In the picturesque landscapes of New England, a collection of exceptional zoos and aquariums awaits, offering immersive wildlife experiences and educational adventures for visitors of all ages.
From the historic Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, to the captivating Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, each destination showcases a diverse array of animal species in meticulously designed habitats.
Whether strolling through lush botanical gardens, marveling at majestic big cats, or embarking on underwater adventures, these attractions provide invaluable opportunities to connect with nature and learn about wildlife conservation.
Join us on a journey to explore the top zoological institutions of New England, where wonder and discovery await at every turn.
Top 10 Best Zoos in New England
New England, with its rich natural landscapes and diverse wildlife, hosts several exceptional zoos that provide engaging and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
Here’s a list of the top 10 best zoos in New England:
1. Roger Williams Park Zoo (Providence, Rhode Island)
Roger Williams Park Zoo stands as one of the oldest zoos in the United States, with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century.
Situated within the expansive Roger Williams Park, the zoo spans over 40 acres and is home to over 100 species of animals from around the world.
Visitors can embark on a journey through various ecosystems, encountering fascinating creatures like African elephants, giraffes, red pandas, and snow leopards.
Beyond its impressive animal exhibits, the zoo also boasts a beautifully landscaped botanical garden, providing a tranquil setting for both education and recreation.
Ratings: 4.6/5
Address: 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, United States
Phone: +1 401-785-3510
Web Address: www.rwpzoo.org
2. Franklin Park Zoo (Boston, Massachusetts)
Within Boston’s historic Franklin Park, Franklin Park Zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience amidst 72 acres of natural habitats.
From the lush greenery of tropical rainforests to the vast plains of the African savanna, visitors can explore diverse ecosystems and encounter a wide array of animal species.
Highlights include the Tropical Forest featuring gorillas and other primates, the Kalahari Kingdom with lions and zebras, and the Serengeti Crossing showcasing giraffes and wildebeests.
Through engaging exhibits and educational programs, Franklin Park Zoo emphasizes conservation efforts and the importance of biodiversity.
Ratings: 4.4/5
Address: 1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121, United States
Phone: +1 617-541-5466
Web Address: www.franklinparkzoo.org
3. Southwick’s Zoo (Mendon, Massachusetts)
Southwick’s Zoo stands out for its extensive collection of exotic animals and interactive experiences, making it a popular destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
Spanning over 200 acres of scenic countryside, the zoo offers encounters with a diverse range of species, including giraffes, white rhinos, Siberian tigers, and African lions.
Visitors can feed giraffes, interact with kangaroos in the walk-through exhibit, and attend informative keeper talks and animal demonstrations.
With a focus on conservation and education, Southwick’s Zoo provides memorable experiences while promoting awareness of global wildlife conservation challenges.
Ratings: 4.7/5
Address: 2 Southwick St, Mendon, MA 01756, United States
Phone: +1 508-883-9182
Web Address: www.southwickszoo.com
4. Mystic Aquarium (Mystic, Connecticut)
While primarily recognized as an aquarium, Mystic Aquarium also features outdoor exhibits showcasing marine mammals and birds.
Located along the picturesque Mystic River, the aquarium offers encounters with beluga whales, African penguins, Steller sea lions, and Northern fur seals.
Visitors can witness captivating animal behaviors, attend educational presentations, and participate in interactive programs focused on marine conservation.
Mystic Aquarium’s mission extends beyond entertainment, aiming to inspire stewardship of the ocean and its inhabitants through engaging exhibits and immersive experiences.
Ratings: 4.5/5
Address: 55 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, United States
Phone: +1 860-572-5955
Web Address: www.mysticaquarium.org
5. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (Bridgeport, Connecticut)
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo encompasses 52 acres of scenic parkland, providing a habitat for over 300 animals representing both native and exotic species.
Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from the New England Farmyard featuring domestic animals to the South American Rainforest teeming with tropical wildlife.
The zoo’s Predator Zone offers encounters with Amur tigers, Andean bears, and red wolves, while the Primate Discovery Center showcases lemurs, monkeys, and other primates.
Through educational programs and conservation initiatives, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo aims to foster appreciation for wildlife and inspire conservation action among visitors of all ages.
