Visiting Franklin Park Zoo in Boston: Prices, Tips & Info

Plan Your Visit to Franklin Park Zoo

To ensure a rewarding and enjoyable experience at Franklin Park Zoo, it is helpful to plan ahead. This guide offers essential information about ticket options, visitor guidelines, amenities, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Ticket Information

Purchase Options

Tickets for Franklin Park Zoo can be purchased online in advance, which is recommended for securing entry and preferred ticket types. Admission tickets are also available at the zoo entrance, depending on availability.

Types of Tickets

Various ticket categories are offered, including general admission tickets for standard entry, VIP tickets which may include special access or added benefits, and guided tour tickets providing expert-led explorations of the zoo’s exhibits and animal habitats.

Pricing

Ticket prices vary according to ticket type and any applicable seasonal promotions or special packages. Visitors are encouraged to check for updates prior to their visit to choose the option best suited to their interests.

Franklin Park Zoo Timings

August & September Daily: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Boston Lights: 6:00 – 10:30 p.m.
October – March Daily: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Boston Lights: 5:00 – 10:30 p.m.
April – July Weekdays: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Weekends: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Note Hours may change or the zoo may close for select events; updates are announced in advance.
The last ticket to the venue is sold an hour before its scheduled closure for the day.

Best Times to Visit Franklin Park Zoo

Mornings Right After Opening (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

Starting your visit early lets you explore the zoo in cooler, quieter hours. Animals are often most active in the morning, so it’s an ideal time to catch gorillas, giraffes, and lions moving about before the day warms up.

Weekdays for a Relaxed Experience

Tuesdays through Thursdays typically draw fewer crowds compared to weekends. This makes it easier to stroll through exhibits like the Tropical Forest and Children’s Zoo without feeling rushed.

Spring and Fall Seasons

Visiting in April–May or September–October offers comfortable weather and lighter crowds than peak summer months. You’ll enjoy lush greenery in the Emerald Necklace surroundings while still getting long daylight hours.

During Seasonal Events

Special programs like Boston Lights in summer and fall transform the zoo into a dazzling evening experience. Planning your trip around these events gives you the chance to enjoy the zoo in a completely different light.

Outside School Breaks and Holidays

Avoiding major holidays, long weekends, and school vacation weeks can help you enjoy shorter lines and more space to linger at popular exhibits.

Franklin Park Zoo Location and Address

Franklin Park Zoo sits in the heart of Boston’s historic Emerald Necklace, a 1,100-acre chain of parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Surrounded by lush green space, the zoo offers a natural retreat just minutes from downtown Boston.

Address Franklin Park Zoo
1 Franklin Park Road
Boston, MA 02121

How to Get to Franklin Park Zoo

By MBTA Bus

- Easily accessible via several bus routes.

- From Ruggles Station: Routes 22, 28, 29, or 45 drop you near the zoo entrance. Routes 22 and 28 are designated as key lines.

- Nearby stops include Franklin Park Loop @ Zoo Entrance and Franklin Park Zoo @ Entrance, both just a ~4-minute walk from the gate.

By Subway (Orange Line)

- Take the Orange Line to either Forest Hills, Ruggles, or Jackson Square. From there, transfer to a bus.

- From Ruggles: Catch bus 22 or 28.

- From Jackson Square: Bus 22 runs nearby.

By Commuter Rail

- Take the MBTA Fairmount Line to Four Corners/Geneva station, then walk about 14 minutes to reach the zoo.

By Car or Taxi/Rideshare

- Driving from central Boston takes about 15 minutes (~3–6 miles) depending on traffic.

- Estimated taxi fare: $20–$27.

By Bicycle or On Foot

- For nearby residents or active visitors, biking or walking through Franklin Park’s scenic paths is a lovely and eco-friendly option.

Dining and Shopping at Franklin Park Zoo

About Located near the main entrance, Things Wild Gift Shop offers a convenient and charming stop for visitors seeking souvenirs, essentials, and more.
Sppecialty Items and Essentials i. A great variety of stuffed animals, games, apparel, and adorable animal-themed keepsakes.
ii. Also stocks practical items like sunscreen, batteries, umbrellas, and first aid kits—perfect for unexpected needs during your visit.
Hours Weekdays: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Weekends: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location Situated close to the zoo’s main entrance, making it easy to stop by either on your way in or before you leave.

About A casual, indoor/outdoor dining spot located conveniently within the zoo—perfect for families and visitors seeking a hearty bite between exhibits.
Specialty Dishes Offers a broad menu featuring wraps, burgers, sandwiches, salads, pizza, fries, and kid-friendly meals. Plenty of allergy-friendly and dietary options available.
Hours Open year-round:
Weekdays: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Weekends: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location Situated near the main entrance—great for a quick lunch stop either before you explore or on your way out.

