There are plenty of zoos in New Jersey, but the Cape May County Park and Zoo should be one to put at the top of your bucket list. And the best part? It’s FREE. That’s just one of the reasons my family loves to visit, but touring the lush landscapes, seeing diverse animal species, and getting energy out on the playground are all highlights. With activities such as private tours, animal encounters, and riding a zoo-themed carousel, the Cape May Zoo is a must-visit and one of the best zoos in New Jersey. Read on to find out what you need to know before you visit this 47-year-old zoo. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)
Cape May County Park And Zoo
See animals from all over the world
As we stepped into the Zoo, the cheerful call of peacocks greeted us warmly, almost like a friendly welcome. While the peacocks freely wander the front of the Zoo, they don’t engage with people, which made it less scary for my kids. Our first stop was visiting the farm animals, where we fed the goats and the cows. The kids also enjoyed watching the pigs, and afterward, there was a pedal-powered washing station where we could clean up. Next to the farm animals were the birds, with whom we had a rousing exchange, particularly with the macaws, who loved to talk back. Afterward, we set out along the single-loop path and followed it to the African section. We spotted camels, a cheetah, and bison, and then we saw the zebras in their recently renovated enclosure. We then headed over to the capybaras, alligator, and giant tortoises. My kids were in awe of the animals they saw, and since the Zoo isn’t big, we could see most of the animals up close.
Beyond the animals
There’s more than just the animals at the Cape May Zoo. The Wildlife Carousel is always a hit, and instead of horses, each ride is a different zoo animal (our favorite is the gorilla). My kids love to make souvenirs at the penny machines, which stamp a penny with an animal of your choice and spit it out as a keepsake. There are other places to gather memorable souvenirs—pose behind the animal cutouts (the kangaroos are an excellent spot for an adult-child photo) or head to the photo booth at the exit. During the summer, kids can get their faces painted or sit for a caricature portrait to take home.
The Cape May County Zoo Private Tour or Animal Encounter is a must
Want to avoid the crowds or celebrate a special occasion? Get exclusive access 1 hour before the Zoo opens with a Private-Guided Zoo Tour (weather permitting). During this one-of-a-kind tour, an experienced Zoo Educator will guide you through the exhibits and introduce you to all the various species that call the Cape May County Zoo home. If you want to get a little closer to the animals, an Animal Encounter may be the experience for you—you can feed the animal you meet with special foods to munch on and learn more about them (capybara, giraffe, or camel). Pavilion Birthday Parties are also available if you are looking to celebrate a special birthday at the Zoo.
Grab a bite and stop by the gift shop
When it was time for lunch, we opted for the Safari Cafe, which offers a variety of kid-friendly options like burgers, sandwiches, chicken tenders, and daily specials. We liked that we could eat inside or outside—but be alert, as seagulls can swoop in to steal your food outside. Want something quick? Stop by the Savanna Garden Kiosk to get one of their famous Animal Sipper Cups and grab-and-go items. Proceeds from the cafe and gift shop support the Zoo. For souvenirs, stop by the Lion’s Den Gift Shop for a plushie or t-shirt, or their popular Zoo Bags filled with animal-themed trinkets.
Let your littles swing, climb, and explore
Got kids itching to let out some energy? There are two playgrounds just outside the zoo entrance—one for toddlers and another, a larger playground with a swing set. This spot turned out to be a lifesaver because it allowed the kids to burn off some energy before we headed back in car. If your bigger kids are looking for more adventure, they can try the Tree to Tree Aerial Obstacle Adventure Park, an aerial ropes course featuring a skateboard-in-the-sky course. Or, if you want to take it a little easier, fishing ponds are stocked at Park Central and Park East.
FAQs
Is the Cape May Zoo really free?
Yes, Cape May County Park and Zoo offers free admission to everyone, but donations are always appreciated, as they help ensure the Zoo provides ongoing experiences for all ages. Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
When can I visit the Cape May Zoo?
The Zoo is open every day except Christmas Day. Summer hours are 10 AM – 4:30 PM (March 2026 – October 2026), and the fall/winter hours are 10 AM – 3:30 PM (November 2025-March 2026). The Park is open year-round from 7 AM to dusk, except for Christmas Day.
Can I bring a stroller around the zoo?
Strollers, wheelchairs, wagons, and motorized scooters are welcome and can be rented at The Lion’s Den Gift Shop.
Can I bring my own food?
Food is permitted anywhere in the surrounding Park but not in the Zoo. Non-alcoholic beverages, baby food, and bottles are allowed in the Zoo. Food is available at the Safari Cafe, and there is a picnic pavilion outside the Zoo where you can bring your own lunch.
How much are zoo tours?
For the 90-minute Zoo Tour, the cost is $50 per person, with a minimum of $200 and a maximum of 10 people. Encounters range from $140 to $200 for groups of 1-4 people, with additional guests incurring an extra fee. Depending on the animal, there are age and guest limits for Encounters—the giraffe, camel, and reptile Encounters require participants to be 5 years old or older.
For more information about the Cape May County Zoo, visit their website, Facebook, or Instagram.
Cape May Zoo
707 North Route 9
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
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