A zoo day is always a good idea, especially if it doesn’t cost anything, and the Cohnanzick Zoo is the kind of place where you can bring your kids over and over, so much that they will know each of the animals by name (hello Rishi and Mahesha). A New Jersey zoo since 1934, Cohanzick Zoo — the state’s oldest—still operates for FREE and spans 15 acres; it’s small enough that you can go around a few times or pop in when the mood strikes during the day. Kids can take a spin around to look at the signs that provide information about the 100 animals that call the zoo home, many of which are rescued or unable to return to the wild. And while you’re wandering the natural habitat areas, enjoy the garden-like vibe with wooden walkways, peacocks strutting, and fun animal statues scattered about. Curious about how to plan your visit to the Cohanzick Zoo? Keep reading to find out more. (featured photo credit: Cohanzick Zoo)
Cohanzick Zoo
See the animals
Within the zoo’s perimeter, there are over 100 animals spanning 45 species, including Bengal tigers Rishi and Mahesha, cougars, African leopards, box turtles, raccoons, wallabies, and fennec foxes. Many of these animals have been rescued and rehabilitated at the zoo, which makes it a very unique place to visit. As you walk around the zoo and along the paths, you’ll find signs in front of each exhibit to learn more about the animals that call Cohanzick home. The animals move around freely in their natural spaces, but also give your littles up-close animal viewing.
Attend a special event
Throughout the year, the zoo hosts family-friendly events that help you celebrate the season amongst the animals. A few of these events include KidsFest with crafts, face-painting, and live entertainment, Boo at the Zoo, where littles can dress up in their costumes and trick or treat before creating Halloween crafts, Festival of Lights in December, where you will see gorgeous light displays, take train rides, and enjoy vendors. The website lists all the events, so make sure you check what’s going on before you plan your day.
Take in an educational experience
Not only is this zoo a wonderful place to view and experience some of the most beautiful animals, but it’s also filled with educational experiences. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there are daily animal talks at 11 AM, 2 PM, and 3 PM, during which the zoo’s keepers will share insights on feeding, care, behavior, and conservation. Want something more intimate? There are private zookeeper tours where the zoo staff guide you through specific exhibits, such as the mountain lions, red river hogs, and bears, and the tour lasts about 1 hour. There are also small, themed onsite programs for kids and adults that focus on aspects of the zoo, including observing animal training, crafts, observations, and more.
What to know before you go to the Cohanzick Zoo
Admission to the zoo is free daily, but donations are welcome and support animal care. While the zoo is open daily, from April to September it is open 9 AM to 5 PM, and from October to March it is open 9 AM to 4 PM. The entire zoo is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, which means you can get around easily with even your littlest ones. However, they don’t rent strollers on site, so you’ll need to bring your own. Parking is free and located right by the entrance, along with restrooms. Pack your own snacks, as there is no concession stand within the zoo, but there are picnic areas available before entering the zoo for you to stop and take a break to eat. During the summer, you can also head to the nearby splash pad in the adjacent park to cool off on a hot day.
To learn more about Cohanzick Zoo, visit their website, Instagram, and Facebook.
Cohanzick Zoo
45 Mayor Aitkin Drive
Bridgeton, NJ 08302
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