When skies are gray, it’s a zoo day.
Rain if often need in Cape May County when we experience, hot, humid and sticky days, but it’s not so appreciated by vacationers and locals looking to enjoy some summer fun.
While the top attractions for most who visit the Jersey Cape are likely the beach and boardwalks, those are not particularly inviting on a rainy day. That’s when the Cape May County Park & Zoo looks very attractive as a place to spend the day, for FREE.
A proud recipient of TripAdvisor’s 2015 Certificate of Excellence, our local zoo is nationally recognized as a clean, expansive attraction for families looking for memorable wildlife encounters. In fact, in July 2015, our zoo was internationally recognized, rated 13th best zoo in the world by TripAdvisor.
Learn more about the several exhibits and must-see attractions that make our zoo one of the best:
World of Birds Aviary
This enclosed, climate controlled World of Birds Aviary has around 65 specimens representing over 20 species, ranging from exotic flamingos to more familiar birds.
The Reptile & Amphibian House
About 150 animals representing approximately 60 species of snakes, turtles, alligators, lizards and arachnids live in the Reptile & Amphibian House. One of the rarer reptiles is the Cuban crocodile with a distinct pointed snout. There are also plenty of snakes including pythons and boa constrictors.
The African Savanna
The African Savanna is 57 acres of plains-type land where giraffes, zebras, antelopes and ostriches roam freely. The recent “star” of the zoo is the new baby girl giraffe born in Dec. 2015 to Joanie and Sterling. Walk out on a boardwalk and see all these animals safely from a distance.
Big Cat Exhibit
Check out cougars, cheetahs, tigers, lions and leopards. The zoo is currently working on a new “state of the art” snow leopard exhibit that will feature a nose to nose viewing window.
Primates
The zoo contains about a dozen different species of monkeys.
New Jersey Animals
See swift foxes, river otters and other New Jersey natives.
Don’t forget the three ponds and fountains where you’ll see beautiful swans and other waterfowl!
Next time the forecast predicts a less than ideal beach day, head for the lush country gardens, leisurely atmosphere and extensive natural environment of the Cape May County Park & Zoo. Animal lovers will be instantly impressed by this collection of over 550 critters, representing over 250 species.
The zoo is located at 707 Rt. 9 N., Cape May Court House, exit 11 off the Garden State Parkway. For more information, visit www.cmczoo.com or call (609) 465-5271.