Franklin Park Zoo occupies 72 acres in the northeast corner of Franklin Park, the largest green space in Frederick Law Olmsted’s Emerald Necklace. Operated by Zoo New England and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, it is home to more than 200 species. The centerpiece is the Tropical Forest, a three-acre domed pavilion where a troop of western lowland gorillas shares humid jungle paths with pygmy hippos, giant anteaters, free-flying birds, and reptiles, making it a reliable rainy-day destination.
Outdoors, the zoo spreads across themed habitats that reward a slow wander. Kalahari Kingdom showcases African lions, while Serengeti Crossing and the Giraffe Savannah present zebras, ostriches, wildebeest, and a herd of Masai giraffes. The Australian Outback Trail brings visitors close to kangaroos and emus, and Bird’s World gathers dozens of avian species. Family-friendly areas like the Franklin Farm round out a visit. For current hours, admission prices, and seasonal exhibit closures, consult zoonewengland.org before you arrive.
Good to know
- Ticketed attraction run by Zoo New England; check zoonewengland.org for current prices and hours.
- The Tropical Forest dome (gorillas, pygmy hippos) is indoors, making it a good option in poor weather.
- Best reached by Orange Line plus a connecting MBTA bus, or by car with on-site parking.
- Largely flat, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly paths across 72 acres.
Getting there
- Address: 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, MA 02121
- Neighborhood: Franklin Park (bordered by Jamaica Plain, Roxbury, and Dorchester)
- Nearest T: Orange Line to Forest Hills or Ruggles, then a connecting bus (e.g. Route 16, 22, 28 or 45) to the zoo