Reviews of Edmonton Valley Zoo (Tourist Attraction)

Melissa Hodge

My kids loved it here! So much to see and do! The carousel was a hit as was the train ride, we got to see Lucy the Elephant out for a walk and the zebras were happy to entertain! The petting zoo was a big hit too!

Sharath Kumar

Nice place to spend time with family.

Craig H

Wonderful to be able to visit as restrictions relax. Sad that we didn't get to see Lucy but her needs are more important than ours, of course. Was our first ever visit and for sure we will be back so we can hopefully see Lucy, the red pandas, and maybe even a tiger taking a swim. Entrance fee is cheaper than going to a movie!

Ryan Muse

We had a great time! Nice staff. Awesome animals!

Diane Mikkelson

The Valley Zoo is one of my favorite places for outings with my family. The cost of admission is is great value for our family of six for a whole day, and it never fails that there are exhibits of interest to each of us when we go. We took advantage of the free admission on September 29 and we had a blast! Something new or not previously discovered awaits at every visit and it's a pretty cool spot for a picnic too! Looking forward to returning again and again!

Jerusha Chua

We booked a visit online and it was only $15 per person. We came at the end of the day on a weekday, near 4PM, and it was not crowded at all. It took us about 1.5h to walk the whole zoo - there's a lot of area to cover. Unfortunately, a number of exhibits were closed and it was hard to tell if it was closed or the animals were just shy. Lucy the elephant is still on sabbatical ????. The cutest thing here was the red panda ????

Teri Druar

PLEASE STOP SUPPORTING THIS ZOO. This place is one of the worst zoos I have seen besides Lloydminster zoo. This place should be closed down. Seeing Lucy being neglected is inhumane. Hurts my heart and is on every level unethical. The fact that the zoo was offered free assessments for Lucy who has lived her life in the unfit, subzero temperatures of Northern Alberta with no family is beyond sad. This zoo denied top professional vet help including Cher who wants nothing but the best for this elephant. They would not benefit off of Lucy and only have her best interest at heart. It is the Edmonton Valley Zoo that has denied this help and best interest for Lucy...it is beyond outrageous. Have assessments done outside the people that make money off of her presence in this zoo. Animals have rights.. Lucy has rights. and they do not belong in the hands of people using them for financial benefit. Sad and sickened by the people entrusted with Lucy and all the animals care. This goes to show that Lucy is nothing more than a money maker for this establishment. Send them to sanctuaries where they should live out the remainder of lives.

Wilmira Myelle Puno-Nuera

Very very from what I've expected. Turns out, EVZ is a perfect place to go with the whole fam! I love how they preserved the whole location, they are really pro environment both flora and fauna. Staff are very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. This is our first time visiting the facility and yes! We will definitely come back, weather permitted and mostly when it is safe (covid safe) 5 stars for Edmonton Valley Zoo ❤

Kelly Roy

Such an iconic story behind this amazing piece of Edmonton, the early years the zoo was pretty sparse but now that money has been injected into this awesome facility, super modern exhibits , lots of free parking and the staff are always amazing, dont compare our zoo to San Diego but ours is pretty awesome

Louis Edwards

One of the best zoos ever! Especially love the aquatic areas, the red panda habitat, and the goat roof!

Leslie Scilley

Impressed with the renovations the zoo has completed in the last few years. Kids LOVED the meltaway area.

Patrick Lajeunesse

They take great care of the animals, and the light show in the winter is great!

Aylyssa Lorna Marie Ganne

Had an absolutely amazing experience! Covid friendly & the staff are very helpful & willing to explain things to the kids :)

Charles C

Just the right amount of zoo for young children. Takes maybe 60-90 minutes to get through which is just long enough for a quick outing. Staff are very friendly and helpful. It is best to go first thing in the morning before crowds. Price is quite reasonable.

Kristine Reid

Saw Lucy the elephant on her walk twice today and Zeus the bald eagle . Some areas were blocked died off for construction/ renovation.

Tish d'Arcy

Been visiting this zoo for 20 years and while it is not the biggest or best, I'm happy to call it Edmonton's. The conservation efforts and animal care are obviously a priority. The upgrades to so many habitats a pleasure to see. I'm particularly fond of the Red Pandas and Otters. Best time to go is first thing!

Leonora Morin

We attended the Zooescence this Dec 2021 and had a lot of fun.

Lisa Rodgers

We haven't been to the zoo in a few years and I was impressed. It has improved a lot since I was last there. They have good measures in place for covid and if masks are difficult for you. You only have to wear them if you decide to go inside one of the builsings otherwise you don't need to wear them. It was a great place to go for a walk and enjoy the weather.

M R

We really like this zoo. No it doesn't compare to the Calgary Zoo or any of those larger zoos, but it is a great walk for the family. They have a good variety of animals and if your lucky you may see the Elephant too! We bought a family pass so we can go more often to enjoy the animals.

