Franklin Park
Franklin Park Zoo offers a vibrant mix of animal encounters, conservation efforts, and the enchanting Boston Lights lantern festival.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magical glow
Franklin Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magical glow

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Franklin Park Zoo offers a vibrant mix of animal encounters, conservation efforts, and the enchanting Boston Lights lantern festival.
"Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo is a must-see, transforming the zoo into a magical wonderland of illuminated art."
🎟️ Book Boston Lights Tickets Early
Boston Lights is popular and tickets can sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot!
🧥 Dress Warmly for Evening
Boston Lights is an outdoor evening event. Bundle up, especially in fall and winter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boston Lights Lantern Festival
Franklin Park Zoo
Immerse yourself in a magical world of illuminated lanterns, from mythical creatures to giant animals. A truly enchanting evening experience.

Gorilla Grove
Franklin Park Zoo
Explore the impressive Gorilla Grove exhibit, a cornerstone of the zoo's conservation efforts and a highlight for many visitors.
Victoria Cruziana Waterlily
Franklin Park Conservatory
Marvel at the impressive size of the Victoria Cruziana waterlily, a testament to the conservatory's horticultural prowess.

Historic Bear Dens
Franklin Park Zoo
Step back in time and explore the historic bear dens, remnants of the zoo's original 1912 opening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Boston Lights
Daytime Zoo Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Boston Lights Tickets Early
Boston Lights is popular and tickets can sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot!
🧥 Dress Warmly for Evening
Boston Lights is an outdoor evening event. Bundle up, especially in fall and winter.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport for easier access.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during Boston Lights. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Boston Lights Tickets Early
Boston Lights is popular and tickets can sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot!
🧥 Dress Warmly for Evening
Boston Lights is an outdoor evening event. Bundle up, especially in fall and winter.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport for easier access.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during Boston Lights. Comfortable footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning illuminated displays at Boston Lights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Franklin Park Zoo for its engaging exhibits, especially the popular Boston Lights event, which offers a magical evening experience. While the zoo is generally well-regarded for families and its conservation efforts, some visitors note that parking can be challenging and food options could be more varied.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Franklin Park Zoo is accessible by public transportation, including bus routes. Driving is also an option, with parking available on-site, though it can fill up quickly during popular events like Boston Lights.
Yes, Franklin Park Zoo offers on-site parking. However, it's recommended to arrive early or consider alternative transportation, as parking can become scarce during peak times and special events.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach Franklin Park Zoo, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles.
Several MBTA bus routes serve the Franklin Park area, providing accessible public transit options for visitors. Check the MBTA website for specific route information.
Franklin Park Zoo is committed to accessibility. Many pathways are paved and accessible, and the zoo offers services to assist visitors with disabilities. It's always a good idea to call ahead for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices vary, but are typically around $30 for adults. Children under 2 are often free during special events like Boston Lights. Check the zoo's official website for current pricing and any special offers.
Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets for Boston Lights in advance online. This popular event often sells out, and booking ahead guarantees your entry.
Daytime operating hours vary by season. For Boston Lights, hours are typically from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM in August-September and 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM in October-November. Always check the zoo's website for the most up-to-date hours.
The zoo sometimes offers discounts for children, seniors, or members. Special promotions, like free admission for young children during Boston Lights, are also common. Keep an eye on their social media and website.
While it might be possible on some nights, it's not guaranteed, and you risk missing out. Purchasing tickets online in advance is the safest way to ensure entry to Boston Lights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Gorilla Grove, the Tropical Forest, and the Children's Zoo. During Boston Lights, the illuminated animal displays and floral tunnels are the main attractions.
Franklin Park Zoo is very family-friendly, with diverse exhibits and interactive areas. The Children's Zoo is a particular hit with younger visitors. Boston Lights also offers a magical experience for all ages.
A typical visit to Franklin Park Zoo can take 2-3 hours to see most exhibits. Boston Lights is a separate evening event that can take 1-2 hours to walk through.
Yes, the zoo has food concessions offering snacks and meals. During Boston Lights, there may be limited food options available.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permits. Be mindful of other visitors, especially during Boston Lights.
📸 📸 Photography
For animal photography, early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and potentially more active animals. For Boston Lights, any time after dark provides the best opportunity to capture the illuminated displays.
Tripods and professional camera equipment may be restricted during Boston Lights to ensure smooth visitor flow and prevent obstruction. It's best to check the zoo's policy or contact them directly.
Expect stunning photos of illuminated animal lanterns, glowing floral tunnels, and vibrant light installations. It's a photographer's dream for unique, colorful shots.
Be patient, use a zoom lens if possible, and try to capture animals in natural poses. Early morning visits often yield the best results for animal photography.
Flash photography is generally discouraged during Boston Lights as it can detract from the illuminated displays and potentially disturb other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as concessions can add up. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Strollers are generally welcome, but be aware that some areas might be more challenging during the evening event. The zoo's accessibility makes it a comfortable outing for families with young children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive concessions inside the zoo. Many areas of Franklin Park itself are free to access and offer great opportunities for picnics and enjoying the outdoors without an entry fee.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Boston Lights is a photographer's paradise for vibrant, illuminated scenes. Focus on capturing the scale and detail of the lanterns, from intricate animal figures to glowing floral tunnels. Be mindful of low-light conditions and consider bringing a tripod if permitted (check zoo policy) for sharper images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Boston Lights: An Illuminated Spectacle
The experience is designed to be a journey, with longer pathways and more interactive elements than in previous years. It's an eco-friendly event, with all lanterns powered by energy-efficient LEDs. The event runs from early August through early November, offering a unique evening activity as the nights grow longer.
Pro-tip: While the event is open nightly, visiting on a weeknight can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Booking tickets in advance is crucial, as this popular attraction often sells out.
Franklin Park Zoo: Conservation and Education
The zoo participates in various Species Survival Plans (SSPs) to help maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of animals in accredited institutions. Visitors can learn about these efforts and how they can contribute to conservation through their actions. The zoo also offers educational programs for all ages, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
Beyond the animals, the zoo's historic architecture, like the old Bear Dens, adds a layer of historical significance to the visitor experience. These structures offer a glimpse into the zoo's past while the ongoing modernization ensures a forward-looking approach to animal care and visitor engagement.
Exploring Franklin Park's Natural Beauty
For those seeking a quick nature escape, areas like the Franklin Canyon (though a separate location often confused with Franklin Park in Boston) offer serene lake hikes and beautiful summer scenery. In Boston's Franklin Park, the Conservatory is another gem, showcasing diverse plant life, including impressive specimens like the Victoria Cruziana waterlily.
Whether you're visiting the zoo, enjoying a picnic, or simply taking a stroll, Franklin Park provides a refreshing urban oasis. The park's varied landscapes cater to different interests, from active pursuits to quiet contemplation amidst nature.
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