Posted in Massachusetts Attractions, Farms & Wildlife July 16, 2022 by

This Indoor Tropical Forest In Massachusetts Is Filled With Waterfalls And Exotic Animals

When most people think of Massachusetts, they definitely don’t think of “tropical paradise.” But that’s exactly what’s hiding inside one of the best zoos in Massachusetts. That’s right; there’s a tropical forest in Massachusetts, which means you can explore the rainforest without ever leaving the state.

Google/Hai Cao
Franklin Park Zoo is home to a myriad of animals great and small.
Google/Luis Edgardo Cotto
They have everything from lions to giraffes roaming the grounds of the zoo, but one of their coolest exhibits is the Tropical Forest exhibit.
Zoo New England
Tropical surprises abound in this lush exhibit, which is tucked away inside. You’ll meet ring-tailed lemurs, Baird’s tapirs, pygmy hippos, ocelots, and even western lowland gorillas. You can observe these animals up close at five glass viewing stations that make you feel as if you’re one of the herd. As you wander through the area, you’ll hear the sound of animals moving against the leaves and feel the humidity of the jungle on your skin.
Facebook/Franklin Park Zoo
Visitors to the zoo can access the Tropical Forest exhibit as part of regular admission to the zoo.

The cost of admission varies depending on age. Tickets are limited, which is why purchasing tickets online and in advance is recommended.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to pay a visit to one of the best zoos in Massachusetts? We thought so! To learn more about this tropical forest in Massachusetts, check out the Franklin Park Zoo website.

The Franklin Park Zoo isn’t the only place you’ll find a waterfall in Boston. There are actually several scattered in and around the city. You’ll even find a few of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Massachusetts nearby.

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Address: 1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Zoos In Massachusetts

July 21, 2022
Daniella DiRienzo

What are the best waterfall hikes in Massachusetts?

Waterfalls are abundant in the Bay State. Some are situated along the roadside, while others can be reached via a hike. If you’re searching for the latter, you’re sure to love Bear’s Den Falls. One of the easiest and best waterfall hikes in Massachusetts, the trek to the waterfall is just a quarter-mile. Not only stunning, but the waterfall and surrounding area also boast an interesting history that goes back to 1675 when the great chief Metacomet, known to European settlers as King Philip, met at the present-day site of Bear’s Den to converge with neighboring chiefs to plan attacks. The site’s history doesn’t end there, though. According to legend, the area got its name after a black bear was shot on the property. There’s also an old mill on the grounds. Bear’s Den Falls is accessible year-round. Consider packing a picnic, as the surroundings are stunning. And though it may be tempting, swimming is discouraged.

Where can I hike to a cave in Massachusetts?

There are so many amazing hikes in the state. For instance, did you know you can hike to a cave in Massachusetts? It’s true! Among the caves in Massachusetts are the Sunderland Caves, which are tucked away in the UMass Mt. Toby Forest in Sunderland. Accessing the caves requires a 3-mile out-and-back hike. Officially named the Robert Frost Trail, the trek to the caves starts off a bit rough, as the beginning of the hike features an incline with loose rocks; however, it soon opens up. There are several trail junctions along the way. Don’t fret, though. There’s plenty of signage to point you in the right direction. The trail, of course, culminates at the Sunderland Caves. The cave entrance is pretty big, so it’s easy to explore. However, you should keep in mind that the cave is dark, so you’ll need a flashlight. Also, it is much cooler inside the cave than outside of the cave. In addition to close-up cave views, hikers are afforded vistas of the Connecticut River and the Pocumtuck Ridge.