The Cape May Zoo in Cape May, New Jersey

The Cape May Zoo was created in 1978 and started out as a modest zoo with just a few lions, New Jersey wildlife and primates. Today, the zoo is thriving on over 85-acres with over 550 animals of 250 different types of species.

The zoo recommends that visitors allow at least two hours to completely see the numerous animals on display. You'll need the time because there is so much to see. Stroll through the aviary, an enclosed exhibit showcasing flamingos and other birds and take the kids to the reptile house filled with over 75 species of turtles, snakes, lizards, and alligators. Thirty acres of the zoo allows plenty of room for towering giraffes, zebras, and African antelopes to wonder. Wooden boardwalks allow visitors to wonder through the exhibit while maintaining a safe distance.

Next stop: the cat exhibit filled with majestic lions snoozing in the grass, pacing cougars, tigers and two species of leopards. Along the way, you'll also see black bears, camels, bison, red pandas, and almost 100 species of other animals.

This pleasant seashore zoo provides paved paths with neatly groomed landscaping and hearty flowers. Just outside the entrance to where the animals reside, the park offers well-kept picnic facilities, a small lake for fishing, and a playground for the kids. Take a stroll out on the foot-bridge in the middle of the lake or go for a bike ride or hike on surrounding trails.

No time for to pack a picnic lunch? That's ok. The park offers the Safari Cafe, the perfect place for a quick snack of pretzels, nachos, funnel cake or ice cream, or meal of pizza, tuna wraps, cheeseburgers and more. Food is not permitted in the zoo.

If you are passionate about animals and really want to help, the Cape May Zoo is in need of volunteers. Donate your time as a Zoo Keeper, Education, Special Events, or Grounds Keeper Volunteer. Whether you are helping with the landscaping, educating others on various animals and their habits, or helping with crowd control, it will be a rewarding experience that will greatly help the zoo.

The zoo is open 364 days a year (everyday except for Christmas) from 10:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. during the winter months and 10:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. during the summer.Admission and parking is free.

The next time you are in Cape May don't let you vacation end with just a trip to the beach and a stroll though the shops. Be sure to work your way up the Garden State Parkway to exit 11 to the Cape May Zoo just off of Route 9.