Southwick's Zoo

Southwick's Zoo in Mendon is New England's largest zoo, covering over 100 acres and home to more than 500 animals representing over 100 species. If you're going to commit to a zoo day with the family, this is the destination that delivers the full experience — the kind where you need to pack a full day, a wagon, and serious snacks.

The animal collection is the highlight. Highlights include African lions, giraffes, white rhinos, Aldabra giant tortoises, orangutans, zebras, cheetahs, and a remarkable diversity of birds and reptiles. The giraffe feeding platform — where you ascend to eye level and hand-feed lettuce directly to giraffes — is one of the most memorable family wildlife experiences in New England.

It's an add-on extra but universally praised and worth the cost.

The deer walk-through is a beloved free feature. Hundreds of deer roam a large fenced meadow and you can purchase deer feed cups or hand-feed them from your palm — something that resonates deeply with young children who may never have touched a wild-ish animal before.

Beyond the animals, the zoo has a carousel, a train ride, a petting zoo area, seasonal special events, and educational programming. A full visit easily fills 4-6 hours. Bring substantially more food and supplies than you think you need.

Southwick's is a seasonal zoo, typically open late April through October. Tickets purchased online in advance save money and time at the entry gates. Summer weekends draw large crowds; May and September weekday mornings are the sweet spot for weather, crowd size, and animal activity.

At around $27 per adult and $22 per child, it's on the pricier side — a family of 4 will spend $100-$140 before food and add-ons. But for the scale and quality of experience, it consistently earns its reputation as the best zoo day trip from Boston.