Buttonwood Park Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in New England, Buttonwood Park Zoo invites guests to embark on a fascinating journey into the world of wildlife right in the heart of New Bedford. Founded back in 1894, it holds the prestigious 12th spot on the list of the oldest zoos in the USA. Despite its compact size—the territory covers about 7 acres—this site is recognized as one of the finest small zoological parks in the country.

Today, the zoo is home to over 240 animals representing 80 different species. Here, you can encounter North American inhabitants like bears, bison, and eagles, as well as exotic representatives from other continents, including charming red pandas and South American primates. The zoo is renowned for its responsible approach to rare species conservation and educational programs that help visitors realize the importance of protecting our planet's ecosystems.

Located within the historic Buttonwood Park area, the zoo harmoniously blends a vintage atmosphere with modern interactive exhibits. It is an ideal destination for a family getaway, where you can not only observe graceful cougars or playful otters but also learn plenty about the lives of creatures from rivers, forests, and reefs.

To inquire about special events or ticket pricing, you can use the official communication channels. Zoo staff are always happy to help visitors plan their trip.

At Buttonwood Park Zoo, guests can discover an amazing variety of fauna across 30 themed exhibits. One of the most popular areas is the Rainforests, Rivers & Reefs center, where you can see rare primates and aquatic inhabitants. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe graceful cougars, powerful bison, and majestic bald eagles.

Special emphasis is placed on interactive learning. Thanks to the Animal Ambassador Program, visitors can come face-to-face with some of the residents and learn about their habits from professional keepers. For children, a special space called Charlie's Nature Play has been created, where little ones can rediscover their connection to the natural world through play and physical activity.

The zoo also offers unique educational initiatives such as ZooCrew Zoo Camp, featuring exclusive tours and creative workshops. Walking through the updated exhibits dedicated to local species, you can see the results of scientists' work in conserving North American otter and swan populations, making a visit both entertaining and educational.

The attraction is conveniently located at 425 Hawthorn St, right in the center of Buttonwood Park. If you are planning to arrive by car, it is easiest to use a GPS with the zoo's address or name—there is convenient parking available on-site for visitors.

For those who prefer public transport, local buses in New Bedford run routes that pass along Hawthorn St. From the nearest stops, the zoo entrance is just a few minutes' walk away. Alternatively, you can always take a taxi from the city center, which takes no more than 5–10 minutes.

Travelers arriving from other states or cities can use the New Bedford Regional Airport (EWB), located a 10–15 minute drive away. If you are coming from Boston, the drive via I-195 W takes approximately one hour. As the facility covers 7 acres, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The history of this site began in 1892, when the city authorities purchased land to create a public space. The zoo itself opened its doors in 1894. In those days, having a local zoo was considered a symbol of wealth and high status, confirming New Bedford's ambitions as a world-class settlement.

In the early 20th century, the exhibits primarily featured local wildlife: black bears, foxes, and deer. However, the zoo grew steadily, and by 1912, the collection expanded to include elk and bison. A significant milestone was the 1935–1936 reconstruction carried out as part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program—the stone wall of the bear den, preserved from that era, still stands as a reminder of those times.

The second half of the 20th century brought changes: in the 1960s, exotic animals were introduced, including lions, leopards, and the legendary Asian elephants Emily and Ruth, who were true park icons for many years. After a temporary closure in the 1990s for a massive renovation, the zoo reopened in 2000 with a renewed focus on conserving North American fauna.

Today, Buttonwood Park Zoo is rightfully ranked among the best small zoos in the USA. Since 2003, it has held prestigious accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and actively participates in international species survival programs for rare animals like red pandas and otters.

To leisurely explore all the enclosures and enjoy the park's atmosphere, the average visitor will need between 2 to 4 hours. This time is sufficient to get acquainted with the 80 animal species and visit the main themed zones.

If you are planning a visit with children, it's worth setting aside a bit more time. The Charlie's Nature Play space and various educational programs can keep young travelers engaged for a long time, turning a simple trip to the zoo into a full half-day adventure.

The zoo welcomes visitors daily, providing convenient access to exhibits throughout the week. Below is the current operating schedule:

• Monday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
• Tuesday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
• Wednesday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
• Thursday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
• Friday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
• Saturday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM
• Sunday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM

Please note that operating hours may change slightly depending on the season or holidays, so it is recommended to check the information on the official website before your visit.

A visit to the zoo can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in the city and surrounding areas. New Bedford is rich in historical landmarks that allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this coastal region.

Discovering nearby attractions will enrich your travel experience, whether it's a stroll through manicured gardens or a visit to historic forts. Below are some interesting sites located nearby: