Essex County Turtle Back Zoo brings much more than meets the eye. The West Orange, NJ, zoo is a destination for vibrant discovery, educational fun, and memory making. If you’ve been thinking about visiting or returning to Turtle Back Zoo, now is the perfect time. Beyond the expected attractions, which includes over 200 different species of animals from around the world, Turtle Back Zoo is committed to fostering an environment that protects wildlife and brings vital education to visitors.
What’s New at the Zoo?
No matter the time of year, there’s always something fun happening at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo. In 2024, the zoo opened the Barry H. Ostrowsky Animal Wellness Center, a cutting-edge facility that aims to elevate animal care. The center has plenty of viewing windows, allowing visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the work of the zoo’s veterinary team. It’s a chance for visitors to see the level of care that goes into every animal’s health and the experts behind the effort.
Zoo officials have begun renovations on the Australian boardwalk and Prehistoric Playground. Recently, the zoo has been turning its attention to saving African penguins, a species that has reached critically endangered status. Next year, the team plans to unroll breeding and rehabilitation support for African penguins to help protect the specific species from extinction.
Interactive Experiences for All Ages
Turtle Back Zoo is packed with interactive activities. Seasonal attractions like the butterfly walk, pony rides, and feeding sessions with stingrays, sharks, and giraffes are always a hit. The endangered-species carousel and train ride are perfect for kids, while “Behind the Scenes Tours” offer a closer look at the animals and their habitats.
If you’ve never explored the reptile house or the Island Giants exhibit, don’t miss it. These lesser-known areas are home to fascinating species that are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in conservation efforts. “Everyone loves our large, charismatic mammals, but our reptiles and amphibians need love, too!” says Caserta. “Frequently, these species need the most intervention to aid their wild counterparts successfully. Visit the reptile house or check out the new Island Giants habitat to meet some new, scaly friends and learn about their plight in the wild.”
A Commitment to Wildlife Conservation
Every visit to Essex County Turtle Back Zoo contributes to wildlife conservation. Whether it’s supporting global programs or inspiring visitors to take local action, the zoo is making a tangible impact. Thousands of volunteers have already joined the mission, and your membership helps keep these initiatives going strong.
Perks of Membership
Additionally, Turtle Back Zoo fans should definitely consider becoming members. Zoo membership not only gives you year-round access,but also directly supports the zoo’s mission to protect wildlife and educate the community. When you become a member, you unlock a year of unlimited visits to New Jersey’s best zoo. Members also get access to exclusive events, gift shop discounts, and enjoy early registration for popular zoo programs. There are even early-morning and late-evening events just for members, giving you the chance to enjoy the zoo during quieter hours.
A portion of your membership fee goes directly toward conservation efforts, helping to fund projects locally and globally through the Turtle Back Biodiversity Fund. Over the past five years, the zoo has supported 21 international programs and organized thousands of local volunteer hours focused on environmental cleanup and wildlife enrichment.
Interested in becoming a Turtle Back Zoo member? Use code DIGEST to get 5% off your membership package. Memberships can be purchased here.
Join the Community
Becoming a member is the best way to support the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo and its team’s mission. You’ll get unlimited access, exclusive perks, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping to protect wildlife.
Visit the Turtle Back Zoo website to learn more and become part of the Turtle Back Zoo family today.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.