Where is the Bergen County Zoo?

We are located within Van Saun County Park at 216 Forest Avenue in Paramus, New Jersey.

How can I contact the Zoo?

The best way to contact the Zoo is by phone (201-634-3100) or email (Coleen Rugani at CRugani@co.bergen.nj.us). The Zoo is also on Facebook and Instagram at @BergenCountyZoo.

You can also contact the Parks Department at 201-336-7275, on Facebook and Instagram at @BergenCountyParks, or on Twitter at @BergenCtyParks.

What are the normal hours of operation?

2023 season:
April 1–November 8
10am–4:30pm (last entry at 4pm)

Winter hours:
November 9, 2023–March 31, 2024
10am–3:30pm (last entry at 3pm)

Is the Bergen County Zoo open on holidays?

Yes, the Bergen County Zoo is open holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Some other holidays may have shortened hours which will be noted on our Home Page and social media.

What is the entrance fee?

ADMISSION RATES

I do not live in Bergen County. May I still come to the Zoo?

Yes, the Bergen County Zoo is open to everyone. The entry fee is discounted for Bergen County residents.

How do the train, carousel, pony rides, and budgie exhibit work?

Until November 8, the train and carousel are open daily 10am-4:30pm (last entry at 4pm), weather and conditions permitting. From November 9 through November 22, the train and carousel are open daily 10am-3:30pm (last entry at 3pm). Beginning Friday, November 24, the carousel and train will be part of special events Winter Wonderland and Let it GLOW! Respectively. For more information, visit www.bergencountywinterwonderland.com and www.friendsofbergencountyzoo.org.

The train and carousel are open daily during the summer season when the Zoo is open. The hours are 10am-4:30pm (last entry at 4pm), weather and conditions permitting. Pony rides are open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through September 30th, 10am–12pm & 2pm–4pm, weather and conditions permitting. To ride a pony, child MUST BE over 2 years old, less than 50” tall, AND under 90lbs. During the summer, entry to the budgie exhibit is included in Zoo admission and free to walk through during Zoo hours of operation. Each amenity is an extra add-on available for purchase. The prices are as follows:

Train ride: $2 (until November 22)

Carousel ride: $2 (until November 22)

Pony rides: Closed for the season

Budgie exhibit: Closed for the season

Can I come with a group (e.g., school, group home, etc.)?

Yes, you are more than welcome to visit in the zoo with your group! We do not offer group discounts, but we welcome groups of any age. If you would like to book tickets in advance, please contact Coleen Rugani at CRugani@co.bergen.nj.us. Otherwise, you may purchase tickets online or at the door.

Is there a gift shop?

Yes! The gift shop is located immediately inside the zoo gates, on the left-hand side.

During the regular season, April–Mid-October, the gift shop is open 7 days a week. During the off-season, November–March, store hours are limited, and the shop is not guaranteed to be open.

For more information, please visit www.friendsofbergencountyzoo.org or contact friends@friendsofbergencountyzoo.org.

Who are the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo?

The Friends of the Bergen County Zoo is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides financial support to the Bergen County Zoo for the welfare of its animals, educational programs, and family-friendly facilities. Through the generous support of its sponsors, donors, and members, as well as through fun, seasonal programming, the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo is an invaluable partner to the Bergen County Zoological Park.

Are strollers available for rent?

Yes, strollers can be rented from the gift shop for a $5 deposit that is given back upon the stroller's return.

Are wheelchairs available for rent?

Yes, wheelchairs are available to borrow for free. We just ask for an ID to hold onto until the wheelchair is returned.

Are dogs allowed in the park?

No pets of any kind are permitted in the Zoo. Only trained service animals are permitted.

Is food and drink allowed?

Food and drink are only allowed within the designated picnic area in front of the Zoo's Main Office. Food and drink are not allowed within any buildings.

Are masks required?

Masks are not required while walking around the Zoo. Though masks are not required, we ask that our guests please maintain social distancing to the best of their ability and to wear masks when social distancing is not possible.

Can I donate a pet to the Bergen County Zoo?

We do not accept pets of any kind. A quick internet search will reveal many animal rescue organizations that will help you find a good home for your pet.

If you need assistance with finding an organization, please call us at 201-634-3100 ext. 3114.

What do I do if I find an injured animal?

More often than not, it is in the animal's best interest to be left where they are. Please call us for help: 201-634-3100 ext. 3114.