A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering -- Lupa Zoo, Ludlow MA My wife and I have lived in this area our entire lives -- over 70 years -- and had driven past the signs for Lupa Zoo for years without ever stopping. Today, we finally went with our grandchildren. We are so glad we did. Admission & Value Entry was very reasonable. Between grandparents and grandchildren, we paid around $44 total. A season pass runs about $150, which is an excellent value if you plan to visit more than once. Layout & Size The zoo is laid out in sections like the larger zoos we've visited over the years, but it's small, compact, and easy to navigate -- perfect for a family with young children. We may have caught them just as they were opening for the season, so the food grill and splash pad weren't running yet, but that was perfectly fine. We came for the animals! The Animals I know I'll forget some, so apologies in advance -- but here's what we saw: porcupines, capybaras, alpacas, bison, elk, several types of deer and goat, tapir, donkeys, several types of pig, and an impressive variety of small monkeys -- at least six different species, all smaller than chimpanzees. There were also ringtail lemurs, marmosets, a bird area with peacocks, pheasants, chickens, pigeons, and even a raven, plus a small reptile area featuring snakes, scorpions, lizards, and turtles. For the Kids There are two playgrounds, best suited for children up to about age 6 or 7. The main play area also has some really creative features -- musical instruments, ride-on toys, and even modern outdoor electronic reaction games where a button lights up and kids run to press it before the next one lights up on the other side. Our boys had an absolute blast. The gift shop was stocked with a fantastic assortment of stuffed animals and all the things a child who just visited a zoo is going to want. A Few Tips * You can skip the animal food bags sold at the gate. So many visitors buy them that most animals weren't interested -- you could see uneaten food throughout the pens. * Pack a lunch and bring waters. They're relaxed about backpacks, small coolers, and even little wagons for the kids. * Parking is free and easy. There are lovely grassy picnic areas near the exit. The Vibe This is a small, family-run zoo and it feels like one -- in the best possible way. The enclosures look lovingly handmade, which adds real charm. The background music throughout the park was a pleasant surprise: not too loud, not a generic radio station, just fun and well-chosen. A nice touch. Getting There Lupa Zoo -- 62 Nash Hill Road, Ludlow, MA 01056 Easy to find off the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90). Take Exit 51 (Burnett Road) or Exit 54 (Ludlow) -- both work. Put "Lupa Zoo" or the full address into your GPS and watch for the entrance signs on Nash Hill Road. We'll be back -- and we'll bring more grandchildren. read more

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I purchased a Grandparents membership for this year's season and have gone already 3 times with my granddaughter. We both are enjoying it immensely. Wonderful animals, a super star escape artist named Mary is much larger than I thought from seeing her on the news :) along with her baby. So many different animals to view. A handful of different playgrounds and rest stops around the Zoo. Clean bathrooms! Looks like also a watering pad once it warms up. Everyone we've met have been nice and helpful with questions. I'm really so happy with the membership. I do appreciate that you can bring your own drinks & lunch if desired. They do have yummy fries and hot dogs for sale along with burgers read more

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I'm not a particular fan of zoos, I find them to be inhumane to animals. However, my friend invited me to join her and her young son to the Lupa Zoo. Her son is two years old and is familiar with a variety of animals and the sounds they make from his favorite books. It was very exciting for him to see some of them in person. Joan Lupa currently owns this small family owned and operated zoo. Admission is $15.00 for adults, and $10.00 for children aged 2-12. It is free for one year olds and younger. I think this is a bit unfair. My friend's son is a little peanut, he had to be picked up to see most of the animals, that are off the ground. My big issue with this zoo, is that around 30 - 40% of it had no animals. Their zone had been labeled, but it was totally empty. For instance the Fennec fox and the giant tortoise. Just to name a few. We did see the Oryx, the Emu, some goats, a spider monkey, the Patagonian Cavy, a kangaroo, otter, and ducks. My most favorite were the peacocks. Their colors were stunning! Rich royal blues and purples, they had the most delicate crowns on their heads. I tried asking them to please open their wings, but no such luck. They also have a little animal themed playground at this zoo. Overall, it was an okay experience at this zoo. Perhaps it depends on the season on what animals you might see. read more

