Toronto Zoo
Founded 1974 · Canada
Toronto Zoo (Toronto)
Founded 1974 · Canada
The Toronto Zoo is Canada's premier wildlife destination — one of the largest zoos in the world spread across 710 acres in Rouge National Urban Park. Home to more than 5,000 animals representing over 450 species, the zoo organises its collection into seven geographic pavilions that take visitors from the African savanna to the Canadian domain, Australasia and Eurasia.
Founded in 1974, the Toronto Zoo combines spectacular habitat design with a deep commitment to conservation science. Polar bears, giraffes, tigers and Canadian wildlife thrive here while the zoo's research and field programmes protect species across Canada and around the globe.
Highlights
- Canada's premier zoo — one of the largest in the world
- 5,000+ animals across seven geographic pavilions
- 710 acres in Rouge National Urban Park
- Polar bears, giraffes and African savanna
- Seven geographic regions from Americas to Australasia
- Leading conservation and breeding programmes
- 1.5 million annual visitors
- CAZA accredited and WAZA member
- Tundra Trek polar bear habitat
- Open daily except Christmas Day
Animals you'll meet
- Polar bears
- Giraffes
- African elephants
- Tigers
- Gorillas
- Snow leopards
- Komodo dragons
- Moose
- Bison
- Lions
- Rhinoceros
- Red pandas
About the zoo
Signature Habitats
The zoo's layout follows the continents, creating immersive journeys through the world's wildlife.
- Indo-Malaya — orangutans, tigers and tropical species
- African Savanna — giraffes, rhinos, lions and elephants
- Americas — jaguars, cougars and New World species
- Canadian Domain — moose, bison and native wildlife
- Australasia — kangaroos, komodo dragons and southern species
- Eurasia — snow leopards, red pandas and European species
- Tundra Trek — polar bears in an award-winning Arctic habitat
Must-See Experience
Daily keeper talks, seasonal events and the Zoomobile tram connect 1.5 million visitors each year with the urgency of protecting biodiversity. Discovery Zone and interactive exhibits make the zoo a favourite for families across Ontario.
Conservation Impact
The Toronto Zoo is a leader in species survival planning, polar bear research and Canadian wildlife protection. The Wildlife Conservancy channels public support into field projects, breeding programmes and education that reach every continent.
Plan Your Visit
The zoo's vast 710-acre site rewards a full day visit. Zoomobile trams help navigate between pavilions. Seasonal hours extend in summer — arrive early to see animals at their most active. Book online for the best ticket prices.
History
- 1974
Toronto Zoo opens in Rouge Valley as Metropolitan Toronto Zoo on 15 August
- 1985
Geographic pavilion concept expands across the growing site
- 2017
Tundra Trek polar bear habitat opens to international acclaim
- 2020
Wildlife Conservancy expands field conservation partnerships
- 2024
Continuous habitat upgrades and conservation programmes worldwide
Conservation
The Toronto Zoo connects visitors with animals while supporting field projects and breeding programmes worldwide. Research on polar bears, Canadian species and global partnerships makes it a cornerstone of North American conservation.
- Species survival and breeding programmes
- Polar bear and Canadian wildlife research
- Field conservation in Canada and worldwide
- Adopt-an-Animal and Wildlife Conservancy fund
- CAZA accredited conservation standards
Awards
- CAZA accredited
- WAZA member
- One of the largest zoos in the world