There’s nothing like spending a day at the zoo, whether you’re a family looking for an educational day out with the kids, an animal-loving tourist, or a local seeking a unique and fun way to spend your day. Toronto is home to a number of zoos and animal parks to discover, including the largest zoo in the country!
Here’s a list of the best zoos in and around Toronto for your next adventure:
1. Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is Canada’s largest zoo and one of the most renowned in North America. Spanning over 710 acres, it is home to more than 5,000 animals representing over 450 species. The zoo is divided into geographic regions, including the African Savanna, Indo-Malaya, Americas, and Tundra Trek.
Animal lovers can see everything from Masai giraffes and river hippopotamuses to polar bears and arctic wolves here. In addition to the animals themselves, the Toronto Zoo has a number of other attractions, including rides, tours on the Zoomobile, and the opportunity to experience what it’s like in the African Savanna and sleep under the stars at their Serengeti Bush Camp.
Where: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Scarborough
2. High Park Zoo
Located in the heart of High Park, High Park Zoo is charming, family-friendly, and one of Toronto’s hidden gems. Resident animals here include bison, llamas, peacocks, capybaras, Highland cattle, and more.
Opened in 1893, it’s much smaller than the Toronto Zoo but offers a cozy and intimate experience, perfect for young children. Admission is also free.
Where: 77 Deer Pen Rd, Toronto
3. Far Enough Farm
Established in 1959, Far Enough Farm is one of Toronto’s oldest and most beloved attractions. Found within Centreville Amusement Park on the Toronto Islands, you can get up close to over 40 species of farm animals and exotic birds in a hands-on, interactive environment.
You’ll get to learn about the different species, meet the farmers, and even pet the animals, which include cows, alpacas, pot belly pigs, goats, and many more. Admission to Far Enough Farm is also free!
Where: Centreville Amusement Park, Toronto
4. Riverdale Farm
Riverdale Farm is a historic working farm located in the middle of downtown Toronto, spanning 7.5 acres with wooded areas, ponds, and butterfly-herb-flower-vegetable gardens. Great to explore for young kids and school groups, you can explore various buildings on site home to a number of farm animals, such as turkeys and pigs.
Riverdale Farm also hosts a number of seasonal education and interpretive programs, as well as summer camps. Admission to visit is free.
Where: 201 Winchester St, Toronto
5. Reptilia Zoo
Reptile lovers, check out one of Reptilia Zoo’s two locations in Vaughan or Whitby! This indoor facility is Canada’s largest fully indoor reptile zoo, featuring over 250 species of reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids.
Visitors can also watch live shows and feedings daily or attend a hands-on educational experience or summer camp. Tickets range from $12 – $20.
Where: 2501 Rutherford Rd, Vaughan / 1400 Victoria St E, Whitby
6. Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park
Located just east of the city, Jungle Cat World offers an immersive wildlife experience with a focus on big cats and exotic species. It’s an excellent option for visitors looking for up-close animal encounters, with guided feeding tours and sleepover experiences with nighttime safaris.
Animals you can encounter here include tigers, lions, wolves, lemurs, spider monkeys, and more. Admission ranges from $10 – $20.
Where: 3667 Concession Rd 6, Orono