Chris Polowy

It’s a wonderful place to go to. Going to ZooBrew, one of their premier events, you really see that the people who work at the Valley Zoo enjoy what they do for a living. Their passion can be seen through the events and overall friendliness. 5 stars all round.

Drew

We went for Zoominecince. There were light sculptures and many indoor exhibits to warm up in. There were many exhibits that either closed by the time we got there like the tiger goes to sleep at 7pm, or I felt we missed due to the confusing layout of the zoo. Additionally it was nearly impossible to see a lot of the animals that were outside, due to the lack of lighting. This event would benefit from a downloadable map with a routing feature and exhibit list. As well as better exhibit lighting. You may consider bringing without heated blankets and a wagon for the kids, and a touque, mitts and a hot coffee for yourself. You will be colder than you think.

Martin Ly

I liked all the habitats, I just wished they had a more bright and fun atmosphere. It was in a lot of construction so I can't really fault them for that. The staff we did pass near were friendly and informative

Dina Mace

Honestly some of the older habitats are hard to enjoy. BUT, I know the Zoo is very busy working on improvements. It has been nice to see this Zoo grow from what it used to be! The food options are so much better than they once were. There is a great wading stream/rock climbing area, and there are lots of picnic spots if you choose to bring your own foid. The more we support this Zoo the better it can improve ????

R.W H

We visited the zoo today. My 7 year was on a school trip, and we tagged along with our 2 years old. Mind you it’s spring and the it’s warm but not for all the animals to be out and about. We saw the Leopard, wolves, a tiger, bunch of zebras but could see Lucy the elephant. I would suggest going their April onwards. Great nice place with a cafe, vending machines and an ATM. I wanted to see more animals but it was still cold and the trails were icy and wet. I have attached the map and other important info about the place have a look and enjoy.

369ultimategamer

This is a very nice place. The place is big, clean and the animal habitats are well maintained. Some places smelled pretty smelly but that's the animal's fault. Like any zoo they have explainations for each animals and "did you knows". The only reason this place lost a star is because the elephant thing was late from when it was scheduled but that wasnt a really big deal.

Jenn Budden

What a fun place place to spend the day! Supporting the zoo supports all the cute animals you would not be able to see otherwise in your everyday life! ???? The staff and the animals are all amazing. I suggest buying your tickets online before arrival and spend the day/ take your time. The poison frogs are my favorite. We can't wait to go back.

Karen J

Full disclosure, I was considering booking the Otter room for an event but haven't actually booked anything yet, so not too sure on service. But, the facility itself is gorgeous, the city has done amazing work in putting together a visually stunning building. They include tables and chairs in a booking, and I believe you can rent out exclusive after-hours access to the zoo if you book an event there. Its the zoo so tons of parking with tons of standard Edmonton-sized pot holes, make sure to drive slowly , it's pretty brutal. Still, awesome potential spot for a private party.

Curt

Got tickets here for opening day. They did a good job of limiting the amount of people entering at a time. Masks are mandatory even though access is all outdoors. They have masks available at the door in case you forget. There was not too many animals out and the ones that were, did not have much energy. The otters were swimming around a bit. The Zebras were sleeping, the Tiger was walking around a bit. The Zoo is appealing to kids, however as an adult I'm not generally too impressed. The animals look old and sick. Unfortunately the Calgary Zoo will out-rank the Edmonton Zoo any day so i would rather take the road-trip. However it is a nice picnic area and a way to spent the day outdoors with family and the kids really enjoy themselves so thats all that matters.

Shree G

We had such a great time at the zoo! We go at least once a year in the summertime (usually). It’s always good for a couple hours of wandering, learning, and checking out the animals. The ice cream is also excellent - there’s 2 opportunities to get some, and they both take card or cash. The COVID measures were well thought out. You have to pre-buy tickets, and there are only a certain number within each time frame. You have to show up within your thirty minute window as well. Masks are mandatory within the indoor spaces, and the amount of groups allowed inside is limited - you are also not allowed to pass other groups. Overall, we enjoyed the hot weather, the ice cream, and all of the animals we saw! It’s always a fun time at the Valley Zoo. :)

Gagandeep Khosa

One guy at gates skipped my daughter intentionally while he was explaining about an animal skull to all kids in line up 1 by 1. He have seen us but never wished or even tried to talk to me or my daughter. He was talking to all others, greeting them and all. I am a very friendly person. Was not even upset or angry at anything that time. Because i was excited to see what animals are there, as it was my first visit to this zoo. And me and my daughters are animal lovers. May i know why he did that? Not much animals to see, the enclosures of birds were dirty and please have paved parking, each passing car blew dust in the air and on to the faces of people walking.

