Cape May County Zoo Tours

Cape May County Zoo which includes zoo animals, dangerous animals and land animals
Cape May County Zoo featuring a park as well as a couple
Cape May County Zoo which includes dangerous animals, land animals and zoo animals
Cape May County Zoo featuring a garden as well as a family
Cape May County Zoo featuring land animals, zoo animals and dangerous animals


Meet a wide array of rare and beautiful creatures in a family-friendly Cape May attraction, set in a scenic county park.

Introduce your family to some of the world’s weird and wonderful animals at the Cape May County Zoo. This popular, free attraction offers visitors the chance to encounter hundreds of different animals of every shape and size.

The zoo was opened in Cape May County Park in 1978, with enclosures mostly dedicated to barnyard animals and a solitary lion. It expanded in the 1980s, welcoming a range of different species. Marvel at how it has grown from its humble origins with just 70 animals to the vast park it is today, with 550 animals on the site, representing 250 different species.

Wander around the enclosures and seek out some of the world’s most beautiful creatures. Among the zoo’s highlights is its snow leopards. These incredibly rare big cats are identifiable by their striking white fur and black stripe markings. Amur leopards and African lions will also appeal to big cat enthusiasts.

Bring children to watch red pandas clamber over climbing frames or see bears go for a swim in their pools. Get close to tall giraffes and elegant bald eagles in one short walk around the park. The large collection of primates includes tamarins, marmosets and ring-tailed lemurs.

Say hello to some of the zoo’s scalier inhabitants in the reptile and amphibian house. Snakes, turtles and tropical frogs all live in this climate-controlled section of the park.

Private tours are available of the zoo and its various enclosures. Book ahead and you could enjoy valuable insights from the zoo’s educational team. Listen for trivia on the habits and personalities of the individual creatures. Animal encounter tours are also available during the peak season.

After seeing all the animals, relax in the on-site café. Play areas and a merry-go-round for younger visitors are also available.

Cape May County Zoo is a free attraction, although donations are appreciated. The zoo is open daily, weather permitting, and can be accessed by car in 20 minutes from Cape May. Park for free in the on-site lot.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Cape May County Zoo

6,000 Sq.ft. 18 Guests, 7-Bed, 6-Bath, Pool, Spa, Outdoor Kitchen, Garden, WIFI.

6,000 Sq.ft. 18 Guests, 7-Bed, 6-Bath, Pool, Spa, Outdoor Kitchen, Garden, WIFI.

2 out of 5
Middle Township
6,000 Sq.ft. 18 Guests, 7-Bed, 6-Bath, Pool, Spa, Outdoor Kitchen, Garden, WIFI.
Hyland Motor Inn

Hyland Motor Inn

2 out of 5
38 East Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House, NJ
Hyland Motor Inn
Updated new and perfect Location Boardwalk and Beach min away Large family home

Updated new and perfect Location Boardwalk and Beach min away Large family home

Middle Township
Updated new and perfect Location Boardwalk and Beach min away Large family home
New from the Ground Up!  5 Bed, 5 Bath, SkyDeck, Elevator, Docks - Sleeps 14.

New from the Ground Up! 5 Bed, 5 Bath, SkyDeck, Elevator, Docks - Sleeps 14.

Middle Township
New from the Ground Up! 5 Bed, 5 Bath, SkyDeck, Elevator, Docks - Sleeps 14.
Charming newly updated home in Avalon with endless views of bay and sunset

Charming newly updated home in Avalon with endless views of bay and sunset

Avalon
Charming newly updated home in Avalon with endless views of bay and sunset
ICONA Avalon

ICONA Avalon

4 out of 5
7849 Dune Drive, Avalon, NJ
ICONA Avalon
Beachcomber Resort

Beachcomber Resort

3 out of 5
7900 Dune Drive, Avalon, NJ
Beachcomber Resort
The Reeds at Shelter Haven

The Reeds at Shelter Haven

4 out of 5
9601 3rd Avenue, Stone Harbor, NJ
The Reeds at Shelter Haven
Desert Sand Resort

Desert Sand Resort

2.5 out of 5
7888 Dune Dr, Avalon, NJ
Desert Sand Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Cape May County Zoo

At Cape May County Zoo, visitors can enjoy activities like walking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. For a fulfilling trip, consider nearby hotels for your stay and explore extra attractions in the area. Don't miss the "Zoo to You" programs for interactive experiences, and plan day trips or tours to enhance your visit. The zoo offers a delightful blend of nature and education, making it a perfect destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Food and drinks

Visit Cape May Winery for exquisite wines and romantic vibes, only 11 miles from the zoo. Enjoy outdoor charm at Willow Creek Winery & Farm, 13 miles away. Don't miss Shriver's Salt Water Taffy & Fudge, 18 miles from the zoo, perfect for a family treat.

Shopping

The Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market, located 8 miles away, offers a charming atmosphere with local goods and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out the Washington Street Mall and Cape May Market, both 13 miles away, featuring a variety of shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Avalon Golf Club, just 2 miles from Cape May County Zoo, surrounded by lush landscapes. For family fun, visit Pirate Island Golf, 8 miles away, offering adventurous mini-golf. Experience luxury at Cape May National Golf Club, located 9 miles from the zoo.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Atlantic Parasail, located 7 miles from Cape May County Zoo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views while soaring above the coastline. For water enthusiasts, Aqua Trails offers exciting water sports 12 miles away, perfect for outdoor adventure and fun on the water.

Nightlife

For a lively evening, visit Morey's Piers for exciting arcade games and family fun. If you're feeling lucky, check out Gateway 26 Casino for a romantic night filled with games. For a touch of culture, enjoy a show at Byrne Plaza, perfect for entertainment seekers.

Find the best attractions near Cape May County Zoo

While visiting Cape May County Zoo, you can explore a variety of attractions such as beautiful beaches, event venues, and scenic esplanades. Delve into the local culture and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby spots like Cape May's historic sites, the zoo's museum, and the picturesque Jersey Cape. Don't miss out on popular destinations within the county park for a well-rounded experience during your trip.

  • Wildwood Beach: Experience the quintessential beach vibes at Wildwood Beach, just 7 miles from the Cape May County Zoo. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach games along its wide sandy shores, perfect for relaxation and fun.
  • Wildwoods Convention Center: Located 8 miles away, the Wildwoods Convention Center offers a dynamic space for events and conferences. Its modern facilities provide a professional atmosphere, making it a great spot for business gatherings and trade shows.
  • Wildwood Boardwalk: Also 8 miles from the zoo, the Wildwood Boardwalk is a lively esplanade ideal for families and couples alike. Stroll along its shops, eateries, and amusement rides, soaking in the outdoor excitement and romantic ambiance.

Best time to go to Cape May County Zoo

The best time to visit Cape May County Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January36.9°F (2.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July76.6°F (24.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cape May County Zoo

To save money on your visit to Cape May County Zoo, take advantage of the free entry and explore nearby free attractions like Wildwood Beach and Stone Harbor Beach. Plan your trip during the off-peak months from November to January for lower hotel rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Consider last-minute hotel offers on Expedia, and use their search tools to find budget-friendly options. Don’t forget to join Expedia’s One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cape May County Zoo are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Cape May County Zoo about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Cape May County Zoo with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.