Just 20 minutes from Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk lies one of New Jersey’s best-kept family secrets: the Cape May County Park & Zoo, where admission is completely free and the memories are priceless.
Why Cape May Zoo is Perfect for Wildwood Families
Located at 707 Route 9 North in Cape May Court House, this 85-acre zoo houses over 550 animals representing more than 250 species. What makes it truly special isn’t just the impressive collection of wildlife — it’s that families can enjoy a full day of adventure without spending a dime on admission. The only costs are parking ($5) and whatever treats or souvenirs you choose to buy.
The zoo’s Africa exhibit is consistently rated as a must-see, featuring giraffes, zebras, and African lions in spacious, naturalistic habitats. Kids love the interactive elements, including the giraffe feeding platform where they can hand-feed these gentle giants for just $3 per cup of lettuce.
Local Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for the best animal activity and smaller crowds. The lions are most active during feeding time around 11 AM.
Must-See Exhibits and Experiences
The World of Birds exhibit houses one of the largest free-flight aviaries on the East Coast, where colorful tropical birds fly freely around visitors. The reptile house features everything from tiny poison dart frogs to massive Burmese pythons, while the barnyard area lets little ones pet goats, sheep, and miniature horses.
Don’t miss the sea lion cove, where playful California sea lions splash and dive in their 90,000-gallon habitat. The scheduled feeding demonstrations are educational and entertaining, typically happening twice daily at 11 AM and 3 PM.
- ✓Snow leopard habitat with viewing deck
- ✓Children’s zoo with hands-on animal encounters
- ✓Playground areas for different age groups
- ✓Picnic areas with tables and grills
Planning Your Zoo Adventure from Wildwood
The drive from any of Coastal Collection’s five locally-owned properties takes about 20 minutes via Route 109 North. Plan for a 3-4 hour visit to see everything comfortably. The zoo is open year-round, though hours vary by season — typically 10 AM to 4:30 PM in winter and 10 AM to 5 PM in summer.
Pack a lunch or grab snacks at the on-site Safari Cafe. The zoo allows outside food in designated picnic areas, making it budget-friendly for families. Stroller rentals are available for $5, and wheelchairs are free.
Perfect Pairing: Zoo and Beach Days
What makes staying with Coastal Collection special is how easily you can combine inland adventures with beach time. Spend your morning exploring the zoo, then return to Wildwood for an afternoon on our free beaches. All of our properties — from the Coastal Sands Inn to Sunset Beach Hotel — are within walking distance of the famous boardwalk, so you can grab dinner at Morey’s Piers or catch a sunset after your zoo adventure.
Local Tip: Consider combining your zoo visit with nearby Historic Cold Spring Village (additional admission required) for a full day of family education and entertainment.
The Cape May Zoo proves that the best family experiences don’t have to break the bank. Combined with Wildwood’s free beaches and affordable accommodations at our locally-owned hotels, you can create an incredible family vacation that delivers maximum fun for your dollar.
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.