Canada’s #1 Most Visited Zoo
Discover the Wild Heart of Calgary
Located on St. George’s Island, just five minutes from downtown Calgary, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is a beloved part of the city and Canada’s most-visited zoo, making it a favourite destination for all ages. Founded in 1929 and spanning a vast 125 acres, the zoo has grown into the wild heart of Calgary. As one of Alberta’s oldest charities, it operates as a not-for-profit wildlife conservation organization dedicated to protecting plants and animals worldwide. For decades, Calgarians and visitors have come to the zoo to learn, explore, and play. While our impact is global, our roots run deep in Alberta’s conservation community.
Your visit directly supports
A world-class Canadian accredited zoo and conservation organization
For over 30 years, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has been a leader in wildlife conservation, reintroducing threatened species into the wild and empowering communities to protect natural resources. As a not-for-profit charitable organization, every visit supports global efforts to fight the extinction of plants and animals.
We are proud to be accredited by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), meeting the highest standards of animal care and conservation. Visitors to accredited zoos like ours can be confident their experience directly contributes to protecting wildlife and their habitats.
Your guaranteed opportunity to
Experience Canadian wildlife up close
Every year, millions of tourists visit Canada, hoping to catch a glimpse of the country’s iconic wildlife. At Wild Canada, we take the guesswork out of wildlife encounters. It is home to many Canadian natives, from a pack of gray wolves to polar bears, moose, grizzlies, and a playful family of North American river otters.
A visit to Wild Canada guarantees a wildlife experience unlike any other.
You’ll also experience
Species from across the globe
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is a must-visit destination for all ages. We’re home to more than 4,000 animals from over 100 different species. You’ll get up close and personal with magnificent creatures from around the world, big and small. From butterflies to bears, lions to lemurs, mountain goats to gorillas; you’ll find all your favorite animals here.
Destination Africa
See the majesty of the animal kingdom up close. From towering giraffes to powerful lions, you’ll discover the world’s most incredible creatures.
Exploration Asia
From grassy plains to the northern tundra, Asia is a continent full of incredible creatures made to survive in unique conditions.
Penguin Plunge
Find yourself in a penguin paradise. See penguins waddling on the beach under the aurora lights and splashing in the sunshine.
Wild Canada
Canada is home to some of the world’s most incredible creatures. Visitors are taken on a journey through seven of Canada’s ecological zones.
ENMAX Conservatory
It’s time to take a deep breath. Breathe in the lush greenery of our greenhouse and see if a butterfly comes to greet you.
Dorothy Harvie Gardens
Discover an oasis. Across six acres of land, this garden shows what is possible in Calgary’s unique climate zone.
Prehistoric Park
Get ready to roar. This seasonal space is full of dinosaurs that bring the past rulers of the world to life.
Our all season destination brings
364 days of adventure
There is lots to do besides visit the animals. Keep scrolling to discover what’s new at the zoo. It may surprise you.
Eat. Shop. Play.
There’s more than just animals to make a trip to the zoo special. Discover what will make your visit zoo-nique.
Gift Shops
Take more than just memories home from your visit to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. Browse our gift shops for souvenirs, unique gifts, or a new favourite piece of clothing to surprise your friends and family or make them a little jealous – your choice!
Family-friendly Events
From the annual Teddy Bear Clinic to Easter celebrations and a family-friendly all-you-can-eat brunch every Sunday, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo offers a variety of events designed to entertain, educate, and inspire children of all ages.
Adults-only Events
The zoo comes alive at night with Wild After Hours (adults-only) events. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a wild night of adventure with friends, one thing is certain – a visit to any Wild After Hours event is sure to be a night to remember. So don’t miss out – join us for some zoo-nique fun!
Are you in?
Plan Your Visit
It’s time to make some memories. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable day at the zoo.
Interested in purchasing group tickets?
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