Upcoming Events

Monthly List
May 2026

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 […]
May 17 2026
9:00 am - 11:00 am

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 […]
May 17 2026
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

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 […]
May 17 2026
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Amphitheater Stage

Home School Days

Welcome to the Wildest Classroom in New Jersey! Our homeschool classes offer students an opportunity to boost scientific literacy and knowledge of the natural world, while learning the importance of life-long environmental stewardship. Available to students ages 6-12, this drop-off program includes a visit to South Mountain Reservation, reservoir, or zoo as weather permits; be […]
May 20 2026
11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Berson Family Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

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 […]
May 24 2026
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Amphitheater Stage

Member Late Night

Members, enjoy the zoo after hours! Member Late Night(5:30PM to 8:30PM) Friday, May 29 Saturday, July 11 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.
May 29 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

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 […]
May 31 2026
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Amphitheater Stage
June 2026

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 […]
Jun 07 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Berson Learning Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

Turtle Back Zoo Tots

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 Zoo […]
Jun 07 2026
11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Berson Learning Center
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

Capybara Behind the Scenes

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 […]
Jun 07 2026
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Amphitheater Stage

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. […]
Jun 10 2026
2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
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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