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    • About Us
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          • Zoo History Our Story

            In 1962 the Essex County Park Commission, headed by ...

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            Do You See Yourself Working In A Fun-Filled, Wild Environment?

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            Reach out for inquiries, assistance, or collaboration

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        • The Zoological Society of NJ
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          • Adopt an Animal
          • Owl Society
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            • Our story
              Plan Your Trip

              With over 130 animal species to find, here's what you need to know to have an awesome day with us starting from the parking lot through your top stops and the breaks in between!

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          • Visit
            • Ticket Rates
            • Plan Your Trip
            • Host an Event
          • Know before you go
            • Directions
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        • Things to Do
            • Attractions
              • Zoo Train
              • Endangered Species Carousel
              • Face Painting
              • Prehistoric Playground
              • Keeper Talks
            • Animal Experiences
              • Giraffe Feed
              • Goat Feed
              • Butterfly Tent
              • Pony Rides
              • Aviary
              • Sting Ray Feed
            • Events
              • Upcoming Events
                  • Turtle Back Hatchlings
                  • Turtle Back Zoo Tots
                  • Sophisticated Science
                  • Wonders of the Wild
                  • Sophisticated Science Seminar
                  • Sloth Social
                  • Copy of Zoo Explorers
                  • Home School Days
                  • Educator Professional Development
                  • Pastries and Prairie Dogs
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            • Attractions

              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 accessible.

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          • Animals
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                • Animals
                  Animals

                  Explore the wild wonders of Turtle Back Zoo, where each animal tells a unique story of nature and conservation. Journey through diverse habitats and meet the incredible creatures that call Turtle Back Zoo home, from majestic big cats to playful primates—discover the beauty and strength of wildlife up close.

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              • Habitats
                • African Adventure
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                • ROAR Fall/ Winter 2024
                • ROAR Spring/ Summer 2024
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                    Programs

                    From classroom programs to homeschool classes, sloth breakfasts and behind-the-scenes tours, our Education Department offers a variety of ways to enhance your zoo experience.

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                  • Classroom
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                  • Sophisticated Science Seminars
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                  • Animal Encounters
                  • Early Childhood Programs
                  • Birthday Party Programs
                  • Storytime
                  • Zoo Camps
                  • Professional Development
              • Explore
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                      Explore

                      Expand your day trip outside the zoo. Add on adventure, discovery and cocktails around the South Mountain Recreation Complex.

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                    • Treetop Adventure Course
                    • Mini Golf Safari
                    • The Waterfront
                    • Children’s Regatta Playground
                    • McLoone’s Restaurant
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              Contact

              560 Northfield Ave,
              West Orange, NJ 07052

              [email protected] 973-731-5800
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