Cape May County Park and Zoo
A free, accredited zoo in Cape May County, NJ, offering a diverse collection of animals and family-friendly amenities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Cape May County Park and Zoo
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, accredited zoo in Cape May County, NJ, offering a diverse collection of animals and family-friendly amenities.
"This free zoo is a standout on the East Coast, offering a clean, spacious, and engaging experience for all ages."
🎯 Free Admission & Parking!
Enjoy a full day of fun without breaking the bank. Donations are appreciated!
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Especially in summer, get there before 10 AM for the best parking spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Giraffes & Bison
Elevated Walkover
Get a unique perspective on these gentle giants from the elevated boardwalk. A must-see!
Capybara Encounters
Capybara Enclosure
These charming, social rodents are a fan favorite and often seen interacting with other animals.
Interactive Model Train Display
Christmas Scene Area
A delightful surprise for all ages, this interactive display features moving trains and festive scenes.
Spacious Playground
Near Parking Area
Let the kids burn off energy at this large, well-maintained playground adjacent to the zoo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Fun!
Plan for Playtime & Picnics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission & Parking!
Enjoy a full day of fun without breaking the bank. Donations are appreciated! 
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Especially in summer, get there before 10 AM for the best parking spots.
🍎 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Plenty of picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot for a family meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission & Parking!
Enjoy a full day of fun without breaking the bank. Donations are appreciated!
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Especially in summer, get there before 10 AM for the best parking spots.
🍎 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Plenty of picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot for a family meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles, especially on warm days. There are restrooms available.
🧸 Consider a Donation
This non-profit zoo relies on donations to care for its animals. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cape May County Park and Zoo for its free admission, clean grounds, and diverse animal collection. Many highlight the spacious playground and picnic areas as great additions for families. While generally well-loved, some visitors note that certain animals might be less active during extreme weather conditions.
"I’ve visited Cape May Zoo with my baby three times in the past two months, and I’ve absolutely fallen in love with this place! ❤️
I travel 150 miles one way just to come here, and it’s always worth it. The zoo has so much open space, plenty of animals, and never feels cramped; you can see how happy and relaxed the animals are.
✅ The elevated walkover to see the bison, giraffes, and zebras is the best spot in the zoo; a must-see for everyone!
The staff are very friendly and welcoming. Plenty of space for kids to play outside with swings and slides; my little one loved it! The huge parking lot, picnic tables, and shaded trees make the outside as enjoyable as the inside.
✅ Restrooms are available at several spots inside and outside the zoo.
✅ And the best part; it’s completely free entry for everyone!
Truly one of the best family-friendly spots we’ve discovered. Highly recommend! 🌟"
Bhargav Kesavan
"My family and I went there this past Saturday and it really was an awesome experience with the kids. Even seeing other children’s reactions snd our own children’s reactions were just adorable and obviously seeing the adorable animals! The monkeys lion cow pig I didn’t see the snakes but the family did and were amazed. It’s really an interesting zoo beings it’s so freely but I loved it. Ever since I was a little girl. It cost nothing only donations which is what they take. Please don’t hesitate to donate for our furry friends."
Kristin Sharkey
"Cape may zoo is a great place for family fun. Let me start off by saying that the admission is free. As you enter the gates you will be greeted by a team member and offered any advice you need and a map for your convenience. It is here that you can make a donation of your choosing. There are also boxes that you can drop your donation in if you wish to do it that way. Cape May zoo is a non-profit organization so please be generous!
This zoo has so much to offer! There is so much to see including lions, prime mates, giraffes, capybara‘s, red pandas, reptiles, and so much more! All the animals look healthy and well cared for. The grounds are spotless. There are places to rest and even grab a bite to eat inside the zoo as well as covered picnic areas and a huge playground for the kids near the parking area. You can literally spend an entire day there for a donation!
Our family has people from ages 7 thru their 80’s and we all had a wonderful experience. Go! You won’t be disappointed"
Kathleen Carvalho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cape May County Park and Zoo is located at 707 U.S. 9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210. It's easily accessible from the Garden State Parkway.
Yes, there is a large, free parking lot available at the zoo. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a good spot.
The zoo is conveniently located just off the Garden State Parkway. Take the appropriate exit for Cape May Court House and follow signs for the zoo.
