Admission and Hours
 Directions
 Zoo Map
 Zoo Rules
 Plan Your Visit
 Gift Shop and Food Pavillion
 Pet Policy
>Zoo Rides
 Group Reservations


Party At the Zoo

Adopt An Animal

Group reservations


Zoo Rides

Endangered Species Carousel - Visitors of all ages can take a spin on our endangered species carousel. Ride on a panda, alligator, a tiger or one of the 30 other rare creatures featured on this unique ride that was custom built for Turtle Back Zoo. Housed inside a beautiful classic carousel house with mosaic floors and stained glass windows, this year round attraction is perfect in any weather. Fee: $2

Pony Rides - Located on the Essex Farm, children can take a nice ride in the shade on one of the zoo's gentle ponies. children must be over 2 years old to ride. There is a height restriction to ride the ponies, so guests should check the posted signs to see if their child is too tall to ride. Pony rides are open April through November and are weather permitting. Fee: $2

Train - Departing from Turtle Back Junction, the zoo's miniature train ride takes visitors through the beautiful South Mountain Reservation. The train is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day. The train departs approximately every 15 minutes from the station and is wheelchair accessable. Train rides are included with the price of admission. The train is closed during inclement weather and for the winter from December 1st - March 31st.

Make sure to smile for our zoo photographers located at our many attractions and stop by at one of our photo kiosks to purchase a souvenier photo.

Playground - Located next to the carousel, the zoo's playground is a fun place for children to explore and mimic some of the wild animals at the zoo. Featuring oversized North American animals, "waterfall" slides and plenty of climbing structures, the playground is always a hit with the children. For the safety of all of the children, there is a height restriction on this attraction. The playground is closed during the winter and during inclement weather.

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Turtle Back Zoo:
560 Northfield Avenue
West Orange, New Jersey, 07052
Main Phone Number: 973-731-5800