The 16 Best Petting Zoos in Toronto

Toronto, a city rich in diverse attractions, houses some of the finest petting zoos for animal enthusiasts of all ages. These little wildlife havens offer a rare opportunity to interact with various species, making them a perfect destination for an exciting and educational day out.
Whether you're looking to quickly find a petting zoo nearby or are comparing options to decide the best one for you and your family, this list has covered all the details you need.
- Accessibility and location
- Variety of animals
- Interactive activities
- Educational programs
- Entrance fees
- Opening hours
Consider the aforementioned points to make an informed decision. So, without further ado, let's take a look at the top 16 Best Petting Zoos in Toronto to help you find the one that Suit your needs best.
- 1. Riverdale Farm
- 2. High Park Zoo
- 3. Baboon House
- 4. Lion Exhibit
- 5. Far Enough Farm
- 6. Bactrian Camel Exhibit
- 7. Once upon a pond
- 8. Cheetah Exhibit
- 9. Penguin House
- 10. Grizzly Bear Exhibit
- 11. Kangaroo Exhibit
- 12. PANDALAND
- 13. Zebras
- 14. Tundra Trek
- 15. Raccoon Exhibit
- 16. Barkdale Toronto

- Monday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–5 PM
1. Riverdale Farm
Information and Reviews
- Guests rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature right in the city.
- The variety of animals, workshops, and tours provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.
- Visitors appreciate the accessible facilities for all guests, including those with disabilities, making it a welcoming destination for everyone.
- The beautiful trails, picnic areas, and educational opportunities make Riverdale Farm a must-visit spot for families and nature lovers alike.

- Monday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–7 PM
2. High Park Zoo
Information and Reviews
Visitors praise the High Park Zoo for its family-friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones. Some key highlights from customer reviews include:
- A free and memorable experience with a variety of animals to see.
- A great place for kids to enjoy and learn about different species.
- Beautiful surroundings with well-maintained enclosures.
- Easy access and ample parking options for visitors.
With a solid rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 2255 reviews, High Park Zoo continues to be a beloved destination for locals and tourists looking to connect with wildlife in a picturesque setting. Plan your visit today and explore the wonders of this hidden gem in the heart of Toronto.

- Monday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–7 PM
3. Baboon House
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the following key points:
- Baboons in the exhibit have evolved and reworked their environment.
- Visitors can observe these fascinating animals up close.
- The outdoor pavilion provides a spacious and enjoyable setting.
- Guests have described the baboons as majestic and graceful creatures.
These glowing reviews speak to the quality and entertainment value that Baboon House offers to all who visit. Make sure to stop by and witness the excitement for yourself!

- Monday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
4. Lion Exhibit
Information and Reviews
- Great for kids, with a train that circles the zoo offering convenient transport throughout the day.
- Visitors can get remarkably close to the animals, making for an exciting and educational adventure.
- Beautiful white lions steal the show, while other diverse wildlife like geckos provide added interest.
- The engaging activities and impressive sights make Lion Exhibit a must-visit attraction.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures firsthand at Lion Exhibit.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–5 PM
5. Far Enough Farm
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- The animals are sweet and lovely to interact with, creating a joyful atmosphere.
- The staff is friendly and welcoming, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
- The farm provides an opportunity for families to enjoy and learn about farm animals up close.
- Some visitors note that the farm could benefit from larger enclosures and more enrichment for the animals.
Overall, Far Enough Farm receives positive feedback for its enjoyable and educational environment, making it a great destination for animal lovers of all ages.

- Monday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
6. Bactrian Camel Exhibit
Information and Reviews
- Perfect exhibit with camels that stand out from the others.
- Love for camels expressed with emojis.
- Awesome scenes observed by visitors.
- Positive experience with no specific details provided.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness these remarkable creatures up close and personal. Visit their website for more information or give them a call to plan your trip today!

7. Once upon a pond
Information and Reviews
The park has received a stellar 5.0 rating based on a customer review praising their "pretty dedication to geese." Customers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation firsthand.
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Beautiful natural setting
- Educational experiences
Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day outdoors or gain insights into local wildlife, Once Upon a Pond is a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages.

- Monday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
8. Cheetah Exhibit
Information and Reviews
The Reviews speak for themselves:
- Opportunity to observe the animals without the usual crowds.
- Exciting encounter with a cheetah running towards the glass.
- Some visitors found the experience lacking, but still enjoyable.
- Best time to visit is when the animals are more active.
Overall, the feedback is positive, highlighting the exciting and educational experience visitors can expect at Cheetah Exhibit. So don't miss out on the chance to visit and support conservation efforts while enjoying a memorable day at the zoo!

