The Turtleback Zoo turns 50 in 2013, and the people and animals who live in and love the zoo are celebrating.

This year will see completion of a new playground, thanks to Investors Bank, as well as a Sea Lion building, complete with a touch-tank. 

When ground broke for the new building, in 2010, Essex County Joseph DiVincenzo said,  “The Sea Lion Exhibit will be the largest and most ambitious attraction at Turtle Back Zoo. Opening it during the 50^thanniversary celebration will be symbolic of how much the Zoo has been transformed into a premiere recreation and education destination. These will both be milestone events in the Zoo’s history,” he noted.

There's no need to wait to visit the zoo, of course, as it is open year-round.

Winter Zoo Hours

10 to 3:30* Daily

*Zoo remains open for 30 minutes after the last admission.