The Edmonton Valley Zoo sits on the south side of the North Saskatchewan River, in a wooded corner of the valley, and it is one of the oldest and best-loved family attractions in the city. It is a compact zoo rather than a sprawling one, with well over two hundred and fifty animals and a focus on conservation, so you can see the whole place at a toddler's pace in a morning or an afternoon. Expect animals suited to northern climates alongside species from warmer regions, with indoor viewing areas that keep the experience comfortable when the weather turns. The setting is a big part of the appeal, because the zoo's paths wind through trees and past ponds, and the river valley trails are close by. A carousel is free to ride during zoo hours, and in summer a miniature train and food outlets add to the day. Many local families hold memberships and drop in often, which tells you how relaxed the place feels.
Planning your day
Admission is by timed entry that you can reserve online, which guarantees your spot and avoids queues, and you can also pay at the front counter. The zoo is at 13315 Buena Vista Road, also called 87 Avenue, and there is free parking in a large lot outside the entrance. Children aged thirteen and under must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Hours change with the season, so check the zoo's page for the date of your visit, and remember that last entry is an hour before closing.
Seasons
Summer is the full-service season, when the miniature train and the seasonal food outlets operate, usually from May to September. Autumn and winter are quieter, with fewer crowds and a more intimate feel, though you will want boots and warm layers for the walks between enclosures.
In the weeks around Christmas and into early January the zoo runs a lights event in the evenings, with different hours from the regular season, and it is covered separately in this guide. The zoo is closed on a few holidays, so check before you plan a Christmas visit.
Who it suits
Families with children under about ten will get the most from the zoo, and it is a nice change of pace for travellers who have already done the museums. Older children may prefer the mall or the river valley. Combine it with a walk in the nearby valley parks or a picnic in good weather. Strollers are easy to use on the main paths, and the carousel and the playgrounds give young children a place to burn off energy between animal visits. Bring snacks in winter, since some food outlets are seasonal.
Practical extras
Bring a stroller or a carrier for the youngest children, as the grounds cover a fair amount of walking, and carry a water bottle in summer. Weekday mornings are the quietest, and school group visits can add noise on spring weekdays. If you are travelling without a car, plan the trip by taxi or rideshare, since the zoo is in the valley rather than on a main transit line. Check the website on the day for any animal exhibit closures, which happen from time to time for care and maintenance.
What to expect
The experience
A compact river valley zoo with more than 250 animals, indoor viewing, a free carousel and seasonal rides and food.
Best time
Mornings in summer for active animals and shorter lines; weekdays outside school holidays are calmest.
How long
Two to four hours at a young child's pace.
Tips
Reserve a timed entry online, check the season's hours, bring warm layers outside summer and note that some food outlets and the train are seasonal.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with young children who want a gentle, easy day out.
- Families
- One of the best fits in the city for toddlers and primary-school children.
- Couples
- Pleasant for a quiet walk among the trees, though the zoo is aimed at families.
- Pair with
- A walk through the river valley parks or the Muttart Conservatory on the same side of the river.
- Time needed
- Half a day is plenty.
Good questions
Do I need to book tickets?+
You can reserve a timed entry online, which guarantees admission and avoids queues, or pay at the front counter.
Where is the zoo and is there parking?+
It is at 13315 Buena Vista Road (87 Avenue) in the river valley, and a large parking lot outside the entrance is free.
Is the zoo open in winter?+
Yes, it keeps seasonal hours, and some services such as the miniature train and food outlets operate only in summer. Check the hours for your dates.
How many animals are there?+
The zoo is home to more than 250 animals, with a focus on conservation.
Is there anything free inside?+
The carousel is free to ride during zoo hours, once you are inside.
