Discover the Wonders of Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
Explore the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, a family-friendly destination that showcases diverse wildlife, interactive exhibits, and a commitment to conservation in New Jersey.
Nestled in West Orange, New Jersey, the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo offers an unforgettable experience for families and animal lovers alike. With a diverse array of animal exhibits, interactive attractions, and lush landscapes, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of wildlife while enjoying a day of exploration and fun. The zoo's commitment to conservation and education enhances the experience, making it a perfect destination for tourists of all ages.
A brief summary to Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
- 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, New Jersey, 07052, US
- +1973-731-5800
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Check the zoo's schedule for animal feeding times and educational talks to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo requires a fair amount of walking.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas, or explore nearby dining options.
- Consider purchasing a membership if you plan to visit multiple times; it offers great savings.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Raritan Valley, get onto Route 287 N. Continue on Route 287 N for approximately 10 miles until you reach the exit for Route 280 E. Take Route 280 E towards Newark. After about 5 miles, take the exit for Northfield Avenue (Exit 10A). Merge onto Northfield Avenue and continue for about 1 mile. The Essex County Turtle Back Zoo will be on your left at 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052. Parking is available on site, and there is usually a fee of around $5-$10 depending on the day.
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Public Transportation
To reach Essex County Turtle Back Zoo using public transportation, start by finding a NJ Transit train station in Raritan Valley. Take the North Jersey Coast Line or the Raritan Valley Line train towards Newark Penn Station. Upon arrival at Newark Penn Station, transfer to the NJ Transit bus #21 or #29 towards West Orange. Ride the bus for about 30-40 minutes and get off at the stop closest to Northfield Avenue. Walk approximately 10 minutes to reach the zoo at 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052. Be aware that bus fares typically cost around $1.50-$3 depending on the route.
Discover more about Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
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