Southwick’s Zoo – Mendon, MA

Although not a traditional trail by any means, Southwick’s Zoo offers plentiful handicapped accessible and stroller-friendly paths through dozens of animal exhibits.

Admission is a bit pricey at $20+ per person, but you do get your money’s worth. There are dozens of types of animals and well-manicured grounds. There is also a playground, a goat petting zoo,  an expansive deer habitat, some amusement park rides, pony rides, and camel rides (though these cost extra). If you are interested in feeding the goats and/or deer, don’t forget to bring some quarters for the feed dispensers. Speaking of food, human food is available from a few small shacks throughout the zoo but there isn’t anything particularly noteworthy other than the ice cream which is pretty good. Various stroller carts are available if you have young kids.

Shortly after entering the zoo you will be able to choose a few different directions to travel. Most paths do loop around. No matter which way you choose, you are in for a treat if you like animals and walking. Here are some of the animals you will encounter:

• White rhino
• Elk
• Giraffe (you can actually feed the giraffes at some times of day.. make sure you ask about this at the front gate before entering)
• Deer
• Cheetah
• Camel
• Warthog
• Alligator
• Flamingo
• Chimps
• Yak
• Tiger
• Lion

It is usually a pretty busy place (usually quietest between 10-11AM) and there is an admission price as previously mentioned, but it is a nice change of pace from the usual walk through the woods… especially if you have kids!