Going to the zoo has always been a fascinating experience that many relishes, seeing animals they may not come across regularly in an enclosed space.
Watching these animals live is an interesting experience for many – a reason many places worldwide have zoos, including Massachusetts.
The Bay State has one of the finest zoos in New England, and this article is a compilation of the eight best zoos in Massachusetts, where you can experience some of the wildlife wonders.
The Best Zoos in Massachusetts to Experience Amazing Wildlife
1. Franklin Park Zoo, Boston
Boston is known as one of the most academic-based cities in the United States; however, it offers the scenic beauty of undomesticated nature thanks to the Franklin Park Zoo.
About 220 species call this 72-acre zoo their home, with over 1,000 animals entertaining thousands of annual visitors with their rare presence.
Remarkable animals from all over the world can be seen in one of the state’s most well-known and well-liked zoos.
A Butterfly Landing and an Aussie Aviary are more attractions one could enjoy during summer.
However, there are over sixty-three exhibits to enjoy, including Bird’s World, Nature’s Neighborhoods, Outback Trail, and Farmyard.
2. Stone Zoo, Stoneham
Stone Zoo is situated in Stoneham, Massachusetts, close to the Spot Pond reservoir.
Originally a small collection of animals, this 26-acre zoo, which opened its doors in 1905, has since grown to include a wide range of species (fifty-nine) and associate with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
This zoo is home to various animals, from the Mexican gray wolf and the Caribbean flamingo to the Gila monster.
3. Southwick’s Zoo, Mendon
Southwick’s Zoo is honored with the title of one of New England’s biggest zoos despite being a privately owned and operated property.
Over 850 animals, including big cats, primates, birds, and deer, live at Southwick’s on more than 200 acres in natural environments.
Additionally, there are different attractions like the Skyfari Sky ride and Soaring Eagle Zip Line, turning it into a full-fledged experience rather than just a visit to see animals.
The zoo’s community has made visits a more sensational experience than viewing animals, offering New England-style comfort food in all-year-round Galliford’s Restaurant and Tavern.
Visitors also enjoy assorted education programs from EARTH Ltd, delivering live animal presentations at the EARTH Discovery Center on topics like ecology and animal adaptations.
4. Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center, Springfield
This zoo is a non-profit establishment located in Springfield’s Forest Park.
This zoo is home to a stunning variety of animals from various species, many of which are unique to North America and other regions of the world.
The zoo also houses exotic and endangered species like the African leopard, listed in CITES Appendix.
Children and adults will find the educational programs and special wildlife events engaging, albeit watching the animals.
Furthermore, individuals or groups can adopt an animal, having the opportunity to become closer to them, supporting their welfare costs.
5. Lupa Zoo, Ludlow
Located in Ludlow, Massachusetts, it is an 18-acre privately-owned, family-friendly zoo, where protection, education, and up-close animal interactions are the main priorities.
Lupa Zoo offers youngsters the ability to get up and personal with domestic animals while allowing them to see about 500 animals, including monkeys, camels, and zebras.
Visitors can purchase daily admission tickets or sign up for membership, between $10 and $15 for daily admission and $30 – $125 for individual or family membership.
The authorities implore all to follow the zoo’s rules and code of conduct regarding feeding, pets, dangerous objects, automobiles, teasing, and distance.
6. Buttonwood Park Zoo, New Bedford
The Buttonwood Park Zoo is devoted to preserving the continuity of wildlife by creating and connecting the community to the natural world.
For years, they have stayed true to their mission, being the country’s 12th-oldest zoo, having opened its doors in 1894.
And despite the long years, they continue to preserve animals and educate guests about preserving endangered wildlife.
Their animals currently number 250 between eighty species, including some rare and endangered ones.
About 220,000 people visit the zoo annually, enjoying spectacular sights of elephants, reefs, bears, coyotes, and horses.
Annual events like “Spring Fling Week,” “Boo at the Zoo,” “Cabin Fever Week,” and “Holiday Lights” are functions one does not want to miss.
7. Capron Park Zoo, Attleboro
The Capron Park Zoo is a little kid-friendly zoo close to the Rhode Island border in Attleboro.
It is more kid-friendly than others in the state because of its smaller size and the education department that teaches children about the interaction between animals and the zoo’s operations.
The zoo features about a hundred animals from forty-four species from North America and South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Featured animals include the snow leopard, sloth bear, emu, kangaroo, and green tree python.
Visits occur during the day when nocturnal animals are inactive. The zoo features a nocturnal building, where day and night are toppled so that tourists can see these animals in an indoor rainforest exhibit.
The Capron Park Zoo also provides a variety of ZooQuest Adventure Tours that allow guests to get closer to a wide range of species.
8. North Attleboro WWI Memorial Park and Zoo, North Attleborough
A fun fact about this zoo is that in 1968, the WWI Memorial Zoo opened its doors with just two deer.
Today the property features panoramic views, a memorial garden, playgrounds, picnic areas, a comprehensive zoo around small sheds, and a natural terrain.
It offers a view of different animals, including goats, birds, sheep, and deer, and playgrounds for little and big kids without admission fees.
It is ideal for families who want a taste of everything that nature has to offer, as it offers both a park and zoo experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which zoo is the largest in Massachusetts?
The Southwick’s Zoo is Massachusetts’ largest and one of New England’s largest, spanning over two hundred acres and housing over 850 animals in naturalistic environments.
What big cats live in Massachusetts zoos?
Massachusetts zoos are home to big cats, including some of the world’s most popular and sensational, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and tigers.
Are there wildlife parks in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts offers wildlife views via zoos and wildlife parks; we considered eight zoo parks to visit in the state, but one might want to explore more and see these animals in their natural habitats, fending for themselves, stalking prey, or escaping from predators.
Hence, wildlife parks in Massachusetts, like the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in northeastern Essex County, Massachusetts, are a great destination.
Experience Wildlife in Massachusetts
If you ever find yourself in the state, be sure to stop by one of the best zoos in Massachusetts mentioned above.
You are sure to enjoy great wildlife experiences, learn more about different animals, draw closer to nature, and, most importantly, learn about how endangered species are being protected and what you can do to help.