Ratings: 4.4/5
Address: 1875 Noble Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06610, United States
Phone: +1 203-394-6565
Web Address: www.beardsleyzoo.org
6. Stone Zoo (Stoneham, Massachusetts)
Stone Zoo, just north of Boston, offers a captivating journey through various habitats inhabited by an array of fascinating animals.
From the jaguar exhibit to the Caribbean Coast featuring flamingos and capybaras, visitors can observe diverse species in naturalistic settings.
Stone Zoo’s award-winning Bird’s World exhibit provides a glimpse into the colorful world of avian species from around the globe.
Through interactive experiences, educational signage, and conservation initiatives, Stone Zoo encourages visitors to develop a deeper understanding of wildlife and the importance of habitat preservation.
Ratings: 4.3/5
Address: 149 Pond St, Stoneham, MA 02180, United States
Phone: +1 617-541-5466
Web Address: www.stonezoo.org
7. Capron Park Zoo (Attleboro, Massachusetts)
Despite its smaller size, Capron Park Zoo offers a charming and intimate wildlife experience for visitors. Situated within Capron Park, the zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals, including red pandas, Mexican gray wolves, North American river otters, and exotic birds.
Visitors can stroll through lush gardens, observe animal feedings and keeper talks, and engage in hands-on activities at the Discovery Center.
Capron Park Zoo’s commitment to conservation and education is evident through its informative exhibits and outreach programs aimed at fostering environmental awareness and stewardship.
Ratings: 4.4/5
Address: 201 County St, Attleboro, MA 02703, United States
Phone: +1 774-203-1840
Web Address: capronparkzoo.com
8. Buttonwood Park Zoo (New Bedford, Massachusetts)
Established in 1894, Buttonwood Park Zoo holds the distinction of being one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
Spanning 30 acres within Buttonwood Park, the zoo provides a habitat for a diverse array of animal species, including North American bison, African lions, Asian elephants, and red wolves.
Visitors can explore themed exhibits such as the Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs featuring tropical wildlife and the Grasslands Trail showcasing species native to open savannas.
Through educational programs, conservation initiatives, and immersive exhibits, Buttonwood Park Zoo aims to inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature and wildlife conservation.
Ratings: 4.5/5
Address: 425 Hawthorn St, New Bedford, MA 02740, United States
Phone: +1 508-991-4556
Web Address: www.bpzoo.org
9. EcoTarium (Worcester, Massachusetts)
While primarily recognized as a science and nature museum, EcoTarium also features live animal exhibits highlighting the native wildlife of New England.
Within a 55-acre urban oasis, the museum offers indoor and outdoor experiences, including a tree canopy walkway, wildlife trails, and interactive exhibits.
Visitors can observe native species such as red foxes, river otters, owls, and turtles in their natural habitats.
Through hands-on activities, educational signage, and engaging programs, EcoTarium promotes environmental literacy and encourages visitors to explore the wonders of the natural world.
Ratings: 4.5/5
Address: 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA 01604, United States
Phone: +1 508-929-2700
Web Address: www.ecotarium.org
10. Berkshire Museum (Pittsfield, Massachusetts)
The Berkshire Museum, while primarily known for its art and natural history collections, features a small yet captivating aquarium showcasing freshwater and saltwater species.
Visitors can explore diverse aquatic ecosystems, from local streams and ponds to coral reefs and ocean habitats.
The aquarium offers educational programs, interactive displays, and live animal feedings, providing insights into marine biology and conservation.
Through its interdisciplinary approach, the Berkshire Museum aims to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of art, science, and the environment, inspiring curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
Ratings: 4.4/5
Address: 39 South St, Pittsfield, MA 01201, United States
Phone: +1 413-443-7171
Web Address: www.berkshiremuseum.org
FAQs
What Are the Top Zoos in New England?
Discover the top zoological attractions of New England, including renowned destinations like Roger Williams Park Zoo, Franklin Park Zoo, and Mystic Aquarium.
Are There Aquariums and Zoos in New England?
Yes, New England boasts a variety of aquariums and zoos, offering captivating experiences with marine life and terrestrial animals alike.
What Is the Biggest Zoo in New England?
Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts, stands as one of the largest zoos in New England, spanning over 200 acres of scenic countryside.
Do Any Zoos in New England Have Elephants?
Yes, several zoos in New England house elephants, including Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, and Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts.
Neal McGovern