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About Us
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  - Our Story
    In 1962 the Essex County Park Commission, headed by ...
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    Join Our Team
    Do You See Yourself Working In A Fun-Filled, Wild Environment?
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    Contact Us
    Reach out for inquiries, assistance, or collaboration
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- The Zoological Society of NJ
Visit
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  - Plan Your Trip
    With over 130 animal species to find, here's what you need to know to have an awesome day with us starting from the parking lot through your top stops and the breaks in between!
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Things to Do
- Attractions
- Animal Experiences
- Events
  - Upcoming Events
    - Homeschool Days
      Sloth Social
      Sophisticated Science
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- Departing from Turtle Back Junction, the zoo’s miniature train ride takes visitors through the beautiful South Mountain Reservation. The train is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day. The train departs approximately every 15 minutes from the station, and is wheelchair accessible.
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Animals
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  - Animals
    Explore the wild wonders of Turtle Back Zoo, where each animal tells a unique story of nature and conservation. Journey through diverse habitats and meet the incredible creatures that call Turtle Back Zoo home, from majestic big cats to playful primates—discover the beauty and strength of wildlife up close.
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- Habitats
- Conservation
Learn
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  - Programs
    From classroom programs to homeschool classes, sloth breakfasts and behind-the-scenes tours, our Education Department offers a variety of ways to enhance your zoo experience.
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Explore
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  - Explore
    Expand your day trip outside the zoo. Add on adventure, discovery and cocktails around the South Mountain Recreation Complex.
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Sophisticated Science

Sophisticated Science

Sophisticated Science Seminars are conservation programs geared towards more adult audiences, ages 13 t0 103! Seminars run throughout the year and span topics such as animal anatomy, habitats and conservation, animal careers, and more. These programs are perfect for those interested in animals, science, conservation, and nature who want to learn something new in a relaxed atmosphere. Additional topics will continue to be developed, so be on the lookout for updates!

2025 Programs:

March 29 @ 1-3 PM: Tipping the Scales on Scales

July 26 @ 1-3 PM: Tipping the Scales on Scales

Register

Time

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Date

Mar 29 2025

Cost

$30.00

Location

Berson Learning Center

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

Phone

9737315800

Email

[email protected]

Register

MORE INFOMATION

Call us for more information on events, bookings, or zoo visits! To book a group reservation or party, call and ask for Group Sales. Our Group Sales Department phones can be busy at times, so you many need to leave a message. Teachers, please include a preferred callback time if needed, so we can try to connect. Please allow at least 48 hours for a return call before trying again.

Call - (973) 731-5800