Orange County Parks Movie in the Park - Fall Series
Multiple Locations - Orange County Parks - 6:00 PM Pick
Multiple Locations - Orange County Parks - 6:00 PM Pick
Orange County Parks Movie in the Park - Fall Series
Multiple Locations - Orange County Parks - 6:00 PM Pick
Multiple Locations - Orange County Parks - 6:00 PM Pick
Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens - various times Pick
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens - various times Pick
Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens - various times Pick
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens - various times Pick
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Visiting Southwick's Zoo: What You Need To Know Before You Go
Get animal encounters and more family fun visiting Southwick's Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts! Photo courtesy of Mommy Poppins
10/26/25
- By N Ferreira
Tucked away in the quiet town of Mendon, Southwick’s Zoo is a full-day adventure that feels part safari, part theme park. Known as New England’s largest zoo, it’s home to more than 850 animals spread across 200 acres of rolling countryside. Families can stroll through tree-lined paths, hand-feed deer, soar above habitats on a sky ride, or zip across the grounds. It’s the kind of place that satisfies the animal lover, the thrill seeker, and the parent trying to burn off kid energy—all in one go.
OUR LATEST VIDEOS
For more zoo fun in the area, check out Boston Zoos: There's More than Just the Franklin Park Zoo! And our guide to Zoos and Gardens for Boston Kids has all kinds of local spots for family fun.
Is Southwick’s Zoo Worth a Visit? Absolutely!
If you’ve done the rounds at smaller local zoos and are ready for something bigger, Southwick’s delivers. This family-owned gem has been around for decades and manages to keep that friendly, small-town feel while offering big-time attractions. There’s plenty of shade, free parking (a rare treat), and a good mix of calm animal encounters and heart-pumping rides. Whether your kids want to pet goats, ride a train, or spot lions up close, there’s something for every age group.
Must-See Things at Southwick’s Zoo
Visitors come from all over for the Skyfari Sky Ride. Christmas in July photo courtesy of Southwick's Zoo
Take to the Skies
On the Skyfari Sky Ride, hop on the ski lift-style gondola for a bird’s-eye view of the zoo. It’s peaceful, scenic, and gives tired legs a break. For the braver ones in your crew, the Soaring Eagle Zipline is a must-do. This seated zipline soars 700 feet at speeds up to 28 mph. It’s fast, fun, and surprisingly family-friendly.
Deer Forest
A 35-acre space where you can walk among and hand-feed fallow deer. Bring quarters for the food dispensers and a sense of adventure—these deer are friendly and not shy about making friends.
Petting Zoo
Goats, pigs, alpacas—this is toddler heaven. Grab some animal feed and let your little ones get up close.
Southwick's Zoo has some amazing animals that kids will love. Photo courtesy of Southwick's Zoo
Endangered Species Habitat
Giraffes, white rhinos, and lions are the big stars here. Try to time your visit with feeding or keeper talks for extra fun.
Seasonal Events
In the fall, the zoo goes all out with The Great Jack O’Lantern Journey, a glowing nighttime walk-through that’s pure Halloween magic. And every year, Southwick's Zoo lights up for Christmas with a Winter Wonderland.
There are seasonal events all year long for animal encounters and more. Southwick's Zoo photo courtesy of Earth Ltd
Know Before You Go: Insider Tips
- Arrive early. The zoo opens mid-morning, and early hours mean cooler temps, active animals, and shorter lines for rides.
- Wear comfy shoes. The property is huge, with hills and uneven paths. Strollers or wagons are lifesavers for little ones.
- Bring snacks (within reason). While outside food isn’t allowed, you can pack small snacks and water. Just no full lunches or coolers.
- Budget for extras. The zipline, Skyfari, and some rides cost extra, so set expectations ahead of time. Combo passes can save a few bucks.
- Feed the deer early. By afternoon, the deer are often full and a little less eager to interact.
- Rain or shine. The zoo stays open even in drizzle, though rides may close temporarily. Bring ponchos and keep exploring—crowds thin out fast in light rain.
- Don’t skip the gift shop. It’s surprisingly good, with reasonably priced souvenirs (and air conditioning).
Eating Near Southwick’s Zoo
You’ll find several on-site dining spots serving the usual family favorites—burgers, pizza, ice cream, and cold drinks. But if you’d rather head off-site for a sit-down meal, New England Steak and Seafood and Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern are right next door, both family-friendly with kids’ menus and plenty of space for post-zoo meltdown recovery. For a quick bite or sweet treat, the Mendon Twin Drive-In snack bar (open seasonally) is a fun local pick nearby.
Plan Your Visit
The zoo is open daily from mid-April through October 31 (including holidays), from 10am to 4pm. Ticket prices are around $30 for an adult, $24 for children ages 3–12, and free for kids 2 and under when purchased in advance online. Tickets at the gate are full price. Combo passes that include some attractions, value passes, and flex tickets are also available for purchase online. Bonus: parking is always free. For the best experience, plan your visit on a weekday or early in the morning—especially in spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the animals are most active.
If you’re looking for a day trip that mixes wild animal encounters with family fun and just enough adventure to keep older kids engaged, Southwick’s Zoo is a solid pick. Plan ahead, wear comfy shoes, and don’t forget quarters for the deer food—trust me, your kids will remember that part the most!
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