Exploring Turtle Back Zoo: Ticket Prices And More

The Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, is a zoo with a difference. Founded in 1963, it was originally designed as a showcase for animals indigenous to the New York metropolitan area. Today, it is home to species from every continent except Antarctica, with around 1400 animals in total. The zoo offers a range of ticket options, including online tickets, zoo membership, and gift cards, with off-season pricing available during the colder months. So, how much does it cost to visit this unique zoo?

Ticket prices for children are $15 during off-season months

The Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, offers off-season pricing for children's tickets at $15 each. This price is applicable during the colder months, typically from early November to March. During these off-season months, the zoo operates with reduced hours, welcoming visitors from 10 am to 3 pm, with the park remaining open for an additional hour after the last admission.

The zoo, situated within the South Mountain Reservation, offers a fascinating array of attractions and exhibits. Founded in 1963, it initially showcase[d] animals native to the New York metropolitan area. Today, it features species from every continent except Antarctica, housing approximately 1400 animals, including several hundred birds in a free-flight aviary.

The Turtle Back Zoo has a rich history, taking its name from the nearby Turtle Back Rock formation, named by the Lanape Indians. Over the years, it has undergone significant improvements, replacing antiquated cages with larger, naturalistic habitats. The zoo is committed to fostering excellence in wildlife education and conservation, inspiring present and future generations to appreciate and protect the fragile interdependence of all living things.

During the off-season, when children's tickets are $15, visitors can still explore the diverse range of exhibits, such as the American black bear exhibit, the Essex Farm with its petting zoo, and the African Adventure enclosure, home to Masai giraffes, ostriches, and more. The zoo also features a train ride, the Endangered Species Carousel, and the Treetop Adventure Course, ensuring an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

With its dedication to wildlife conservation and commitment to providing an enriching recreational experience, the Turtle Back Zoo offers a unique and captivating destination for families, especially during the off-season months when children's tickets are $15, making it an affordable and enjoyable outing for all.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the zoo entrance

Tickets for the Turtle Back Zoo can be purchased online or directly at the zoo entrance. The zoo is open daily from 10 am to 3 pm, including during the off-season. However, it is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Purchasing tickets online is a convenient option, especially if you plan your visit in advance. Online tickets are valid only for the specified date, and there are no refunds or exchanges offered. It is recommended to buy online tickets while on your way to the zoo for the day.

On the other hand, buying tickets at the zoo entrance offers flexibility if you decide spontaneously to visit. The zoo accepts various payment methods, ensuring that visitors can conveniently purchase tickets on-site.

The Turtle Back Zoo offers different admission rates for the off-season and in-season periods. During the off-season, which runs from early November to late March, the zoo offers discounted rates. The off-season admission prices for children aged 2 to 12 are $15. In contrast, the in-season rates, applicable from March to October, are higher, reflecting the warmer weather and longer opening hours.

The Turtle Back Zoo is committed to providing an enriching and educational experience for its visitors. By choosing to purchase tickets in advance or at the entrance, individuals can explore the diverse range of animals and attractions that the zoo has to offer.

The zoo is open year-round, weather permitting

The Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, is open year-round, weather permitting. The zoo's hours vary depending on the season. From early November to late March, the zoo operates on off-season hours, opening from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the park remaining open for an additional hour after the last admission. During this period, the zoo offers discounted admission prices. In-season hours, from April to October, see the zoo open for longer, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Turtle Back Zoo has a rich history, opening its doors on June 3, 1963, with 140 animals from 40 species. The zoo's name was inspired by a nearby rock formation, known as Turtle Back Rock, named by the Lanape Indians due to the pattern of large balsatic crystals creating the appearance of a giant tortoise. Over the years, the zoo has undergone significant changes, with the original cages making way for larger, naturalistic habitats, and the addition of various attractions and exhibits.

The zoo is committed to providing an enriching recreational experience, fostering excellence in wildlife education and conservation. With approximately 1400 animals and a variety of attractions, the Turtle Back Zoo offers a fun and educational outing for all ages.

When planning your visit to the Turtle Back Zoo, it is essential to note that the zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Additionally, the zoo advises visitors to check their website for the most up-to-date information on closures, procedures, and FAQs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Turtle Back Zoo offers a glimpse into the world of wildlife, with species from every continent except Antarctica. With its commitment to education and conservation, the zoo provides a valuable opportunity for present and future generations to connect with and protect the fragile interdependence of all living things.

The zoo is smoke-free and has various rules for guests to follow

The Turtle Back Zoo in New Jersey is a smoke-free facility, with a strict no vaping or e-cigarette policy. The zoo has a range of rules that guests must follow to ensure the safety of the animals and the enjoyment of all visitors.

Firstly, all guests under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a chaperone. Visitors are also reminded to respect the animals and their habitats; guests must not feed the animals or throw things into the exhibits, and plants and trees should be left untouched. Guests are asked to stick to the public paths and not wander through the landscaping. Any litter should be placed in the designated bins provided.

There are also restrictions on what can be brought into the zoo. Weapons, balloons, piñatas, radios, bikes, skateboards, scooters, and power wheels are all prohibited. Alcoholic beverages and styrofoam coolers are also not allowed on the premises. Service animals are permitted, but pets are not. The zoo also has rules regarding its free-roaming animals, such as peacocks and peahens, which must not be chased, fed, or touched.

The Turtle Back Zoo also has guidelines regarding photography. Non-commercial photography for personal use is allowed, but tripods may be restricted. Commercial photography and filming must be arranged in advance with the Guest Relations Office. These rules are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests and to protect the animals and their habitats.

The zoo offers a range of attractions, including a train ride and carousel

The Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, offers a range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The zoo is committed to providing a recreational experience that fosters excellence in wildlife education and conservation. With a rich history dating back to 1963, the zoo has come a long way from its early days with 140 animals and 40 species. Today, it houses approximately 1400 animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles from diverse geographical regions.

One of the most captivating attractions at the Turtle Back Zoo is the train ride. The Turtle Back Zoo Railroad, a narrow-gauge railroad, has been delighting visitors since 1963. Over the years, the train has undergone renovations, with the most recent updates including a third locomotive, a realigned route, and a new train maintenance building. The train takes passengers on a mile-long round trip through the zoo's surrounding woodlands, offering a unique perspective of the zoo and its inhabitants.

The Endangered Species Carousel is another highlight of the zoo. Housed within a classic carousel house adorned with mosaic floors and stained glass windows, this attraction is not just a ride but also an educational experience. Visitors can choose from 30 different endangered species to ride, including pandas, alligators, and tigers. As they enjoy the carousel, they can learn about these magnificent creatures and the importance of conservation efforts.

In addition to these signature attractions, the Turtle Back Zoo offers a plethora of other experiences. The zoo is home to diverse exhibits, such as the African Adventure, which showcases Masai giraffes, elands, ostriches, and more in a savannah-like setting. The Shores of Africa, a part of the African Adventure, features an underwater viewing experience of African penguins and Pink-backed pelicans. The zoo also boasts a sea lion exhibit with an 82,000-gallon pool and a touch tank for stingrays and small sharks, providing an interactive experience for visitors.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Treetop Adventure Course offers an exciting challenge. The zoo also features a prehistoric playground, boating, and waterfront activities for some outdoor fun. Visitors can explore the new Turtle Rehabilitation Center and gain insights into the rehabilitation and conservation efforts of the zoo. Additionally, the zoo offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters for an up-close and personal experience with the residents.

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