Amber Niemeier

Got to go behind the scenes. It's clear the keepers and volunteers here care deeply about the care and conversation of their animals. The prep kitchen, grain room, and back of animal facilities was spotless, I was shocked at how clean and orderly everything is behind the scenes! Staff were EXTREMELY happy, knowledgeable and helpful.

Sports Fan 21

Really enjoyed the zoominescence experience. Kids really enjoyed being able to see some animals as well as all the light exhibits

Starla O'Neal

The zoo was great we took our time and enjoyed the scenery there are 350 animals at the zoo! Lots of space and a mixture of indoor and outdoor habitats.

Priyanka Wyss

I love this zoo! Everything is so well maintained. I will be back when I visit Edmonton again!

ab cd

Great for picnics and open green areas. However, animals were scarce, many were not even in their cages. Calgary zoo is definitely better.

Jordan O

Zoo has definitely seen better days. It was ok. That's about the best review I can give it.

kevin stanley

Great experience. Disappointed the elephant was off on a walk. Super friendly staff.

Nicholas Cameron

Half the existing enclosures here are empty. What you do see is nice but more work is needed here to get this to a zoo you can be proud of. My family and I love the Calgary Zoo and wish the Edmonton Zoo would partner up or learn from what Calgary is doing to make the experience here in Edmonton exceptional.

Farren Bellmont

It was okay. Had fun. Good for about 2-3 hours of fun. The price is fine for what you get.

Hanan

It's ok but I feel like it needs more animals. Anytime I visit it seems like the animals are always hiding or napping. They have done some renovations and they are quite nice. They need to give better instructions to people who might not necessarily go there often or have never been regarding where they take Lucy for her walk. We sat by her area and it turned out it was not even there that we should have been but somewhere further away.

Nicole Martin

Amazing experience! Staff was wonderful (huge shout out to the gentleman on security, he was knowledgable and so friendly) and most everything is open and available to see (Lucy was off for the day). The scenery and paths were beautiful and well kept. Definitely recommend if you're in Edmonton

Aaron Zhang

Spent time with my two years old to attend the Halloween event here.

Aaron Krause

Always a great place to visit in the heart of Edmonton. The animals here are loved and very well cared for. The staff really know their stuff and they have all the covid precautions in place to make your visit safe.

Juliet Omonaiye

Nice place, great directional signs. Most animals were asleep and couldn't really be sighted hence my rating. Otherwise lovely experience

Jorgelina Gill

It was a beautiful experience! My kids enjoyed a lot.

Deberah Kearns

Great variety of animals, birds etc. Fun place to walk around.

Bo Roberts-Leung

Some nice animals, but a lot of it was Fairly depressing to be honest. Half of the exhibits were closed and a lot of Enclosures could really use some updating. The newer areas are much better. Wouldn’t go back tbh

Max

Not that big of a zoo, and most of the animals are not even available to see. Restrictions due to the covid plandemic are even more of a reason to not waste your money here.

Chelsea Stephenson

3/4 of the staff I spoke to were very unfriendly and not cheerful, the enclosures for some of the animals are too small (especially the bird cages) The elephant was not around, when I asked why not they said she was out for a walk or out of public view. The only reason we really wanted to go was to see her. There is a huge variety of animals to see, and a petting zoo which was great.

Paul Westgard

Great place to go during the pandemic, booking online was fast and easy! ????????????

Sameer Bhatt

Nice place for kids

Ken Spellman

Pretty lame light display. Come on Edmonton! We need to do better. The one at Calgary Zoo is 10 times better.

Cpr Animal Rescue Society

Cute zoo

Stephen F

We had a good afternoon at the zoo. The kids love it here. The beaver dam climbing gym and merry-go-round were a huge hit. The kids love seeing all the animals. We went on a Thursday afternoon. Sadly the train was not running on this day as it was being used for staff training, this was disappointing. Also a few areas were blocked off, I assume for renovations? The Valley Zoo is great and the recently renovated parts are wonderful however some parts of the park show their age.

Lesley G

Probably my favorite happy place in Edmonton! I have always loved the zoo, and I'm so happy to see progress, new buildings, the animals are very well cared for, loved and in great shape. I even adopted the tiger(s) this week, and will most likely adopt more animals. These pics were taken March 12, 2019. I have over a thousand pictures of all the animals there...it's absolutely a lovely place to go for the entire day. Great gift shop, a nice café to eat and a lot more on site....and the parking is free.

Winston Tuttle

My favourite place to take our two year old. So much fun. Staff are great. We especially appreciate when they mention that Lucy is out for a walk. Hidden gem of a place in Edmonton. Highly recommend chicken fingers and fries for lunch from 40 Acre. Feeds a family of three!

Nolan Gagne

A perfect inexpensive date day with animals that definitely will make your significant other 'daww'

Danielle J

It is small for a zoo, strolling from start to finish should take 2-3 hours. My kids enjoy it.

