Franklin Park - The view from inside Ellicott Arch in Boston's Franklin Park on a sunny summer morning.
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Franklin Park

4.6
·491k reviews·Columbus, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weeknights during Boston Lights

Fewer crowds, more magical glow

CrowdLow
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Franklin Park - The view from inside Ellicott Arch in Boston's Franklin Park on a sunny summer morning.

Franklin Park

Best Time

Weeknights during Boston Lights

Fewer crowds, more magical glow

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo is a must-see, transforming the zoo into a magical wonderland of illuminated art."

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TIP

🎟️ 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boston Lights Lantern Festival

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.

TikTokInstagram
Gorilla Grove

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.

Instagram
Victoria Cruziana Waterlily

Victoria Cruziana Waterlily

Franklin Park Conservatory

Marvel at the impressive size of the Victoria Cruziana waterlily, a testament to the conservatory's horticultural prowess.

TikTok
Historic Bear Dens

Historic Bear Dens

Franklin Park Zoo

Step back in time and explore the historic bear dens, remnants of the zoo's original 1912 opening.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Plan for Boston Lights

Franklin Park Zoo's 'Boston Lights' is a must-see fall/winter event. Tickets are required and can sell out, so book in advance. It's an evening event, so dress warmly and be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. TikTokInstagram

Daytime Zoo Adventures

Beyond the lights, Franklin Park Zoo offers a fantastic daytime experience with diverse animal exhibits. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed exploration of the zoo's many attractions. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weeknights during Boston Lights
Why
Fewer crowds, more magical glow
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Enjoy animals without the rush
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Part 4: things to do this summer 📍@Franklin Park Zoo and it’s FREE for kids under 2! Opened Aug. 1 - Sept. 30, 6:00 - 10:30 p.m. Oct. 1 - Nov. 2, 5:00 - 10:30 p.m. General admission $30 #bostonlights #thingstodo #haitiantiktok #bostontiktok #boston #lightshow
@dalutries
29.2K likes • 250.7K views

🎟️ Book Boston Lights Tickets Early

Boston Lights is popular and tickets can sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot! Instagram

🧥 Dress Warmly for Evening

Boston Lights is an outdoor evening event. Bundle up, especially in fall and winter. TikTok

New England Zoo lights are back! At the Franklin Zoo Park #bostonma #boston #bostontiktok #massachusetts
@bostonbychloe
24.3K likes • 715.6K views
🏮 BOSTON LIGHTS 🏮 Now through Nov 2, catch the ultimate glow-up every night at Franklin Park Zoo. 🌙✨ @zoonewengland @tianyuartsculture 🕕 Aug 1–Sept 30: 6–10:30 PM 🕔 Oct 1–Nov 2: 5–10:30 PM This year’s vibe? 🌸 Floral light tunnels 🦄 Mythical creatures glowing in neon 🦉 A 22-foot-tall owl And it’s all eco-friendly — every lantern is LED-powered to keep it green 💡🌍 🎟️ Pro tip: Plan-Ahead Prici...
bostonbychloe
4.5K likes • 143.7K views

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport for easier access. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during Boston Lights. Comfortable footwear is a must. TikTok

FREE for kids under 2! Back at Franklin Park Zoo! General admission $30 4 pack is about $100 VIP tickets $36 (can be used any date at any time) You can buy tickets form the link in @zoonewengland ‘s bio. Boston Lights is opened Aug. 1 - Sept. 30, 6:00 – 10:30 p.m. Oct. 1 - Nov. 2, 5:00 - 10:30 p.m. We went to opening night and enjoyed walking through the illuminated park. Because of construc...
bos.food
8K likes • 218.6K views

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! Instagram

🧥 Dress Warmly for Evening

Boston Lights is an outdoor evening event. Bundle up, especially in fall and winter. TikTok

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport for easier access. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during Boston Lights. Comfortable footwear is a must. TikTok

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning illuminated displays at Boston Lights. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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. TikTokInstagram

What People Like

Magical Boston Lights event
Diverse animal exhibits
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Can be crowded

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Several MBTA bus routes serve the Franklin Park area, providing accessible public transit options for visitors. Check the MBTA website for specific route information. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Yes, the zoo has food concessions offering snacks and meals. During Boston Lights, there may be limited food options available. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

Expect stunning photos of illuminated animal lanterns, glowing floral tunnels, and vibrant light installations. It's a photographer's dream for unique, colorful shots. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

Flash photography is generally discouraged during Boston Lights as it can detract from the illuminated displays and potentially disturb other visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Franklin Park Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. The Children's Zoo is a highlight, offering interactive experiences and a chance for kids to get up close with smaller animals. During Boston Lights, the dazzling displays are sure to captivate children of all ages, creating magical memories. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While general admission can be a moderate expense, look for deals like the 'kids under 2 free' promotions during Boston Lights to save money. TikTok Visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays can also sometimes offer slightly lower admission rates or fewer crowds, making your dollar stretch further. Reddit

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Franklin Park Zoo offers diverse photographic opportunities. During the day, focus on capturing the animals in their habitats, utilizing the softer light of early mornings or late afternoons. The historic Bear Dens also provide unique architectural shots. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram Be mindful of low-light conditions and consider bringing a tripod if permitted (check zoo policy) for sharper images. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Boston Lights: An Illuminated Spectacle

Franklin Park Zoo transforms into a magical wonderland during its annual 'Boston Lights' event. This immersive lantern festival features hundreds of handcrafted lanterns, creating a breathtaking display of light and color. Visitors can wander through themed areas, encountering everything from mythical creatures and glowing flora to a colossal 22-foot-tall owl. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Franklin Park Zoo: Conservation and Education

Franklin Park Zoo, managed by Zoo New England, is more than just an attraction; it's a vital center for conservation and education. The zoo is dedicated to protecting endangered species and educating the public about the importance of wildlife preservation. Exhibits like Gorilla Grove highlight the zoo's commitment to providing naturalistic habitats and promoting the well-being of its animals. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Exploring Franklin Park's Natural Beauty

While the zoo is a major draw, Franklin Park itself offers a significant green space for recreation and relaxation. The park features walking paths, scenic views, and various recreational facilities. It's a popular spot for locals to enjoy nature within the city. Instagram

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. TikTok In Boston's Franklin Park, the Conservatory is another gem, showcasing diverse plant life, including impressive specimens like the Victoria Cruziana waterlily. TikTok

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. Instagram

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