Cape May County Zoo Named One of America’s Best Free Attractions Again

Cape May Court House, N.J. — The Cape May County Park & Zoo has been named one of the best free attractions in the entire country, landing at #5 on USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for 2026.

Of course, if you're a local, you know just how amazing the zoo is, and it's exciting to see it get much-deserved national recognition -- again. Just last year, the zoo ranked #9 on the same list.

• FUN FACT: In 2015, TripAdvisor ranked the Cape May Zoo the 13th best in the world and the 5th best in America!

Worth the Trip

Spread across 85 acres on Route 9, just off Exit 11 of the Garden State Parkway, the zoo, which opened in 1978, is home to more than 500 animals representing approximately 250 species from around the world — giraffes, zebras, leopards, lemurs, eagles, and more are all there. Not to mention, a huge playground, picnic areas, walking trails, and beautiful exhibits.

And the best part? Admission and parking are completely free year-round (donations are accepted at both the main parking entrance and the zoo entrance).

Cape May County Zoo - Photo: Chris Coleman

• READ MORE: Cape May County Zoo Saw 750,000 Visitors in 2025

A Well-earned Honor

Cape May County Board of Commissioners Director Leonard Desiderio called it a well-deserved national accolade and encouraged residents and visitors to make it a summer destination.

Primate Point in Cape May County Zoo, as seen in 2023 - Photo: Chris Coleman

"This honor is a testament to the dedication of our talented zoo staff and the outstanding, accessible experience we offer right here in Cape May County,” said Vice Director Andrew Bulakowski, Board liaison to the Park and Zoo.

Cape May Zoo Info

The Cape May Zoo is open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM in the summer and until 3:30 PM during winter (the zoo may temporarily close if it reaches capacity). The park is open from 7 AM to dusk. To get there, set your navigation app to 707 North Route 9, Cape May Court House, NJ, and enjoy!

A Look Around the Cape May Zoo

Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com