Drew P

The Edmonton Valley Zoo is a wonderful experience for young families. Not as fancy or as wide a selection of wildlife compared with other major city zoos, but a very Edmonton centered selection. Glad to have this facility and those that support it nearby. Wildlife, diversity, and our understanding and respect of the same are important parts of global citizenship. Would highly recommend a visit to all young families. I would note that about a whole third of my time was spent with the kids rolling down grass hills and exploring the rock maze area. The kids also spent a large amount of time looking at and laughing about young chickens, goats on the roof, and the mooing cows. Book a visit now. Support this great facility. Help it grow.

Megan -Nicole

Was here this April, not many animals out. What we seen was decent, but maybe not for the price we paid. Probably would be awesome in the summer!! Seen some new development/habitat being built. Would go back if ever in Edmonton in the summer time.

Tim Dressel

Good little zoo. Couldn't see the elephant due to covid, but otherwise almost everything was open. Pretty clean. Fun fact, we're from the west coast with seals and harbour porpoises 5 minutes away, but seeing them in the zoo blew the minds of my kids.

Jordan Grinde

Good but with covid I thought people could have distanced a little more felt I had too distance myself from crowds pressed against animal habitat. Otherwise amazing they have goats on there roofs no joke pre cool

Amber Martin

Found the set up for COVID kind of frustrating. The one way system kind of defeated the purpose where crowds easily formed trying to go through. Was also frustrated with bathroom access. My 4 year old nephew needed the washroom and of course he mentions this when we were quite far from one. We made our way to it and there was a worker there stating we needed masks. I understand for adults as I could easily put one on. But she insisted he have one too even after I stated we were rushing him to the washroom. The only mask they had was an adult sized one so she made us take the time to tie knots in the strings so it would fit his little face. We finally got into the building which again was another one way and had to wait for crowds to move out of the way for us to get to the washroom. We luckily made it and then had to continue following the one way through two buildings and more crowds just to get back out. Was not the greatest experience.

Bahareh Esfahbod

Great place to spend summer time in nature with kids! Their collection of animal is wonderful, although we weren't luck enough to meet Lucy, the elephant!

AlandMarie Tauber

Despite the frigid conditions, we had a really good visit. Lights were plentiful and colorful. Most pathways well maintained.

Laura George

Could have been the time of year, but there was very little animals to actually see and enjoy, other then monkeys and otters.

Claudette P. Esterine-Campbell

It was great to be outdoors. Told that the Calgary Zoo is nicer but I had fun.

Resolution

Cheap price for a whole variety of animals. Took 2 hours to see every exhibit. Many interesting facts for the animals.

Carissa Garcia

The zoo was good. There is a lot of stuff under renovation but for the price it was good. Just bring your own snacks!

Abigail Collins

The Edmonton Valley Zoo is hot, without much to do in it. The zoo is clearly lacking funds, city council needs to give them more money to bolster the facilities and attractions.

Vishal Singh

Nice place to spend time with family. Unfortunately the elephant section was closed when we visited.

Milan Sherif

Perfect spot for kids…

Rumana Afroz Sultana

Good experience! I saw red panda for the first time. Clean and organized. Friendly stuff.

Terry Fisher

The route is set up quite easy to follow throughout the different habitats. We had a great time and everyone was friendly and helpful.

Cheyenne Yellowbird

I loved going there as a kid back in the 70's. Nota very big zoo, at least back then it was. Once when I was only 2 years old. My Mom and her side if the family went to the zoo for the day. Well me and my Mom, my auntie Maggie and I got locked inside the zoo. My uncle Gary and uncle Danny as well as my Grandparents. We're on the other side. Luckily my Mom and Maggie found a spot that they could climb over and out. So we set up the plan to get me out They readied me for my flight and launched me over the fence to the safety of my family members. One of the funnest times I can remember us all having there. As a Family. Together. Muss those days the zoonid great for families and kids. Highly recommended.

Sampurna Kalyankar

Great experience. Not many animals to see at the moment. The whole trip usually takes about 2 hours max.

Jessica R

They keep poor Lucy the elephant in a concrete room 2/3 of her life that is painful and stressful, refuse to give her a coat residents made for her to keep warm and so much more. Don’t support this abusive environment, this poor elephant needs to retire for any small amount of quality if life.

Kirk Dewhurst

We have been coming to the Zoo for many years and have always enjoyed it. It has become dated in some areas but in the last couple of years with new funding it is now being updated. I do think that it would be so much nicer if there were a time when there is no zoos. I contemplate that if I was in a cage how would I feel. Not to nice I think. But in the meantime it is nice to see a better thinking of treating the animals better and providing more space and a more natural experience. I look forward to a time I believe there will be no zoos. The Valley Zoo will always have a soft spot in my mind and I feel there are good days ahead for it.

