PETTING ZOOS CANADA

Thistle Hill Farm Petting Zoo and Pony Rides is a family-friendly agricultural attraction located at 22137 AB-21 in Hay Lakes, Alberta, Canada, and has been welcoming guests since 1994 as one of the Edmonton region's longest-running licensed petting zoos. The farm features a variety of approachable animals including goats, wallabies, baby animals, and ponies, with hands-on feeding and petting opportunities designed for young children and families. Pony rides and wagon rides are among the most popular activities, and the farm also caters to birthday parties, school groups, and educational animal experiences. Operating Thursday through Sunday in structured time slots throughout the day, Thistle Hill Farm is dedicated to providing quality, affordable entertainment and memorable encounters with farm animals in a safe and welcoming rural Alberta setting.

Grotto Gardens Family Fun Farm is a seasonal agritourism attraction located in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, celebrating a decade of welcoming families to its diverse lineup of farm experiences. The property features an Animal Adventure Park where visitors can interact with ponies, donkeys, and emus, as well as mini golf surrounded by farm animals and guided farm train rides through the grounds. Open from late May through early September on a Thursday-to-Sunday schedule, with expanded hours in July and August, the farm also operates a gift shop and restaurant for a complete family outing. Its relaxed rural setting, hands-on animal encounters, and variety of activities make Grotto Gardens an appealing destination for families seeking outdoor entertainment and genuine farm experiences in the prairies of western Saskatchewan.

Goats on 86 is a charming family farm attraction located at 5428 Perth County Line 86, just east of Listowel in North Perth, Ontario. Open seasonally from May through October, the farm invites visitors to view, pet, and feed a friendly group of goats and alpacas roaming a welcoming outdoor setting. Animal feed is available for purchase from on-site vending machines, making the feeding experience easy and interactive for children and adults alike. The farm operates daily from 9:30am to 8:30pm and does not charge an entry fee, relying instead on feed purchases and the goodwill of visitors. A popular roadside destination for families, day-trippers, and animal lovers from Kitchener, Waterloo, Stratford, and beyond, Goats on 86 offers a lighthearted and accessible encounter with farm animals in the heart of rural Ontario.

The FunSize Farmyard is a charming family-friendly farm attraction located in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia, Canada. This welcoming farmyard invites visitors of all ages to get up close with a variety of friendly farm animals, including rabbits, goats, and an assortment of birds, offering hands-on interactions that delight both children and adults. Designed as a fun and educational space, The FunSize Farmyard encourages guests to learn about farm life, animal care, and agriculture in an engaging, approachable setting. Its small-scale, intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for families seeking a relaxed and wholesome day out in the Annapolis Valley region of Nova Scotia.

Fenek Farms is an agritourism destination and working farm situated just ten minutes north of Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. The farm offers immersive educational experiences including guided farm tours, hay rides, and hands-on demonstrations such as milking a cow and churning butter. Visitors can enjoy petting zoo interactions and animal feeding sessions, and the farm also operates a traveling petting zoo service for off-site events. Fenek Farms welcomes groups ranging from individual families to parties of over 120 guests, making it ideal for birthday celebrations, school excursions, and private gatherings. The property also supplies the local community with fresh farm products including vegetables, eggs, honey, meat, and poultry, operating year-round from 10 AM to 4 PM.

The 10 Acre Woods is a family-owned and operated registered not-for-profit petting farm and animal rescue located in Anola, Manitoba, approximately 25 kilometres east of Winnipeg in the Springfield area. Home to a diverse collection of rescued and rehomed animals, the farm features rabbits of numerous breeds, ducks, geese, pigeons, peafowl, pygmy goats, horses, sheep, and chickens. Many of the animals have been taken in from municipal animal services or from owners who could no longer care for them, including bottle-raised babies, orphans, and runts. The farm offers family-friendly activities including animal interactions and the popular Goat Yoga sessions, which combine animal therapy with the calming benefits of yoga for a truly memorable experience.

