Calgary Zoo
A vibrant zoo showcasing diverse wildlife, from polar bears to gorillas, plus a thrilling dinosaur park for family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Calgary Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant zoo showcasing diverse wildlife, from polar bears to gorillas, plus a thrilling dinosaur park for family fun.
"An amazing place for a family day out, with well-maintained grounds and beautifully designed animal enclosures."
🎯 Arrive Early for Polar Bears
Beat the crowds and see the polar bears at their most active. They often retreat to cooler indoor areas later in the day.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across diverse exhibits. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Polar Bear Sanctuary
Canadian Wilds
Witness the majestic polar bears, Baffin and Siku, in their expansive new habitat. A truly captivating experience!
Penguin Walk
Penguin Plunge
Watch adorable penguins waddle and swim right past you during their daily walk. A delightful and memorable sight!
Dinosaur Park
Near Entrance
Step back in time with incredibly realistic dinosaur models scattered throughout a dedicated park area. Fun for all ages!
Western Lowland Gorillas
E.A.R.T.H. (Endangered Animal Research & Teaching Habitat)
See the gentle giants, including the young gorillas, in their thoughtfully designed habitat. A heartwarming encounter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Plan Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Polar Bears
Beat the crowds and see the polar bears at their most active. They often retreat to cooler indoor areas later in the day.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across diverse exhibits. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on hot days, bring water bottles. There are refill stations available throughout the zoo.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone for amazing photos of the animals and exhibits. The dinosaur park is a hit for photos!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Polar Bears
Beat the crowds and see the polar bears at their most active. They often retreat to cooler indoor areas later in the day.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across diverse exhibits. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on hot days, bring water bottles. There are refill stations available throughout the zoo.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone for amazing photos of the animals and exhibits. The dinosaur park is a hit for photos!
🐧 Penguin Walk Schedule
Check the daily schedule for the Penguin Walk; it's a must-see! The birds choose if they want to participate. 
💰 Pack Snacks
Food can be pricey. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can help save money, especially for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Calgary Zoo for its clean, well-maintained grounds, diverse and engaging animal exhibits, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. It's highly recommended as a family-friendly destination offering both fun and educational experiences. Some visitors note that certain animals, like the polar bear, may be less visible on very hot days, and admission/parking can be perceived as a bit steep.
"Had an amazing time at the zoo!
The staff were friendly and helpful, and we appreciated how clean and well-maintained everything was. There were also plenty of places to take a break, grab a snack, and just enjoy the surroundings.
Washroom available in every area.
The staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and always willing to answer questions or share insights about the animals. The exhibits are engaging and informative, making it a great experience for kids and adults alike.
I would highly recommend for any age."
Majintha Rathnayake
"Had a wonderful time at the Calgary Zoo! The layout is great, lots of animals to see, and the whole place is really well maintained. It was a super hot day when we visited, so I totally understand that the polar bear was probably chilling indoors with the A/C — though I was a little bummed to miss seeing it.
That aside, it was still a fantastic experience — from the playful lemurs to the majestic tigers, there was so much to enjoy. Definitely a must-visit if you're in Calgary, and maybe I’ll catch the polar bear next time when it’s not sunbathing weather!"
Preethy Sudhan
"Amazing place for a family day out! We visited with kids and everyone had a great time. The grounds are very clean and well maintained, with lots of shade and beautifully designed animal enclosures. We were especially impressed by the penguins, tigers, and the dinosaur park — so realistic! My little one loved the kids’ zoo where you can feed the goats. Staff were friendly, and the café had a nice variety of food. A perfect spot to spend the whole day with family. We’ll definitely be back!"
Yuliia Kozak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Calgary Zoo is easily accessible by public transit, including buses and the C-Train. Driving is also an option with ample parking available, though a fee applies.
Yes, there is parking available at the Calgary Zoo, but it typically comes with a fee. Arriving early can help secure a spot.
Absolutely! Calgary Transit buses and the C-Train service routes that stop near the Calgary Zoo, making it a convenient option for visitors.
For families, consider the C-Train for a fun ride, or driving and parking close to the entrance to minimize walking with little ones.
