Posted in Massachusetts by Sophia

The Remnants Of This Abandoned Zoo In Massachusetts Are Hauntingly Beautiful

Boston’s Franklin Park Zoo has been around since 1912, and it has a hidden history. Tucked away in a forgotten section of the park, fierce creatures were once kept on display. Read on to find out about one of the most fascinating and haunting secret sites in Massachusetts.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

When the park first opened, it was a huge hit. People flocked to see the zoo's wild bears. Flickr/Brian Foust A grand staircase led through an elegant courtyard to the massive bear dens. Flickr/Chris Hartman The bears were kept in a large, stone enclosure. They would roam freely around their open-air cages. Flickr/Linden Tea However, zoo attendance declined in the 1930s. The attraction was closed in 1954. Flickr/Brian Foust Rather than tear the cages down, the zoo let them slowly decay. Flickr/Linden Foust

Today, the bear cages are overgrown. The large stone sculptures of bears remain, and are one of the most striking features of this spot.

The bear cages were featured in the popular 2003 crime movie “Mystic River,” where a Boston murder victim is found at the bottom of one of the bear pits.

Check out some footage of the abandoned bear cages below. If you’re interested in hidden spots in the forests of Massachusetts, take a look at this incredible secret Massachusetts train tunnel.