Patricia Catalig

Very clean Zoo. Animals looked really well cared for. I specifically went to see the Elephant, but she was resting in the back :) I get to see her anyways when I walked around the back. I saw a bird inside the Fox enclosure which I don't know was meant to be its food or the bird was just hanging out there. The tiger is very gorgeous! In terms of snacks, the Ice Cream portions were very generous for 1 1/2 scoop! Washrooms are very clean. Staff are very knowledgeable and nice about animals.

Dawna Brown

Set up like a maze due to covid alot of walking in large circles alot of animals not out due to covid alot of bathrooms closed due to covid and only 1 open so every one had to use the same ones !! Great ice cream shop just past the reindeer exhibit i recommend the monster cone !! Great gift shop something for all !! Good time over all . the play places for small kids were taped off or posted not sanitized due to covid . but good time the day after my 3 year old said momma we go back to the animals again So great time had!!

Jeffrey Newton

Definitely a different vibe from the Calgary Zoo. The renos are pretty great, but I think there is room for improvement in the ungulate loop, like shade trees/structures along the walk ways. The glacier melt play area is amazing! Lots of free play for kids.

Kimberly BZ

Wonderful little zoo. All the animals looked healthy and well fed and seemed to have good enclosures. Kudos to the staff and facility for keeping proper distancing measures and having hand sanitizer available all through the zoo. Staff were all friendly and polite with happy attitudes.

Daljit Singh Girn

Its nice experience after covid 19 restrictions are over. Lucy , the elephant, is vary smart. Red panda is as usally sleepy and on the tree branch. Reptiles are good one. Over all good experience

Lee Schmidt

Went for the ZooBrew event on a Friday and it was a great time. The animals were a lot more active after it started getting dark. Lots of Indy beer vendors and well laid out.

MK

I really enjoyed the different views just around the zoo being in the valley, but I think the zoo needs alot of work to really fill it in. There was alot of spots under construction, empty spots all over with no animals, you have to really walk around to find an animal. I do think Lucy the elephant was amazing to see, once the red panda exhibit is done it should be nice, the carousel ride was really great for small kids, kangaroos were neat. But still found it overall expensive for what you see or lack there of.

Patrick Hughson

Born and raised in Edmonton the Edmonton Valley Zoo has always been one of our favourite places to visit! Especially in the winter time when all the lights are set up! My photos definitely can’t do them justice and I would 100% recommend coming to check them out if you haven’t experienced them for yourself yet! ☺️????

Jenni Upton

Covid puts a damper on visits to the zoo: many exhibits are closed and the times to see the elephants (for example) are severely limited. $75 for us to take our elephant crazed daughter (and other kids) only to literally see the tail end of one twice. Luck of the draw I guess! Otherwise, this zoo is beautiful and fun to take our kids too! We enjoy the many areas to sit and enjoy the views! Our kids especially enjoy the little stream with the rocks for hopping across.

Krista Quinlan

This was a magical day for the kiddos! It's been a long while since I've been to the zoo. Protocols for masks were in place and explained quite well with staff at every building entrance with extra masks. Very clear path layed out to follow (one way). Lots of animals to explore and some wicked structures and play on sculptures for the kiddos. Will definitely make this a yearly trip ????

Jake Hudson

Great first zoo experience for my daughter. Well set up to deal with covid protocols and well designed to see all the animals in a safe manner. My daughter loved it.

S H

Wow! I didn't know that the entire facility was renovated. The food and amenities are quite impressive. A few minutes after we arrived I completely forgot we were still in Edmonton. If you haven't been to the zoo in a while, definetley recommend a visit.

Natalie Beauchamp

Lots of fun for the whole family. Some enclosures are still small and not up to the new "standards" we expect in 2021. Overall very fun and definitely recommend.

Steven Siffledeen

A lot nicer than I remembered it being (I haven't been in a few years). The new entrance is great, and it's nice seeing the raptors have been moved into larger spaces. I also think moving towards mostly northern species is a great idea conservation-wise! Seems like they're continuing to upgrade exhibits as well, so that's great! Go Edmonton Valley Zoo!!!

Neetha Tinu

We loved it. We took our 20 month old daughter and she has never been to a zoo before. She loved seeing all the animals she sees in cartoon alive. She still talks about them all the time

Agnes Tang

Zoominescence at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Must book your entry time online ahead. Bring a pair of ice cleats snow grips.

Katie Reist

I visited the zoo on April 7th, it was so fun, felt safe, they were following the covid guidelines greatly. They also brought some animals outside, that I think they usually only have inside. Hope I can visit again ????

AnKita

Nice day trip

Cody Ryan

Lots of fun for the kids, not too much walking. The Tigers get real excited if you're dressed as the Marshmallow Man from Ghostbusters.

