It's a very special day today at the Buttonwood Park Zoo. It is free admission day.

When my kids were littles, there was nothing like a day at the zoo. My wife and I would bring them to the Buttonwood Park Zoo to see all of the animals, but especially, the elephants, the bears and the otters.

Beyond the animals, the kids loved the attractions like the train rides and the carousel. The Buttonwood Park Zoo was our favorite zoo because it was just big enough to spend an hour or two, but not so big that it would take up the entire day and make the kids hit the wall when they missed their naptimes. Plus, we loved the option of feeding them in the Bear Den Cafe to make feeding time at the zoo quick and convenient.

Now that my kids are bigger, we don't spend time at the zoo like we used to, but I still keep up with the comings and goings of the Buttonwood Park Zoo. If you have kids that would enjoy a quick trip to the zoo, do it today!

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The Buttonwood Park Zoo is offering free admission today only thanks to Highland Street Foundation. Its the perfect way to create some fun, family memories as we wrap up summertime. Free admission day at the zoo is for August 20, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. No registration is required. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the zoo. All guests receive free admission.

Note: due to the expected crowd, the train will not be running on free admission day.

Why the Buttonwood Park Zoo Is a SouthCoast Favorite

  • Family-friendly size and layout
  • Easy-to-navigate paths for strollers
  • Beloved animal exhibits including elephants, bears, and otters
  • Kid-favorite attractions like the carousel and Bear Den Café

Make the most of this special offer and wrap up the summer with a fun-filled trip your kids will remember.

Additions and Improvements To Buttonwood Park Zoo In New Bedford 2025

From an Animal Ambassador Center, to new play areas and cultural elements, Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford has made many changes and improvements for 2025.

Gallery Credit: Michaela Johnson

20 Things To See at Roger Williams Park (Other Than the Zoo)

There are over 427 acres of beautiful landscaping, historical buildings and family friendly spaces at Roger Williams Park in Providence. Gifted to the city in 1872 by the last descendant of Roger Williams, Betsey Williams, the park has become primarily known for its amazing zoo. But throughout this historic district listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, there are plenty of other stunning things to see.

Gallery Credit: Nancy Hall

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