The highest rated zoos in Canada, ranked by visitor ratings.
Calgary, Canada
The Calgary Zoo, officially known as the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, is one of Canada's most prominent zoological parks. Located in Calgary, Alberta, it is dedicated to wildlife conservation and education, offering visitors the chance to see over 100 animal species from around the world. The zoo is known for its immersive animal zones, such as Penguin Plunge and Exploration Asia, which allow guests to experience diverse habitats and observe animals up close. The zoo frequently updates and renovates its exhibits, ensuring modern, enriching environments for both animals and visitors. In addition to animal viewing, the Calgary Zoo hosts cultural events, educational programs, and unique experiences, making it a popular destination for families and tourists alike.
Winnipeg, Canada
Assiniboine Park Zoo is a prominent zoological park located within Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The zoo is known for its diverse range of animal exhibits and engaging visitor experiences. Throughout the year, the zoo hosts special exhibits such as 'Monsters of the Abyss' and 'Dinosaurs UnCovered', offering unique educational opportunities for guests of all ages. Visitors can also participate in daily Zoo Chats to learn more about their favorite animals. The zoo is part of the larger Assiniboine Park, which features expansive greenspaces, gardens, and scenic pathways enjoyed by millions annually.
Granby, Canada
Granby Zoo, located in Granby, Quebec, is one of the province's major tourist attractions. Founded in 1953 by then-mayor Pierre-Horace Boivin, the zoo has grown to house over 1,800 animals representing 230 species from around the world, including Africa, Asia, South America, and Oceania. Visitors can explore themed sections such as Asia, which features a geodesic dome designed by the architect of Montreal's Biosphere, and Oceania, known for its interactive experiences like stingray touch tanks and lorikeet feeding. The zoo is also home to the Amazoo water park and an amusement park inspired by the Johnny Test animated series, offering a diverse range of activities for families. With an annual visitor count exceeding half a million, Granby Zoo is recognized for its extensive animal collection, immersive exhibits, and unique attractions that set it apart from other Canadian zoos.
Vancouver, Canada
The Vancouver Aquarium is a renowned public aquarium located in Stanley Park, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Established in 1956, it is recognized as the first public aquarium in Canada and has grown to become the largest in the country and one of the five largest in North America. The aquarium is notable for its pioneering role in marine research, ocean literacy education, and marine animal rehabilitation. It was the first aquarium in the world to employ professional naturalists full-time to interpret animal behaviors for visitors, setting a new standard for educational engagement. Visitors can expect to see a vast array of marine life, with over 65,000 animals housed in exhibits that span 100,000 square feet, and experience interactive displays, conservation initiatives, and unique historical artifacts.
Vancouver, Canada
The term 'Vancouver Zoo' can refer to two different zoological institutions in British Columbia, Canada. The first is the Stanley Park Zoo, which was located in Vancouver and originally started as a pound in 1888. This zoo served the community for over a century before closing its doors in December 1997. The second is the Greater Vancouver Zoo, situated in Aldergrove, British Columbia, which opened in August 1970 under the name Vancouver Game Farm. The Greater Vancouver Zoo continues to operate today, offering visitors the chance to see a variety of animal species in a spacious, natural setting. Both zoos have played significant roles in the region's history of animal care and public education.
