Attendance Hits Record High At Turtle Back Zoo: See How Many Visitors

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Interest in the Turtle Back Zoo surged to record levels in 2023, with the zoo reaching several high-water marks, Essex County officials say.

The county-run zoo, which is located in West Orange, hit an attendance of 979,056 visitors last year: an all-time record. The 2023 total surpassed the previous record of 907,522 that was set in 2017.

Attendance totals at the zoo have been steadily rising over the past 14 years. In 2010, the zoo reached the 500,000 milestone. It reached the 600,000 mark in 2013, and topped 700,000 in 2015.

This year’s annual Holiday Lights Spectacular at the zoo was also a smashing success, county officials reported. About 138,100 people came to see the popular display, donating 28.4 tons of non-perishable food, clothing and toys in the process.

Both the attendance and the amount of items collected are the highest totals in the 16-year history of the Holiday Lights Spectacular, officials said.

The previous records were both set in 2015, when 131,594 people attended and 25 tons of donated items were collected.

“We would not be here without the continuing support of our loyal visitors, sponsors, volunteers and staff,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said.

“We look forward to seeing everyone next year for even more adventures, excitement and family fun,” DiVincenzo added.

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