Rahma Kadir

Spend at least 2 hours. Not too many animals too see. Prefer to go 2 hs before they close as not to many people. Went there in the summer and fall this year... Fall colors are just so beautiful there.

Mell C

The elephant, Lucy, is so incredibly cramped in a literal jail concrete cell(which is bad for her feet), with only painted trees, and without other elephants to keep her company. She is also forced to endure cold temperatures (despite her being an elephant which come from warmer clinates). She's overweight, most likely suffering from depression and suffering without the love from her fellow animal species. Elephants are social creatures and she needs that. Please send Lucy to a retirement sanctuary with other elephants. It's where she belongs.

Mike Pace

I've been visiting the valley soo for a little over 50 years and have some of my fondest memories visiting there growing up as a kid. The storyline characters were always fun and entertaining. But of course the highlight for any Young fella would be the train the tour through the little people village of the zoo Unfortunately with all that gone it's nothing more than a big persons petting zoo, but you can't pet the animals We took our granddaughter there and the only thing that interests her and the rest of the kids were the kids themselves there's really nothing there for little kids It's a beautiful park but friendly people working there I think it has a lot of potential but nothing special right now

Trevor Flynn

Animals and Christmas lights. So much fun! The zoo has come a long way in the past few years. Now featuring the red pandas and the new urban farm.

Mahonnath K

Not as big as Calgary but still a good size to send a good few hours with kids

Softy Nonowt

Last visited the zoo over 10 years ago and it has vastly improved since then. One of Edmontons hidden gems. Go visit I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

Terra La Rose

This zoo is great however when we were there this summer they were doing some renovations and half of the zoo was closed off... Lucy was incredible they took her for her afternoon walk while we were there and it was amazing to be so close to such a huge majestic animal!!!

Vanessa Mulvey

Best part of my experience at the zoo was the ice cream. The parking lot is overgrown and dusty, the animals enclosures are WAY TOO small and NOT NATURAL IN ANYWAY. I seen one or two enclosures with actual trees in them, the rest of the enclosures had branches tied together and twisted together and set up to kind of be like a tree. The kookaburras had one natural tree, and their enclosure was maybe 10 feet tall and no wider then 6 feet. One of the pelicans had a weird growth on the top of their beak and was just swimming around in circles around the pond. The bald eagle had one wing…her sign actually asked to watch if she falls over and to see if she gets back up, if she doesn’t then to get a worker. One of the monkeys had epilepsy, so he was segregated by himself away from his regular enclosure. One of the goats was breathing heavy and clearly in respiratory distress. The branches in the enclosures had dead leaves on them, clearly from being cut but it just made the whole situation really sad for these animals. Paint is peeling from the outside of the enclosures. Lucy, the elephant was out walking and on top of a hill eating her grass but her enclosure was very sad. Edmonton Valley Zoo needs a hardcore renovation and their animal enclosures need to be redone. The injured and sick animals (eagle, monkey and the pelican) need to be moved to a rescue and rehabilitation centre to live comfortably and not stuck in a cage.

Sammy B

I was there with my girlfriend today, kind of sucks having to follow arrows. Too hot for animals to be active on a hot day like today. Had a nice walk through there though.

Elena Dunford

The zoo's refusal to free Lucy the elephant shows how little compassion and care they have for their animals.. it's all about profits after all. Lucy has multiple health issues including depression (due to inadequate environment and conditions in which she is kept) yet, the zoo and the local authorities refuse to allow Lucy to retire to a sanctuary so she can enjoy the little life she has left after 43 years of service this cruel organization. Shame on you

nicci andersen

Wonderful staff, great renovated areas since I was there last. I would have liked to know that the Red Panda house wasn't open but other than that it was a great experience and my daughter was thrilled to get waved at by dear Lucy. Can't wait to go back

Betty Baronic

A lot was under construction but how often do you see an elephant having an afternoon stroll with you ❤️❤️. It was great

Corinna Thomas

Had a wonderful day with the family. Reasonable prices so much fun love family time can't wait to visit again soon

Karena Mallett

We had a season pass this year starting after the reopening (closure due to covid -19). It is a great place to spend some time. My 2 year old son loves it! We only spend a short amount of time at the zoo because of nap time, but we are able to see and do a lot of things. The zoo is part of the vaccine exemption program, so you must show ID and proof of vaccine to enter ( for those old enough to be vaccinated). Masks are currently required only in the buildings, but when you are outside you can be mask free. Canteens and bathrooms are open. Lots of animals to see during Zoominescence this year! Beautiful light displays.

Brissieskater1

There is an Asian Elephant pictured on a Care2 petition, standing in the snow and the Zoo authorities have refused an independent assessment of the Elephant's state of health - why? Asian Elephants originate from a warmer climate compared to the Canadian winter climate and don't waste my time telling me that the Elephant will adjust to the climate because this is just not true.