Pigtopia, officially known as the Loving Community of Pigtopia, is a family-friendly farm experience located just south of Edmonton in Leduc County, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 2020 by Angela and James, the farm is home to approximately 60 animals, with pigs of all different sizes and breeds at the heart of the experience, alongside miniature horses and goats. Visitors can enjoy guided farm tours, pig cuddling sessions, day camps, and opportunities to interact closely with the resident animals. The property also offers rental space for weddings and birthday celebrations, and operates a pet adoption program for animals looking for new homes. Pigtopia provides a warm, community-spirited setting where families and animal lovers can enjoy authentic farm life and memorable connections with some very personable pigs.

Happy Rolph's Animal Farm is a free, city-operated outdoor attraction in St. Catharines, Ontario, situated along the shores of Lake Ontario. Originally established as a bird sanctuary by Harry Rolph and his wife Jen, the farm has grown into a beloved family destination featuring alpacas, horses, chickens, turkeys, llamas, and a large hog, alongside adjacent ponds teeming with ducks, geese, and native waterfowl that visitors can feed at designated stations. The grounds also include a playground, shaded pavilion, quiet lakeside seating areas, and walking trails, making it ideal for a relaxed outing in a natural setting. Open seasonally through October and free of charge at all times, Happy Rolph's Animal Farm offers a peaceful and educational experience for families and nature lovers in the Niagara region.

Lionel's Farm is a family-run petting and interactive farm experience located at 11714 McCowan Road in Stouffville, Ontario, just outside the Greater Toronto Area, and has been welcoming visitors for over 50 years. The farm is home to goats, sheep, rabbits, alpacas, and ponies, giving guests of all ages the chance to get up close with friendly animals in a clean and safe environment. Highlights include pony rides, wagon rides, and specially designed programming for birthday parties and school tours. All visits require advance online registration, with a maximum of ten guests per session to ensure a personal and attentive experience. Operating seasonally from May through November, Lionel's Farm is a cherished destination for families seeking quality farm entertainment and hands-on animal interaction near Toronto.

Educazoo Quebec is an exotic animal sanctuary and educational attraction located in Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, just outside Quebec City, Quebec. As a non-profit organization, the sanctuary provides a forever home for more than 550 abandoned exotic animals representing over 60 species, including more than 50 species of rescued reptiles such as snakes, lizards, and tortoises, along with birds housed in Parrottown, small mammals in Furetteville, and many other creatures. Guided tours are led by passionate naturalists who allow visitors to handle over 15 species comfortable with human interaction. In addition to on-site visits, Educazoo offers mobile educational programs for schools, daycares, and birthday celebrations throughout the Quebec City region, making it a meaningful and engaging experience for children and families interested in wildlife conservation and hands-on learning.

Saunders Country Critters Zoo Sanctuary and Garden Center is a wildlife sanctuary and educational facility located in the Leeds and Grenville region of Ontario, Canada. The sanctuary is home to a remarkable variety of domestic and exotic animals including goats, cows, horses, pigs, lemurs, kangaroos, small mammals, a diverse collection of cats, singing dogs, and a Birds of Prey area featuring barn owls and falcons, among many other species. Open daily from 10am to 4pm, the facility offers free educational talks for all guests and a hands-on experience suitable for families, with children under 16 required to be accompanied by an adult. Additional programming includes summer camps and volunteer and internship opportunities, while an on-site garden center rounds out the visit. It is a welcoming destination for those seeking genuine wildlife encounters and community engagement in eastern Ontario.

Waddles 'N' Wags Zoological Haven is a family-operated exotic animal rescue and educational facility located approximately 12 kilometres outside Eganville in Ontario's Bonnechere Valley, within Renfrew County. Billing itself as the biggest little zoo in the valley, the haven offered hands-on educational experiences for visitors of all ages, with a diverse collection of animals including ferrets, horses, turkeys, cavies, and constrictors, among other species. The facility operated for 18 years providing guided tours and close-up wildlife encounters emphasizing conservation education and community engagement in a rural Ontario setting. It served as a meaningful destination for families and school groups seeking personal interaction with a wide variety of rescued and cared-for animals just 15 minutes from Eganville village.

