All animal museums to visit in Massachusetts

Delve into the diverse world of animals at 23 animal museums in Massachusetts. These museums showcase a variety of species, habitats, and the role of animals in our ecosystem.

Are you an animal lover looking to explore the best animal museums in Massachusetts? Here are your best options:

  1. Online discount!New England Aquarium1

    New England Aquarium

     Boston, MA
    The New England Aquarium, situated in Boston, Massachusetts, is a comprehensive marine exhibit that not only houses a variety of aquatic life but also includes the Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch. The Whale Watch operates from April to November, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
  2. Harvard Museum of Natural History2

    Harvard Museum of Natural History

     Cambridge, MA
    The Harvard Museum of Natural History (HMNH) is a prominent natural history museum situated on the campus of the renowned Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse collections of the museum while also experiencing the vibrant academic atmosphere of one of the world's leading universities.
  3. Franklin Park Zoo3

    Franklin Park Zoo

     Boston, MA
    The Franklin Park Zoo, situated in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This membership signifies the zoo's commitment to the highest standards of animal care and welfare, conservation, education, and guest experience. Visitors can expect a well-maintained and professionally run facility that prioritizes the well-being of its animals.
  4. The Edward Gorey House4

    The Edward Gorey House

     Yarmouth Port, MA
    The Edward Gorey House, also known as the Elephant House, is located on Cape Cod. This was the home where Edward Gorey, a renowned author, illustrator, puppeteer, and playwright, lived and worked from 1986 until his death in 2000. The house now serves as a museum, celebrating the life and work of Edward Gorey.
  5. Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology5

    Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology

     Cambridge, MA
    The Museum of Comparative Zoology, often abbreviated to MCZ, is a zoology museum situated within the premises of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is one of the three natural-history research museums at Harvard, making it a significant part of the university's scientific community.
  6. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary6

    Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

     Lincoln, MA
    Drumlin Farm is a large farm and wildlife sanctuary that spans 291 acres. It is conveniently located at 208 South Great Road (Route 117) in Lincoln, Massachusetts. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike who are interested in exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
  7. Look Park7

    Look Park

     Florence, MA
    Look Park, nestled in the village of Florence in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a privately run non-profit park that is open all year round. The park, which spans about 150 acres, was a generous gift to the City of Northampton from Mrs. Fannie Burr Look, wife of Frank Newhall Look. The park is maintained and operated through a trust fund, visitor fees, grants, and gifts. Despite being owned by the city, Look Park operates as a non-profit organization and does not receive any funding from the city or state.
  8. Stanley Park8

    Stanley Park

     Westfield, MA
    Stanley Park, located in Westfield, Massachusetts, is a non-profit privately owned park that includes an arboretum and botanical garden. The park is open to the public daily without charge from May to November, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse flora and fauna.
  9. Springfield Science Museum9

    Springfield Science Museum

     Springfield, MA
    The Quadrangle, located in Metro Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, is a hub of cultural institutions and museums. Situated on Chestnut Street between State and Edwards Streets, it offers a variety of experiences for visitors, from art and history to science and literature.
  10. Capron Park Zoo10

    Capron Park Zoo

     Attleboro, MA
    The Capron Park Zoo houses approximately 100 animals, representing a total of 44 different species. This diversity allows visitors to experience a wide range of wildlife, from common to exotic species, all within the confines of the zoo. It's a great opportunity to learn about different animals and their habitats.
  11. Berkshire Museum11

    Berkshire Museum

     Pittsfield, MA
    The Berkshire Museum, located in Pittsfield, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, is a unique blend of art, natural history, and ancient civilization. Founded in 1903 by local paper magnate Zenas Crane, the museum was inspired by renowned institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum's collections are broad and varied, featuring over 40,000 objects from virtually every continent.
  12. Southwick’s Zoo12

