A wild time is waiting for you at Southwick’s Zoo, Massachusetts’s largest wildlife attractions. Located at 2 Southwick Street in Mendon, the Southwick’s Zoo first opened its doors back in 1803 as a working farm. By the 1960s, the farm had become home to a number of wild animals. Since then, the Zoo has grown to house more than 500 wild animals and 100 different species, many of which are endangered. From lions and tigers to zebras and giraffes, Southwick’s Zoo has all your favorite animals from around the world. Drop by during your upcoming car rental Quincy vacation and enjoy a wild experience.

Things to remember when visiting the zoo

Car rental Quincy travelers should remember the following things when visiting the Southwick’s Zoo:

1. Wear comfortable shoes. The Southwick’s Zoo is situated on natural terrain and spans more than 175 acres. Visitors should anticipate spending a lot of time on their feet.
2. A digital camera. Don’t forget to bring a camera with you on your next visit to Southwick’s. You’re sure to encounter dozens of great photo opportunities during your visit. Forgot a pair of spare batteries? Don’t worry; the Purple Peacock Gift shop sells batteries, as well as one-time use cameras.
3. Strollers. Car rental Quincy travelers can rent strollers, wagons and wheelchairs at Southwick’s. However, there is only a limited quantity available, so if you have a stroller of your own, it’s recommended that you bring it along.

Exhibits at the zoo

Car rental Quincy travelers will find a number of informative exhibits at the Southwick’s Zoo. There are approximately 10 separate zones inside the zoo, including the Skyfari, Deer Forest and Wildlife Habitat. One of the most popular areas at the zoo is the Mowgli habitat, which houses a number of African species, including Mowgli, a full grown African Leopard. The primate area and tiger habitat are also extremely popular with visitors.

Visit the zoo in the summer and during the winter

Southwick’s Zoo is open to the public during the spring and summer months, from 10am to 5pm. The official closing date normally falls in October, which means that many of the more exotic animals are moved to a warmer winter home. But that doesn’t mean the zoo closes its doors to visitors! Car rental Quincy travelers can still visit the zoo on weekends through November. A portion of the zoo remains open to the public (weather permitting) through November, free of charge. This portion includes the petting zoo, which features animals like turkeys, potbellied pigs and African pygmy goats. Car rental Quincy travelers can also enjoy a bite to eat at Clarice’s Cupboard, which remains open until Christmas.

Adopt an animal on your next visit

The adopt an animal program is a satisfying and creative way to contribute to the Southwick’s Zoo during your upcoming car rental Quincy vacation. Southwick’s Zoo offers approximately 30 animals for adoption with adoption donations ranging from $50 to $200. When you adopt an animal at the zoo, your contribution will go directly towards your adopted animal’s care, enrichment and breeding program. There are many kinds of animals to choose from at Southwick’s including animals, reptiles, big cats and monkeys. To learn more about the adoption program at Southwick’s Zoo, please call 1-800-258-9182 extension 200.

To learn more about the Southwick’s Zoo, please visit www.southwickszoo.com.