There are few things I love more than a great zoo, where it’s possible to see animals from around the world in a safe and secure environment that provides enrichment for both the critters and the guests. But too often, especially during the summer, it feels like the big zoos are a little more like an amusement park – with the crowds to match! That’s why it’s always so great to find a place that gives both us and the animals a little more room to breathe – and I found exactly that at one unique animal sanctuary in New Jersey. The Cohanzick Zoo, found in the town of Bridgeton in South Jersey, is actually New Jersey’s first zoo – opening in 1934 as a home for a family of deer. It has since grown to include every type of animal you can imagine, all in a rustic environment that could only be found in the Garden State. And the best part is that admission is completely free!

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Have you visited the Cohanzick Zoo before? Tell us what your favorite residents were at this animal sanctuary in New Jersey! You can find out more information about this free-to-visit zoo on the official Cohanzick Zoo website, and make sure to follow the website of the Bridgeton Park & Zoo for updates (and adorable animal pics). We love this zoo so much, that we included it as one of the ten must-visit stops on the Bayshore Heritage Byway. But if you’ve driven enough for the day and need a place to rest your head, just head 19 minutes east to the Hampton Inn & Suites Vineland for a great night’s rest.

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