Massachusetts offers a wide array of animal experiences perfect for a day trip or a stop on a family getaway. Whether you’re visiting a zoo with exotic species or getting up close with goats and sheep on the farm, there’s an animal adventure waiting for you in Massachusetts!
Large Zoos in Massachusetts
Zoo New England – Boston & Stoneham
Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo are beloved institutions run by Zoo New England. At Franklin Park Zoo, families can wander through the Tropical Forest to see gorillas and lemurs, explore the Giraffe Savannah, and let little ones run wild in the nature play area. Stone Zoo, though smaller, delights with its snow leopards, reindeer, and seasonal attractions like ZooLights.
Southwick’s Zoo – Mendon
With over 850 animals across 200 acres, Southwick’s Zoo is the largest zoological park in New England. Highlights include the Skyfari aerial tram, a walk-through deer forest, and opportunities to hand-feed giraffes. This Mendon favorite is also home to Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern for a relaxing place to grab a bite after a day of zoo adventures.
Smaller Zoos with Big Charm
Lupa Zoo – Ludlow
Nestled in the Pioneer Valley, Lupa Zoo is a privately run zoo offering an intimate wildlife experience. From kangaroos to camels, the zoo’s diverse collection spans continents and provides great educational value in a peaceful setting perfect for younger children.
Buttonwood Park Zoo – New Bedford
Small in size but big in appeal, Buttonwood Park Zoo is home to North American wildlife like river otters, black bears, and elephants. The zoo offers interactive programs, accessible trails, a playground, and even a zoo train—making it a top pick for families with young children.
The Zoo in Forest Park – Springfield
Located within one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center specializes in rescued and non-releasable animals. It’s a meaningful experience where visitors meet animals with unique stories, from bobcats to tortoises, in an easy-to-navigate space.
Family-Friendly Farms & Petting Zoos
Davis Farmland Discovery Farm – Sterling
Davis Farmland is a paradise for kids and kids-at-heart. Featuring livestock, hayrides, pony rides, and a massive water spray ground, this farm balances learning and play. A fall visit includes access to the Davis Mega Farm Festival, with corn mazes and pumpkin patches galore.
Special note: In April 2025, one of the farm’s Finn Sheep, Linda, gave birth to sextuplets – six Finn lambs. “A successful delivery of six healthy babies is a staggering, impressive feat that speaks to the strength of both the mom and the farm’s dedicated animal care team,” says a Davis Farmland spokesperson. Don’t miss your chance to see these historic babies!
Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm – Newbury
This 17th-century coastal farmstead managed by Historic New England offers a perfect blend of nature, animals, and history. The paddock offers an opportunity to meet and learn about foster farm animals, through a partnership with the MSPCA.
Drumlin Farm – Lincoln
The Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary is a 291-acre Mass Audubon property. This is a perfect mix of seeing what life is like on a working farm – complete with pigs, goats, and cows – and having the ability to explore conservation trails where you might encounter owls, foxes, and hawks.
Ioka Valley Farm – Hancock
This Berkshires-based farm offers a wide range of seasonal activities but the one you don’t want to miss is a visit to Uncle Don’s Barnyard – a special place to see, pet, and feed the farm’s baby animals! Ioka Valley Farm features a hay tunnel, mechanical cow, peddle-powered tractors, and a farm-themed play area.
Other Unique Animal Experiences
Capron Park Zoo – Attleboro
Though compact, Capron Park Zoo packs in plenty of adventure with its rainforest exhibit, lemurs, and a splash park open during summer. The zoo is also known for its emphasis on animal conservation and education.
Island Alpaca Company – Vineyard Haven
On Martha’s Vineyard, Island Alpaca invites visitors to meet their alpacas. The daily “Alpaca Walk & Talk” program offers a hands-on opportunity to learn about these gentle animals with a walk in the fields.
Woods Hole Science Aquarium – Falmouth
This small but fascinating aquarium and rescue center showcases over 140 species native to the Northeast Atlantic. Touch tanks offer hands-on learning. Exhibits on whales, sharks, and sea turtles deepen the experience. Occasionally, the Woods Hole Science Aquarium also cares for rescued seals and other species. Admission is by donation, making it a budget-friendly family stop.
Your Animal Adventure Awaits
No matter what part of Massachusetts you are exploring, there’s a zoo, farm, or animal encounter ready to delight the whole family! From feeding giraffes to walking an alpaca to exploring a touch tank these organizations offer up education and adventure that everyone will benefit from! Grab your camera, plan your day, and get ready to make family memories with all creatures big and small in Massachusetts.
