Edmonton Valley Zoo

The Edmonton Valley Zoo is one of the premier and most beloved attractions in the city of Edmonton, located in Canada. It is a wonderful destination for family recreation, where you can spend an entire day discovering the amazing world of animals while enjoying the well-maintained grounds.

The zoo covers an area of about 0.18 square kilometers and is home to more than 350 animals representing various corners of our planet. Visitors can see many interesting species here, including playful lemurs, charming red pandas, and a variety of farm animals, which are particularly popular with younger guests.

The primary mission of the Edmonton Valley Zoo is not only to entertain visitors but also to focus on species conservation and education. The zoo actively conducts various conservation initiatives and educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife. Specially created exhibits and themed zones allow guests to dive deeper into the animal world and learn much about their habitats and behaviors.

If you have any questions regarding the Edmonton Valley Zoo, its visiting conditions, or if you need additional information, please use the following contact details. The zoo administration is always ready to help you plan your visit.

Visitors to the Edmonton Valley Zoo can embark on a fascinating journey through various themed zones. One of the oldest sections is the "Inner Zoo," a legacy of the original Storyland Valley Zoo. Here, you can observe interesting inhabitants such as emus, majestic snowy owls, and curious burrowing owls. This area allows you to step back into the zoo's history and meet its first residents.

Be sure to stop by the "Makira Outpost," which opened to the public in the summer of 2007. This exhibit is dedicated to amazing lemurs. You can watch ring-tailed lemurs and black-and-white ruffed lemurs move freely across a large open island with elm trees, which provide a natural climbing environment for them. In addition to lemurs, this zone is home to African spurred tortoises, adding variety to your experience.

One of the newest and most exciting areas is "Nature's Wild Backyard," the first phase of which opened in 2019. It features an immersive exhibit for adorable red pandas, allowing visitors to observe these animals in a setting that closely mimics their natural habitat. Furthermore, the "Urban Farm" operates year-round within Nature's Wild Backyard. It is a great place to meet various domestic animals such as pigs, chickens, ponies, goats, sheep, and rabbits. For the convenience of visitors, there is also a restaurant, restrooms, and an ice cream kiosk nearby where you can grab a snack and take a break.

Getting to the Edmonton Valley Zoo is quite simple, as it is a popular recreation spot in Edmonton. One of the most convenient ways is to use public transport. The city generally has a well-developed bus network, and routes from various parts of the city often serve major sites like the zoo. It is recommended to check the latest bus numbers, schedules, and nearest stops on the official Edmonton transit service website or by using popular online maps and navigation apps.

If you prefer more flexibility and comfort, especially when traveling with family or a lot of gear, taking a taxi or driving yourself is an excellent choice. The drive from downtown Edmonton to the Edmonton Valley Zoo usually takes a reasonable amount of time, but you should always consider potential traffic conditions, especially during peak hours or weekends. Parking areas are generally provided for visitors arriving by car; however, it is best to check the zoo's website in advance for information on availability and parking fees.

For the most accurate planning of your route to the Edmonton Valley Zoo, always check for up-to-date information. The zoo's official website often features a section with detailed directions, including maps, recommended public transport routes, and tips for drivers. Additionally, modern navigation systems and mobile apps will help you find the optimal path and estimate your travel time.

The Edmonton Valley Zoo has a rich history that began on July 1, 1959. On opening day, as reported by the Edmonton Journal on June 30, 1959, a massive turnout of visitors was expected. The zoo was created to replace the previous Borden Park Zoo, which was demolished to make way for Northlands Park. Initially, a significant part of it was occupied by "Storyland," which was considered very advanced for its time and quickly won the hearts of Edmonton residents.

Since its founding in 1959, the zoo hasn't stood still, constantly evolving and expanding. A major milestone in its recent history was the announcement of a city renewal program in 2009. This large-scale initiative aimed to completely transform the zoo, including the careful reconstruction of the beloved former Storyland elements. These features held a special place in the hearts of many generations of Edmontonians, and their revival became a vital part of the modernization process.

While Storyland was innovative for the mid-20th century, times have changed, and the city of Edmonton, along with its zoo, has continued to move forward. Today, the Edmonton Valley Zoo strives to be more than just a place for entertainment; it aims to be an innovation hub focused on education and conservation initiatives. A prime example of this new approach was the 2019 opening of the first phase of the ambitious "Nature's Wild Backyard" project, marking a significant step in the zoo's modern history and its commitment to wildlife preservation.

When planning a visit to the Edmonton Valley Zoo, you should consider how much time you want to spend getting to know its inhabitants and various zones. For a general overview and a walk through the main exhibits to see the most popular animals, you might need about 2-3 hours. This will allow you to get a feel for the zoo without rushing.

However, to truly immerse yourself in the zoo's atmosphere and visit all the themed areas—including the historic "Inner Zoo," the exotic "Makira Outpost" with its lemurs, and the modern "Nature's Wild Backyard" featuring red pandas and the "Urban Farm"—it is recommended to set aside a half-day (approximately 4-5 hours) or even a bit more. This will allow you not only to see all the animals but also to potentially attend educational programs, watch feedings, or simply relax on the grounds.

If you are traveling with children, who usually want to linger at every enclosure and spend time at the playgrounds or interactive areas like the "Urban Farm," feel free to budget more time. It's also worth accounting for possible breaks for rest and snacks. Ultimately, the duration of your visit to the Edmonton Valley Zoo will depend on your pace, interests, and the members of your group.

The Edmonton Valley Zoo is happy to welcome visitors! According to the current information, between May 10 and September 1, 2025, the zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including weekends and holidays. Please note that the last entry to the grounds is allowed one hour before closing, which is 4:00 PM. All visitors must depart the zoo by 5:00 PM.

Since these operating hours apply to a specific season, it is highly recommended to visit the official website of the Edmonton Valley Zoo or consult other local information resources for the most up-to-date schedule for other times of the year, as well as information on advance ticket bookings or any potential changes. This will help you plan your visit in the best possible way.

After a fascinating day spent at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, you have a wonderful opportunity to broaden your experience by exploring other interesting places nearby. Edmonton is a city with many attractions, and getting to know its surroundings will allow you to form a more complete picture of its diversity and charm.

Near the zoo, you will find natural spots for quiet relaxation, as well as cultural sites or places for active recreation. This is a great chance to complement your visit and discover something new in Alberta's capital, as Edmonton offers entertainment for every taste.