From African savannas to Indo-Malay rainforests, Toronto Zoo spans 710 acres of natural habitat and world-class animal care — just minutes from downtown.
Opened in 1974, Toronto Zoo has grown into one of North America's most respected zoological parks. Set within the beautiful Rouge River valley, the zoo recreates natural habitats across seven distinct regions — from the African savanna to the Arctic tundra.
The zoo is committed to conservation, education, and animal welfare. Its breeding programs have contributed to the survival of endangered species worldwide, including pandas, gorillas, and black rhinos.
Active breeding programs for 43 endangered species, with a dedicated wildlife health centre on-site.
Indoor pavilions and climate-controlled habitats ensure every season offers a full experience.
Daily keeper talks, zoo school for kids, and behind-the-scenes tours build lasting wildlife awareness.
Paved pathways, accessible washrooms, and mobility aid rentals make every area reachable.
Toronto Zoo divides its 710 acres into seven geographic regions, each recreated to mirror the natural habitats of its inhabitants.
Home to lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras, this expansive outdoor zone recreates the East African plains. The Masai/Mekong寨里 overlook gives visitors unobstructed views of giraffes feeding at eye level.
A climate-controlled paradise featuring orangutans, sun bears, and the Malayan tapir. Elevated walkway gives a canopy-level perspective of the primates moving through the tropical foliage.
The Americas zone showcases wildlife from across the Western Hemisphere — grizzly bears in a rushing salmon stream, grey wolves prowling the forest edge, and bald eagles soaring overhead.
The Tundra zone replicates the stark beauty of the far north with polar bears, arctic foxes, and snowy owls. A submerged underwater viewing gallery lets visitors watch polar bears glide beneath the surface.
The five-acre panda conservation area houses Toronto's beloved giant pandas in a lush Canadian forest setting. Watch them munch bamboo, climb, and interact in one of the most comfortable habitats in North America.
The state-of-the-art gorilla habitat features a family troop of western lowland gorillas. The glass viewing wall and outdoor area give intimate views of these magnificent apes in a richly planted forest setting.
A stunning indoor pavilion showcasing poison dart frogs, tropical fish, and the complex ecosystems of coral reefs. The half-million-gallon aquarium tank holds sharks, rays, and over 100 species of fish.
The interactive Kids Zoo lets children pet friendly farm animals, learn about wildlife through play, and get close to exotic species in a safe, engaging environment. School holiday programs run year-round.
From admission tickets to driving directions, here is the practical information that makes your trip smooth from arrival to departure.
Open daily 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). Extended summer hours until 8:00 PM from June through August. Closed December 25 only.
Check website for seasonal schedule changes
Adults $34.95 / Seniors (65+) $24.95 / Children (3-12) $21.95 / Family (2 adults + 3 children) $119.95. Parking $12 flat rate. Premium pandas extra.
Buy online to skip the line
Located at 2000 Meadowvale Road, Toronto (M1B 5W7). From Highway 401, take Exit 389 (Meadowvale Road) and follow signs north. Free parking for 2,500+ vehicles.
TTC bus 86A runs from Kennedy Station
The Safari Lodge food court, African Plains cafe, and scattered snack kiosks offer family-friendly meals. Vegetarian and allergy-conscious options available at all venues.
Outside food permitted for dietary needs
Fully paved pathways throughout. Wheelchair and mobility scooter rentals at Guest Services. Accessible washrooms in every zone. Sign language tours available on request.
Companion animals welcome with documentation
Free daily talks run every 45 minutes at major habitats. VIP backstage tours ($45 per person) get you inside the nutrition kitchen, medical centre, and off-exhibit animal areas.
Book online — limited to 12 guests per session
Seasoned Toronto Zoo visitors know these tricks — now you will too.
The first 90 minutes are the quietest. Animals are most active in the morning, parking is free and easy, and you can hit the popular zones before crowds build up by 11:00 AM.
The free Toronto Zoo app includes GPS navigation, real-time animal locations, and wait-time estimates for keeper talks. A paper map at the entrance still helps as a backup.
With the app running GPS and the zoo spanning 710 acres, battery drains fast. A portable charger or car charger (available at the gift shop) ensures your map and tickets stay live all day.
The Rouge Valley microclimate can be 5 degrees cooler than downtown Toronto, especially near water features. A light rain jacket or poncho is essential in spring and fall — the animals stay active in drizzle.
The panda habitat draws the longest queues. Visit the giant pandas first thing or after 4:00 PM when the crowd thins. The underwater polar bear viewing is equally spectacular and typically queue-free.
September through mid-October and April through May offer the best combination: smaller crowds, comfortable temperatures, active animals, and lower hotel rates in the surrounding Scarborough area.
Every season at Toronto Zoo offers a distinct experience. Choose the timing that matches what matters most to your group.
Animals are most active after winter. Baby animals appear. Wildflowers bloom across the site. Cool mornings, warm afternoons — layered clothing is essential.
Extended hours until 8 PM, water splash parks for kids, peak attendance. Great for school holiday trips but book parking and tickets in advance. Zoo's most vibrant atmosphere.
The Rouge Valley turns crimson and gold. Comfortable walking weather, smaller crowds, active animals. September is peak value — summer ticket prices drop, but weather stays warm.
Outdoor zones are breathtaking in snow. Indoor pavilions — tropics, aquatics, gibbon island — become the highlight. Lower admission rates. Hot chocolate at the Safari Lodge hits different.
Quick answers to the most common visitor questions — if you need more, use the contact link in the footer.
Most visitors spend 5 to 7 hours at the zoo — enough time to see every zone without rushing. If you plan to attend keeper talks, eat a full meal on-site, or do the backstage tour, budget a full day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Yes. Visitors may bring their own snacks, lunches, and non-alcoholic beverages. Coolers and insulated bags are permitted. Full meal service is available at the on-site restaurants if you prefer not to pack.
Completely. Every zone, restaurant, and washroom facility is accessible via paved, level pathways. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to rent at the main entrance Guest Services building on a first-come, first-served basis.
Panda viewing is included with general admission — no separate ticket required. Queues can be up to 90 minutes on peak summer weekends. For guaranteed same-day access without queuing, purchase a Panda Premium Experience ticket online.
Take the TTC subway to Kennedy Station (Line 2), then board the 86A Toronto Zoo Express bus. The bus runs every 30 minutes on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends and public holidays. The full transit journey takes approximately 75 minutes from downtown Toronto.
Yes. Toronto Zoo offers unlimited re-entry on the same day. Before leaving, get a hand stamp at the exit gate — this is your re-entry authorization. Keep your original admission ticket as well.