Granby Zoo (Zoo de Granby)

Granby Zoo, located about an hour east of Montreal in the Eastern Townships, is Quebec's largest zoo and one of the best family day trips from the city. What makes it stand out is the sheer scope of the experience — your admission ticket includes not just the zoo, but also the Amazoo water park and an amusement park with rides for all ages.

The zoo itself is home to nearly 1,500 animals representing about 200 species. The exhibits are well-designed with naturalistic habitats that give kids excellent viewing opportunities. Highlights include the African pavilion with gorillas and hippos, the snow leopard exhibit, the penguin habitat (kids can watch them swim underwater through glass panels), and a large reptile house.

The zoo has invested significantly in animal welfare and conservation, and the educational signage is excellent for curious kids who want to learn about the animals.

The Amazoo water park is a massive bonus that families often cite as the highlight of their visit. It features wave pools, lazy rivers, multiple water slides (from gentle toddler slides to thrilling tube rides), and extensive splash pad areas. On a hot summer day, the water park is where kids want to spend their afternoon. It is well-maintained and has lifeguards throughout.

The amusement park adds another layer with rides ranging from gentle carousels and kiddie coasters for young children to more exciting spinning rides and drop towers for older kids. It is not on the scale of La Ronde, but it is a welcome bonus that is included in the same ticket.

Practically, Granby Zoo is about a 1-hour drive from downtown Montreal via Autoroute 10 East. Free parking is a pleasant surprise — the large lots accommodate hundreds of cars. The zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM in summer, with the water park and amusement park operating seasonally (roughly late June through Labour Day). The animal exhibits are open on a broader schedule.

Plan for a full day. Between the zoo, water park, and rides, families easily spend 5-6 hours here. Bring swimsuits, pack a lunch (picnic areas are available), and arrive at opening to see the animals before the midday heat sends them into shade. Ticket prices vary by date — buy online for the best rates and guaranteed entry on busy weekends.