Zoos in Ontario Your Family will Absolutely Love
Zoos – A Perfect Blend of Wildlife Appreciation and Adventure
Looking for a family-friendly adventure? Zoos in Ontario offer unforgettable experiences for animal lovers of all ages! Whether you’re exploring exotic wildlife, enjoying interactive exhibits, or marvelling at conservation efforts, Ontario’s zoos are the perfect destination for a great Canadian day of fun and learning.
Tips for Your Family’s Trip to the Zoo
- Pick the Right Time – Go early to avoid crowds and maximize energy levels.
- Look for Family Packages: Many zoos offer bundled deals for admission and sometimes meals.
- Engage with Hands-On Exhibits – Look for kid-friendly, interactive sections.
- Turn It Into a Game – Create a scavenger hunt for things to find in each exhibit.
- Pack Smart – Bring snacks, a small notebook for doodling, and comfy shoes. Just remember to pay attention to the zoo’s rules about food.
- Plan for Attention Span – 1-2 hours for littles, maybe 3 or 4 hours for bigger kids or teens and end with a fun treat nearby! It’s okay if you can’t fit everything in.
- Take Rests as Needed – There’s a lot of walking at the zoo, and sometimes you just need to sit for a bit!
Zoos in Ontario
Toronto Zoo
As one of the largest zoos in Canada, the Toronto Zoo is a must-visit. With over 5,000 animals representing 450 species, this expansive zoo is divided into seven geographic regions, allowing visitors to explore the world without leaving Ontario. Don’t miss the Giant Panda Experience, the Gorilla Rainforest, or the Tundra Trek, where you can see polar bears up close!
2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7
Safari Niagara
Located in Stevensville, Safari Niagara offers a unique blend of wildlife and adventure. Families can enjoy guided tours, animal feedings, and even a splash pad for summer fun. With over 1,000 species and additional activities like paddle boating and a ropes course, Safari Niagara guarantees an action-packed day.
Open Seasonally. Check before arriving
2821 Stevensville Rd, Stevensville, ON L0S 1S0
Want to check out more adventures around Niagara Falls? Check out our guide to family fun in Niagara Falls.
Riverview Park and Zoo
For a smaller, more intimate experience, head to Peterborough’s Riverview Park and Zoo. This free-admission zoo offers a variety of animals, a playground, and picnic areas. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed family day out while still enjoying the beauty of nature and wildlife.
Admission is free
1300 Water St, Peterborough, ON K9J 7G4
riverviewparkandzoo.ca/en/index.aspx
Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park
Located in Orono, Jungle Cat World provides an up-close and personal experience with exotic animals. Families can take part in guided feeding tours or even book an overnight Safari Lodge experience for a truly unique adventure.
During the winter, admission is weather dependent. Contact to see if the park is open
3667 Concession Rd 6, Orono, ON L0B 1M0
Indian River Reptile Zoo
Got reptile lovers in the family? The Indian River Reptile Zoo near Peterborough specializes in reptiles from around the world. With educational exhibits, rescued reptiles, and even a dinosaur park featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, this is a thrilling destination for curious kids.
Open Seasonally. Check before arriving
2206 County Rd 38, Indian River, ON K0L 2B0
African Lion Safari
African Lion Safari in Cambridge offers families an exciting wildlife adventure where they can drive through a large reserve to see exotic animals like lions, giraffes, and rhinos up close. Families can enjoy educational animal presentations, boat and train tours, a splash pad for kids, and opportunities to learn about conservation efforts. It’s a fun-filled day perfect for all ages!
Open Seasonally. Check before arriving
1386 Cooper Rd, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S2
Little Ray’s Reptile Zoo and Nature Centre
Little Ray’s Nature Centres in Ontario offer families an exciting and educational experience to connect with wildlife. With 2 zoos in Ontario, visitors can enjoy interactive animal exhibits, live shows, and hands-on opportunities to learn about reptiles, mammals, amphibians, and exotic creatures. Perfect for kids and adults alike, the centre focuses on conservation and animal care, providing a fun and memorable outing for the whole family.
Hamilton: 869 Barton St E, Hamilton, ON L8L 7A6
Ottawa: 2781 Colonial Rd, Sarsfield, ON K0A 0B6
Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory in Niagara Falls offers families a magical experience surrounded by lush tropical greenery and over 2,000 vibrant, free-flying butterflies. Visitors can stroll through winding pathways, explore interactive exhibits, and witness the fascinating life cycle of butterflies up close. It’s an educational and serene destination perfect for all ages, providing opportunities for stunning photos and unforgettable memories.
2565 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1J0
niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/butterfly-conservatory
Reptilia
Reptilia offers families an exciting and educational experience with over 250 species of reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids. With three zoos in Ontario, visitors can explore immersive exhibits, watch live feeding demonstrations, and enjoy interactive shows led by expert zookeepers. Kids can participate in hands-on activities, learn about conservation efforts, and even book birthday parties or special events. Reptilia provides a fun and engaging way for families to connect with wildlife and discover the fascinating world of cold-blooded creatures.
Vaughn: 2501 Rutherford Rd, Concord, ON L4K 2N6
Whitby: 1400 Victoria St E, Whitby, ON L1N 0M2
London: 785 Wonderland Rd S, London, ON N6K 3C2
Scales Nature Park
Scales Nature Park offers families an immersive experience to learn about and interact with native reptiles and amphibians. Families can explore guided tours, educational programs, and interactive exhibits that showcase the importance of conservation. Children and adults alike can enjoy hands-on encounters with turtles, snakes, and lizards, while the surrounding trails provide opportunities for hiking and observing local wildlife. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages to connect with the environment and gain a deeper appreciation for biodiversity.
82 Line 15 S, Oro-Medonte, ON L3V 8H9
Bird Kingdom
Bird Kingdom in Niagara Falls offers a fun and educational experience for families. Explore the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary, where you can walk among hundreds of exotic birds in a lush, tropical environment. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits, hold colorful parrots, and discover fascinating reptiles in the Encounter Zone. With opportunities to learn about bird species from around the globe, it’s an unforgettable adventure for all ages.
5651 River Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7M7
Killman Zoo
Killman Zoo offers an exciting and educational experience for families to enjoy together. Visitors can explore a wide variety of exotic animals, from big cats and primates to reptiles and birds. The zoo provides interactive opportunities like feeding sessions and up-close encounters with certain animals, making it a memorable adventure for kids and adults alike. Families can also stroll through scenic pathways, enjoy picnic areas, and learn about wildlife conservation efforts. It’s a perfect destination for a fun-filled day of discovery and connection with nature.
237 Unity Side Rd E, Caledonia, ON N3W 2H7
Saunder’s County Critter Zoo and Sanctuary
Saunder’s County Critter Zoo and Sanctuary offers families an unforgettable wildlife experience. Explore a variety of animal exhibits featuring rescued and rehabilitated creatures, from exotic species to local wildlife. Kids can enjoy interactive feeding sessions and hands-on educational programs, while parents relax in the picnic areas surrounded by nature. With guided tours, nature trails, and seasonal events, it’s a perfect destination for family fun and learning.
Open seasonally. Check before arriving
1058 County Rd #44 RR # 1, Oxford Station, ON K0G 1T0
Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat
The Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat offers a unique experience for families to connect with wildlife and nature. Visitors can observe polar bears in spacious, naturalized enclosures, learn about conservation efforts through interactive exhibits, and enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding park. The facility also features educational programs and opportunities to explore the incredible Arctic ecosystem and a heritage village, making it a fun and enriching destination for all ages.
1 Drury Pk Rd, Cochrane, ON P0L 1C0
Brantford Twin Valley Zoo
Brantford Twin Valley Zoo offers families an unforgettable experience with its wide variety of wildlife and interactive activities. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails while observing exotic and native animals like lions, lemurs, and wolves in natural habitats. The petting zoo provides hands-on fun for kids, allowing them to feed and interact with friendly barnyard animals. Educational talks and animal encounters offer unique learning opportunities for all ages. With picnic areas and a relaxed atmosphere, the zoo is the perfect destination for creating lasting family memories.
Open seasonally. Check before arriving.
84 Langford Church Rd, Brantford, ON N3T 5L4
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory offers families a magical experience surrounded by thousands of free-flying butterflies in a lush tropical environment. Kids and adults alike can explore the indoor rainforest, observe exotic bird species, and marvel at fascinating insects in the Insect Gallery. Hands-on educational activities and seasonal exhibits make learning fun, while the serene atmosphere provides a perfect setting for family bonding. Don’t miss the chance to watch butterflies emerge from their chrysalides in the Emergence Room—a truly unique and unforgettable experience!
2500 Kossuth Rd, Cambridge, ON N3H 4R7
Elmvale Jungle Zoo
Elmvale Jungle Zoo offers families a unique and exciting experience with its interactive and intimate setting. Visitors can explore a variety of exotic animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and reptiles, while enjoying up-close encounters. The zoo features opportunities to feed certain animals, creating memorable moments for kids and adults alike. Families can stroll through scenic pathways surrounded by lush greenery, enjoy educational exhibits, and participate in special events throughout the year. With its blend of adventure, learning, and fun, Elmvale Jungle Zoo is the perfect destination for a family outing.
Open seasonally. Check before arriving
14191 Simcoe County Rd 27, Phelpston, ON L0L 1P0
Greenview Park & Zoo
Greenview Park and Zoo offers a blend of adventure and relaxation for families. Explore the interactive petting zoo, where kids can meet and feed friendly animals. Stroll through the scenic nature trails, perfect for spotting native wildlife and enjoying picnics amidst lush greenery. Thrill-seekers can try the treetop adventure course, featuring zip lines and rope bridges. The park also boasts a botanical garden, a splash pad for summer fun, and guided educational tours of exotic animal enclosures. With something for every age, Greenview Park and Zoo ensures a memorable day for the whole family.
12734 Talbot Trail, Morpeth, ON N0P 2C0
Oshawa Zoo
The Oshawa Zoo offers families an interactive experience with a variety of fun activities. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with over 45 species of friendly and exotic animals, including goats, llamas, and kangaroos. The petting area allows kids to feed and interact with animals, fostering hands-on learning and connection. Families can explore scenic walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll while observing the animals in their natural habitats. The zoo also features picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Seasonal events, like baby animal days, offer even more excitement for all ages. Whether it’s feeding a curious deer or learning about wildlife conservation, the Oshawa Zoo creates memorable experiences for the whole family.
Open seasonally. Check before arriving
3377 Grandview St N, Oshawa, ON L1H 0J5
High Park Zoo
High Park Zoo in Toronto offers families a delightful experience with its charming collection of animals, including llamas, bison, and capybaras. One of the few free-admission zoos in Ontario. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks through the park while stopping to observe and learn about the animals. The zoo’s engaging, family-friendly atmosphere provides picnic spots and open spaces for kids to play. Seasonal events and interactive activities, such as animal feedings or workshops, add an extra layer of fun and education, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
Free Admission
High Park, Toronto, ON M6R 0A1
Bervie Zoological Park
At Bervie Zoological Park visitors can explore interactive animal exhibits, participate in behind-the-scenes tours, and engage in hands-on feeding experiences with friendly wildlife. The park also features a nature-themed playground, daily educational shows, and seasonal events like nighttime safari walks and wildlife photography workshops. With picnic areas, guided trails, and opportunities to meet exotic species up close, Bervie Zoological Park ensures a memorable day for all ages.
Open seasonally. Check before arrival
5138 ON-9, Kincardine, ON N2Z 2X5
Papanack Park Zoo
Papanack Park Zoo offers families a chance to connect with wildlife through up-close animal encounters, educational presentations, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore a variety of exotic and native species, enjoy guided tours, and participate in feeding experiences. With picnic areas and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a perfect destination for a fun and educational day out.
Open seasonally. Check before arrival
150 County Rd 19, Wendover, ON K0A 3K0
Enjoy fish too? Check out our list of Aquariums in Ontario.
Whether you’re embarking on a full Canadian trip or a weekend getaway, Ontario’s zoos provide the perfect blend of education, discovery, and fun. Gather the family and make unforgettable memories while contributing to vital wildlife conservation initiatives!
