Franklin Zoo Map and Brochure (2024 – 2020)
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Years Active: 1912 – Active
Franklin Zoo isn’t your picture-perfect wildlife sanctuary. It’s old – like, founded in 1912 old. But that’s part of its charm. You’ll find some seriously cool animals here and a focus on teaching you about them and the challenges they face.
Want to beat the crowds? Go on a weekday. Weekends are packed, especially during warm weather. Their animal habitats range from awesome (check out the gorillas) to kind of outdated. It’s a mixed bag. But hey, they do cool things like the Amazon Rainforest Pavilion and Franklin Penguin Point.
Franklin Zoo throws fun events throughout the year, so check their website. Some are geared towards families, others towards adults. Did you know they have a festival celebrating Asian elephants?
Don’t be shocked if some areas look a little run-down. Zoos are expensive to maintain. But your visit helps fund conservation, and that’s important. Over a million people support the zoo every year, so they’re doing something right!
What is the history of the Franklin Park Zoo?
The Franklin Park Zoo, located in Boston, Massachusetts, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1912. It was originally designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the renowned landscape architect responsible for Central Park in New York City. The zoo has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the years to enhance its exhibits and conservation efforts. Today, it is managed by Zoo New England and serves as an important hub for wildlife conservation, education, and research.
How big is Franklin Zoo?
The Franklin Park Zoo encompasses approximately 72 acres (29 hectares) of land within Boston’s historic Franklin Park. This substantial space allows the zoo to house a diverse collection of animal species and create naturalistic habitats that prioritize the well-being of the animals while offering an engaging and educational experience for visitors.
When did Franklin Park Zoo open?
The Franklin Park Zoo officially opened its doors to the public on October 4, 1912. Since then, it has been a cherished cultural institution and a vital center for wildlife conservation and education in the Boston area. Over the years, the zoo has evolved, expanded, and continuously strived to provide an informative and enjoyable environment for visitors while contributing to the preservation of endangered species and the study of wildlife.