Rebecca Murray

My family and I had an amazing time at the Edmonton Zoo. Price was very reasonable for the family. They had a one way direction for viewing making it easy to keep groups separate as well. We did two loops that day and had a whole different experience on the second one because different animals were more active. So neat! Plenty of places along the loop to rest and get refreshments as well. All and all a great family experience.

James Harrott

The EVZ has physically come a long way in the last decade. It provides a better quality of life for the animals then in the past. Its a fun, engaging and informational experience in a very pretty setting. The staff are very nice and care a great deal about the animals.

victoria smith

It was ok but not a place to spend alot of time, it was over in a hour

Dana MacNeil

We did Zoo lights. The kids loved it despite the cold (which is beyond their control). Their set up was beautiful. And the fire place was a nice touch

Justice Hemming

The zoo is kinda of depressing great for the little ones but as an adult you can really see what's going on. Especially if you just look at the way they treat Lucy the elephant. They clearly care more about money then animals and it sickens ones heart to see something like that. Aren't we as canadians always trying to show the world that something can be done better.

Chris Knorr

Went to Zoominescence with the grandkids. Was pretty cold at -18 Celsius but still doable for all ages including little one in a stroller. Very pretty light displays, everyone loved the animals both inside and outside, lots to see for the kids, even saw reindeer! Bonus!

Robert Gillard

For the most part the zoo was great. Unfortunately tried ordering the family lunch at the lunch bar by the farm exhibit. The sign said 15 minute wait. The cashier said 20 minute wait. After a wait of 35 minutes I decided to cancel my order. I was told mine was next up. In the next 15 minutes I saw 2 other people get their orders. Then mine was finally ready. Horrible wait and lied to. I would rate that a -2.

kirill bugay

Very bad experience. Food restaurant closed at 2 45pm. Elephant exhibit closed. Sea lion closed. To see the tiger it's impossible , he located up hill ... Toy store over priced! 1 small toy inside metal box 75$!!!?? Everything under construction and the cashier didn't mentioned any of this. Bad experience.

Mish S1977

Zoominescence....a lovely evening for a walk. Friendly staff and very helpful. Great way to start the Christmas season!

Richard L

Small but enjoyable zoo. Well maintained and animals seem to be all in a good spot. Was able to see Zoominescence: A Festival of Light, nice light displays throughout the zoo

Heather Levy

We enjoyed seeing Lucy the elephant up nice and close on the elephant walk. The kids enjoyed the petting zoo. There is a decent amount of animals to see. Some favorites are the Tiger, snow leopard, red pandas and Lucy the elephant.

Delaenie Silva

Great place to go with family! Definitely recommend going to see the lights show

samjhana joshi

Went for light special yesterday. Not much lighted places as expected but my kid enjoyed the animals. Good for young kids.

Davan Russell

The Edmonton Valley Zoo is a small facility but is a great zoo for its size. The small size makes it feel more personal than some of the large zoos where you feel like you are just shuffled through.

David Thompson

Small but special. Always enjoy a stroll around this zoo. Hoping to catch sight of Lucy on her walks and the birds of prey.

Matt Thomas

Great zoo. Easy to get around. Family really enjoyed the 2 hours we were there

Jennifer Hamel

We visited the zoo on August 13th, 2021 and we spoke with a very nice young lady working there by the name of Dallas. She was very good at interacting with my son who is almost 5 years old. The animals were really cool to see but I felt bad for the larger animals. They looked bored. The lemurs, meerkats are the red panda were our favorites.

S T

Great little zoo for a family outing. Nothing big or fancy but honestly its a well run facility with amazing staff who care. Go for the day and pack a lunch.

Jane S

Went here for the Christmas lights and really enjoyed it. The lights were very well done and got too see a few animals as well.

Shaundra Llewellyn

Cute zoo, nice views and landscape, fun petting zoo and some nice cute new interactive enclosures. loved being able to see Lucy the elephant and see her up close as we ran into her as she was on her daily walk

Justine McPeake

It's great. I love seeing the animals. I do wish they were treated better. But they do look healthy and they are all so cute.

Sarah Supernault

Had a great time here not long ago. I love that they are doing time slots, ensures that it’s not too busy. Quite a few attractions were closed, with renovations and covid I assume but still had a decent amount of things to see. Awesome that you can drink alcohol in the zoo now! Pro tip: buy the alcohol at the cafe before entering the zoo, once inside there were no places to buy alcohol.

Ramona Fehr

I loved the new open air red panda and lemur enclosures. Always nice to see the animals without the cages.

narendran kumar

Nice place and well maintained ! Couldn’t see Lucy, the elephant. Some of the areas were closed . Maybe summer should be the ideal time to visit. Most of the animals and birds were sleeping and inactive. Hope they are waiting for summer too !

