Top 12 Aquarium And Zoos To Visit In New Jersey

Cape May County Park & Zoo

What Makes It Special?

• Diverse Animal Collection: With over 550 animals representing more than 250 species, the zoo offers a rich tapestry of wildlife. From majestic lions to playful otters, there's something for everyone.
• Free Admission: Enjoying a day at the zoo doesn't have to break the bank. Cape May County Park & Zoo offers free admission, though donations are appreciated to support their conservation efforts.
• Educational Programs: The zoo hosts a variety of educational events and programs year-round, designed to engage and inform visitors about wildlife and conservation.
• Park Amenities: Beyond the zoo, the surrounding park features picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, and a beautiful arboretum.

Tips For Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the crowds and see the animals at their most active.
• Pack a Picnic: Take advantage of the park's picnic areas for a relaxing meal amidst nature.

Turtle Back Zoo

What Makes It Special?

• Interactive Exhibits: Engage with wildlife through interactive exhibits like the touch tank with stingrays and the butterfly tent.
• Treetop Adventure Course: For thrill-seekers, the treetop ropes course offers an exhilarating bird’s-eye view of the zoo.
• Endangered Species: The zoo is home to several endangered species, including snow leopards, red pandas, and wolves, highlighting their commitment to conservation.
• Seasonal Events: Enjoy special events like Boo at the Zoo for Halloween and Holiday Lights Spectacular during the winter.

Tips For Your Visit

• Plan Ahead: Check the zoo's event calendar to align your visit with exciting seasonal activities.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The zoo’s expansive grounds mean a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

What Makes It Special?

• Rescue and Rehabilitation: This refuge is dedicated to rescuing animals that have been abused, abandoned, or injured, offering them a safe and caring environment.
• Adoptable Animals: Support the refuge by adopting animals through their sponsorship program, helping fund the care and rehabilitation of the residents.
• Diverse Residents: From tigers and bears to monkeys and farm animals, each resident has a unique story of rescue and recovery.
• Educational Programs: Learn about animal welfare and conservation through the refuge's educational initiatives.

Tips For Your Visit

• Adoption Program: Consider adopting an animal to support the refuge and stay connected with your favorite resident.
• Visit the Gift Shop: Proceeds from purchases help fund the refuge's operations.

Bergen County Zoo

What Makes It Special?

• American Wildlife: Discover animals native to North and South America, including bison, mountain lions, and Andean condors.
• Train Rides: Enjoy a scenic train ride through the zoo, offering a relaxing way to see the exhibits.
• Educational Talks: Regular educational talks and demonstrations provide insights into the animals and their habitats.
• Children's Zoo: Young visitors can interact with domestic animals like goats, sheep, and chickens in the Children's Zoo section.

Tips For Your Visit

• Check the Schedule: Arrive in time for the educational talks to enhance your visit with fascinating animal facts.
• Bring Snacks: The zoo has picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

Cohanzick Zoo

What Makes It Special?

• Historic Charm: Established in 1934, Cohanzick Zoo retains much of its historic charm, providing a quaint and nostalgic experience.
• Animal Variety: Home to a variety of animals, including bears, tigers, and monkeys, each exhibit educates visitors about the species and their conservation.
• Free Admission: Cohanzick Zoo offers free admission, making it an affordable option for families and individuals.
• Community Programs: The zoo is actively involved in community programs and events, promoting wildlife education and conservation.

Tips For Your Visit

• Enjoy the History: Take time to appreciate the zoo's historic features and charm.
• Participate in Events: Check for community events to enhance your visit.

Space Farms Zoo & Museum

What Makes It Special?

• Extensive Collection: With over 500 animals, including rare and exotic species, Space Farms boasts an impressive array of wildlife.
• Museum Exhibits: The museum features a fascinating collection of historical artifacts, including antique cars, tools, and Native American artifacts.
• Family-Owned Charm: Operated by the Space family for over 90 years, the zoo offers a personal touch and rich history.
• Educational Programs: The zoo offers educational programs and guided tours, providing insights into the animals and museum artifacts.

Tips For Your Visit

• Combine Experiences: Plan to spend time exploring both the zoo and the museum for a full day of fun.
• Engage with Guides: Take advantage of guided tours to learn more about the exhibits.

Adventure Aquarium

What Makes It Special?

• Aquatic Exhibits: Adventure Aquarium is home to over 8,500 aquatic species, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. The Shark Realm and Ocean Realm exhibits are crowd favorites, offering breathtaking views of these incredible creatures.
• Touch Tanks: Get hands-on with marine life through touch tanks, where visitors can gently interact with creatures like starfish and stingrays.
• Hippo Haven: One of the aquarium's unique features is the Hippo Haven, where you can observe Nile hippos swimming and playing in their large, aquatic habitat.
• Educational Programs: The aquarium offers various educational programs and live shows that teach visitors about marine life and conservation efforts.

