You’ve met the gorillas, snapped photos of kangaroos and cheered on the playful red pandas—so what’s next after Franklin Park Zoo? Lucky for you, this part of Boston is packed with places that keep the day rolling! We’re talking lush green spaces for afternoon picnics, world-class museums, tasty eats and quintessential Boston neighborhoods begging to be explored. Whether you’re after culture, history, food or just a scenic stroll, you’ll find plenty to fill your Boston adventure right here. Let’s map out your perfect day!
Our must-see picks near Franklin Park Zoo include:
- Franklin Park Zoo (of course!)
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Arnold Arboretum
- The Harvard Museum of Natural History
- Samuel Adams Brewery Tour
- CityView Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley
- Stony Brook Reservation
- Dorchester Brewing Company
- El Oriental de Cuba
Franklin Park Zoo: Wild Encounters Await
You came for the animals—and Franklin Park Zoo always impresses! Stretching across 72 leafy acres, you’ll meet creatures from all corners of the world. Gorilla families lounge in the glass-walled Tropical Forest, and lions peer out from their rocky habitat in the Kalahari Kingdom. The Children’s Zoo keeps little ones happy with sheep, goats, and a whimsical playground.
We love the zoo’s immersive zones: you can stand inches away from a towering giraffe or feed colorful birds in the Aussie Aviary. If you need a break from walking, hop aboard the train or carousel. Don’t miss seasonal events—they host everything from lantern festivals to spooky Halloween nights. Best of all, the friendly staff is always happy to answer questions and point out animal antics. Franklin Park Zoo is more than an animal outing; it’s a gateway to wonder, excitement and genuine wow moments for all ages.
Museum of Fine Arts: Artistic Treasure Trove
Just a short drive from Franklin Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, is a paradise for creative souls and culture-curious travelers. Expect masterpieces—from ancient Egyptian mummies to Monet’s dreamy water lilies and dynamic American art. With over 450,000 objects to discover, every corner promises something new.
We rave about the rotating exhibits, but the MFA’s atmosphere is just as magical: light-filled galleries, grand stairs, and a peaceful courtyard provide a tranquil break from city bustle. On a nice day, the exterior lawns are dotted with sculpture and picnicking locals. There’s even a world-class café if you want to unwind with coffee beside a Chihuly glass tower. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual doodler, you’ll leave inspired.
Arnold Arboretum: Nature’s Peaceful Playground
Arnold Arboretum: Nature’s Peaceful Playground
Fancy an urban escape? Head to Arnold Arboretum, a 10-minute drive from the zoo and the ultimate spot for stretching your legs among rare trees, flowers and shrubs. This living museum—spanning 281 gorgeous acres—is run by Harvard University and totally free to visit year-round.
We love wandering the wide walking paths, discovering secret corners, and counting turtles in the pond. The Lilac Collection bursts into color each spring, and the Conifer Collection is dazzling even on gray days. There’s a true sense of calm here, with locals jogging, reading or just cloud-watching on the grass. Plus, the rolling hills serve up stellar city views. Feeling active? Challenge yourself with Peters Hill’s summit for a new perspective on Boston.
Harvard Museum of Natural History: Curiosity Unleashed
If you’ve got a budding scientist (or just love cool things in jars), the Harvard Museum of Natural History is a must. Located a short drive away in Cambridge, it’s packed with everything from rare meteorites to sparkling minerals and jaw-dropping dinosaur skeletons.
The showstopper here? Those famous glass flowers—painstakingly crafted to look exactly like the real thing. The whale skeleton looming overhead and hundreds of animal specimens guarantee wide-eyed delight whether you’re four or forty. We recommend catching one of the hands-on discovery stations, where staff bring out fossils and explain mysteries of Massachusetts’ past. The museum’s quirky, old-school charm makes you feel like a Victorian explorer striking out into the unknown.
Samuel Adams Brewery Tour: Taste of Boston
Historical brews, enthusiastic guides, and the irresistible aroma of malt greet you at the Samuel Adams Brewery, nestled just two miles from Franklin Park Zoo. Dive into Boston’s brewing heritage as you tour the small-batch facility—yes, there are plenty of tasting opportunities along the way.
The vibe is pure fun: lively, informative, and brimming with local pride. You’ll sample innovative limited releases alongside classic Boston Lager, and passionate staff pour out trivia about hops, history and what makes their process unique. At the end, linger in the beer garden with a pretzel and a cold pint—after a day on your feet, it’s the perfect way to relax. Hardcore beer fans can check the schedule for specialty experiences like the Thursday Night Beer Hall Dinner Series, where pairings get deliciously ambitious.
CityView Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley: See Boston with Ease
CityView Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley: See Boston with Ease
If you want to go beyond Franklin Park and cover a lot of ground, jump on the CityView Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley. This classic green-and-yellow tour loops through Boston’s historic neighborhoods, hitting highlights like Boston Common, Quincy Market, and the Seaport.
We love the flexibility: explore at your own pace, listen to your driver’s fun commentary, and hop off when something piques your interest. There’s always another trolley coming soon, so no need to rush. The open-air seats are great for sunny days, and kids love the novelty of riding an old-fashioned trolley. It’s an easy, no-stress way to experience the sights and sounds of Boston—without fiddling with parking meters.
Dorchester Brewing Company: Suds with a Skyline View
After a day outdoors, a flavorful pint always hits the spot. Dorchester Brewing Company, set in a cool, industrial-chic space a short drive from the zoo, never fails to impress. Their tap list features crisp IPAs, tangy sours, and foamy stouts—often rotating in creative small-batch blends you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
Hungry? Beer Hall’s food partners serve up everything from barbecue platters (the burnt-end mac and cheese is legendary) to locally inspired snacks. The star attraction in summer is the rooftop beer garden, offering sweeping city views and comfy communal tables. The vibe is upbeat but relaxed, with trivia nights, pop-up events, and board games galore. Whether you’re with buddies or rallying the family, it’s a place to toast your Boston adventure in style.
El Oriental de Cuba: Neighborhood Cuban Flavors
All that exploring calls for a good meal, and El Oriental de Cuba in nearby Jamaica Plain delivers. This cozy, family-run spot brings a burst of Havana to Boston, with colorful murals, lively music, and the irresistible aroma of slow-roasted pork and spices. It’s a neighborhood favorite, known for authentic Cuban dishes that keep locals and visitors coming back.
Start with the classic Cuban sandwich—crispy, pressed, and packed with pork, ham, Swiss, mustard, and pickles. Warm, welcoming, and full of flavor, it’s the perfect stop near Franklin Park Zoo to refuel and soak up a little local character before your next adventure.
Whether you’re in the mood for art, outdoor bliss, travel-worthy food, or a dash of local history, there’s so much to pack into a day near Franklin Park Zoo. Just follow this guide and you’ll soak up the best of Boston—zoo trip and beyond.
Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Boston’s Museum of Science or Things to Do in Boston in the Morning
Step up your sightseeing with Go City®
We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.
See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!
