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Upcoming Events

September 2026

Stroller Safari

Essex County Turtle Back Zoo offers a monthly stroller safaris monthly for children 1-4 and a caregiver. Each safari features a unique discussion topic while exploring an area of the zoo. This 30-40 minute guided tour, led by one of our educators, focuses on the wonders of the natural world through the eyes of children. […]
Sep 09 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
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Wonders of the Wild

Turtle Back Zoo is an amazing classroom! Our Wonders of the Wild program offers children an opportunity to participate in supplementary science and nature-themed programs and projects that facilitate scientific literacy and life-long environmental stewardship. Available to children age 6-12, this program includes a visit to the South Mountain Reservation, Reservoir, or Zoo as weather […]
Sep 12 2026
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
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Family Nature Club

Where we grow and learn together Family Nature Club (FNC) is all about discovering the world, and playing WITH nature, not just IN nature.  Experience the sounds, smells, and sights of the outdoors with FNC as we explore our natural heritage within Essex County’s parks. Available to individuals 6-106, this family-friendly program include a visit to […]
Sep 13 2026
9:00 am - 11:00 am
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Behind the Scenes with the Lions

Come see the the Pride of TBZ! We are excited to share a new Behind the Scenes offering this summer! Come visit one of TBZ’s newest families, and get a unique, up-close animal experience with first-hand knowledge and stories from the Keepers that know them best. What to Expect: Join TBZ educators for a behind […]
Sep 13 2026
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Mount Building Classroom
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Zoo Explorers

Early Childhood programs encourage family learning and foster early environmental awareness. We invite young children to discover the natural world through gently structured play, art, stories, animal visits, and more. Early Childhood programming is offered monthly throughout the school year. Age restrictions apply; Pre-registration required.  Zoo admission is not included with registration. Zoo Explorers is […]
Sep 13 2026
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
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Lifelong Learners

Conservation Exploration for ages 13 to 103! Lifelong Learners programs are conservation conversations for teens and adults. Programs run throughout the year and span topics such as animal anatomy, habitats & conservation, animal careers, and more. These events are perfect for individuals interested in animals, science, conservation, and nature who want to learn something new […]
Sep 13 2026
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
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Homeschool Days

Welcome to the wildest classroom in NJ! Our homeschool classes offer students an opportunity to boost scientific literacy and knowledge of the natural world, and learn the importance of life-long environmental stewardship. Available to students ages 6-12, the programs include a visit to South Mountain Reservation, Reservoir, or Zoo as weather permits. These are in-person, […]
Sep 16 2026
11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
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Night Moves

Experience the Zoo after hours! Join our knowledgeable Docent volunteers for a unique look at the zoo and its nocturnal animal collection. Night Moves is a guided evening tour of zoo exhibits where you’ll learn about different animal senses and adaptations. Perfect for families, friends, animal enthusiasts, or date nights. Pre-registration is required, and all […]
Sep 18 2026
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
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BARKtoberfest Pet Adoption Event & Marketplace

We will be hosting our 10th Annual BARKtoberfest: Pet Adoption Event & Marketspace at the Berson Family Center at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo! Come meet adoptable dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens while supporting local animal shelters and rescue groups. This year’s event will feature a Pet Costume Contest, vendor booths, food trucks and more! This […]
Sep 19 2026
11:00 am - 3:00 pm
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Behind the Scenes with the Lions

Come see the the Pride of TBZ! We are excited to share a new Behind the Scenes offering this summer! Come visit one of TBZ’s newest families, and get a unique, up-close animal experience with first-hand knowledge and stories from the Keepers that know them best. What to Expect: Join TBZ educators for a behind […]
Sep 20 2026
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Mount Building Classroom
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Zoo Mini Camp

Join us at Turtle Back Zoo for some wild fun! We offer mini-camps throughout the school year on days that coincide with many of the major school holidays. The camp day runs from 9am-4pm and is available for ages 5 to 10. Campers should bring their own snack and lunch. We do our best to […]
Sep 21 2026
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
Learn more

Behind the Scenes with the Lions

Come see the the Pride of TBZ! We are excited to share a new Behind the Scenes offering this summer! Come visit one of TBZ’s newest families, and get a unique, up-close animal experience with first-hand knowledge and stories from the Keepers that know them best. What to Expect: Join TBZ educators for a behind […]
Sep 27 2026
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Mount Building Classroom
Learn more
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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