Vacationing at the Jersey Shore, particularly in Cape May County, affords the visitor plenty of activities to pursue. From the historic and colorful Victorian homes of Cape May, to the vibrant boardwalk and beaches of the Wildwoods, up to the pristine shore communities of Avalon and Stone Harbor, and to "America's Greatest Family Resort", Ocean City, there is much to take in on any given day. When the weather is favorable, that is! Certainly, each town offers decent wet weather alternatives, but an opportunity to visit a well run and nearby zoological park is one option countless vacationers fit into their plans no matter what the weather conditions happen to be. Yes, the Cape May County Park and Zoo, located near Cape May Courthouse, NJ, is a "must visit" destination when traveling to the area.

Centrally Located Just North Of The County Seat

Situated one mile north of Cape May Court House on Route 9 at Crest Haven Road, the combined park and zoo offers to visitors a day's worth of things to do and see on its 200+ acre spread. The zoo itself contains almost 85 acres of expertly maintained exhibits featuring approximately 250 species of amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds totaling nearly 550 animals. Special exhibits include: the World of Birds, featuring over 20 exotic varieties; the Amphibian and Reptile House, with iguanas, snakes, skinks, and tortoises; and the African Savanna with its lemurs, giraffes, and antelopes. 

Even on the hottest summer day the zoo is enjoyable thanks to ample shading and plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. A very popular stop off point is at the gazebo located in the African Savanna exhibit where you can sit for a spell and enjoy watching the giraffes.

Beyond Animals: Enjoy The Park!

When you have had enough of animal watching the park offers a playground, bike/hike trail, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and more. An ample number of concession stands are present on the property, whether you are seeking food or that special souvenir from the "Ark in the Park" gift shop. Visitors are welcome to bring in food and drink, hence the popularity of the picnic areas.

No Admission Charge -- Donations Gratefully Received

Amazingly, there is no admission charge to the park and zoo as it is funded completely by taxes, concessions, and your donations.

The zoo opens daily at 10:00 a.m. with summer closing time set at 4:45 p.m. (6:45 p.m. on Wednesdays). During the winter months the zoo closes at 3:45 p.m.

The park opens at 9:00 a.m. and is accessible year 'round until dusk. Both the park and the zoo are closed on Christmas Day and during icy or extremely stormy weather; if in doubt, call ahead to verify the hours.[1] 

Accredited by the American Zoo And Aquarium Association, the Cape May County Park and Zoo is undergoing a facelift which includes expanded parking and separate entrances for park and zoo traffic. Additional changes -- being implemented to enhance the appearance of the park -- are ongoing and are likely to be well received by loyal and first time visitors alike.

A Zookeeper Intern Program has been created for science majors who are enrolled in a Bachelors Degree program.[2]  The program has been designed to expose students to the opportunity to work with exotic animals.

So, when you have tired of the rides on Morey's Piers or have done all the deep sea fishing that you can possibly take, head over to the Cape May County Park and Zoo for an enjoyable respite from beach-related activities.

Matt Keegan is a freelance writer who covers a variety of topics including: travel destinations, automobiles, aviation, personal finance, and SEO. Please visit his portfolio section for samples of additional writings or his blog for the most recently published articles.