ZooMassachusetts, US

Buttonwood Park Zoo

The Buttonwood Park Zoo, nestled within the historic Buttonwood Park in New Bedford, Massachusetts, offers visitors a captivating and intimate encounter with wildlife from around the globe.

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About

The Buttonwood Park Zoo, nestled within the historic Buttonwood Park in New Bedford, Massachusetts, offers visitors a captivating and intimate encounter with wildlife from around the globe. As the 12th oldest zoo in the United States and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), it is renowned as "one of the finest small zoos" in the nation. Dedicated to conservation and education, the zoo provides a welcoming experience where discovery, compassion, and environmental stewardship converge. Visitors can explore a thoughtfully curated collection of over 240 species, from the playful North American River Otters to the majestic Asian elephant, Emily. A highlight is the "Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs" exhibit, an indoor haven transporting guests to South American rainforests and vibrant ocean ecosystems, featuring fascinating creatures like cotton-top tamarins, pygmy marmosets, two-toed sloths, and mesmerizing reef fish. Outdoors, guests can marvel at animals such as cougars, Canada lynx, American bison, and the famously adorable red pandas, Jacob, Marie, and Sprout, who even have a live-streaming webcam. Beyond animal viewing, the Buttonwood Park Zoo enhances the visitor experience with interactive elements. Children can delight in rides like the Black Bear Express train and the Wildlife Carousel, or engage with nature at Charlie's Nature Play area. Daily keeper chats offer educational insights into the animals and their care, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world and inspiring action for wildlife protection. It's a perfect destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an enriching and manageable zoo adventure. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

Established in 1894, the Buttonwood Park Zoo holds the distinction of being the 12th oldest zoo in the United States and the third oldest in New England. Initially featuring native animals like black bears, foxes, and deer, the zoo expanded its collection in 1912 to include bison and elk. Significant development occurred in 1935 with renovations to the black bear den by the Public Works Administration. The zoo began acquiring exotic animals, such as Asian elephants, in the 1960s, with Emily, an Asian elephant, arriving in 1968. After facing deterioration and federal fines in the 1990s, the zoo closed for major renovations in 1996, reopening in 2000 with a renewed focus on native and North American species, and heritage breeds. It subsequently achieved AZA re-accreditation in 2003. The zoo continues to evolve with a comprehensive 15-year master plan to further enhance facilities, animal care, and conservation efforts, including future plans to introduce Indian rhinos once its current elephants pass away.

What to do here

Engage with the diverse animal collection, take a ride on the Black Bear Express train or Wildlife Carousel, let children play at Charlie's Nature Play, and explore the immersive Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs exhibit. Don't forget to look for the live Red Panda Cam online if you can't get enough of them!

Seasonal info

Outdoor rides like the train and carousel may not operate if temperatures fall below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Animal activity might also vary with the seasons, with some being more active in cooler weather.

Accessibility

The zoo is fully accessible to guests with disabilities, including ADA-certified train and carousel rides, handicap accessible restrooms, and available wheelchairs on a first-come, first-serve basis. Adaptive bicycles are available for children with limited mobility. Sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones and fidget tools are offered for visitors with sensory issues. Personal care attendants receive half-price admission, and service animals are permitted.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Most visitors find a few hours sufficient to explore the entire zoo, making it perfect for a relaxed family outing or an afternoon stop.
Best time to visit: The Buttonwood Park Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, making it a good destination year-round, except for closures on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Visiting earlier in the day often allows you to see more active animals.
Location: Massachusetts, US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With Young Children: Engaging Exhibits, Rides, And Nature Play Areas.Wildlife Enthusiasts: A Diverse Collection Of Animals And A Strong Focus On Conservation.Educational Outings: Informative Signage, Keeper Chats, And A Mission Dedicated To Environmental Education.Visitors Seeking An Accessible Experience: Comprehensive Accessibility Features For A Wide Range Of Needs.

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Don't miss the Asian elephant habitat

the energetic red pandas (Jacob, Marie, and Sprout)

the "Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs" indoor exhibit showcasing South American primates and aquatic life

the North American River Otters

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Asian Elephant

Red Panda

Cougar

North American River Otter

Harbor Seal

Bald Eagle

American Bison

Canada Lynx

Pygmy Marmoset

Black Bear

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Check the keeper chat schedule

Upon arrival, inquire about the daily keeper chat schedule to catch engaging presentations and feeding times for various animals.

Plan for rides

If visiting with children, consider the Black Bear Express train and Wildlife Carousel, which are popular attractions. Note that rides may not operate in very cold weather.

Utilize free parking

Parking at the Buttonwood Park Zoo is free, which is a convenient benefit for visitors.

Bring a reusable water bottle

While snacks and drinks are available at The Bear's Den Café and gift store, bringing your own water can be helpful.

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo offers easy walking, but comfortable footwear will enhance your experience as you explore the 7-acre campus.

Download the zoo map

Familiarize yourself with the zoo's layout by checking a map online or picking one up at the entrance to efficiently navigate between exhibits.

Frequently asked questions

: The Buttonwood Park Zoo is home to a variety of popular animals, including the Asian elephant Emily, red pandas Jacob, Marie, and Sprout, North American River Otters, cougars, and American bison. The 'Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs' exhibit also features South American primates like cotton-top tamarins and two-toed sloths, as well as various reef fish.
: Yes, the Buttonwood Park Zoo is fully accessible for visitors with limited mobility. This includes handicap accessible restrooms, and ADA-certified train and carousel rides. Wheelchairs and adaptive bicycles are also available for guests on a first-come, first-serve basis.
: The Buttonwood Park Zoo is deeply committed to wildlife conservation and education, participating in Species Survival Plan programs and supporting local and global conservation initiatives. Many species in their exhibits, such as the red pandas and animals within the 'Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs' exhibit, are threatened or endangered in the wild, highlighting the zoo's role in their protection and public awareness.