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--- I recently visited Lupa Zoo with my child, and unfortunately, the experience ended on a very disappointing note. As we approached the gift shop just two minutes before closing, my child picked out a souvenir they were excited about. However, the staff refused to let us complete the purchase, insisting we leave immediately because they were closing. We were forced to take the item out of my child's hands, leaving them heartbroken and in tears. I understand that businesses have operating hours, but the complete lack of flexibility and empathy--especially when dealing with children--was shocking. The staff could have easily allowed a quick transaction, especially since we were already at the register. This level of unprofessionalism and disregard for customer experience was extremely upsetting. I will not be returning, and I won't be spending my money at an establishment that shows so little care for its guests--especially young children. We even offered to pay the exact amount is cash ans still no. read more

Great experience!! I don't know why the reviews are so low, this was such a great experience that's very entertaining for a child and an adult. Animals were super cool and my favorite was the otters. Come here if you are looking for an entertaining zoo!! (P.S: Bring back the giraffes!!!!) read more

Honestly was funner than I expected. Not the cleanest zoo or the most ethical but overall was a fun last minute place to bring our son, wouldn't go too far out of the way but it was close to us. I would come again. read more

We loved our time at the zoo. NY natives & members of the Bronx Zoo, we went in with minimal expectations...and boy were we shocked! Economical, exciting and engaging! On top of the diverse wildlife, Lupa Zoo scatters playgrounds throughout. After examining several animal enclosures, we would encounter a playground. The pattern broke up the day for my kids & brought everyone joy! Thanks Lupa Zoo & Family for helping us have a wonderful Saturday adventure! read more

I thought I would at least see a tiger or a Giraffe like they advertise on their website

Great place to take kids out for short day out. Season pass holder here kids love to feed the goats and see the other animals. I hope they get more animals cause seems like starting to make some upgrades. read more

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First time there today. Semi impressed. My 7 yr old granddaughter loved it. We did have fun. We were greeted by a lovely woman who gave us a quick overview, maps etc. She had a mask on, but sad to say, lots of the visitors didn't and didn't care if they stood next to you. I believe in masks at this stage and they do ask you wear one. I understand this is an outdoor activity, but come on people!!! If no one was around us we did take a mask break. There were thoughtful people who had them and waited till it was safe to approach the animals. I am going to say more without masks than with. Animals seemed well care for. Fun for a local zoo. Will probably visit next summer when my grandkids come to visit. read more

I don't know the history of the place, but most of it is in serious disrepair. It reads like a lot of castoff pets, exotic and domesticated. I'm not a zoo person to begin with, but this place will break your heart. I give them credit for the stabs at educating kids about green living, and providing an outing for neighborhood kids, but that's it. Be prepared for an awful smell. read more

Not sure why this is rated so low. We went without expecting much and there were so many animals and it is so reasonably priced! The only thing I would suggest is to remember to pack lunch! What a great little zoo! read more

This place is sad and dangerous for animals and children alike. I witnessed a toddler fit his way through one of the gates and into the zebu enclosure. It was terrifying, and very sad to see the only barrier was a padlocked gate with enough space for an adult (the adult who fished him out) to pass through. That doesn't even cover it. The conditions in which these animals live in are dirty and cruel. There is very little space for some to move around in. Many animals are not native to the area and it makes you wonder, how healthy is a camel during a Massachusetts winter? Many cages are unlabeled, so we don't even know what's in there---it points to a lack of care from the zoo owners to educate the public on wildlife, conservation, etc. The zoo itself is very odd and somewhat creepy, with empty cages, very little staff, and food trucks that are closed. Even the gift shop had no staff. Please don't take your children here. Bring them to a place that values education of wildlife and has healthy, native animals with proper veterinary care. read more

Great little zoo! Visited during slow re-opening from COVID. Grounds were spotless and staff was very friendly. Lots of shady spots to sit under. Many animals to feed which many daughter loved. Animals looked very well cared for. All and all a nice day trip! read more

DON'T GO TO THIS ZOO. The state of Massachusetts should be ashamed for letting this zoo stay open for Operation. I have never seen such deplorable conditions. It was dirty and the animals are being kept in horrible enclosures. There was a donkey that could barely walk because his hooves were so grown out. The ducks were all in an enclosure with no pond. The otters wouldn't go in their water because it was so filthy. Half the enclosures have nothing in it. This "zoo" is going to give me nightmares. I feel so terrible for how these animals are kept at this zoo. This place should be shut down, and the animals should go to places where they can receive the care and enrichment they deserve. read more

We had the best time at the Lupa Zoo in Ludlow, MA. My daughter and grand daughter and 2 little friends of my grand daughters had a blast. Kids love animals....but so dont the parents and grand parents :-) I have to tell you Im in love with the double humped camels.....soooooo sweet read more

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This is a fantastic zoo to visit. I would recommend it to all The animals are well taken care of and the staff was courteous friendly and willing to help They have many small animals that you probably have never seen or heard of before. One of the most amusing was a chinchilla taking a powder bath To clean his coat There is also a blacksmith shop to see an area of games in a train Don't miss it read more

As a person who LOVES to go to Zoo's I obv wanted to check this one out since it was only 35-40 mins from home. So today we decided to check it out..BAD MISTAKE! This place was not worth the $20 we paid to get in. It smells HORRIFIC from moments after walking in (and the smell just gets worse as you move further and further into the Zoo. Half of the animal shelters were not even labeled so you didn't even know what animals you were looking at, or there were not even animals in them. All of the "shelters" for the animals are old & falling apart, dirty, & just so sad to see them living in these conditions! The best animal they had was a giraffe & 2 black bears. Overall this place is just a dump & it's so sad to see the animals living in these conditions! This place should be reported and shut down for serious renovations for these animals to live their lives in! DO NOT RECOMMEND!! read more

The Lupa Zoo is a small zoo and is not cheap but it is really close to the five college aria and has American animals. I like it because it has a lot of peaceful animals as well as ones that are usually considered food or pests. The zoo is being improved. The last time I was there I did not see some of my favorite animals but there are usually bison, yaks, bulls, deer as well as bears, cat etc. I wish the food was better. read more

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Very disappointed. The price for admission wasn't at all appropriate for the condition and attractions within. The zoo is understaffed. I feel there could be a lot of opportunity for education but the staff is very hands-off. I'd also like to see food and refreshment options other than snacks. The habitats/space for the animals are poor: too small, unkempt. There are safety concerns: a few of the enclosures are only blocked off by a fence and padlocked gate with space large enough for children (and myself, luckily) to fit through. The toddler I was with was able to get inside the zebu habitat with no difficulty. The zoo can certainly do better on multiple fronts. read more

Came to Boston from Syracuse, NY today. Researched a bit ahead of time as I was traveling with my 2 year old son who LOVES animals. Came across the Lupa Zoo in searching, and said WOW, this is the perfect place to let him run around for an hour on our trip. Anyways, arrived on 4/30 just before 4pm to bop around for an hour as the advertised hours were until 5pm. We drive in, park and make our way to the entry. Another gentleman states he is looking for anyone who works there as he was there to pick up his season pass, however no one is to be found. We walk up to the entry where there is no real closed sign, yet no real sign of life. Then a gentleman with his young children come walking out with a stroller. We ask if the place is open, he says yea til 5pm, but was not sure where the staff was. We walk into trying to find any sort of help. We come up to a monkey exhibit where my kid is immediately tuned in to, full of smiles. Within seconds, here comes a Chevy S10 pickup coming into through a semi open gate, actually striking the fence scratching the truck. I walk over to actually help the guy, open the fence and help him back out. No thanks, instead he gets out saying "I came to actually tell you we are closed".... ok.... so I tell him we just drove 4 hours and were hoping to see the animals for a few. "Sorry, no, the weather sucked today so we closed early".... nothing more.. thanks... my kid is crying screaming "more monkeys".... Would've gladly paid to 40 bucks for the 2 adults and 2 year old to walk around for a half hour, but was not even an option. Thanks for a horrid experience, and basically stalking us in your pickup until we pulled out. NEVER again. read more

Had a great time with the kids. This conservation center was much larger than anticipated. The variety of animals was great as well. The kids loved it. Glad we gave it a shot! I will definitely recommend this to other families. read more

Lupa Zoo - Giraffe feeding! - Zoos Near Me - Ludlow, Massachusetts

All the animals looked sad and unhealthy (skinny, exhausted, lethargic, unamused) It seems as though there were many animals unavailable at the time, I wish someone had let us know early on that way we wouldn't have spent the time looking at empty cages. There were some animals that were engaged but most were sleeping under the hot sun with no water in sight. Not many staff were available or to be seen. It was a Saturday afternoon and none of the food stands were open nor were there many people in sight. I don't suggest this zoo, but I do suggest that some improvements be made to the animals living conditions. I can appreciate historic buildings and structures, but was sad to see all the animals without appropriate resources. read more

A little pricey for being a smaller zoo but they have a wide variety of animals. This zoo is great for kids as many of the animals come right up to the barrier to see you. Very few of the animals were hiding out so I got to see most of the animals there. Animals were also very active read more

Visiting this zoo actually inspired me to get on Yelp because I wanted to warn others so badly. The $15 entry fee was so steep it nearly turned us away at the gate, but my daughter loves our local zoo and wanted to see a new one. I should have stuck to that first impression. The enclosures were shabby and in need of repair, more like cages than homes, and most were too small by half. The zoo smell was strong and unpleasant, especially in the barn, which reeked of rodent urine. Signage and layout was nearly nonexistent, and confusing where it could be found. Finally, despite employing lions and tigers, elephants and giraffes in the advertising and decor, none of these attractions were in evidence. By far the most exotic animals we saw were a pair of zebras and a single kangaroo. All of this could have been forgiven or overlooked if not for the condition of the animals. The poor inmates were largely either undernourished or overweight, and most seemed either dismal and sad or desperate for attention and begging for food. DO NOT go to this zoo. I wish we'd gone to an aquarium instead. read more

I went here with my family while visiting my in-laws in town and I cannot stop thinking about it. The zoo is by far the nastiest zoo I have ever been to. Flies everywhere, on everything. The bird exhibit had mice at the bottom of their cages eating their food, the lock to where they kept the monkey wasn't even latched down, the fish tanks weren't covered, the food that was given those poor beautiful animals outside looked like it was rotting. Just sad all the way around. I can't believe they get away with charging people to enter that place. They really need to be reported, I saw so many unfortunate situations for those animals...there is no way they were up to code. read more

Nice place and good for young kids. In need of some updating, empty exhibits and no giraffe. Adults $15 and kids $10

Interesting other reviews. My family has been there a few times and have always enjoyed it. It's not huge but nice for children. Animals seemed to be treated well which is important to us. When we've gone, it also wasn't terribly crowded which we liked. read more

Too expensive...I remember when it was free years ago.The place was dirty at certain places with flies even in the amphibian tank food. Plus the guy was rude when I went to see the giraffe because I had to pay $5 dollars although I try to get an explanation on the $1 dollar just to visit...He kept insisting no for me and my two small one it was $5. Then all we could do is feed the giraffe and leave because the guy was pushing us to get out...I couldn't even admire the experience or take pictures. They were rude; and just want your money...plus some of the animals needed better care...for example...the giraffe skin was crinkled and dry. I wont go there again...and by the way you can't bring your own drinks or food for a picnic...They want you to spend so much on there food..example can of soda is $2 dollars...and for a small doll at the gift shop is $10...two worlds....over priced. read more