Waterford Deer Park is a long-established community wildlife attraction in Waterford, Ontario, Canada, founded in 1942 and operated by the Waterford District Community Foundation. The park is home to a resident deer population that has delighted local families and visitors for generations, and it has gained international recognition through live-streaming cameras that bring its inhabitants to audiences around the world. Supported by local businesses and dedicated donors who rallied to prevent its closure, the park remains a cherished part of the community fabric and offers a peaceful, family-friendly setting to observe deer in a natural park environment. Its blend of accessible in-person visits and online streaming makes Waterford Deer Park a unique destination for wildlife appreciation in southwestern Ontario.

Little Farmers Zoo is a community-supported, donation-operated petting zoo located adjacent to Westsyde Centennial Park in Kamloops, British Columbia. Open daily during daylight hours, the facility is free to enter and features a friendly collection of animals including goats, emus, turkeys, geese, chickens, and pigs that visitors can feed using on-site vending machines — quarters for poultry and loonies for the goats. A refreshment kiosk offers snacks and larger portions of animal feed for a small fee. The zoo is maintained through community generosity, including the support of volunteer organizations and corporate donors, and is suitable for visitors of all ages. Seasonal arrivals such as baby goats in spring and chicks in late May provide additional excitement for returning families throughout the warmer months in Kamloops.

Greenview Park and Zoo is a family-owned and operated wildlife park and country attraction located in Morpeth, in the Chatham-Kent region of southwestern Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1983, the zoo began as a bird breeding facility and has grown into a multi-species attraction housing over 75 animal species, including tigers, lions, jaguars, cougars, wolves, zebras, kangaroos, lemurs, monkeys, capybaras, alpacas, llamas, donkeys, pigs, turtles, and an extensive collection of tropical and exotic birds. Visitors can hand-feed select animals using feed buckets available for purchase, and the grounds also feature a large playground, splash pad, inflatable jumping pillow, restaurant, and gift shop. Open seasonally from May through Thanksgiving weekend, Greenview Park and Zoo offers a full day of animal encounters and outdoor fun for families across the region.

Weyburn Therapeutic Animal Park is a beloved community-run animal park located in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, celebrating over 40 years of serving the local community. Operated as a non-profit organization and entirely volunteer-run, the park is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is always free to visit. Residents include goats, sheep, alpacas, pot-bellied pigs, a miniature horse, a mule, various birds, and bunnies, offering a warm and engaging environment for visitors of all ages. Picnic tables, a playground, and a sandbox make the park an ideal spot for family outings and relaxed afternoons outdoors. Sustained by community donations and the dedication of local volunteers, the Weyburn Therapeutic Animal Park reflects the spirit of neighbourly care and provides a cherished green space for animal interaction in southern Saskatchewan.

Zoo Animalia is a smaller, intimate wildlife park located in Saint-Edouard-de-Maskinonge in the Mauricie region of Quebec, Canada. The zoo focuses on regional North American wildlife, featuring animals such as lynx, wolves, bears, bison, and sheep in enclosures that allow visitors to observe the animals at close range and appreciate their natural behaviours. Known for its relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere and friendly staff, Zoo Animalia is particularly well suited for families with young children who appreciate the opportunity for genuine, up-close wildlife encounters in a peaceful rural setting. The park offers an accessible and educational introduction to the native fauna of Quebec, making it a charming stop for families exploring the Mauricie region of the province.

