In 1963, the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey opened its doors as an exhibit for animals native to the Garden State. By 1995, the zoo was in danger of closing its doors and had fallen by the wayside. However, today the Turtle Back Zoo is a Jersey gem, housing over 700 animals from around the globe, offering visitors a whole host of activities and events aimed at embracing a call to the wild.
Best and worst times to go to the Turtle Back Zoo
The Turtle Back Zoo is located in the South Mountain Recreation Complex and is a popular destination for families, couples, and field trips since it offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that target different age groups. Weekends are more popular with many people taking advantage of the facilities at the complex especially during the warmer months. At the zoo, the early bird does catch the worm since the animals tend to be more active in the time just after the doors first open in morning. Late afternoon also brings out the critters because most of the animals are being fed. Of course, the zoo becomes a more attractive activity when the weather warms up. However, patrons should keep in mind that the animals do not appreciate heat and humidity either and usually take refuge in their shelters on hot summer days. Heading to the zoo on a cloudy, cool day is actually ideal for everyone involved including the animals. Fall can be the perfect time to enjoy an outing at the Turtle Back Zoo since the crowds will be less and the animals love the weather.
Must see/do at the Turtle Back Zoo
Make sure you leave time to ride the miniature train at the zoo. It's a favorite with the kids and train lovers. The ride is a sweet trip through the woods that overlook the South Mountain Reservation. The endangered species carousel is a delight for children of all ages. It's housed inside an enclosure decorated with stained glass windows. A ride on the merry-go-round does cost extra. Don't miss the bear exhibit of twin sisters, Jelly and Jam. The bruins arrived at the zoo as orphaned cubs in 2005. They actually come right up to the glass inside the observation enclosure that looks a lot like a standard kitchen. Visitors delight in watching the 300-pound black bears from such close proximity though the bears can make little ones a little nervous. Thrill seekers will not want to miss the TreeTop Adventure Course that includes an obstacle course and a zipline. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be completed online. They are not accepted the day of, however, so plan ahead.
Admission to the Turtle Back Zoo
The Turtle Back Zoo is open daily Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Off-season rates apply from December 1 through March 31 and represent a $2 savings from the in-season admission prices that are in effect from April 1 through November 31. Children 23-months and under are free and senior admission is discounted. Safari strollers are available for rental if needed.
Parking at the Turtle Back Zoo
The Turtle Back Zoo is housed in the South Mountain Recreation Complex that also includes Mini Safari Golf, the South Mountain Ice Arena, paddle boats, McLoone's Boathouse Restaurant, and the TreeTop Adventure Course. A main lot is available for zoo parking with the overflow directed to an on-sight parking deck built to accommodate 500 vehicles. On a busy day, spaces do fill up quickly especially with so many attractions in one facility. Arriving earlier in the day increases the chances of hassle-free parking, however, the deck is located within a convenient walking distance to the zoo.
Public Transportation at the Turtle Back Zoo
NJ Transit bus riders can take Bus #73 from Newark Penn Station to the Turtle Back Zoo. The bus stops across the street from the South Mountain Recreation Complex, which houses the zoo, on Northfield Avenue. Visitors can also travel to the Turtle Back Zoo from Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City via the #77 Coach USA Bus. It will also drop passengers across the street from the facility on Northfield Avenue. Travelers should check the appropriate website for schedules and times.
Food at the Turtle Back Zoo
The Zoo Café offers visitors an array of choices from snacks to a conventional lunch menu. Diners can eat in the indoor food pavilion or outside under the covered picnic area, but refrain from feeding the peacocks that enjoy strolling around the tables. Patrons are also welcome to pack their own lunch and dine in the provided areas. Snacks and treats are available at the Carousel Plaza. Food service is not open at the Turtle Back Zoo from November through March though vending machines are available. McLoone's Boathouse is located outside of the zoo within the South Mountain Recreation Complex on the banks of the reservoir, providing diners with fabulous views and a traditional American cuisine menu.
Insider tip for visitors to the Turtle Back Zoo
The Turtle Back Zoo offers many unconventional events throughout the year that are a real treat. Brew at the Zoo is extremely popular with adults twenty-one and over who enjoy 75-craft beers, live entertainment, and food vendors while strolling through the exhibits after regular hours. During the holiday season, the zoo becomes transformed with lights and is open for special hours in the evening to take in the displays and includes the showing of films like the Polar Express. Watch the zoo's Facebook page or check their website for upcoming events. The events make for a fun family outing, a get together with friends, or unique date night.
Author's bio: Dawn Miller is a freelance writer and mystery author. She lives in New Jersey.