- Monday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
9. Penguin House
Information and Reviews
- Visitors appreciate the decent number of penguins available for viewing, both swimming and walking around.
- The existence of shows and ample seating adds an extra layer of entertainment for guests.
- Many guests have had a wonderful time, describing their experience as both fun and surreal.
- Some reviewers have highlighted the opportunity for over and under water viewing, making the visit even more immersive.
Whether you are looking for a fun family outing or a delightful solo adventure, Penguin House is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

- Monday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–7 PM
10. Grizzly Bear Exhibit
Information and Reviews
For those considering a visit, getting tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long lines and secure their spot. Families with children will find this exhibit particularly engaging as it is Good for kids.
Customer reviews highlight the positive aspects of the experience:
- Visitors enjoy the opportunity to view the grizzly bears up close.
- Information about the Grizzlies provides insights into their habitat and behavior.
- The exhibit is well-designed with enough space for the animals to move around comfortably.
Whether it's for educational purposes or simply to enjoy nature's beauty, Grizzly Bear Exhibit offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

- Monday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
11. Kangaroo Exhibit
Information and Reviews
Customers have left positive reviews highlighting the following key points:
- Love the kangaroos!
- Wonderful experience for kids
- Great place to spend the day
Visitors like Rebekah Hookings, Julia Li, and Eloise Paul have enjoyed their time at Kangaroo Exhibit and highly recommend it. So, if you're looking for a fun day out, be sure to visit this fantastic zoo!

- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
12. PANDALAND
Information and Reviews
- Kids love Martha’s creative dioramas.
- Cute little front yard to visit if you have a little kid and are in the area.
- Credit to the owner Martha Davis who sets up the pandas and changes the scenes every few weeks.
- This place is so magical to walk by - looked forward to checking out the updates and changes over the summer.

- Monday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
13. Zebras
Information and Reviews
With a solid rating of 4.4, Zebras has received positive feedback from visitors. Here are a few key points from customer reviews:
- Beautiful to watch the zebras roam around
- Best time of my life
- Majestic. Truly impressive.
These comments reflect the overall satisfaction of customers who have visited Zebras. It's clear that this zoo is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the wonder of wildlife up close.

- Monday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
14. Tundra Trek
Information and Reviews
With a solid rating of 4.4 stars out of 5, customers have left some positive reviews about their experiences at Tundra Trek. Here are some key points summarized from the reviews:
- Kids must see, the guide at the place so nicely explained about the polar bears ❄️
- Cool but small. Lots of things to look at, although the nearby ride makes lots of sound in the area
- A customer found the pricing a bit expensive, but still enjoyed the unique experience
- Visitors appreciated the variety of animals and interactive exhibits
Overall, Tundra Trek seems to offer an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With positive reviews highlighting the unique attractions and informative guides, it is definitely a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families alike.

- Monday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–7 PM
15. Raccoon Exhibit
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared their experiences and opinions about Raccoon Exhibit:
- Besides Google spelling raccoon wrong lol..Not really something that I would go out of my way to see lol. Two or three raccoons come out to see if people will throw food and there is a huge jungle gym apparatus
- Not every raccoon will roam around in the daytime. Exhibit relocated across the path in 2021, to where the lynx used to be.
- Beautiful Raccoons
These reviews highlight the different perspectives and experiences visitors have at Raccoon Exhibit. With an overall rating of 4.0, it is clear that this place is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and educational day out.

16. Barkdale Toronto
Information and Reviews
Customers have praised Barkdale Toronto for various reasons, including:
- Spacious and well-maintained facilities
- Professional and friendly staff
- Great experiences for pets of all sizes and breeds
Visit Barkdale Toronto today and experience the exceptional services and amenities that have garnered rave reviews from many satisfied customers.
Map of Petting Zoos in Toronto
If you're looking for a fun-filled day in Toronto with your kids, a visit to one of the city's many petting zoos is a must. To help you find the best ones, we've provided a comprehensive Map of all Petting Zoos in Toronto. You’ll find the perfect blend of education, engagement, and entertainment easily now!
What is a petting zoo?
A petting zoo is a place where visitors can come in close contact with various animals that are usually domesticated or gentle in nature. Unlike traditional zoos where animals are kept behind fences or glass enclosures, petting zoos allow guests to touch, pet, and sometimes feed the animals. These interactive experiences are particularly popular among children and families who enjoy getting up close with farm animals such as goats, sheep, rabbits, and even alpacas.
What animals can I expect to find at a petting zoo in Toronto?
Most petting zoos in Toronto feature a variety of farm animals that are safe and friendly for visitors to interact with. Common animals you can expect to find at a petting zoo in Toronto may include goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, and ponies. In some cases, you may also encounter more exotic animals like llamas, alpacas, or miniature donkeys. Each petting zoo has its own unique selection of animals based on their size and location.
Are there any petting zoos near downtown Toronto?
While most petting zoos are located on the outskirts of the city for space and zoning reasons, there are still some options for those looking to visit a petting zoo near downtown Toronto. One popular choice is the Toronto Zoo, which has a petting zoo area where guests can interact with goats and sheep. Another option is Downey's Farm Market in Caledon, just a short drive from Toronto, which offers a petting zoo experience with a variety of farm animals and seasonal activities.
What should I consider before visiting a petting zoo in Toronto?
Before visiting a petting zoo in Toronto, it's important to consider a few things to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Make sure to check the operating hours and admission prices of the petting zoo, as well as any rules and guidelines they have in place for interacting with the animals. It's also a good idea to wear appropriate clothing and footwear that you don't mind getting dirty, as petting zoos can be muddy or dusty environments. Lastly, be mindful of animal welfare and always follow the instructions of the staff to ensure the well-being of the animals and yourself.
Related Services