Franklin Park and Zoo, Boston

Franklin Park, the southernmost link in the Emerald Necklace, stands as one of Frederick Law Olmsted's proudest achievements, primarily due to its sheer size. This park is a true giant, sprawling across a staggering 527 acres of green space, crisscrossed with numerous trails catering to hikers, bikers, and strollers, leading through rolling hills and densely wooded areas. It's remarkably easy to lose yourself amidst the natural beauty and forget that you're still within the city limits.

In the not-so-distant past, Franklin Park had a reputation for being a bit unkempt and possibly unsafe, but its caretakers have put in tremendous effort to change this perception. Beyond the zoo, the park offers a golf course, basketball and tennis courts, and in the summer, it comes alive with frequent live music performances and outdoor movie screenings.

Now, let's talk about the Zoo, situated on the park's far eastern edge. It's a typical zoo experience and may not be a must-visit for adults unless you're accompanying kids who will undoubtedly be thrilled. The Serengeti Crossing is a hit with youngsters, allowing them to interact with zebras, ostriches, and ibex on four acres of rolling, wooded hills. Adults, on the other hand, might appreciate the diverse collection of exotic animals, with a highlight being the African Tropical Forest. This impressive indoor exhibit, the largest of its kind in North America, replicates a savanna environment and is home to gorillas, warthogs, and pygmy hippos. Another charming attraction is Bird's World, a relic of Edwardian zoo design—an expansive wrought-iron cage that visitors can stroll through while birds soar overhead.