardship, visitors and campers alike are introduced to the extraordinary world of animals, nature, and science. Make a difference by symbolically adopting one of the zoo's many available species.

The Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is a great place to spend a day, however, it is an energetic, noisy place full of sensory stimuli. For some guests, this environment can be overwhelming.

Join us at Turtle Back Zoo for some wild fun! The mission of Turtle Back Zoo camp is to foster an appreciation for wildlife and the natural world through fun and educational activities.

The zoo's location at the north end of Essex County's 2,000-acre South Mountain Reservation adds to its appeal, providing a stunning backdrop for this educational and recreational destination.

The Zoological Society of New Jersey, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation, plays a pivotal role in supporting the zoo. Its purpose is to promote the general welfare of Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, a facility of the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs, while also stimulating the public's interest in the growth, improvement, and development of Essex County.

To enrich the experience, the zoo also boasts an exciting Docent Program. Specially trained volunteers provide educational talks, act as guides, and provide essential information about the zoo and its inhabitants. Being a TBZ Docent is an enriching, rewarding, and social experience, allowing individuals to connect with others while making a valuable contribution.

Combine the human touch with innovative technological tools, we strive to provide the most reliable codes for Turtle Back Zoo at turtlebackzoo.com. Our commitment to accuracy means our Turtle Back Zoo codes undergo regular verification, with the latest check performed on Apr 18, 2025.

Feature Details
Name Turtle Back Zoo
Location 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA
Opening Date 1963
Size 20 acres
Number of Species Over 100
Number of Animals Approximately 1,400
Main Attraction Diverse Animal Collection, Train Ride
Nearby Attractions South Mountain Reservation, Codey Arena, Treetop Adventure Course, MiniGolf Safari
Mission Conservation, Education, and Stewardship
Zoo Camp Yes, with fun and educational activities
Docent Program Yes, specially trained volunteers for education
Special Events Holiday Lights Spectacular (December)
Train Ride Miniature train departing from Turtle Back Junction, wheelchair accessible
Open Hours 10 am to 3 pm or 4 pm depending on the season. During the colder months, from early November to late March, the zoo is open from 10 am to 3 pm, while in the warmer months, usually from April to October, it's open from 10 am to 4 pm.
Website turtlebackzoo.com

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Essex County Treetop Adventure Course, located next to the zoo, provides an aerial obstacle course with various challenge elements. The courses vary in height and offer different levels of challenge.

The holiday lights spectacular is the biggest special event of the year at the Turtle Back Zoo, held every December. During the colder months, from early November to late March, the zoo is open from 10 am to 3 pm, while in the warmer months, usually from April to October, it's open from 10 am to 4 pm.

While enjoying your visit, remember that buying tickets online doesn't necessarily expedite entry, as visitors may still need to wait in line to check in. Also, if you're interested in the zoo camps, it's best to register early, as they are quite popular and tend to fill up quickly.

Turtle Back Zoo 92.7 WOBM

Turtle back zoo The best Zoo to visit Essex County New Jersey Part

Why Turtle Back Zoo Is A Must Do For Families In NJ

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