This Garden State Animal Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect New Jersey Day Trip

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!

The old-school sign at the Cohanzick Zoo gives away that this is a retro kind of place - dating back to 1934.

Unlike many other NJ zoos, this place has a natural environment that feels like you're wandering through a wildlife sanctuary - because you are.

You might even see some large animals just hanging around, out of their enclosure - but those are just the unique sculptures on display here.

The animals are safely in their enclosures, being kept amused with all the enrichment the animal caretakers provide. You'll see familiar farm animals, but you can also expect to see...

Reptiles, in their own climate-controlled sanctuary away from the rest of the zoo.

Birds, ranging from farm birds to gorgeous peacocks, and even massive emus.

You'll find plenty of mammals, of course, including the playful fennec foxes who are always a favorite.

Looking for small animals to take pictures of? The flying squirrel just might be the most adorable resident here.

But most people unsurprisingly make a beeline for the big cats - and these tigers definitely live up to the hype! All animals here are rescues, and all proceeds from merchandise and concessions help to fund the zoo.

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.