Boston, Massachusetts

The Tropical Forest Pavilion at Franklin Park Zoo is a soaring, climate-controlled biome that recreates the dense, humid atmosphere of a Central African rainforest. Housed beneath a sweeping barrel-vaulted roof with glass clerestories and steel trusses, the structure allows natural light to filter deep into the interior, supporting lush plant growth and mimicking the dappled light of the forest canopy.

Inside, a meandering pathway takes visitors through multiple microhabitats teeming with life - from broadleaf understory plantings to canopy walkways overlooking a central gorilla habitat. Water features, warm temperatures, and high humidity create a richly immersive environment for both animals and guests, blurring the boundaries between exhibit and ecosystem.