Bergen County Zoo: A Family Guide (Paramus, NJ)
Mountain Lion at the Bergen County Zoo
Bergen County Zoo is small, walkable, and inexpensive, which is exactly what makes it one of the best first-zoo experiences for toddlers in North Jersey.
Overview
Tucked inside Van Saun County Park in Paramus, the zoo is compact enough to see comfortably with little legs and a stroller, without the long distances of a big-city zoo. Because it sits within a larger park with a playground and open space, a zoo visit easily turns into a full, low-cost family day.
Why Kids Love It (and What They Learn)
Nature and Environmental Learning: Seeing animals up close in a manageable setting helps young children observe and ask questions without getting overwhelmed.
Curiosity and Wonder: A walkable loop rewards a toddler's urge to stop, look, and point at every enclosure at their own pace.
Happy Day Play’s Tips and Tricks
Pair the zoo with the rest of Van Saun Park, since the playground and open lawns make a natural second act. Come on a weekday morning for the calmest visit, and bring the stroller, because even a small zoo adds up in steps for little ones.
Plan to ride the carousel in Van Saun Park as part of your trip! It is directly outside the zoo and does not require zoom admittance.
Know Before You Go
General Admission: Children under 3 are free. There are discounted tickets for Bergen County residents. View more on admission here.
Add-Ons: Yes! Select animal feeding inside the zoo, as well as the train, carousel and pony rides directly outside of the zoo.
Stroller Friendly: Yes!
Nursing Rooms: Available in the Learning/Discovery Center.
Family Restrooms: Unknown
Food: There are very limited food options aside from small snacks and drinks from vending machines. Nearby in the park, there are oftentimes food trucks. We recommend packing your own food and picnicking in the park before or after your visit.
Sensory Inclusion: Inquire with the Zoo for their official sensory guide for exhibits. We recommend visiting during quiet times in the morning right when they open or on non-holiday weekdays to avoid heavy crowds and loud noise. The zoo occasionally hosts dedicated sensory-friendly sessions during seasonal events, turning off select flashing attractions.
Getting There and Parking
An NJ Transit bus serves the area, and there is a paid lot at the park for those driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bergen County Zoo good for toddlers? Yes, it is one of the best small zoos for toddlers in the area because it is compact, walkable, and easy to see in one visit.
How much does it cost? Admission is low-cost, making it a budget-friendly outing, with parking at the park lot.
Is it indoor or outdoor? It is an outdoor zoo within Van Saun County Park, so dress for the weather.
Is there parking? Yes, there is a paid lot at the park, and an NJ Transit bus also serves the area.
How long should we plan to stay? One to two hours at the zoo, longer if you add the park's playground.
Contact Info
Official info: parks.nj.gov/van-saun | (201) 445-3906 | @cobergenparks | 216 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ 07652
