If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and unforgettable family outing, then it’s time to explore Calgary Zoo—a world-class destination located just minutes from downtown Calgary. Home to more than 1,000 animals representing over 100 species, Calgary Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in Canada. It offers a magical combination of wildlife discovery, conservation, and seasonal events that make it a year-round favorite for locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re a parent with young kids, a solo traveler, a nature lover, or an educator, this vibrant zoological park promises something for everyone. Not only will you experience the thrill of seeing exotic animals up close, but you’ll also learn about the important conservation efforts behind the scenes—led by the Wilder Institute, the zoo’s globally recognized research and conservation partner.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the most exciting exhibits, practical planning tips, can’t-miss seasonal events, and everything you need to make your trip to Calgary Zoo unforgettable.
Discover Canadian Wildlife at the Canadian Wilds Exhibit
One of the most popular sections of the zoo is the Canadian Wilds—a breathtaking showcase of native Canadian animals set in a realistic boreal forest environment. This exhibit is the perfect place to appreciate the diversity and resilience of animals that call Canada home. With carefully designed habitats that reflect Alberta’s rugged landscapes, visitors get to observe wild animals as they would behave in nature.
Some of the animals you’ll encounter include grizzly bears, cougars, moose, elk, wolves, river otters, and bison. These animals are not just visually captivating; they also help tell the story of Canada’s ecosystems and the challenges they face. Interpretive signs offer fun facts, conservation insights, and information about the zoo’s breeding and rehabilitation programs.
Walking through this section is a peaceful and immersive experience. Children can learn how different species survive the cold, while adults can appreciate the detailed efforts taken to replicate real habitats. For those passionate about Canadian biodiversity, this exhibit is a highlight of the Calgary Zoo.
Take a Journey Across Continents in Destination Africa
If you want to be transported to the vast savannas and dense rainforests of Africa without leaving Calgary, then Destination Africa is where your journey begins. This exhibit is divided into two distinct regions: the Savannah Building and the Rainforest Pavilion.
In the Savannah Building, you’ll meet powerful and iconic African animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and meerkats. The open layout, glass panels, and walkways allow you to get incredibly close while keeping the animals safe and comfortable. Watching a lion nap in the shade or a giraffe stretching to reach leaves is both exciting and awe-inspiring.
The Rainforest Pavilion, on the other hand, is a lush, tropical indoor environment where gorillas, reptiles, tropical birds, and amphibians live in dense foliage and tree-lined enclosures. The sounds of chirping birds and running water, combined with the warm and humid air, make this pavilion feel truly immersive.
Destination Africa isn’t just entertaining—it’s educational. You’ll learn about deforestation, poaching, and other environmental issues affecting Africa, as well as what the Calgary Zoo is doing to help. For visitors of all ages, it’s a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
Dive into the Icy World of Penguin Plunge
Calgary Zoo’s Penguin Plunge is one of the most beloved exhibits in the entire park—and for good reason. This Antarctic-themed enclosure replicates the icy, oceanic environment where penguins naturally thrive. It features four types of penguins: king, gentoo, Humboldt, and rockhopper.
As soon as you enter the chilled building, you’re met with the sight of penguins waddling, sliding on the ice, or swimming swiftly through the water in front of giant underwater viewing panels. These windows let visitors see the penguins from all angles, making it a mesmerizing experience—especially for children.
Penguin feedings are held throughout the day and are often accompanied by keeper talks. These sessions provide amazing facts about penguin behavior, diet, breeding, and the threats they face due to climate change and pollution. The interactive displays and signage make this exhibit not only fun but also informative.
Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, Penguin Plunge is a cool escape and a crowd favorite for photos, laughter, and moments of wonder.
Meet the Playful Primates in Land of Lemurs
North America’s first immersive lemur habitat is right here at Calgary Zoo, and it’s called the Land of Lemurs. Designed to replicate the dry forests of Madagascar, this open-air exhibit is one of the only places where guests can walk through an enclosure with free-roaming lemurs just feet away.
This rare, up-close opportunity to observe these endangered primates is both thrilling and educational. The exhibit features ring-tailed lemurs, black-and-white ruffed lemurs, and red-fronted lemurs—all species that are threatened due to habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade.
The Land of Lemurs offers a deeper understanding of Madagascar’s delicate ecosystem and how interconnected species survival is. Through interactive elements and conservation messages, visitors learn how they can support lemur conservation from anywhere in the world.
For families, the excitement of seeing lemurs leap across branches or groom each other in the sun makes this a must-visit stop on your zoo itinerary.
Experience Year-Round Events and Seasonal Magic
Calgary Zoo is more than just animal exhibits—it also hosts some of Calgary’s most iconic seasonal events. These events bring people together, celebrate wildlife, and offer new experiences with every visit.
Zoolights (Winter)
During the winter holiday season, the entire zoo is transformed into a glittering wonderland of more than 2 million lights. The Zoolights event runs from November to January and features festive music, fire pits, ice sculptures, and themed areas like Candy Cane Lane and Polar Nights.
Zoolights is ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a fun winter tradition. You can even meet Santa, enjoy holiday treats, and take magical nighttime photos with glowing animal installations.
Easter and Halloween Events
During Easter Eggstravaganza, the zoo hosts scavenger hunts, animal-themed games, and springtime crafts. For Halloween, Boo at the Zoo welcomes little ones in costume to trick-or-treat throughout the park in a safe, family-friendly setting.
Summer Safari Nights
In the summer, the zoo opens its doors in the evening for Safari Nights, where guests enjoy extended hours, food trucks, music, and sunset views of the animals.
These events create new ways to experience the zoo and keep it fresh no matter how often you visit.
Plan Your Visit: Hours, Tickets & Tips
To make the most of your trip, plan ahead with the following visitor info:
Hours of Operation
Calgary Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:00 PM. Holiday hours and seasonal event schedules may differ, so always check the official website before your visit.
Ticket Prices
- Adults (16+): $34.95 CAD
- Children (3–15): $24.95 CAD
- Seniors (60+): $29.95 CAD
- Children under 3: Free
- Annual Memberships: Starting at around $64.95, with unlimited access and perks
Expert Tips
- Arrive early to see animals when they’re most active
- Bring sunscreen, water bottles, and comfortable shoes
- Use the Calgary Zoo app for interactive maps, feeding times, and show schedules
- Check the weather and dress in layers, especially during colder months
The zoo is stroller-friendly, wheelchair-accessible, and offers plenty of shaded areas, washrooms, and cafes for breaks.
Calgary Zoo’s Conservation Mission
Beyond the enclosures, Calgary Zoo plays a major role in global conservation and species recovery. Through the Wilder Institute, the zoo supports more than 30 conservation projects in Canada and abroad.
- Key conservation initiatives include:
- Reintroducing whooping cranes to the wild
- Breeding and releasing black-footed ferrets
- Protecting greater sage-grouse habitats
- Supporting education on biodiversity and sustainability
Educational programs, school field trips, day camps, and online resources ensure that the zoo is not just a place to see animals—but a place to inspire future environmental leaders.
Final Thoughts: Explore Calgary Zoo for Adventure, Learning & Memories
If you’re looking for a day filled with awe, learning, and joy, then it’s time to explore Calgary Zoo. With world-class exhibits, rare and beautiful animals, interactive experiences, and meaningful conservation programs, the zoo offers something for everyone.
It’s more than a place to visit—it’s a place to connect with nature, support endangered species, and create lifelong memories with the people you love.