Franklin Park Zoo

Franklin Park Zoo is an urban zoo located within Franklin Park in Boston, Massachusetts, operated by Zoo New England. The site occupies roughly 70 acres and presents animals in habitat-style exhibits.

Key on-site exhibits include a tropical forest environment with gorillas, an African savannah area for larger hoofstock, and a dedicated children’s area with hands-on activities and animal encounters. The zoo offers seasonal programs, educational talks, and family-oriented events.

The zoo originated as part of Boston’s public park system and has been managed by Zoo New England in recent decades to focus on conservation, education, and regional outreach. Its collection and exhibits have been updated periodically to improve animal care and visitor experience.

Situated in the southern portion of Boston’s Emerald Necklace, the zoo sits in the Franklin Park area about 3 to 4 miles south of downtown Boston and is accessible by road and public transit from surrounding neighborhoods.

• Operator: Operated by Zoo New England, which also runs a second facility in Massachusetts; best animal activity is often in the morning hours.
• Size and setting: Located within Boston's historic Franklin Park, the zoo covers roughly 70 acres and focuses on species-based habitats rather than a large collection of small exhibits.

What to See #

• Tropical Forest: A tropical-mimic indoor exhibit housing western lowland gorillas and other rainforest species, organized around elevated walkways and viewing areas.
• African Savannah: An open-area exhibit grouping African hoofstock and tall-structure species to simulate savannah habitats and public viewing from platform areas.
• Children's Zoo: Interactive, child-focused habitats and programming with close-up viewing, domestic-type animals, and educational activities.