Events and Activities at Franklin Park Zoo, Boston

One of the zoo’s most magical seasonal events, transforming Franklin Park Zoo into a glowing wonderland. Wander through immersive, artistically crafted lantern installations inspired by global habitats—ranging from rainforest canopies and ocean reefs to Chinese zodiac figures and mythical creatures. Marvel at the glowing owl towering over 22 feet tall, shimmering floral tunnels, undersea scenes, and interactive lighting displays. The exhibit also highlights conservation themes and sustainable LED lighting. August 1 – September 30: Nightly from 6:00 – 10:30 p.m.

Watch the gorillas enjoy specially prepared enrichment meals while engaging in an educational chat led by zookeepers who share interesting insights about their care and behavior. Usually held around 2:00 p.m. on select days—check the zoo’s daily program schedule for exact timings.

A charming farm-style experience at Franklin Park Zoo, called the Children's Zoo, where visitors can meet and pet friendly goats and heritage farm animals up close. It is perfect for animal lovers of all ages. Typically offered daily during the summer months, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Franklin Park Zoo - Additional Info

Facilities
Accessibility
Guidelines
Rules

Restrooms Multiple restrooms are located across the zoo, including accessible restrooms to accommodate guests with mobility needs.
Pathways & Grounds Paved and well-marked pathways throughout the zoo make navigation easy for strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters.
Shaded areas and covered walkways help visitors stay comfortable in warmer weather.
Seating & Rest Areas Benches and shaded seating are placed at intervals across exhibits for breaks.
Picnic areas with tables are available for families and groups who wish to bring their own food.
ScooterPal Motorized Rentals These themed scooters are available during the day (weather-dependent) at $5 activation plus $0.35/minute; a $30 hold is pre-authorized on your card.
Playground & Carousel A 10,000-sq-ft children’s playground, inspired by kids’ drawings, with safe rubberized ground cover—open year-round.
Carousel usually runs on weekends (weather and staff-dependent); typically from mid-morning to mid-afternoon.
Dining & Picnic Areas The Giddy-Up Grill serves wraps, pizza, salads, and kid-friendly fare year-round. Picnic tables available throughout the grounds.
Gift Shop Things Wild Gift Shop offers plush toys, apparel, games, essentials like sunscreen and water bottles, and souvenir items.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours & Animal Experiences Bookable guided encounters with select animals—great for deeper learning and unique access

Special Tips for Visitors

Buy Tickets Online

Purchasing your tickets in advance saves time at the entrance and ensures quick access, especially on weekends and during popular seasonal events like Boston Lights.

Arrive Early in the Day

The zoo is most peaceful right after opening, giving you the chance to enjoy popular exhibits such as the Gorilla Grove or Giraffe Savannah before crowds build up.

Plan for at Least 2–3 Hours

With diverse exhibits ranging from African lions to Australian animals, plus family-friendly attractions, you’ll want enough time to explore without rushing.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo spans 72 acres within Franklin Park, so expect plenty of walking on pathways between habitats.

Don’t Miss Seasonal Attractions

Special programs like Boston Lights and ZooLights transform the zoo into a vibrant, illuminated experience—worth timing your visit around.

Pack for the Weather

The zoo is mostly outdoors. Bring sunscreen, hats, or ponchos depending on the season, and dress in layers for Boston’s variable weather.

Bring Reusable Water Bottles

Hydration stations are located throughout the zoo, and using them helps reduce plastic waste.

Stop by the Gift Shop

The Wild Things Gift Shop near the entrance is a great place to pick up zoo-themed souvenirs, plush animals, and educational toys.

Approx 2h

Franklin Park Zoo: Entry Ticket

Highlights

Discover animals from different parts of the world.

Observe western lowland gorillas during the Gorilla Forest season.

Admire African lions in the Kalahari Kingdom.

See Masai giraffes in the Giraffe Savannah.

Ideal for visitors of all ages with a variety of attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Franklin Park Zoo

1. What are the Franklin Park Zoo’s opening hours?

The zoo is open daily year-round. Specific opening and closing times vary by season; visitors are advised to check local listings before planning their visit.

2. Where is Franklin Park Zoo located?

The zoo is located within Franklin Park in Boston, Massachusetts, part of the Emerald Necklace park system.

3. What ticket options are available for admission?

Visitors can purchase general admission tickets, VIP tickets, and guided tour tickets to enhance their experience at the zoo.

4. Is Franklin Park Zoo accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes, the zoo is designed to accommodate visitors using strollers and wheelchairs, with paved paths throughout most exhibits.

5. Are pets allowed inside Franklin Park Zoo?

For the safety of animals and visitors, pets are not permitted inside the zoo, except for certified service animals.

6. Can tickets be purchased in advance?

Yes, tickets can be purchased in advance online to ensure entry and avoid waiting lines.

7. Are food and drinks available at the zoo?

The zoo offers several dining options and picnic areas for visitors; outside food policies may vary, so checking ahead is recommended.

8. Is Franklin Park Zoo family-friendly?

Yes, the zoo features attractions like the Children's Zoo, playground, and interactive exhibits designed for visitors of all ages.