If your kids love animals (and really, who doesn’t?), a trip to The Bergen County Zoo in Paramus is a must, thanks to its manageable layout and diverse animal population, including 40 species from North and South America. Beyond the animals, you can learn about conservation, explore educational exhibits, hop on a scenic train ride, take a spin on the carousel, or attend a holiday event. Keep reading to find out why this zoo fits all the boxes for a fun and educational day trip. (featured photo credit: @bergencountyzoo)
Spend The Day At The Bergen County Zoo
See animals from North and South America
One of the best parts of visiting the Bergen County Zoo is that you can do the loop in an hour or two, depending on how long you want to spend exploring. Start by picking up a map and checking out the bison, wolf, elk, and prairie dogs. Then head to everyone’s favorite spot, The Barnyard, where cows, sheep, goats, and horses hang out and greet visitors. As you continue along the path, you’ll encounter more animals from North and South America, including a mountain lion, sloth, a giant tortoise, spider monkey, and iguana.
Ride the train and carousel
All aboard! Hop on the zoo’s train for a fun ride around the park and a break from walking around. The open-air train ride follows the entire perimeter, giving you a different perspective on the park and its animals. And a trip to the zoo isn’t complete without a carousel ride, where you’ll find ride-on zoo animals instead of the traditional horses. NJ MOM tip: Both the train and carousel operate weather permitting, so check the forecast before heading to the zoo.
Explore the Education and Discovery Center
Before you leave, stop by the Education and Discovery Center, an indoor learning space where kids can explore wildlife through animal exhibits and educational activities. Inside, you’ll find reptiles, amphibians, insects, and other small creatures, including snakes, turtles, and axolotls. Look out for staff who host demonstrations and offer opportunities to learn about animal habitats, conservation, and the natural world.
Let It Glow! at the Bergen County Zoo is a festive, family-friendly event. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
Mark your calendar for a themed event
Throughout the year, Bergen County Zoo hosts family-friendly programs and celebrations that add something special to exploring. In October, check out ZooBoo, a Halloween-themed event with trick-or-treat stations and a spooky train ride; from November to January, enjoy Let it Glow!, which features over 40 scenes of larger-than-life animal-themed lanterns, plus a train ride, fire pits, and s’mores kits; and Eggstravaganza, where kids can meet the Easter Bunny and collect eggs around the zoo.
FAQ’s About Bergen County Zoo
How much is admission to the Bergen County Zoo?
For Bergen County residents, adults are $6, children ages 3-14 are $4, and seniors ages 62 and older are $2. For non-residents, adults are $10, children are $7, and seniors are $4. Children under 3, active military members, and veterans are free.
When is the Bergen County Zoo open?
The zoo is open 7 days a week, weather permitting. From April through November, the zoo is open 10 AM-4:30 PM; from November through March, it is open 10 AM-3:30 PM.
Is the Bergen County Zoo open on holidays?
Yes, you can visit on most holidays. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Check the website for specific details for other holiday hours.
Is there a gift shop?
The General Store is right inside the zoo entrance where you can buy souvenirs.
Can you rent a stroller at the zoo?
You can rent a stroller, which makes the visit so much easier if you are bringing little ones. You can rent one through the gift shop for a $5 deposit, which you get back when you return the stroller.
Can you feed the animals at the Bergen County Zoo?
Unfortunately, you can’t feed the animals because they have specialized diets.
Learn more about Bergen County Zoo on their website, Facebook, and Instagram.
Bergen County Zoo
216 Forest Avenue
Paramus, NJ 07652
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