Melissa Mercier

Not as big as the Calgary zoo but still had a lot of animals to see. There were a few enclosures we didn’t see the animals listed. Thought some of the enclosures were small for the animals especially the bigger ones. Got to see some animals I’ve never see in person up close. Great for young kids have a few play structures.

Jeffrey Matte

Great way to spend a couple hours with the family outdoors the season. Nice light displays, music and some wildlife.

Trevor Blinston

My wife and I went there for the first time in about 8 years. We couldn't believe the positive changes that have been made. I would say, visit our zoo.

Carter Jakubow

Lots of animals, indoor and outdoor attractions. The farm animal section is very cool for the kids. Concessions and food on site for purchase.

donna morneau

Very few animals visible but outside ones were good. Can't wait for more areas to open

Kira Shergold

Lots of new guidelines in place to make sure that everyone can visit the zoo safely, yet everything went very smoothly and we still got to see all the animals. They let you stay as long as you want, you just have to book the entry time. Great time!

Daryl Daniels

Some of the enclosures are almost inhumane, especially for the bald eagle. this is sad, even bald eagles need some room to stretch their wings. atleast try to hop and fly. There are some steep hills which can make it hard to push a manual wheelchair up. Some of the displays were tough to see over small walls for those in wheelchairs also. Food at the small restaurant was fantastic

Kat Fu

Layed out nice. Was a good day out. Nice walk. Had a cool interactive river rock type thing for the kids to splash in aswell. Was awesome so nice to have this in Edmonton. Was years since I've been and was so cool to share it with my daughter

Nataliya Lubich

Nothing to compare to Calgary's Zoo, but still is a very nice place! The barn yard has a cool design! ???? It would be wonderful, if explanations were put next to adapted animal cages! Where an animal was found, its name etc. Thank you!

E D M

Coming from a city with a large zoo, it was very surprising how great this zoo is. Everything is clean and the animals seem well taken care of. If you come at the right time, you can see an elephant being taken for a walk. The seal exhibit is wonderful. The red pandas have a great space too. I will definitely come back to this zoo. My only problem with this zoo is the area that the birds of prey are kept. The don't seem like they have enough room to spread their wings.

mike briones

Overall good experience for me. Now i know the actual size of the red panda, the squirrel monkey and some other small animals that i only saw on pictures. Most important part washrooms are clean.

Lori Sitko

We went at night, and it was about 615ish and the wolves were howling when we walked in so cool! Felt very safe through COVID. The red panda was out and super cute. It was fun to spot the animals in thr dark!

Misty Dunlop

Was very disappointed they took the little train out. Pace needs a lot of upgrading looks very run down. Enclosures seems very small felt bad for the animals :(

Gurpinder Jagdev

Nice for a stroll through with baby. Kids also love the playgrounds and red pandas. Lots of things to do regardless of the lack of animals.

Chris Gallant

The zoo had a number of exhibits and areas closed for our visit, but it was well laid out for social distancing. The new community farm looks like a great area and the diner there serves up some really good food.

roxxyandkracker

Would have loved to see the sloths today, but everything was great otherwise our favs were probably the Red Pandas and the goats of the roof! Everyone who works there is super friendly too, but I found the Gift shop lady kind of rude. We quickly checked it out upon leaving the Zoo and as we got in she said "you have five mins" then a moment later..."bring your stuff to the front" um, no thanks, we won't buy anything at all in that case.

Dan D

Covid safety was good until the foolish line up in the middle of the zoo right where everyone is eating, so you're standing together and family's are all running around and eating. What's the point in limiting capacity if you create pinch points where everyone is forced together. Zoo is ok for something to do but not worth the risk.

Jennifer N

It's a nice zoo. Most of the animals have almost enough room. No signage for disabled parking, and the lot is gravel. Should sign that there is disability parking on the paved area...

Jonathan Richards

I went here with my wife and daughters last weekend. I was really disappointed by this place. Half the animals weren't even in there enclosures and the other half were sleeping. Barely got to see anything. They really need to revamp the place. Calgary zoo is much better in comparison.

Sandy Koroll

Enjoyed the zoo, safety messures in place seem to be followed by most people. Fortunately I was there on a day when most of the animals were out and about. Will definitely go back. It is a little difficult for hearing impaired people to understand what the staff are trying to communicate.

Fay Niederhoffer

Very impressed with their protocol for screening for Covid on entry to the zoo. I felt very safe. Overall was lovely, lots to do, to keep the kids busy.

Jessi

One way traffic is great, it's nice to be able to go inside the buildings now too. Rarely see Lucy, she's usually behind buildings. Would be nice to be able to see the night creatures and for the train to be running.

Aaron Spohn

Went later at night. Nice light display but not alot of animals to see.

Andrea

Not worth the price to attend, alot of construction and developments taking place. Once all of that is done, will try and go back to see if it is more interactive and engaging for the children