ZooMassachusetts, US

Capron Park Zoo

The Capron Park Zoo offers an intimate and engaging wildlife experience for all ages.

About

The Capron Park Zoo offers an intimate and engaging wildlife experience for all ages.

This charming 8-acre zoo in Attleboro, Massachusetts, is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and home to approximately 100 animals representing 44 species from around the globe. It's celebrated for its commitment to conservation through programs like the Species Survival Plan, and offers a unique opportunity to connect with diverse wildlife in a beautifully maintained setting.

Visitors can embark on a journey across continents, encountering fascinating creatures such as majestic African Lions and rare White Lions, playful North American River Otters, and curious Meerkats. The zoo also features a dedicated Nocturnal Building where day and night are reversed, allowing guests to observe animals typically active after dusk, alongside an indoor rainforest exhibit with residents like the Two-toed Sloth and various vibrant birds. Other highlights include Amur Leopards, Red Pandas, and Kangaroos, providing a rich tapestry of biodiversity.

The Capron Park Zoo is an ideal destination for a memorable family outing, offering not just animal encounters but also interactive elements like a petting zoo and the popular Splashpad Playspace for cooling off during warmer months. Despite its compact size, the zoo provides a rich educational experience, fostering an appreciation for wildlife and conservation efforts in a welcoming and accessible environment. However, it's important to note that as of March 2026, there are ongoing discussions regarding a proposed transformation of the zoo into a wildlife rehabilitation center and open space, which could impact its future as a traditional public zoo after September 7th, 2026. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

The Capron Park Zoo's origins trace back to a heartwarming community effort in 1925 when local schoolchildren launched a "penny drive" to raise funds for its establishment. This collective endeavor culminated in the official opening of the zoo in 1937, built on 8 acres of land generously donated by the Capron family, which also encompassed the larger Capron Park. The park and zoo were designed by the renowned firm of Frederick Law Olmsted, known for his work on Central Park. Over the decades, the zoo has seen significant development and modernization. A major redesign and upgrade took place in the late 1980s to meet zoological maintenance standards, leading to its grand reopening in May 1990. Further enhancements included the addition of a dedicated education department in 1991 and the popular Splashpad recreational area in 2010. Buildings like the Lion Building, Otter Building, Sadler Building, Nocturnal Building, and Rainforest Building have been added over time, continuously enriching the visitor experience and animal habitats.

What to do here

Observe a wide array of animals from different continents, explore the indoor rainforest and nocturnal exhibits, interact with friendly animals at the petting zoo, and let children cool off and play at the Splashpad Playspace (seasonal). There's also a large playground just outside the zoo entrance. Educational programs and special events like "Zoo Boo Spooktacular" (Halloween) are offered throughout the year.

Seasonal info

Summer (March-October): Splashpad and mist tent are typically open, providing a great way to beat the heat. The zoo often hosts outdoor events and programs.

Winter (November-April): While some outdoor animals might be less active, the indoor exhibits like the Nocturnal Building and Rainforest Building remain a draw. The zoo is generally less crowded during these months.

Accessibility

Capron Park Zoo is considered stroller-friendly. While some older pathways or service areas might have accessibility challenges (e.g., changes in level, narrow doorways), the zoo staff endeavor to provide program access, such as escorting children who cannot use stairs to the classroom through alternative routes. Restrooms are accessible, and the main entrance typically offers ample space.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: While the zoo itself can be explored in about 1.5 to 2 hours, especially with younger children, visitors often extend their stay to enjoy the Splashpad, the large playground outside the zoo, and picnic areas, making for a half-day outing.
Best time to visit: The zoo is open year-round, closing only on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Summer months (March through October, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last ticket 3:00 PM) offer the added enjoyment of the Splashpad Playspace and mist tent. Visiting earlier in the morning is often recommended for better animal activity and to avoid potential crowds at the adjacent playground.
Location: Massachusetts, US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With Young ChildrenAnimal LoversEducational OutingsBudget Conscious Visitors Seeking A Compact Zoo Experience

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Don't miss the dynamic River Otters, the impressive African Lions and the rare White Lion, the fascinating Amur Leopard, and the unique Sloth Bear. The Nocturnal Building offers a chance to see animals active at night, while the indoor rainforest exhibit provides a glimpse into a tropical ecosystem. The Red Panda exhibit is also a popular stop.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Canada Goose

House Sparrow

Bluegill

Duck

American Robin

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Mourning Dove

Painted Turtle

Eastern White Pine

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

Plan for the Splashpad (seasonal)

If visiting in warmer months, bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes for children to enjoy the Splashpad Playspace.

Combine with the park

Allocate extra time to explore the larger Capron Park, which features a modern playground and picnic areas, perfect for before or after your zoo visit.

Arrive early

Visiting soon after opening can offer a quieter experience and better opportunities to see animals when they are most active.

Check for events

Look up the zoo's schedule for special events, educational programs, or animal encounters that might enhance your visit.

Proof of residency for discounts

If you are an Attleboro resident, bring proof of residency for discounted admission rates.

No outside food inside the zoo

Remember that outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the zoo exhibits, but picnic areas are available in the park outside.

Frequently asked questions

: Visitors to Capron Park Zoo can see a diverse collection of animals including African Lions, a rare White Lion, Amur Leopards, Sloth Bears, Red Pandas, North American River Otters, Meerkats, Kangaroos, various species of Lemurs (like Ring-tailed and Red Ruffed), Hoffmann's Two-toed Sloth, Fennec Foxes, Emus, and Green Tree Pythons. The zoo features exhibits for animals from North and South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
: Yes, Capron Park Zoo offers several interactive experiences and attractions. These include a petting zoo where visitors can interact with goats, sheep, and rabbits, and the popular Splashpad Playspace (seasonal) for children to enjoy. The zoo also provides educational programs, animal encounters (like Red Panda Encounters), and hosts special events throughout the year, such as the "Zoo Boo Spooktacular" for Halloween.
: Parking at Capron Park Zoo is generally free. The zoo has a snack stand offering hot dogs, ice cream, popcorn, and beverages. However, outside food and drink are generally not permitted inside the zoo itself. Visitors wishing to picnic can use the designated picnic areas located in the surrounding Capron Park, just outside the zoo entrance.