Today, this is a city park in Hudson, where kids play and the community comes together.
But they're actually playing around some very interesting history.
At one time, Benson's Park was a zoo. This becomes quite clear when you look at what is left behind.
Signs around the park tell of its unique past.
Benson's Wild Animal Farm, which operated from 1927 to 1987 was, home to elephants, lions, and a silverback gorilla whose cage is now open to the public.
When the park closed in 1987 the abandoned site became a favorite spot for daring explorers.
We've got to hand it to the city of Hudson for being willing to take a chance.
Instead of demolishing Benson's Park, the city refinished the land and opened the former zoo as a city park in 2010.
Today, the park is opened to the public.
It's got to be the only place in the country where you can frolic in a gorilla's cage, step inside an oversized shoe, and pay your respects at the September 11th memorial all in the same park.
A trip to Benson's park certainly will make an impact!
Have you been to Benson’s Park? Did you know that it was at one time an abandoned zoo? Feel free to share your own experiences in the comments.
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