    Southwick’s Zoo

     Mendon, MA
    Southwick's Zoo is a large, privately owned and operated zoological park located in Mendon, Massachusetts. Spanning over 300 acres, the zoo offers a wide variety of attractions and exhibits for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals and also offers educational programs and interactive experiences.
  13. Mashpee Wampanoag Museum13

    Mashpee Wampanoag Museum

     Mashpee, MA
    The Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum is a cultural center located in the town of Mashpee, Barnstable County, Massachusetts, United States. It serves as a significant representation of the rich cultural heritage of the Wampanoag people.
  14. Lupa Zoo14

    Lupa Zoo

     Ludlow, MA
    Lupa Zoo, located in Ludlow, Massachusetts, is a privately owned 18-acre zoo. The zoo was established by Henry and Joan Lupa, who moved to the United States from Poland in the 1960s. The Lupas initially purchased a farm in Ludlow and began housing a small collection of animals, which eventually led to the creation of the zoo.
  15. Maria Mitchell Aquarium15

    Maria Mitchell Aquarium

     Nantucket, MA
    The Maria Mitchell Association Aquarium, also known as the Nantucket Aquarium, is a unique marine science center located in Nantucket, Massachusetts. As the only marine science center on the island, it serves as a valuable resource for both locals and tourists. The aquarium is part of the Maria Mitchell Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting scientific education and research. It is situated on the historic site of the former Nantucket Railroad ticket office, right on the shoreline of the Nantucket Harbor.
  16. Ecotarium, a Museum of Science & Nature16

    Ecotarium, a Museum of Science & Nature

     Worcester, MA
    The EcoTarium, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a museum dedicated to science and nature. It was formerly known as the New England Science Center. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, both permanent and traveling, that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a science enthusiast or a nature lover, the EcoTarium has something to offer.
  17. Buttonwood Park Zoo17

    Buttonwood Park Zoo

     New Bedford, MA
    The Buttonwood Park Zoo, situated in New Bedford, Massachusetts, holds the distinction of being the third-oldest zoo in New England and the 12th-oldest zoo in the United States. This historic zoo, which opened its doors in 1894, is a testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.
  18. Woods Hole Science Aquarium18

    Woods Hole Science Aquarium

     Falmouth, MA
    The Woods Hole Science Aquarium, located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, is a small public aquarium that is owned and operated by the US government. The National Marine Fisheries Service and the Marine Biological Laboratory are responsible for its operation. Despite its size, the aquarium is rich in marine life and offers a unique experience for visitors.
  19. Stone Zoo19

    Stone Zoo

     Stoneham, MA
    Stone Zoo, located in Stoneham, Massachusetts, is a medium to small-sized zoo that spans approximately 26 acres. It offers a variety of exhibits and habitats for a diverse range of animals. The zoo is easily accessible and provides an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
  20. Beneski Museum of Natural History20

    Beneski Museum of Natural History

     Amherst, MA
    The Beneski Museum of Natural History is situated within the campus of Amherst College in Amherst, Massachusetts. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are touring the college or the surrounding area. The museum is a part of the Beneski Earth Sciences Building, which was completed in 2006.
  21. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History21

    Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

     Brewster, MA
    The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, located in Brewster, Massachusetts, is a compact institution that concentrates on natural history and archaeology. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the local natural history and archaeological findings.
  22. Fisher Museum - Harvard Forest22

    Fisher Museum - Harvard Forest

     Petersham, MA
    Harvard Forest, located in Petersham, Massachusetts, is a 3,000-acre ecological research area owned and managed by Harvard University. This expansive area is dedicated to the study of forest biology and conservation, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a natural environment that is both scientifically significant and beautifully preserved.
  23. 23

    The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center

     Springfield, MA
    The Zoo In Forest Park and Education Center, also known as the Forest Park Zoo, is a nonprofit organization located in Forest Park, Springfield, Massachusetts. The zoo covers an area of four acres and houses a variety of exotic, native, and endangered species. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with a diverse range of animals in a single location.