Traveling with kids can be an exciting adventure, but it also presents unique challenges. Keeping your children entertained during a visit to a large city like Toronto requires some planning. One of the best attractions for families in Toronto is the Toronto Zoo. Home to over 5,000 animals from 450 different species, the Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada and offers a plethora of activities that will keep your kids engaged and happy. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting the Toronto Zoo with your children, from must-see exhibits to practical tips.
Why Visit Toronto Zoo with Kids?
The Toronto Zoo, located in Scarborough, spans 700 acres and is divided into seven geographical regions: Australasia, Canada, Americas, Indo-Malaya, Eurasia, Tundra Trek, and Africa. Each section provides unique exhibits and interactive experiences perfect for kids of all ages. The zoo also features play areas like Splash Island and the Kids Zoo, ensuring a fun-filled day for the entire family.
Zoo details
Entry Ticket Prices:
Winter: Adults (13-64): $23 | Seniors (65+): $18 | Children (3-12): $14 | Free for children 2 and under
Summer: Adults (13-64): $29 | Seniors (65+): $24 | Children (3-12): $19 | Free for children 2 and under
Opening Hours:
May 5 to Sept 3: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily
Sept 4 to Oct 8: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM weekdays, 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM weekends/holidays
Oct 9 to Dec 31: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM daily
Best time to visit: Summer Season
Closed: 25th December every year
Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, Ontario M1B 5K7, Canada
Website: http://www.torontozoo.com
Important Note: Save on Toronto Attractions with CityPASS
Maximize your savings by purchasing a Toronto CityPASS. This pass allows you to visit 5 top attractions in Toronto, including the Toronto Zoo, at a discounted rate. The CityPASS costs $69.62 for adults (ages 13+) and $46.68 for children (ages 4-12). Enjoy substantial savings and a seamless experience exploring the best of Toronto!
How to get there?
The easiest way to get to the zoo is by car. However, public transportation is also available. From Kennedy Station, you can take the 86A bus, which will bring you directly to the zoo. For other routes, check the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) website. You can check here.
Top Attractions and Activities for Kids:
Kids Zoo
Located in the Discovery Zone, the Kids Zoo allows children to get up close and personal with animals like goats, guinea pigs, and alpacas. Kids can feed the animals and explore treehouse slides. The Kids Zoo is open from May 1 to October 31.
Splash Island
Beat the Toronto heat at Splash Island, also located in the Discovery Zone. This water play area features slides, waterfalls, splash pads, and water-sprouting animals. Check the zoo’s website for specific opening hours during the summer.
Waterside Theatre
Get ready to watch the exciting animal shows at Waterside Theatre in Toronto Zoo. The theatre exhibits two shows; one representing the Canadian species and other one representing various birds. These shows are exclusively for families with kids. A number of animal playing and showing their skills is a sight to watch. Though the shows run from 19th May to 3rd September, make sure to check before visiting as they might get cancelled due to weather conditions.
Animals Exhibits
Explore the zoo's diverse animal exhibits:
Indo-Malaya Outdoor Exhibit: Indian peafowl, Mandarin duck, and more.
Australasia Outdoor Exhibit: Kangaroos and wallabies.
Americas Outdoor Exhibit: American flamingos, macaws, jaguar, and others.
Tundra Trek
If your kids love polar bears, then you must take them to Tundra Trek which is featuring the Polar Bear habitat spreading on the area of 5 acres. Other animals in Tundra Trek include Arctic wolf, snowy owl, snow goose and European reindeer.
Important Note:
Some animals might be off display due to their medical check-ups and other related reasons. Don’t panic if you can’t see any specific animal. There is a lot to see in the zoo and absence of a few animals won’t bother the kids.
Tips for Parents:
Plan Ahead: The zoo is large, so plan your visit in advance and discuss with your kids which animals they want to see.
Bring Extra Clothes: If your kids plan to enjoy Splash Island, bring towels and extra clothes.
Summer Programs: Check out the zoo’s summer programs, including one-day camps, which offer educational activities about the zoo and its animals.
No matter your kids' ages, they will undoubtedly enjoy every moment at the Toronto Zoo. With a bit of planning, you can ensure a fun, memorable experience for the whole family. From interactive exhibits to exciting play areas, the Toronto Zoo offers something for everyone.
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