Looking for a fantastic family adventure that won’t break the budget? The Cape May County Park & Zoo offers an incredible day out with completely free admission, making it one of South Jersey’s best-kept secrets for families staying in Wildwood.
Free Admission Makes It a Perfect Family Day Trip
That’s right — admission to Cape May County Park & Zoo is completely free. While donations are greatly appreciated and help support the animals, there’s no entrance fee required. This AZA-accredited zoo features over 550 animals representing more than 250 species, all set within beautifully maintained naturalistic habitats.
The zoo operates year-round with seasonal hours: 10am to 4:30pm from early March through October, and 10am to 3:30pm during winter months. Free parking makes the entire experience budget-friendly for families.
Local Tip: The zoo is about a 15-minute drive from Wildwood. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks — there are beautiful picnic areas throughout the park where you can enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.
Must-See Animals and Exhibits
The African Savanna exhibit is absolutely spectacular, featuring giraffes and zebras roaming in spacious, naturalistic environments. Kids will be amazed watching the giraffes stretch their long necks to reach treats from feeding stations. The big cats, including lions and tigers, are housed in impressive habitats that allow for great viewing opportunities.
Don’t miss the reptile house, the walk-through aviary where colorful birds fly freely around you, and the children’s zoo area where little ones can get up close with friendly farm animals. The snow leopards and red pandas are particular crowd favorites.
Beyond the Animals
Cape May County Park offers much more than just the zoo. The grounds include multiple playgrounds perfect for burning off energy, miles of nature trails for peaceful walks, and bike paths for family cycling adventures. There’s also an antique carousel and a miniature train ride that kids absolutely love (small fees apply for rides).
The park features plenty of shaded areas and clean restroom facilities throughout. A food court and gift shop are available on-site, though many families prefer bringing their own picnic to enjoy in the beautiful outdoor spaces.
Perfect Addition to Your Wildwood Vacation
Staying at any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned hotels — Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn — puts you in the perfect position to explore both the free beaches of Wildwood and attractions like Cape May County Zoo. Our properties are all within walking distance of the famous Wildwood Boardwalk, so you can easily combine a zoo day trip with classic beach vacation fun.
Many of our guests love planning a zoo visit for a cooler morning, then returning to enjoy the beach in the afternoon. It’s the perfect way to add variety to your shore vacation while keeping costs down.
Local Tip: Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures. The animals are often most active in the morning hours, making for better viewing and photo opportunities.
Whether you’re staying in one of our comfortable hotel rooms or our private Airbnb rentals, Cape May County Zoo makes an excellent complement to your Wildwood beach vacation. Free admission, amazing animals, and beautiful park grounds create memories that last long after the sand is shaken from your shoes.
Stay Steps from the Action.
Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.