The Edmonton Valley Zoo sits in Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, beside the North Saskatchewan River in Edmonton's river valley. The zoo is home to more than 350 animals from over 100 species, from arctic wolves and bighorn sheep to red pandas, seals and an Asian elephant named Lucy. The animals live in eight biomes, and the zoo has modernized several areas, including the Arctic Shores exhibit. Walk the paths slowly, catch a keeper presentation, and spend time at the red pandas and seals.
Setting and history
The zoo is in Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, beside the North Saskatchewan River. It was established in 1959 and covers more than 150 acres of the river valley. The City of Edmonton owns and operates it.
The collection includes more than 100 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Many are native to Canada, such as arctic wolves, bighorn sheep and caribou. Others come from further away, including a Siberian tiger and a two-toed sloth.
Exhibits and animals to look for
The animals are grouped into eight biomes. Nature's Wild Backyard holds up to four breeding pairs of red pandas, which are endangered, and lets visitors get close to these Himalayan carnivores. The zoo built the exhibit to take part in the international Red Panda Species Survival Plan.
Arctic Shores recreates tundra on a small scale, with landscaping that suggests the arctic and subarctic habitat.
Lucy is an Asian elephant and the zoo's longest-resident animal. Interpreters have said noon is the most likely time to see her out on a walk, though she does not always go out. Lucy has also drawn public debate over whether she should be moved. Jane Goodall has concluded that the risks of moving her would outweigh the benefits.
Conservation and animal programs
The zoo takes part in and supports several conservation efforts. Its work includes the Red Panda Network and the Red Panda Species Survival Plan. It also supports the Wildlife Conservation Society, The Snow Leopard Trust and The Amphibian Ark, and it has joined the international Year of the Frog initiative to prevent frog extinctions.
Visitors can adopt an animal for themselves or as a gift to support the zoo's enrichment program. The recipient receives a Certificate of Adoption for the chosen animal.
A family membership gives unlimited visits through the year, 10% off in the gift shop and other member benefits. The family membership covers up to seven members.
Visiting the zoo
Keeper presentations and animal interactions run during the day, and the zoo posts a daily schedule showing which animals and caretakers will be presenting. Lawn games are also available.
Children can ride the miniature train, and there is a merry-go-round on the far side of the park. It is a donation ride, and visitors say it is a good place to cool off on a hot day. The zoo has a playground and a petting zoo.
The Wild Earth Café is the place for a warm drink in winter. Several other spots around the park sell food, and there is a gift shop with toys, collectibles and options for different budgets. Washrooms are clean and there is plenty of seating when the zoo is busy.
Zoominescence in winter
Zoominescence is a seasonal winter light show at night. Visitors can skate, drink hot chocolate and listen to music while they walk the zoo after dark. The show is a way to see the zoo in the cold months, when the animals are often more active and the crowds are thinner.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. General admission applies, and tickets can be bought in advance on MoveLearnPlay. Memberships are also available.
How long do you need at the zoo?
Plan a few hours for a relaxed visit. Allow extra time for keeper presentations and animal talks.
Is the zoo good for children?
Yes. The zoo has a playground, a petting zoo, a miniature train and a merry-go-round, along with educational displays and presentations. It also hosts birthday parties and events.
Is there a café at the zoo?
Yes. The Wild Earth Café serves hot chocolate and other warm drinks, and several other food spots are around the park.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
The zoo lists accessible entrances, restrooms, parking and seating. Some paths are steep and a few obstacles can be hard to pass by wheelchair or scooter, so check the route before you go.
