Education      

Visit, Experience, Learn!
Experience the world of exotic animals and local wildlife as never before. Take a train trip around the park, explore freshwater pond life, learn about endangered animals and captive breeding programs. Shop in our unique gift shop for unusual, educational, or whimsical gift items. Get to know the creatures that frequent your backyard, and visit a New England Barnyard. Enjoy the gardens, seasonal exhibits, programs, and events. Visit the zoo and better understand the natural wonders of an ever changing world!

Guided Group Tours are approximately one hour in length and include the major exhibits in the zoo. Trained education volunteers or staff conduct tours for groups of up to 20 people. This is a great way to maximize and personalize your trip to the zoo. Reservations must be made in advance.

Discovery Programs are held under the Zoo Tent or in the Discovery Room, and include approximately six animals, animal artifacts, and other educational materials. Many of the animals can be touched and individual questions will be addressed. Groups of 30 or fewer are best. Several sessions can be arranged for larger groups. Discovery programs are approximately 40 minutes long and feature a variety of topics and age appropriate formats.

Pond Exploration Programs focus on pond life. One hour sessions at pond side in Forest Park are designed to facilitate discovery of animals and plants that form a freshwater pond community. Beavers, turtles, frogs, insects, waterfowl, plants, and trees are featured.

Self-Guided Visits and Tours      for groups or individuals are fun and easy to arrange. Information about the animals can be found on signs at each major exhibit and at EduCart Learning Stations. (No additional fees for self-guided visits.)

Scavenger Hunt forms may be obtained (with minimal fee) in advance for groups or individuals of all ages who want to self-guide and learn more about the animals and exhibits. Clipboards and pencils are provided for use while at the zoo.

Group Reservations, Fees & Discounts
Reservations must be made in advance to take advantage of group discounts. Guided tours and educational programs are available for fees, in addition to admission prices. Please call the education office to schedule a group visit, tour, or program at the zoo. (413) 733-2251 ext. 110 or email us at education@forestparkzoo.com.

Seasonal Events and Programs
Equine Week ~ April
Flashlight Safari ~ May                                                     Baby Day ~ May

Family Program Series ~ June, July, August
Animal Tales ~ Every Wed. in July & August
Spooky Safari ~ October
Boo At The Zoo ~ October

 


     

Junior Zookeeper
A summer volunteer program for young people 12 to 17 years of age. Applications accepted starting in January for the following summer.
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  Zoo Camp
Five weeks of full-day nature camp for young people 6 to 11 years of age July and August.
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College & High School Internships
Internships can be arranged through the Zoo's Education Office in collaboration with professors and in accordance with school requirements.
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  Adult Volunteers
A variety of volunteer opportunities are available for adults interested in animals and environmental education. Training is provided.
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Birthday Parties at the Zoo
Birthday parties at the zoo are fun and easy to plan. Have an animal themed party your child will never forget. May through October. Parties can be arranged by calling the Zoo at (413) 733-2251 ext. 120.
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Zoo On The Go
Zoo On The Go programs bring live animals and educational programming to you! Speak with someone in the Education office to arrange a Zoo On The Go program tailored to your interests or school curriculum.
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