Escape to a Jungle at the Capron Park Zoo

If you’re looking for a half-day outing with your toddler and don’t want to commit to a lengthy day at the beach or a trek into the Children’s Museum in Boston, the in Attleboro is the perfect destination.

Located only 35 minutes from Westwood, this local zoo has a lot to offer, including an array of animals, a small splash park, a snack bar, a pond to feed the ducks and a museum gift shop.

The animal exhibits are surprisingly exotic for the suburbs, including African lions, red kangaroos, snow leopards, lamas, sloths and bears.

The setup isn’t overwhelming for little ones who can only digest a few hours of excitement before tuckering out for an afternoon nap. But for older ones, there’s definitely enough to occupy a whole day.

There’s a small (very crowded on a hot day) splash area with shooting water spouts and showers. There’s also a picnic area with a snack bar (pack a lunch if you don’t want chicken fingers and hot dogs) and few refreshment carts to indulge in Popsicles and ice pops.

Don’t forget to bring a roll of quarters. There’s a large pond where you can pay 25 cents for pellets to feed the ducks, and there’s also an area to feed the lamas.

After exploring the property, venture outside the gates and let your little one burn off some energy at the large playground abutting the zoo.

Best of all, the price is reasonable and if you are a member at Franklin Park Zoo or Boston’s Science Museum admission is free.

For more information, visit www.capronparkzoo.com.