Franklin Park Zoo is a 72-acre zoo in Boston’s Franklin Park, part of the Emerald Necklace. Its habitats bring together animals from different regions, including gorillas, giraffes, zebras and lions. You can explore areas such as the Tropical Forest, Outback Trail and Serengeti Crossing, then leave time for the playground and children’s animal areas. The seasonal Aussie Aviary has free-flying birds, and some can be hand-fed. Plan on a few hours if you want to see the grounds at an unhurried pace.
A Boston zoo in Franklin Park
Franklin Park Zoo opened in 1912 and sits within Franklin Park, part of Boston’s Emerald Necklace. The 72-acre grounds combine animal exhibits with open paths and places for children to play. Its scale makes it possible to spend several hours moving between habitats rather than treating the zoo as a quick stop.
The zoo’s stated aim is to encourage care for nature and the conservation of wildlife. That focus is reflected in its distinct exhibit areas, where animals are grouped within settings associated with different regions. The names include Kalahari Kingdom, Tropical Forest, Outback Trail, Bird’s World and Serengeti Crossing.
Habitats and animals to look for
Gorillas are among the zoo’s main draws. Their outdoor habitat, Gorilla Grove, opened in 2022. Other animals named in the exhibits include lions, giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, lemurs, reptiles and pygmy hippos. The collection spans birds, mammals and reptiles, so the visit is not limited to one type of animal.
The Tropical Forest is home to gorillas and other tropical species, while the Outback Trail includes kangaroos. Lions are in Kalahari Kingdom, and giraffes have their own savanna exhibit. Because animals may be less visible when it is hot, give yourself time to look around each habitat instead of expecting every animal to be in view at once.
Aviary, children’s areas and play
The seasonal Aussie Aviary gives children a chance to see free-flying budgies, with hand-feeding available. The Children’s Zoo and farm area add close-up animal encounters for younger visitors, including goats. Availability of seasonal activities can vary, so check the zoo’s website before planning around a particular experience.
The large playground is a substantial part of the family visit, with equipment for different ages. It can be a useful pause between exhibits, especially for children who need time to move around. Families can also look for animal talks, children’s events and scheduled meet-and-greets; check ahead for current programming and how to take part.
Häufige Fragen
How long should you spend at Franklin Park Zoo?
Allow about 3 to 4 hours to walk around the zoo and see its exhibits and play areas.
Is Franklin Park Zoo suitable for children?
Yes. It has a playground, children’s animal areas, a farm area and a seasonal aviary where children can see free-flying birds.
Can you bring food to Franklin Park Zoo?
A picnic is a practical option if you want to spend less on food at the café.
What animals can you see at Franklin Park Zoo?
The exhibits include gorillas, giraffes, zebras, lions, kangaroos, lemurs, birds and reptiles.