The Aquarium of Quebec, operated by Sepaq, is a major public aquarium located in the former city of Sainte-Foy within Quebec City, Quebec. Home to more than 10,000 animals representing over 300 species, the aquarium offers a rich variety of marine and freshwater encounters, including polar bears, harbour seals, leopard sharks, giant Pacific octopuses, jellyfish, sea otters, and three Pacific walruses — the only institution in the world caring for both subspecies. The celebrated Awesome Ocean exhibit invites visitors to walk through a 350,000-litre saltwater tank and observe marine life from a diver's perspective. Interactive touch tanks allow guests to handle starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. Outdoor water play areas, a riverside restaurant terrace, summer camps, and seasonal events round out the experience, making the Aquarium of Quebec a premier family destination on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

Discovery Passage Aquarium is a non-profit, hands-on marine facility located at the base of Discovery Pier in Campbell River, British Columbia, dedicated to celebrating the remarkable aquatic life of the Discovery Passage and surrounding coastal waters. Operating on a collect-and-release model, all marine specimens are gathered locally each spring and returned to their natural habitat at the close of the season, underscoring a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Visitors can see, touch, and learn about local marine species and their habitats in an engaging and accessible setting. The aquarium also offers summer camps, after-school clubs, and school educational programs, as well as an Explorer Lab and the Discovery Passage Knowledge Hub for deeper learning. Seasonal hours run from spring through fall, making it an ideal destination for families and marine enthusiasts visiting Vancouver Island's northern shore.

The Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing is a licensed zoo and registered charity located at 6 Broad Street in Brockville, Ontario, on the shores of the St. Lawrence River. Opened in 2016 and welcoming approximately 65,000 visitors annually, the Aquatarium brings the wildlife of the St. Lawrence ecosystem to life through interactive aquarium exhibits, immersive touch tanks, and enrichment activities. Resident otters and beavers are among the most beloved inhabitants, with special bookable experiences including The Otter Experience and up-close beaver encounters available in summer. Families can enjoy the AQ Train ride, Camp AQ programs, birthday parties, and school field trips throughout the season. With its blend of aquatic education, hands-on wildlife encounters, and a welcoming riverside setting, the Aquatarium is a distinctive attraction in the Thousand Islands region of eastern Ontario.

The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is a not-for-profit aquarium and marine learning centre located on the waterfront in Sidney, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island, situated on the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ peoples. As Vancouver Island's largest aquarium and the only public aquarium in Greater Victoria, the centre celebrates the extraordinary biodiversity of the Salish Sea, a region home to 37 species of marine mammals, 172 bird species, and 247 fish species. Interactive and self-guided exhibits highlight endangered southern resident orcas, Pacific salmon, and the more than 125 at-risk species found in this ecologically significant region. Daily tours, children's activities, summer camps, and school programs make the Shaw Centre a valuable educational destination for families and marine enthusiasts. Open daily from 10am to 4:30pm, it offers an inspiring and informative window into the wonders of the Pacific Northwest coast.

Vancouver Aquarium, located in Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, is Canada's largest aquarium and a world-renowned marine science centre. Home to over 65,000 animals across more than 120 indoor and outdoor exhibits, the aquarium showcases wildlife from local Pacific Canadian waters, tropical coral reefs, the Amazon rainforest, and the Arctic. Visitors encounter sea otters, sea lions, belugas, blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, sloths, caimans, and a dazzling variety of fish and invertebrates. The aquarium operates a Marine Mammal Rescue program that rehabilitates injured and orphaned sea creatures, and conducts ongoing marine science research and conservation programs aimed at protecting species in the wild. Engaging exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational programming make it a compelling destination for families, students, and ocean enthusiasts of all ages.

Marine Life at West Edmonton Mall is an underground aquatic attraction in Edmonton, Alberta, showcasing over 100 species from around the world, including sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and a wide range of fish, reptiles, and invertebrates. The facility features the Sea Life Caverns experience where visitors explore diverse marine habitats cared for by expert staff. Highlights include sea lion shows, penguin meet-and-greets, and interactive animal expeditions. Accredited by Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) and the National Marine Educators Association, Marine Life is committed to animal welfare and conservation. Family-friendly programming includes birthday parties, virtual classroom sessions aligned with Alberta curriculum standards, and hands-on educational activities, making it a popular year-round destination for guests of all ages visiting the iconic West Edmonton Mall.

Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium is a beloved seasonal attraction located in a converted fish processing plant about 15 minutes south of St. John's, Newfoundland. The aquarium features 25 touch tanks and exhibit displays showcasing local marine species collected directly from the surrounding Atlantic waters. Staff and interpreters offer engaging, hands-on learning experiences, and the facility also hosts an immersive Undersea Explorer VR experience with 360-degree ocean footage and a motion-platform. A hallmark of the Mini Aquarium is its environmentally responsible catch-and-release model, through which all animals are returned to the ocean at the end of each season. Programming includes birthday parties, overnight sleepovers, and school outreach visits. Families enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, accessible parking, and a genuine connection to Newfoundland's coastal marine heritage.

Aquarium NB, situated in Shippagan, New Brunswick, is a captivating marine attraction that brings visitors face-to-face with the aquatic wonders of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Eastern Canadian waters. The aquarium features a diverse range of species, including harbour seals, colourful lobsters, sea urchins, anemones, and Acadian redfish, housed in exhibits that include a dramatic 360-degree immersive tank. Guests can attend the harbour seals' feeding times, take part in interactive educational activities, and watch documentary screenings about marine life. Day camps for children, seasonal passes, and engaging family programming make it a wonderful outing for visitors of all ages. Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM during the May-to-September season, Aquarium NB offers an accessible and enriching window into the rich marine biodiversity of Atlantic Canada.

African Lion Safari is a renowned drive-through wildlife park located in Cambridge, Ontario, welcoming guests from May through September each year. Home to over 1,000 exotic birds and animals from around the world, the park features multiple game reserves that visitors can explore by personal vehicle or guided safari tour bus. Wildlife encounters include cheetahs, Asian elephants, bison, baboons, macaws, and many more species in expansive, naturalistic habitats. Beyond the safari drive, guests enjoy a scenic railway, boat cruises on the lake, a wetplay area, petting zoo, animal presentations, and a children's playground, offering a full day of family entertainment. As an accredited institution, African Lion Safari is committed to wildlife conservation, research, and global species protection, making every visit both thrilling and impactful for conservation efforts.

Children's Animal Farm is a beloved free-admission family attraction operated by the Seaway Kiwanis Club in partnership with the City of Sarnia and the Sarnia Humane Society, located in the beautiful Canatara Park at 1200 Lake Chipican Drive in Sarnia, Ontario. In operation since 1964, this charming farm is one of Sarnia's most-visited attractions and provides a wonderful opportunity for children and families to connect with a variety of friendly animals including llamas, miniature cattle, and Jersey cows. Visitors can stroll through the park's scenic gardens, enjoy adjacent playground facilities, and observe and interact with the resident animals. Open seasonally with summer and winter hours, the farm offers an educational and heartwarming experience that has delighted generations of local families and visitors alike.

Kangaroo Creek Farm is a unique and intimate wildlife attraction near Kelowna, British Columbia, offering visitors an up-close encounter with exotic animals in a relaxed, non-commercial setting. The farm is home to Red Kangaroos, Common Wallaroos, and Bennett Wallabies, as well as emus, peacocks, goats, parrots, capybaras, and potbellied pigs. Visitors are welcome to walk freely among the animals, hand-feed joeys, and participate in guided feeding sessions at no extra charge, while knowledgeable staff share information about the animals' species, habitat, and breeding. Located at 5932 Old Vernon Road and open seasonally from June through October, Kangaroo Creek Farm prioritises animal welfare and an authentic educational experience, making it a memorable destination for families, animal lovers, and visitors to the Okanagan region.

Beacon Hill Children's Farm is a cherished educational petting zoo nestled within the iconic Beacon Hill Park in Victoria, British Columbia. Operating since 1985 as a non-profit attraction funded entirely by visitor donations, the farm is dedicated to helping children develop a respect and appreciation for animals through hands-on interaction with friendly farm animals. A favourite daily highlight is the famous goat stampede at 10:10 am and 5:10 pm, when the resident goats make their enthusiastic way through the farm. The facility is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and warmly welcomes school groups, organized visits, animal sponsorships, and volunteers. Whether feeding the animals or simply enjoying the pastoral setting within one of Canada's most beautiful urban parks, the farm offers a gentle and joyful experience for children and families alike.

