Toronto Zoo

Toronto, ON

The Metro Toronto Zoo is a favourite go-to kid friendly outing. Visitors will always have an interesting and fun time exploring. There is so much to discover for people of all ages. The zoo covers almost three square kilometres, making it one of the largest zoos in North America. And the large size makes for some good hiking in addition to quiet exploration on less crowded days.

The zoo has three major kinds of experiences: indoor exhibits, outdoor exhibits, and a giant kids’ zoo with a water park. The indoor exhibits contain primates, birds, butterflies, fish, reptiles, and various cultural works. The outdoor exhibits contain all the large mammal exhibits one would expect, including lions, tigers, polar bears, elephants, kangaroos, zebras, and so on. The kids’ area is one of the most entertaining places for young ones to play and explore. The water park is fantastic!

At some of the larger exhibits at specified times, the animal trainers will share their time with visitors to answer questions and present interesting and educational insights. There are also opportunities to pet some of the animals.

A travel system around the zoo does a full loop around all the major areas. It used to be a monorail, but that was retired years ago; however, you can still find some remnants if you look hard enough. The zoo charges for transportation, but based on experience, the tram can be avoided because most destinations are best reached on the hiking trail.

The zoo is not too far out of the way for most residents of Southern Ontario. Parking is ample and those who are in the know will find the best spots, close to the entrance all hours of the day. It is the experience of some visitors that the best time to visit the zoo to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxing visit is in the later afternoon. Most of the morning visitors are leaving at this time, parking spots open up, and the animals are coming out after avoiding the mid-day sun. Also consider packing a picnic.

The Metro Toronto Zoo is the perfect adventure outing - it has lots to see and do, and there is something interesting for everyone.