The Traveling Aquarian 
Turtle Back Zoo
Turtle Back Zoo has changed over the years with new attractions being added each year. You can spend the day here having fun meeting the animals, taking the zoo train around South Mountain Reservation, and visiting the zoo aquarium. The Zoo is open year-round with events held each month. We enjoy going to the Holiday Light Spectacular during December. It’s never too hot or cold to visit the zoo there’s always something to do. Turtle Back Zoo is fun for all ages.
The new Education Center offers several learning programs for infants and children up to eighth grade. We were excited to see the new giraffes at the African Savanna Exhibit. I suggest bringing water and wearing comfortable shoes during your trip. There’s the Savanna Cafe to get a bite to eat and rest with indoor and outdoor seating.
Turtle Back Zoo is located at 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052. You can reach the zoo by car or the #73 New Jersey Transit bus. Admission for toddlers and babies under 2 is free. Children and adult prices range from $12-$15. I found a Groupon one time, so always check to see if there are any deals before your visit. The zoo is open January-December weather permitting from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
There are other attractions near the zoo that are just steps away. Looking for a little more excitement if you’re not afraid of heights visit the Adventure Treetop Course with a zip line. There’s a Mini Golf Safari with a 19-hole golf course. Paddle Boat along the Orange Reservoir in a giant size duck. McLoone’s Boathouse offers lunch, dinner, and great drinks if you’re looking for more of an adult-day escape.
Whatever you decide to do I want you to have a great time. Enjoy your visit.
Treetop Adventure Course
If you’re looking for more of an adventure, I suggest visiting the Treetop Adventure Course. If you a scared of heights, I would not recommend it. Once you go up, things look higher than when you were on the ground. I saw a few people go up and get scared.
If you’re looking for a bigger treetop adventure course, I suggest visiting FLGX Adventure Course in Ledgewood, NJ. We had an awesome time here. My daughter got scared mid-way through and we didn’t complete the curse.