High Park Zoo, officially known as the High Park Animal Display, is Canada's oldest zoo, founded in 1893 and located within the beloved High Park in Toronto, Ontario. Open daily from 7 am to dusk with free admission, the zoo attracts over 600,000 visitors each year and is home to a diverse collection of animals across 11 paddocks. Visitors can encounter bison, llamas, capybaras, yaks, emus, highland cows, Barbary sheep, peacocks, and more in a relaxed, parkland setting. On weekends and holidays from April through October, the Llama Pen opens at noon, giving guests a chance to feed and pet the llamas up close. Easily accessible via Parkside Road, this beloved urban zoo offers a wonderful and accessible wildlife experience for families, tourists, and locals at the heart of one of Toronto's most treasured green spaces.

Toronto Zoo is Canada's largest zoo, situated on over 700 acres in Toronto, Ontario, and home to more than 5,000 animals representing approximately 500 species. Organised into seven zoogeographic regions, including Indo-Malaya, Africa, the Americas, Australasia, Eurasia, Canadian Domain, and Tundra Trek, the zoo offers an extraordinary diversity of habitats and wildlife encounters. Highlights include a 10-acre Arctic tundra exhibit with polar bears, Arctic wolves, and reindeer; indoor tropical rainforests; a coral reef aquarium; Sumatran orangutans; Indian rhinos; and Malayan tapirs. Toronto Zoo plays a significant role in global conservation and species survival programs, including captive breeding and reintroduction initiatives for species such as Blanding's turtles and Amur tigers. With year-round programming, educational experiences, and world-class facilities, it is a premier destination for wildlife lovers of all ages.

Oaklawn Farm Zoo is a family-owned zoological park set on 50 acres of scenic countryside in Aylesford, in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley. Established in 1984, the zoo was long celebrated as Nova Scotia's largest private zoo and featured one of Eastern Canada's most impressive collections of big cats and primates, alongside a broad range of mammals, birds, and reptiles encompassing both exotic and native species as well as domestic breeds. Popular attractions included feeding times for the big cats and bears, an opportunity for visitors to interact with deer and goats, and on-site dining and gift shop facilities. The zoo's rural setting and diverse animal residents made it a beloved destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts across Atlantic Canada and beyond.

Magnetic Hill Zoo is Atlantic Canada's largest zoo, a 16-hectare facility set within Magnetic Hill Park in Moncton, New Brunswick. Tracing its origins to the Magnetic Hill Game Farm established in 1953, the zoo today is home to over 400 animals encompassing more than 70 domestic and exotic species of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and fish. Visitors can explore four themed exhibit areas: the African Oasis, featuring lions, zebras, lemurs, camels, and gibbons; the Americas section with jaguars, cougars, wolves, caribou, and condors; a Domestic and Family Area with wallabies, flamingos, meerkats, otters, and more; and a Primate Conservation Centre. A 2-kilometre walking trail winds through all exhibits, complemented by keeper talks, Tarpan horse experiences, a playground, a bistro, and a gift shop. Accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1993, Magnetic Hill Zoo is a premier wildlife destination in the Maritimes.

Zoo Falardeau is a wildlife refuge located in Saint-David-de-Falardeau, Quebec, founded in 2009 after a family farm was transformed into a sanctuary dedicated to distressed and rescued wildlife. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals including zebras, kangaroos, and bald eagles, and invites visitors to purchase animal feed for interactive experiences. A dedicated nursery section offers up-close encounters with younger animals. Open year-round except major holidays, Zoo Falardeau welcomes families of all sizes and offers guided group tours, combining engaging entertainment with genuine wildlife rehabilitation efforts in a welcoming Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean setting.

