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About Us
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  - Our Story
    In 1962 the Essex County Park Commission, headed by ...
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    Join Our Team
    Do You See Yourself Working In A Fun-Filled, Wild Environment?
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    Contact Us
    Reach out for inquiries, assistance, or collaboration
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- The Zoological Society of NJ
Visit
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  - 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
- Know before you go
Things to Do
- Attractions
- Animal Experiences
- Events
  - Upcoming Events
    - Howl-O-Ween
      MODIFIED ZOO HOURS
      Behind the Scenes at the Giraffe Barn
      UPDATED ZOO HOURS
      Sloth Social
      Holiday Lights 2026
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- 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
    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
- Conservation
Learn
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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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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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Membership Donate Ticket

Member Mornings

Member Mornings

Member Mornings are back at the Zoo!

Member Mornings
(Zoo opens at 9AM)

Friday, March 27

Friday, April 24

Friday, May 8 (Stroller Walk Add-On Sold Out!)

Sunday, July 26

Sunday, August 30

Saturday, October 24 (Stroller Walk Add-On Available – Information Coming Soon!)

Admission to this event is free. You must have a valid photo ID and membership for entry. Have any questions or concerns? Please email [email protected] or call 973-731-500 x241. Not a member? Visit www.zoologicalsocietyofnj.org/join to learn more.

Time

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Date

Oct 24 2026

Location

Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

MORE INFOMATION

Call us for more information on events, bookings, or zoo visits! To book a group reservation or party, call and ask for Group Sales. Our Group Sales Department phones can be busy at times, so you many need to leave a message. Teachers, please include a preferred callback time if needed, so we can try to connect. Please allow at least 48 hours for a return call before trying again.

Call - (973) 731-5800