I went here on a whim, this past weekend with my fiance. When first we pulled in and saw the deer and ostrich enclosures that precede the admission stall, I should have known to turn back. They didn't seem to have nearly enough space, and the place had a bad smell. I understand a zoo is not meant to smell like roses (though I admit to having only been to one other before this), but this was stronger than I expect is normal for a well-maintained zoo. Once we got inside (after paying $10 apiece--it seemed a bit high at the time, but after all is said and done I realize it's outrageous) things didn't improve. There was a stand selling steak sandwiches, and the glorious smell did cover that of rotting animal excrement in its general vicinity, but I did not buy any food (and looking back don't think I'd have the courage to do so anyway). I saw a number of animals; variety is not the fault with this place. Instead, here they are, listed in no particular order. -Every animal there looked noticeably unwell, from general lethargy (though it was a fairly hot day) to skin conditions that made me seriously doubt the health of any of these animals. A parrot near the entrance was in a very small (relatively for the bird) cage, without any water visible, squawking in what appeared to be misery (though I acknowledge I'm anthropomorphizing a bit here). -They had small "cabinets" with what I presumed to be animal food for purchase at a number of the enclosures. However, as they were on the honor system (and cost $2.50 a bag), most of these were empty. -My fiance paid $1.50 to feed a giraffe. It amounted to feeding it two leaves of lettuce. I think this is a ripoff. Also, of course, the poor animal's skin looked diseased and there were lines on the chest that I couldn't tell for sure, but appeared to be overly visible ribs. -There were dogs on display. I get if you want to have a petting part (which I heard they did, but didn't try to find), but they were in a caged-in enclosure. This just seemed weird to me. Those are house pets, not zoo pets. -None of the enclosures appeared to have much space, and many, if not all, seemed overcrowded. I know I mentioned this regarding the deer and ostrich, but I want to stress how small these were, when you consider the variety of animals contained therein. -The otter exhibit had running water, which I thought would be a blessing in the heat we were having. However, as I got closer I realized that the two otter I could see were nestled in a ball in the corner of their enclosure (which of course was small), napping there rather than cool off in the green, fetid water. -At one point we went inside a building which contained, as far as I could see, reptiles and other smaller exhibits. I can't elaborate on the state of things in there, though, as my fiance was overwhelmed by the stench and couldn't stay more than a few seconds, so I followed him. All in all, I actually was depressed on leaving this place. That is not what I'm looking for in a weekend zoo trip. I felt bad for the children I saw here. TL;DR: Stay away! read more

I was really thankful that although suggested, face masks be worn it wasn't strictly enforced. The staff were wearing them. I had a mask but at no point during my zoo experience in over 90 degree temperatures was I within 6 feet of other guests. The indoor exhibits were closed which again was fine because there was plenty to see and enjoy outdoors. I'm really sad the giraffe died. I was looking forward to seeing that giraffe. The animals all looked healthy and the enclosures were clean. There were a few enclosures that didn't have animals but again it's been a pandemic and wild/exotic animals are hard to legally obtain in a humane way. My kids ages 11, 9, 6, & 3 really enjoyed the time we spent at Lupa Zoo. It's really important to support local zoos because it's so expensive to properly care for and feed the animals. I have supported Lupa Zoo in the past and I will continue to visit Lupa Zoo. I feel that Lupa Zoo is more of a "backyard" zoo and these animals are loved and treated like family by the zoo keepers. Hopefully they will be around for years to come. read more

This is my favorite zoo by far. The animals are all very well cared for, and they have a wide variety of species ranging from more common deer and llamas to more exotic animals including a giraffe and two species of kangaroos. If you are going to complain about the smell (which is very minimal for a place where you are in such close proximity to many animals) then I would like you to realize that, like humans, animals have a smell, and also that, unlike humans, animals do not have deodorant or perfume to mask that scent. The zoo is constantly being renovated and improved, with a new greenhouse and animal sanctuary currently being built. It is important to remember that Lupa Zoo is a nonprofit organization that is funded entirely by admission, concessions and donations, so by visiting you are supporting the zoo in its mission as "a conservation and education institution demonstrating the value, beauty and interdependence of all living things," as stated on their website. In comparison to somewhere like the Central Park Zoo, Lupa Zoo is cheaper, is much larger and has many more animal species. In addition to his, Lupa Zoo is the only zoo I have found that allows you to feed almost every animal there with specific food you may purchase for a small fee at the zoo. You can even feed the giraffe from a platform that takes you so that you are eye to eye with this beautiful animal. All in all, Lupa Zoo is an awesome place to visit with your family, and if you are going to be in the area I highly recommend that you stop by for a visit. And yes, for all you Pokemon GO Players out there, there are both a PokéStop and a Gym in Lupa Zoo, and there are many Pokemon that can be caught here, including Eevees, Clefables, and Seels, to name a few. read more

