For families looking to escape the city, Action Wildlife Foundation in Goshen, Connecticut, offers an incredible outdoor adventure. This 116-acre non-profit sanctuary allows you to interact with over 350 exotic animals without enduring the massive crowds of a traditional city zoo.
The Drive-Through Safari
The main attraction is a unique two-mile drive-through safari. You can comfortably navigate your own vehicle through the sprawling park grounds. This setup provides an up-close look at species rarely seen roaming in New England, including massive water buffalo, zebras, and various mountain goats. Because you remain in your car for this portion, it provides a perfect, climate-controlled activity for families with young children or sleeping toddlers.
Hands-On Animal Encounters
Beyond the drive-through experience, Action Wildlife offers highly interactive animal encounters. Visitors can purchase small cups or large souvenir buckets of grain right at the entrance to feed the animals as they explore. The dedicated petting zoo invites kids to hand-feed and interact with friendly livestock, including baby goat kids.
If your family wants something truly unique, the foundation offers private, bookable animal encounters. You can reserve a session for “Calf Cuddles” or book a highly popular meet-and-greet with their resident capybaras.
The Museum and Exploration Center
After spending time outdoors, you can park and explore the indoor museum and exploration center. Here, you can view impressive, highly detailed taxidermy dioramas. These exhibits showcase diverse animal species from North America and other regions across the globe, adding an educational layer to the visit.
Chol Hamoed Pro-Tips
- Booking Encounters: General admission tickets are purchased upon arrival at the gate, but private animal encounters (like the capybara sessions) must be booked online at least 24 hours in advance.
- Seasonal Fall Fest: If you are visiting during the fall travel season, the park runs an annual Fall Fest featuring hayrides, a corn maze, and themed activities. Note that hayrides only operate on the weekends.
- Pack a Picnic: The expansive grounds offer plenty of space to relax. You should pack a kosher lunch and utilize the designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park.
Address: 435 Torrington Road (CT-4), Goshen, CT 06756.
Website: actionwildlifefoundation.com
