recreation Rouge Modern

Toronto Zoo

Canada's largest zoo spans 710 acres in northeast Scarborough, home to over 5,000 animals across geographic pavilions and a major family destination for the GTA.

Address: 2000 Meadowvale Road, Scarborough

Toronto Zoo
Photo via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA). Toronto Zoo

The Toronto Zoo opened in 1974 in northeast Scarborough after outgrowing its earlier Riverdale location. At roughly 710 acres, it is one of the largest zoos in the world by area, organized into geographic regions from the African Savanna to the Americas and Indo-Malaya.

Why families come here

The zoo anchors Scarborough’s identity as more than suburbs and strip malls. Seasonal events, including March Break camps, Terra Lumina night walks, and holiday light displays, draw visitors from across the GTA. Conservation and breeding programs operate behind the scenes year-round.

Try this

  • Arrive at opening on weekends to beat crowds at the Giant Panda and gorilla habitats
  • Ride the Zoomobile if mobility is a concern, the site is large
  • Combine with Rouge National Urban Park next door

Good to know

General admission varies by season. Check torontozoo.com. TTC Route 85 Sheppard East connects to Meadowvale Road. Plan half a day minimum.