While specific transit discounts for the zoo aren't widely advertised, purchasing a day pass for Calgary Transit can be cost-effective if you plan to use it multiple times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary by age and season. It's recommended to check the official Calgary Zoo website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak times.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the gate, but buying online in advance is often recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time, especially during busy periods.
The zoo often offers discounts for seniors, children, and sometimes for members. Look out for special promotions or family packages on their website.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official Calgary Zoo website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Many visitors find the Calgary Zoo to be a worthwhile experience, citing the variety of animals, well-maintained exhibits, and educational opportunities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the polar bears in their new sanctuary, the playful penguins during their walk, the majestic gorillas, and the diverse African Savannah animals.
Absolutely! The zoo is a fantastic family destination with interactive exhibits, a kids' zoo area, and the popular dinosaur park.
A typical visit can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours to see most of the exhibits. If you want to explore thoroughly, plan for a full day.
Yes, the zoo has numerous benches, shaded areas, and picnic spots throughout the grounds, making it comfortable for visitors to take breaks.
The Penguin Walk is a daily event (weather and bird permitting) where the zoo's penguins get to roam freely outside their enclosure, offering a unique viewing opportunity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers several cafes and food stands with a variety of options, from quick snacks to meals.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at designated picnic areas, which can be a cost-saving option.
While specific menus can change, most food outlets at the zoo offer some vegetarian choices. It's best to inquire at the food stands for current vegan options.
Some of the cafes offer views of certain animal enclosures, providing a pleasant dining experience. Check the zoo map for locations.
Food prices at the zoo are comparable to other attractions, meaning they can be a bit higher than outside options. Bringing your own snacks is a good way to manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The Polar Bear Sanctuary, the Dinosaur Park, and the Penguin Plunge offer fantastic photo opportunities. Also, look for unique animal behaviors in their naturalistic habitats.
Generally, tripods are allowed for personal photography, but it's always a good idea to check the zoo's specific photography policy on their website to avoid any issues.
While most photography is permitted, flash photography might be discouraged in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Be mindful of signage.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer lighting and can lead to more active animals, making for better photographic opportunities.
No, drones are typically not permitted at the Calgary Zoo due to safety regulations and to prevent disturbance to the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a full day to explore the diverse animal zones, from the African Savannah to the Canadian Wilds. The zoo's layout is family-friendly, with plenty of places to rest and grab snacks. Consider bringing your own food to save money.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for public transportation like the C-Train or bus to save on parking fees. Visiting on a weekday during the off-season can also mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without the premium pricing often associated with peak times.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography and always check the zoo's policy on tripods. Capturing the animals in their naturalistic habitats will yield the most compelling images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The New Polar Bear Sanctuary
+2Visitors have been captivated by Baffin and Siku, the resident polar bears, who have been observed swimming, playing, and interacting with their environment. The sanctuary is a testament to the zoo's commitment to conservation and providing world-class care for its animals. It's a highlight for many, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these magnificent Arctic predators.
+1It's important to note that polar bears are most active during cooler parts of the day. On warmer days, they might choose to rest in shaded areas or underwater, so patience is key to catching them in action. The exhibit's design allows for viewing from multiple angles, enhancing the visitor experience.
Family Fun and Educational Experiences
Beyond the dinosaurs, the zoo boasts a Kids Zoo area where younger visitors can get up close with domestic animals, including opportunities for feeding goats. Interactive displays and conservation stories are woven throughout the exhibits, making learning an engaging part of the visit. Staff and volunteers are often highlighted for their knowledge and willingness to share insights about the animals and their habitats.
With well-maintained grounds, shaded areas, and accessible facilities like washrooms in every zone, the zoo is designed for comfort. The variety of food options also caters to families, though bringing snacks is a popular tip for managing costs.
Conservation Efforts and Animal Welfare
Visitors often praise the zoo for its clean and well-maintained enclosures, which are designed to mimic natural habitats as closely as possible. This focus on animal well-being is evident in the animals' behavior and the overall atmosphere of the zoo. The zoo actively participates in various conservation initiatives, both locally and internationally, contributing to the survival of wildlife.
While the zoo strives for the best for its animals, unexpected events can occur. The passing of a young gorilla, Eyare, due to injuries sustained during a transfer, was a deeply sad event that highlighted the complexities and risks involved in animal care, even with the utmost precautions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit