Best Places To View Wildlife Near Boston
In spite of the general lack of natural habitats in the city, Boston has plenty of places to see exotic and wild animals. From big zoos that offer learning experiences to petting zoos where it is just fun to interact, Boston offers little bit of everything when it comes to animal sightseeing. Take the time to visit a wildlife establishment in the area to learn about conservation and enjoy the animals. It is a great way for kids and adults to spend a day around Boston.
New England Aquarium
1 Central Wharf
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 973-5200
www.neaq.org
The New England Aquarium is one of the most fun destinations for animal lovers in the northeast. This establishment has creatures from everywhere from the deep sea all the way to seaside. However, people who are coming to see wildlife in its natural habitat will be particularly interested in the harbor seals. The New England Aquarium gives people a chance to see Boston's naturally occurring harbor seals as they enter the aquarium. It also does a lot for these animals in terms of education and conservation.Related: Boston's Best Volunteer Opportunities For Animals Lovers
Franklin Park Zoo
1 Franklin Park Road
Boston, MA 02121
(617) 541-5466
www.zoonewengland.org
One of two sister zoos, the zoo at Franklin Park is the most popular place to see live animals in Boston. From birds to big cats to lemurs, the zoo has a multitude of interesting creatures all in one place. Franklin Park Zoo also has a number of initiatives for helping animals and educating the public. Another fun feature of the park is the ability to hold parties there. Whether it is a corporate event that could use a little entertainment or a children's birthday party, guests can host it at Franklin Park.
Stone Zoo
149 Pond St.
Stoneham, MA 02180
(617) 541-5466
www.zoonewengland.org
Stone Zoo is sister to Franklin Park Zoo and home to hundreds of animals. Like its sister, Stone Zoo is part of multiple initiatives to protect animals across the world, including supporting a ban on hunting for ivory. Exhibits include black bears, the Mexican Gray Wolf, whooping cranes, flamingoes and much more. This is a very kid-friendly zoo, so children will especially love it. There are small rides, holiday events and regular shows to keep the little ones entertained.
Parlee Farms
95 Farwell Road
Tyngsboro, MA 01879
(978) 649-3854
www.parleefarms.com
Less than an hour outside of Boston is a full-service farm with a petting zoo. Parlee has everything visitors could want in terms of flowers and food, even allowing guests to pick their own. However, animal lovers will be particularly attracted to Annie's Animal Barns. There are plenty of farm animals for people to interact with, but one group in attracts the most attention. There is a group of goats that will climb up into the trees after guests send food up there for them to find.Related: Boston's Best Places To Adopt Puppies And Kittens
Mass Audubon North River Wildlife Sanctuary
2000 Main St.
Marshfield, MA
(781) 837-9400
www.massaudubon.org
The Massachusetts Audubon Society is dedicated to protecting nature and wildlife in the Bay State. One of its most attractive locations is the wildlife sanctuary in Marshfield. The animals in the sanctuary truly live there. There are no cages, so there are also no guarantees that visitors will see wildlife, but it is a strong possibility. When going there for a stroll, bring binoculars and finding birds will be easy. Just make sure not to disturb the animals or leave any trash behind.
Shelly Barclay is a professional freelance writer and amateur author. She writes on a variety of topics from food to mysteries. She loves to share the culture and rich history of her birthplace and home, Boston, with the rest of the world. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
