Why you should Consider the Turtle Back Zoo for your next Family Outing
by Leila Brown
Photo Courtesy of Turtle Back Zoo
Now that we’re in the thick of Summer, many Montclair residents are bursting to get out for some great activities that are fun and educational for them and their kids looking to be anywhere but in front of a screen. One of the best ways to roll fun and education into a sunny day out than the zoo? Luckily, you don’t have to drive all the way to Central Park or The Bronx, because the beautiful Turtleback Zoo lives right here in Essex County!
The Butterfly Tent - This long standing Butterfly exhibit offers a beautiful view into what a butterfly’s habitat is like. Boasting an array of brightly colored flowers, this houses over 700 beautiful winged creatures that are native to North America. Not only does the butterfly tent give visitors a chance to be up close and personal to marvel at their beauty, but it allows them to view butterflies in every stage of life! Be sure to visit before this exhibit closes for the season on Labor Day.
The Touch Tank - Shark Week has come and gone, but that doesn’t have to stop the fun! Adults and children alike gather around the nearly 2000 gallon tank of water to learn about sharks and stingrays, their habitat and their mannerisms while sticking their hands in with hopes that a stingray will glide against their palms. Those of you that are adventurous enough can even feed our underwater friends for a small additional cost of three dollars.
African Adventure - Step out into the African Savanna without ever leaving Essex County! The Turtleback Zoo’s prized African Safari features Lions, Hyenas, Penguins and Giraffes. Opened in the Spring of 2016, this exhibit was built to mimic the natural habitat of these majestic African animals, and features an indoor exhibit to accommodate the colder months. Although you can’t get too interactive with the Lions and Hyenas, you can feed the Giraffes and gaze in on the Penguin Hatchery!
The Turtle Back Zoo can certainly keep you and your family occupied all day long, but if you’ve had your fill of animals, reptiles and fish, there’s plenty more to do without ever moving your car!
The Treetop Adventure Course - Whether you’re an adult just looking for a new challenge, or a parent that wants to tire out your kids, The Treetop Adventure Course is a great time for all! Nestled right next door to the main zoo, this aerial obstacle course offers 15-30 unique challenges as adventurers navigate from one end of the trees to the other. Not looking to spend an hour on an obstacle course? No problem! The Treetop Adventure features a 40 foot tall zip line that spans an entire football field! You’re sure to get a beautiful view from up there!
The Mini Golf Safari - On the other side of the zoo is a chance for some friendly family competition in the form of a 19 hole course. Navigate your way through an award winning safari themed green that features crazy trick shots from nine feet up and life sized animals! Be sure to keep your golf ball out of the water(you wouldn’t want to disturb the crocodiles!).
