CANCELED | Sensory-Friendly Morning
Join us Thursday, August 6th for a Sensory-friendly evening! Ticket now on sale: HERE
Upcoming Events
May 2026
Prairie Dogs and Pastries
Get up close and personal with the animals of Turtle Back Zoo! TBZ is proud to offer this education program where guests get a unique look at some of their favorite animals, learn valuable conservation education, and meet the keepers that make it all possible. Behind the Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters are for ages 6 […]
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 […]
Behind the Scenes at the Animal Wellness Center
Take a look behind the scenes! TBZ is proud to offer this education program where guests get a unique look at some of their favorite animals, learn valuable conservation education, and meet the keepers that make it all possible. Behind the Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters are for ages 6 and up only, children under 18 […]
Educator Professional Development
Calling all Teachers! Earn Professional Development Hours at the Zoo. Whether you teach upper level science or cross-curricular elementary, TBZ has some exciting PD opportunities for you! Join experienced Educators for NGSS aligned professional development programs leveraging the resources of Turtle Back Zoo. Each session will cover relevant scientific background as well as provide advice […]
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 […]
World Series of Birding 2026
Have you heard of the World Series of Birding? This competition, created by the New Jersey Audubon Society, is a race to see who can identify the greatest number of bird species in 24 hours (May 9th, 2026) throughout the great Garden State. Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is once again teaming up with our conservation partners at Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird […]
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 […]
Turtle Back Hatchlings
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. Turtle Back Hatchlings […]
Behind the Scenes at the Animal Wellness Center
Take a look behind the scenes! TBZ is proud to offer this education program where guests get a unique look at some of their favorite animals, learn valuable conservation education, and meet the keepers that make it all possible. Behind the Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters are for ages 6 and up only, children under 18 […]
Educator Professional Development
Calling all Teachers! Earn Professional Development Hours at the Zoo. Whether you teach upper level science or cross-curricular elementary, TBZ has some exciting PD opportunities for you! Join experienced Educators for NGSS aligned professional development programs leveraging the resources of Turtle Back Zoo. Each session will cover relevant scientific background as well as provide advice […]
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. […]
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