Massachusetts zoos, aquariums, animal parks are excellent, world-famous

With animals to visit, rides to take, goats to pet, and deer to feed: It’s a full day of family fun at Southwick’s Zoo. With more than 850 animals, explore New England’s Largest Zoo! Visit the petting zoo with pygmy goats, walk through the 35-acre Deer Forest where you can feed fallow deer, and visit the EARTH Discovery Center where you can meet animal ambassadors and watch live presentations. Soar above the African Plains and Deer Forest in the Skyfari Sky Ride or take the Woodland Express Train through the North American Exhibit to get a closer look at elk and trumpeter swans. Work your way through the Rainforest Adventure Maze and zip through the air on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. Your next adventure begins at Southwick’s Zoo!

Non-profit wildlife facility dedicated to promoting appreciation and respect for the conservation of animals and their ecosystems; while offering enjoyable, educational and family-oriented experiences in an urban recreational setting. Open daily April-November from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Satwater and freshwater tank exhibition and a gift shop with unique gifts for all ages. The aquarium is the starting point for marine ecology field trips led by staff members. There is an admission fee.

The zoo has revitalized itself with new exhibits and animals from all over the world: African lion cubs, North American river otters, snow leopards, and creatures of the rain forests. Activities give children the chance to handle small animals, conduct daily rounds with zookeepers, and to clean exhibits and feed animals. If the day is hot, kids can take a break in the mist tent for a gentle, cooling shower.

At the Franklin Park Zoo, fun and education combine to provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience. Environments include exhibits where colorful birds fly free, rainforests where pygmy hippos and Western lowland gorillas roam, a tented space filled with bright butterflies (and fairy houses), an Outback Trail with kangaroos and emus, and special spaces for a tiger, lions and creatures of the Serengeti like zebras and wildebeests. There are hands-on exhibits and zookeeper chats as well as opportunities to see what goes on behind the scenes of a zoo. There’s even an organic garden and a huge outdoor playground to explore, as well as a farm with a petting zoo. Grab pizza at the Giddy-Up Grill or bring a picnic!