ZooMassachusetts, US

Southwick's Zoo

Southwick's Zoo offers an immersive wildlife adventure in Massachusetts.

About

Southwick's Zoo offers an immersive wildlife adventure in Massachusetts. As New England's largest zoological experience, this privately owned zoo spans over 200 acres, providing naturalistic habitats for more than 900 animals representing over 160 species from around the globe. It's a place where visitors can truly connect with nature and encounter a diverse array of exotic creatures, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the animal kingdom.

The zoo boasts an impressive collection of animals, including majestic lions, tigers, and white rhinos. Visitors can marvel at graceful giraffes, playful chimpanzees, and slow-moving two-toed sloths. Interactive experiences abound, from the popular Skyfari Sky Ride offering aerial views of the exhibits to the Woodland Express Train which traverses wetlands and the Elk Forest. Don't miss the chance to walk through the 35-acre Deer Forest, where fallow deer roam freely, or to engage with colorful parakeets in the walk-through aviary.

More than just an animal park, Southwick's Zoo provides educational opportunities through its EARTH Discovery Center, focusing on wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. With daily keeper talks, live bird shows, and unique animal encounters with giraffes, rhinos, and sloths, it's a memorable destination that combines entertainment with a deep commitment to animal welfare and environmental awareness. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.

The roots of Southwick's Zoo trace back to a homestead established in 1803 as a dairy and vegetable farm. The tradition of animal keeping began in the 1930s when Justin F. Southwick developed a passionate interest in collecting exotic birds and fancy poultry. His son, Justin A. Southwick, further expanded this collection, and by 1956, the property was dedicated to aviculture, prompting the introduction of a donation box to support the growing array of birds. The modern Southwick's Zoo officially opened its doors in 1963, initially known as Southwick Wild Animal Farm. Since its inception, the zoo has remained under the management of the Southwick and Brewer families, evolving into New England's largest zoo. As a privately owned institution, it relies solely on admission proceeds to care for its animals and maintain the grounds, actively engaging in conservation initiatives through its non-profit, EARTH Ltd.

What to do here

Ride the Skyfari Sky Ride and Woodland Express Train, hand-feed deer, feed pygmy goats in the petting zoo, engage with parakeets, attend daily bird shows and keeper talks, and consider booking a special animal encounter with giraffes, rhinos, or sloths.

Seasonal info

The zoo operates rain or shine, but some rides, attractions, and shows may close due to inclement weather. In cooler months (late season), some animals may be off exhibit and attractions might be limited. Special events like the Great Jack O'Lantern Journey and Winter Wonderland are held outside regular zoo hours during the colder months.

Accessibility

Southwick's Zoo is handicap accessible, built on natural terrain with wide paths, many of which are paved. However, there are some steep hills. Electric wheelchairs and scooters are available for rent. Note that service dogs have restricted access in certain animal areas like Deer Forest, the Petting Zoo, and the Parakeet Aviary. The zoo also offers sensory-friendly resources, including sensory bags and social stories, and hosts sensory-friendly early access days.

Don't miss

Skyfari Sky Ride

Enjoy panoramic views of the zoo from above.

Deer Forest

Walk among and hand-feed friendly fallow deer in a spacious 35-acre exhibit.

White Rhinos

Meet the zoo's resident white rhinos, Thelma and Louise, with special encounters available.

Giraffe Exhibit

Witness these majestic animals up close, with opportunities for giraffe encounters.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Painted Turtle

Eastern White Pine

American Toad

Great Blue Heron

Asian Lady Beetle

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

Arrive Early

** On weekends and holidays, especially with good weather, the zoo can get busy. Arriving at opening will help you experience popular exhibits with fewer crowds.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo spans over 200 acres, so be prepared for a good amount of walking.

Bring Quarters

For an interactive experience, bring quarters to purchase food for the deer in Deer Forest and the goats in the petting zoo.

Check the Weather

While the zoo is open rain or shine, certain outdoor attractions and shows may be weather-dependent. Check the forecast before your visit.

Parking is Free

Take advantage of the free parking located directly across the street from the main entrance.

No Outside Food/Coolers

Large coolers, backpacks, and outside food (beyond small snacks and beverages for personal consumption or childcare) are generally not permitted. Consider dining at Galliford's Restaurant & Tavern located at the zoo entrance, or one of the casual in-park dining options.

Frequently asked questions

: No, Southwick's Zoo is a seasonal attraction, typically open from mid-April through October 31st each year. After the main zoo season, it may host special evening events like the Great Jack O'Lantern Journey and Winter Wonderland.
: Visitors are generally not allowed to feed zoo animals as they are on specific diets. However, feeding is permitted in designated areas like the Deer Forest (with zoo-provided deer food) and the petting zoo (with zoo-provided goat food). Special animal encounters, such as with giraffes, rhinos, and sloths, also involve feeding under supervision.
: Yes, Southwick's Zoo is handicap accessible with wide, often paved paths, though some areas feature natural terrain and steeper inclines. Electric wheelchairs and scooters are available for rent, and the zoo provides sensory-friendly resources and designated sensory-friendly visit days.