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Saturday, June 21: Stone Zoo will close at 4:00 p.m. in preparation for our Bourbon and BBQ event. Please plan your visit accordingly, thanks!

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prairie dog in the snow

Black-tailed prairie dog

Winter Visits

Hop out of hibernation and head to Franklin Park Zoo this winter—there’s snow much to explore!

  • View fall/winter hours
  • The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
  • In cases of inclement weather, the Zoo may be closed. To check if we’re open on the day of your visit, please call 617-541-LION (5466).

Which animals am I likely to see?

  • Tropical Forest animals (50+ species of exotic animals including western lowland gorillas, ring-tailed lemurs, Baird’s tapirs, pigmy hippopotamuses, free-flight birds, and more)
  • Children's Zoo and Franklin Farm animals (with the exception of turtles, who bask indoors in the winter)
  • On the Outback Trail, our gray kangaroos and wallabies can likely still be seen in their habitat or heated shelter (also on exhibit) in colder weather.
  • Lion
  • Camels
  • Red pandas
  • Wattled crane
  • Zebras
  • Bird’s World

Are there any animals that might not be viewable?

Many animals are incredibly adaptable and can tolerate cold weather. These animals, like our lion, can be seen year-round. But others aren’t as able to acclimate to the cold temperatures. When the temperature is too cold for them to enjoy their outdoor habitat, they stay indoors in their warm, off-exhibit space.

  • Aussie Aviary
    Aussie Aviary closes for the winter season and reopens in the spring. On warmer days, it’s still possible to see birds in this habitat, although guests are not permitted to walk through.
  • Butterfly Hollow
    Many of the butterflies in Butterfly Hollow are tropical insects and wouldn’t survive the New England winter. Native butterflies either migrate or pass the winter as eggs under the bark of trees.
  • Giraffe Savannah/Serengeti Crossing
    Giraffes are savannah animals and can’t tolerate harsh New England winters. When the temperature is too cold for our giraffes to be outside, they stay inside their heated barn. Warthogs are also inside keeping warm during the winter. Unlike our giraffes and warthogs, the zebras, Somali wild asses, wildebeests and ostrich can be seen outdoors as long as it’s above 32 degrees and not icy.
  • Gorilla Grove
    Gorilla Grove’s indoor Observation Outpost is closed for the season, and the gorilla troop can instead be seen in their indoor Tropical Forest habitat all winter. 

Many other animals may be outdoors and viewable depending on weather conditions, particularly on milder winter days when the temperature is above freezing.

Where can I go to warm up while visiting the Zoo?

Kept at a balmy 72 degrees, Franklin Park Zoo’s Tropical Forest is a great place to escape the cold! The Tropical Forest is an oasis in a New England winter, complete with water fountains, free-flight birds and 50+ species of exotic animals.

Bird’s World is the oldest building at Franklin Park Zoo and home to birds from around the world.

Is there indoor dining during the winter?

Indoor dining is available at the Farmhouse Café, where you can choose from a savory selection of wraps, sandwiches, salads and pizza, as well as other kid-friendly options. Visit the Things Wild gift shop near the Outback Trail for "grab and go" snack items.

Are there any special events planned for the winter months?

Absolutely! We hold education programs year-round and offer many special events –many with winter or holiday themes—throughout the winter.