Information on public transport options can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for the easiest access to the zoo and surrounding areas.
The most direct route is typically via the Garden State Parkway. Depending on your starting point, local roads will lead you to U.S. Route 9 North.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Cape May County Park and Zoo offers completely free admission for all visitors. Donations are gratefully accepted to support the animals and operations.
No, tickets are not required for entry. The zoo operates on a free admission basis, with donations being the primary source of funding.
The zoo is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, weather permitting. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any last-minute updates.
Yes, donations are highly encouraged and greatly appreciated. You can donate at the entrance or use donation boxes located throughout the zoo. +1
The Cape May County Park, which includes the zoo, is free to enter. The park itself offers additional amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo houses over 500 creatures, including lions, giraffes, bison, capybaras, red pandas, monkeys, reptiles, and many more exotic animals from around the world.
Yes, there is a large and well-maintained playground located near the parking area, perfect for children to enjoy.
The zoo features raised boardwalk paths and generally well-maintained grounds, making it relatively stroller-friendly. Some areas might be more challenging, but overall it's manageable.
Restrooms are available at several locations within the zoo and the surrounding park area, ensuring convenience for visitors.
Many visitors recommend the elevated walkover for viewing giraffes, bison, and zebras. Exploring the various enclosures at your own pace is also a great way to see all the animals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific food vendors can vary, there are often concessions available. However, many visitors opt to bring their own food and utilize the picnic areas.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is a popular choice, and there are numerous picnic tables available throughout the park and zoo grounds.
The zoo is located in Cape May Court House, which offers various dining options. For a quick bite, consider local delis or casual eateries. For a more extensive list, explore restaurants in nearby Cape May.
There are typically concessions or snack stands available within the zoo, offering a convenient way to grab a bite while visiting.
Concessions usually offer typical zoo fare like hot dogs, snacks, and beverages. It's best to check with the zoo directly for the most current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The elevated walkover offers great vantage points for capturing giraffes and bison. Many enclosures provide good opportunities, especially when animals are active.
While some enclosures may have barriers, many are designed to offer clear views. Patience and good timing are key to capturing memorable shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's policies if you have specific needs.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer lighting and more active animals, leading to better photographic opportunities.
Yes, telephoto lenses are permitted and can be very useful for capturing close-ups of animals from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving early to beat the crowds and the heat, and to snag a good parking spot. The zoo's layout is manageable for strollers, and the interactive model train display is a unique bonus that kids often love.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
+1 While donations are encouraged, you can tailor your contribution to your budget. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to maximize their travel experiences without overspending. To further save money, pack your own snacks and drinks, and take advantage of the numerous picnic areas. This eliminates the need to purchase food at the zoo, keeping your expenses minimal. The combination of free entry, free parking, and the option for a self-catered meal makes this zoo a standout for budget-conscious visitors.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Philadelphia Area
The zoo offers a refreshing break from the beach or boardwalk, providing a different kind of family entertainment. Since admission is free, you can easily fit it into a day trip without a significant financial commitment. Combine your visit with a stop at the beach or a stroll through Cape May's historic district for a well-rounded day. Remember to factor in travel time, as it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Philadelphia.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Free Admission
+1 While entry is free, the zoo is a non-profit organization, and donations are crucial for its operation and the welfare of its animals. Many visitors express their willingness to donate, recognizing the value and quality of the experience provided. This commitment to accessibility doesn't mean a compromise on quality. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), signifying a high standard of animal care, conservation efforts, and educational programming. This accreditation reassures visitors that despite being free, the zoo is dedicated to providing a top-tier experience for both its animals and its guests.
A Day of Family Fun Beyond the Animals
Beyond the playground and picnic spots, the zoo itself offers interactive elements. The model train display, often set up in a festive Christmas scene, is a unique and engaging attraction that delights both children and adults.
This blend of animal encounters, active play, and engaging displays ensures that there's something for everyone, making the Cape May County Park and Zoo a well-rounded destination for a family day out. Navigating the Zoo: Tips for a Smooth Visit
The zoo's layout is generally considered easy to navigate, with elevated boardwalks offering unique viewing angles for certain exhibits, such as the giraffes and bison. While the zoo is free, remember that it operates as a non-profit. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation to support the care of the animals and the upkeep of the grounds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit