Toronto Zoo

The Toronto Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world, spanning 287 hectares in the Rouge Valley area of Scarborough. Home to over 5,000 animals representing 450+ species, it is a full-day adventure that never fails to deliver for families.

The zoo is organized into geographic regions, each with outdoor habitats and climate-controlled indoor pavilions. The Africa section features gorillas, hippos, hyenas, and a stunning African Savanna exhibit. The Americas region showcases grizzly bears, bison, and the Tundra Trek — a highlight in winter when arctic species like polar bears and arctic wolves are at their most energetic in the cold.

The Indo-Malaya pavilion houses orangutans, Sumatran tigers, and the always-popular Komodo dragon. The Australasia section features kangaroos and the Great Barrier Reef exhibit. And the Canadian Domain celebrates native wildlife including moose, elk, and wolves in spacious naturalistic habitats.

For younger children, the Discovery Zone near the front entrance offers a more intimate experience with domestic animals, a splash pad (summer only), and a playground. The Kids Zoo area lets children get up close with goats, alpacas, and other friendly animals. The Zoomobile — a narrated tram ride through the park — is both educational and a welcome rest for families covering the vast grounds.

Seasonal events add extra value throughout the year. Terra Lumina is an immersive nighttime light experience in warmer months. Winter brings special holiday programming and the unique opportunity to see cold-weather animals in their element — the polar bears in particular are remarkably active in Toronto's winter temperatures.

Practical considerations: the zoo is located in northeast Toronto and is most easily accessed by car, though TTC bus routes connect from Kennedy subway station. Parking costs approximately $15. The grounds are stroller-friendly with paved pathways throughout, though some areas have gentle hills.

Multiple food outlets are scattered across the park, but prices are typical of captive-audience venues — packing a lunch is a smart money-saving move. Baby changing facilities are available in washrooms throughout the zoo.

Plan for a minimum of four hours to see the highlights, and a full six hours if you want comprehensive coverage. Most families find that picking two or three geographic regions to focus on, rather than trying to see everything, makes for the best experience with young children.