Free county family attraction

Cape May County Park & Zoo

About 15 driving miles

This free county zoo and 200-acre park is the strongest all-ages non-rail addition to a Cape May County train trip, with wildlife exhibits, playgrounds, paths and picnic space.

The place

About Cape May County Park & Zoo

Cape May County Park Central combines the zoo with forested areas, walking and bike paths, fishing ponds, playgrounds and picnic facilities. It is substantial enough for several hours and should not be squeezed into a short predeparture window.

The county publishes exact 2026 seasonal zoo hours: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. through October 29, then 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. October 30–March 11, 2027. The surrounding park is open 7 a.m.–dusk, and both close Christmas Day.

Admission and personal-vehicle parking are free; donations support the zoo. Outside food stays in the park rather than entering the zoo, while nonalcoholic drinks are allowed. Pets are prohibited except service animals.

What stands out

Free wildlife experience

No admission or personal-vehicle parking charge makes the stop flexible for families.

Park plus zoo

Playgrounds, paths and picnic facilities provide options beyond the animal exhibits.

Exact seasonal planning

The county publishes date-bounded 2026–27 hours rather than a vague seasonal label.

Pair it with the train

Why it belongs in a Cape May Seashore Lines trip

Use this as a separate family block before an evening train, after a shorter excursion or on the adjacent day—not as a rushed add-on to a fixed boarding time.

Before you go

Plan your visit

  • 2026 summer hoursZoo 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. through October 29.
  • 2026–27 winter hoursZoo 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. October 30–March 11; some winter holidays may close early.
  • Admission and parkingFree for individual visitors and personal vehicles; donations are welcomed. Bus permits cost extra.
  • Park hours7 a.m.–dusk daily; zoo and park are closed Christmas Day.
  • FoodOutside food is permitted in the park but not inside the zoo; nonalcoholic beverages may enter.
  • Mobility planningWheelchair and stroller rentals are listed; contact the zoo for current availability and route-specific needs.

Return to the train

Add Tuckahoe Railroad Station

Make the restored junction complex and live excursion the rail-centered anchor of the trip.

View the guide →

Useful answers

Frequently asked questions

Is the zoo really free?

Yes. Admission and personal-vehicle parking are free; donations help support the zoo.

What are the current hours?

10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. through October 29, 2026, then 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. through March 11, 2027.

Can I bring a picnic?

Yes in the surrounding park, but outside food cannot enter the zoo. Nonalcoholic drinks may enter.

Can I bring a pet?

No. Only service animals are allowed on the park and zoo grounds.

How much time should I allow?

At least two to three hours for a useful visit; longer if using the park and picnic areas.

Trust and accuracy

Sources

Source checked 2026-08-12. This free guide has not yet been confirmed by the venue. Current hours, prices, services, and accessibility can change; confirm time-sensitive details directly.