Zoo de Granby is one of Quebec's premier family destinations, located in Granby and featuring approximately 1,500 animals across three distinct parks. The Animal Park showcases wildlife from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and South America, while the Amazoo Water Park offers thrilling aquatic attractions including the newly expanded Booshike zone. An Amusement Park with rides and virtual reality experiences completes the offering. Interactive animal encounters, keeper-led demonstrations, and roving naturalist interpretations make every visit educational and engaging. The zoo's Mission Faune conservation initiative supports wildlife research, education, and adoption programs, ensuring that a visit contributes meaningfully to the protection of animals around the world.

Elmvale Jungle Zoo is a 30-acre outdoor wildlife facility nestled in Simcoe County, Ontario, where visitors can explore shaded, winding trails and encounter a remarkable variety of animals. The zoo is home to majestic white lions and tigers, a collection of primates including monkeys and lemurs, exotic birds, and many other species in naturalistic settings. Families can enjoy interactions with playful baby animals and observe wildlife up close in a peanut-free, smoke-free environment. Open daily from 9:30 AM, the zoo offers discounted admission for children and seniors, making it an accessible and memorable outing for all ages in central Ontario.

Zoo Sauvage de Saint-Felicien is one of Quebec's largest and most celebrated wildlife parks, sprawling across 485 hectares of boreal forest terrain in Saint-Felicien, in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. Home to more than 400 animals representing 75 species, the zoo features distinct areas including mountain predator zones with cougars, bobcats, Canadian lynx, coyotes, and grizzly bears, as well as open parkland where bison, moose, elk, woodland caribou, musk oxen, and black bears roam freely. A signature wire-mesh train ride takes visitors through the Nature Trails Park, allowing them to observe wildlife in expansive natural habitats. An Asia zone with Amur tigers and Japanese macaques adds further diversity to this CAZA-accredited attraction.

The Big Apple is a beloved roadside attraction and agritourism destination located in Colborne, Ontario, known for its iconic giant apple structure and welcoming atmosphere. In addition to its famous freshly baked apple pies, artisanal maple syrup products, and regional Canadian goods, the property features a small petting zoo where visitors can meet and feed friendly farm animals including lambs, llamas, pigs, ducks, rabbits, and goats. Animal feed is available for purchase, making the petting zoo an enjoyable hands-on experience for young visitors and families. The facility also offers food trucks, a smokehouse, outdoor recreational spaces, and extended hours, making it a popular stop along Highway 2 in Northumberland County.

Vanderlaand The Barnyard Zoo is a charming interactive farm zoo located at Winchester Springs in North Dundas, Ontario, offering families a hands-on experience with a friendly collection of farm and exotic animals. Visitors can meet miniature horses, goats, sheep, alpacas, donkeys, rabbits, guinea pigs, pot-bellied pigs, chickens, peacocks, emus, and geese in a well-maintained and welcoming rural setting. Activities include birthday parties, group tours, and the popular "Help Farmer Ruth with the Chores" experience, encouraging direct engagement rather than passive observation. Operating seasonally with both weekday and weekend hours, The Barnyard Zoo provides an accessible and affordable outing where children and adults alike can connect with animals in a genuinely caring farm environment.

Safari Niagara is a CAZA-accredited zoological park located in Stevensville, Ontario, near Fort Erie, showcasing over 1,000 animals from around the world in a seasonally operated setting from May through October. The park is home to giraffes, rhinoceroses, lions, bears, hippopotamuses, river otters, wolves, gibbons, hawks, macaws, and many more species, with behind-the-scenes encounter experiences available for giraffes, rhinos, lions, and bears. Daily keeper talks, interactive shows such as Wonders of Flight and Zooniversity, and a Junior Zookeeper For A Day program make it an outstanding educational destination. Tram rides, splash areas, seasonal events including Boo at the Zoo, day camps, and on-site dining ensure a full day of family fun in the Niagara region.

Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm is a family-owned animal attraction located at 3377 Grandview Street North in Oshawa, Ontario, offering visitors the chance to interact with over 45 different animal species in a relaxed and welcoming farm setting. The zoo's diverse collection includes camels, lemurs, kangaroos, wallabies, macaws, monkeys, llamas, peafowl, coatimundi, Patagonian cavies, and a variety of domestic farm animals. Guests can purchase animal feed, enjoy pony rides, and pet many of the friendlier residents, while spacious picnic areas make it easy for families to settle in for a relaxed outing. The zoo's hands-on, interactive approach to wildlife makes it a popular destination for families and school groups throughout Durham Region.

Butterfield Acres is a petting farm and interactive animal experience located in Calgary, Alberta, offering families a welcoming place to connect with a range of farm animals including goats, horses, chickens, piglets, and spring kids. The farm opens its gates daily for drop-in visits and also hosts summer day camps, school and group field trips, birthday parties, and a mobile zoo service that brings animals directly to events and venues throughout the Calgary area. With an emphasis on hands-on learning and a focus on health and safety, Butterfield Acres provides an educational and enjoyable outing where children can engage with animals in a genuine farm environment close to the city.

Two Rivers Wildlife Park is a 500-acre wildlife sanctuary located in Huntington on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, providing a home for over 50 native and non-native animal species. The park shelters animals that were either born in captivity or rehabilitated following injury and could not be returned to the wild, including black bears, moose, wolves, cougars, white-tailed deer, river otters, bobcats, lynx, coyote, beaver, foxes, emus, and more. Visitors can walk scenic trails, feed deer at designated stops, and interact with domestic animals in the petting zoo area. Four cabins, a campground, swimming, hiking and snowshoeing trails, and horse-drawn wagon and sleigh rides round out an experience that celebrates Cape Breton's natural heritage in a beautiful island setting.

Colasanti's Tropical Gardens is a beloved multi-attraction destination located in Kingsville, Ontario, housed within 15 temperature-controlled greenhouses that create a year-round tropical escape. The facility features 18 indoor animal habitats showcasing reptiles such as frogs, lizards, turtles, and snakes, alongside ring-tailed lemurs, parrots, exotic birds including macaws, cockatoos, and Amazon parrots, and a variety of farm animals in a newly renovated barn. An immersive finch habitat, zookeeper Meet and Greet sessions on Fridays through Sundays, and seasonal outdoor animal habitats provide hands-on engagement for visitors of all ages. Rounding out the experience are an 18-hole mini golf course, lush tropical plant displays, home decor shopping, and an on-site restaurant, making Colasanti's a truly unique Windsor-Essex region destination.

Boomer's Funny Farm is a family-run petting farm and animal sanctuary founded in 2021 by the Thordarson family, located near Fraserwood in the Gimli area of Manitoba, Canada. What began as a hobby farm has grown into a welcoming animal care facility and rescue operation that provides permanent homes or suitable placements for animals in need. The farm is home to donkeys, horses, emus, llamas, goats, pigs, chickens, bunnies, and kittens, and visitors can enjoy guided tours, animal feeding sessions, and pony or horse rides. Open most days from 10 AM to 4 PM, Boomer's Funny Farm also hosts annual events, educational programs, and family-friendly experiences designed to foster meaningful connections between people and animals, with a special emphasis on the mental health benefits of animal interaction.

Brudenell Miniatures Barnyard Zoo is a delightful seasonal petting farm and barnyard zoo located at 74 Brudenell Point Road in Montague, Prince Edward Island, Canada. The attraction is home to more than 40 species of birds and animals, including miniature cows known as zebus, alongside a variety of other small and friendly farm creatures that visitors of all ages can interact with and feed. Set in the scenic Kings County region of PEI along the Points East Coastal Drive, the zoo operates daily during summer months from 10 AM to 5 PM, offering a charming, intimate experience for families and children. Its relaxed, hands-on atmosphere and affordable admission make it a popular stop for visitors exploring the natural beauty of eastern Prince Edward Island.