I'm giving this place 2 stars because we're here in Western Mass, and can't hope to compete with the San Diego Zoo or the Washington Zoo. Otherwise I wouldn't give more than one star. On the positive side I was surprised by some of the animals they had, like zebras and giraffes. For the little ones there is a playground, small train and coin rides. But the entire zoo is kind of skanky, with flies all over the place, dirty soda machines, outdated facilites. The best that can be said is that it's a place to take the kids for an hour or so, and we thank them for trying. But Lupa Zoo needs to be cleaned up. read more

A few days ago we went to Lupa Zoo with our twin 2 yr old grandsons and their 5 yr old brother. They loved it! It is the perfect size for toddlers to walk from exhibit to exhibit. I was impressed by the variety of animals. The park offers a shaded picnic pavilion and a small playground which the young boys also enjoyed. Yes, there is a smell of animals and it certainly is not on par with major city zoos. But the animals appear to be well taken care of by a caring staff. During our visit, I lost my wallet. It was waiting for me at the ticket counter the next day! Another reason I love Lupa Zoo!!! read more

Actually this place does not deserve any stars. i went when a friend asked me and I saw the animals were not in good shape,the horses were not well taken care of, the camel had sores all over its knees, there was a dead fish in the fish tank, the water for the otters was filthy and green and just yucky.... hardly one was here, the grounds were run down and it was sad for all the animals... If you see places like this please call the ASPCA or local media or whatever you have to do so the animals won't suffer. the more that people report this the more of a n interest local authorities will look into it.....Not going back. read more

The poor care and keeping of the animals at the zoo was shocking. The enclosures were tiny and uninteresting for the animals, and they were clearly not acting as they would in a natural and stimulating environment. It was incredibly saddening to see the animals sit, lackluster, at their feeding troughs waiting for the next visitor to pour feed down the tube, or more likely, stick their hands through the broken fence to hand feed. Furthermore, the feed sold at the entrance was the same mix of human food and animal food for an alarming number of the animals! It is of upmost importance when caring for any animal to maintain a healthy and proper diet. Based on the contents of the feed bag, this is clearly not happening at the zoo. It saddens me to know that some kids visiting this zoo are not seeing these animals as fascinating and respectable creatures, but rather dumb and unthinking animals, whose only use is to be gawked at from behind bars, glass, or a fence. As for education, I noticed more than one sign listing a different animal than the one that was in the enclosure the sign was attached to. If you were not familiar with the species, it would be easy to be misled. In conclusion, I was utterly dismayed with every aspect of the zoo's care and keeping of the wildlife there, and see it not as a way of educating families of the nature and wilderness surrounding them, but rather showing them only the misery that can come from a poorly kept zoo. read more

If I could give less than one star I would. DO NOT GO TO THIS ZOO AND PAY MONEY TO FUND THEIR CRUELTY. Now I know I'm not a zoologist or an expert on how to run zoos but most of these exhibits were falling apart and way to small for the animals inhabiting them. There was also popcorn stuck in animals fur from people throwing food at the animals. Animals were cramped in their cages and one of the ponies was trying to dig out of the exhibit and also repeatedly kicking the gate door. Lastly, the locks keeping the animals in their caged exhibits looked so unprofessional and easily able to cut through and in some of the cages the wires from the fences were protruding into the animals living quarters. I've been to plenty of zoos and this one is by far the worst. They should be shut down immediately. I was truly sick to my stomach looking at these animals that I couldn't wait to leave. It's disgusting and immoral. Don't go. read more