History
The Edmonton Valley Zoo welcomed its first guests on July 1, 1959.
A huge crowd was expected to "invade the grounds following the official opening by Mayor Hawrelak," stated the
June 30, 1959 Edmonton Journal. The article also said the "ceremony will climax months of planning and construction aimed at making the zoo one of the best of its kind on the continent."
Referred to in the article is the children's zoo in Laurier Park, the facility cost $500,000 at the time. Admission was 10 cents for children and 25 cents for adults. Bus service left downtown every half hour during the peak season.
Since 1959, the zoo has continued to evolve and grow. In 2009, the City announced the current revitalization that is completely overhaul the zoo — redeveloping the former and beloved Storyland elements that had earned their places in the hearts of Edmontonians.
While the Storyland Zoo was leading edge in 1959, times have changed and the City of Edmonton is moving forward, transitioning the zoo to a facility of the 21st century focused on learning and conservation initiatives.
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
|---|---|
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