Tips for Your Visit

• Interactive Fun: Don’t miss the chance to walk through the Shark Tunnel, where you’re surrounded by sharks swimming above and beside you.
• Plan Your Day: Allocate plenty of time to explore both the aquatic exhibits and the zoo’s unique animal features, such as the hippos.

Raptor Trust

What Makes It Special?

• Bird Rehabilitation: Raptor Trust focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of injured or orphaned birds of prey, including hawks, eagles, and owls. They care for over 50 species annually.
• Educational Center: The facility features an educational center where visitors can learn about the biology and conservation of birds of prey.
• Observation Areas: Visitors can walk through the outdoor aviaries and observation areas to see the birds up close, including those that are permanent residents due to their inability to survive in the wild.
• Conservation Efforts: The trust is heavily involved in conservation, advocating for the protection of birds of prey and their habitats.

Tips for Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit: Morning visits offer a quieter experience and the chance to see the birds during their more active periods.
• Support the Cause: Consider making a donation or sponsoring a bird to support Raptor Trust’s conservation efforts.

Lakota Wolf Preserve

What Makes It Special?

• Wolf Observation: The preserve is home to packs of Timber Wolves, Arctic Wolves, and British Columbian Wolves. Visitors can observe these animals in a natural setting, learning about their behavior and social structures.
• Guided Tours: The preserve offers guided tours where experts share insights into wolf conservation, ecology, and the challenges these animals face in the wild.
• Photography Opportunities: The preserve is a haven for wildlife photographers, offering stunning opportunities to capture wolves in their natural habitat.
• Other Wildlife: In addition to wolves, the preserve is home to bobcats and foxes, providing a broader look at North American predators.

Tips for Your Visit

• Dress Appropriately: The preserve is an outdoor facility, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking.
• Photography Tips: Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the wolves from a distance without disturbing them.

Jenkinson's Aquarium

What Makes It Special?

• Diverse Marine Life: Jenkinson's Aquarium features a variety of marine species, including sharks, penguins, seals, and tropical fish. The penguin exhibit is particularly popular among visitors.
• Interactive Exhibits: The aquarium offers touch tanks where visitors can interact with starfish, stingrays, and other marine creatures, making the experience hands-on and memorable.
• Seal Feedings: One of the highlights is the daily seal feedings, where visitors can watch and learn about the care and training of these playful marine mammals.
• Educational Programs: The aquarium offers educational programs and summer camps for children, focusing on marine biology and conservation.

Tips for Your Visit

• Boardwalk Fun: Combine your aquarium visit with a stroll along the Point Pleasant boardwalk for a full day of fun, including rides, games, and food.
• Timed Visits: Plan your visit to coincide with seal feeding times for an interactive and educational experience.

Staten Island Zoo

What Makes It Special?

• Reptile Collection: The Staten Island Zoo boasts one of the largest collections of reptiles in the Northeast, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. The Serpentarium is a must-see exhibit for reptile lovers.
• Children's Zoo: The zoo features a Children's Zoo area where young visitors can interact with domestic animals like goats, sheep, and chickens.
• Education and Conservation: The zoo is committed to education and conservation, offering various programs that teach visitors about wildlife and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
• Diverse Animal Exhibits: In addition to reptiles, the zoo houses a variety of mammals, birds, and amphibians, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all visitors.

Tips for Your Visit

• Best for Families: The zoo’s manageable size and interactive exhibits make it ideal for families with young children.
• Reptile Fans: If you’re a reptile enthusiast, allocate extra time to explore the extensive Serpentarium exhibit.

Van Saun Park Zoo

What Makes It Special?

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The zoo is perfect for families, with a range of animals to see, including lions, bison, and kangaroos. The layout is easy to navigate, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
• Train Ride: The zoo features a historic train ride that takes visitors on a scenic tour through the park, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding area.
• Seasonal Events: Van Saun Park Zoo hosts seasonal events, such as the Fall Festival and Zoo Boo, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit.
• Playground and Picnic Areas: The park includes extensive playgrounds and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor fun.

Tips for Your Visit

• Bring a Picnic: Pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing picnic in one of the designated areas within the park.
• Visit During Events: Check the zoo’s calendar for special events and plan your visit accordingly to enjoy additional activities.

FAQs About Zoos In New Jersey

What Are The Best Zoos To Visit In New Jersey?

Is There A Zoo In New Jersey With Free Admission?

Which Zoos In New Jersey Focus On Conservation And Animal Welfare?

What Activities Are Available At New Jersey Zoos?

Can You Adopt Animals At Any New Jersey Zoos?

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