The Edmonton Valley Zoo is home to over 250 animals, with a full range of species from different climates and habitats — all here for you to discover, learn about and appreciate. Get closer to them like never before!
Our animal collection shifts and changes as the goals of the zoo and the zoological community evolve. Decisions are based on what is best for the individual animals and the species. Our collection decisions are based on these criteria:
- Can we meet the habitat and the care requirements of the animals?
- Do we have the staff expertise?
- Does acquiring the species enhance learning opportunities?
- Does acquiring the species support conservation needs or initiatives?
- Are the animals available from other facilities?
Animal Visibility
Where are the animals? The Edmonton Valley Zoo is accredited by Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Animal welfare is our top priority, which includes giving our animals choice and control.
Choice and control means giving the animals in our care full autonomy over their daily lives, including how much time they spend inside versus outside. On warm summer days, our cold weather friends may choose to spend most of the day inside, in cool air, while our warm weather friends may spend all day basking in the sun. The zoo studies our animal behaviour with the assistance of places like C.L.A.W. Lab to get a better understanding and allow our zookeepers to plan what enrichments and items to put in that might entice them to spend more time visible to the public.
Search for Species Information
Get to Know the Animals at Our Zoo
Wild Times Blog
Wild Times Blog is the official blog of the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Stay in the know on zoo news, conservation initiatives, and more.
Hear from the animals themselves. The Hello! My Name Is... section describes some of our residents' likes, dislikes, pet peeves and more — from their perspective.
Be notified when we release a new story.
Other Animal Resources
Get Involved
If you love animals you can help by learning about conservation initiatives and donating.
Donate to the Zoo
Partner donations help develop our zoo and support animal charities. All donations are tax deductible.
Donate to the Edmonton Valley Zoo
Adopt An Animal
Become a zoo parent and contribute to the enrichment program by sponsoring your favourite animal for a year.
Buy Tickets
Book your timed entry online or drop in and pay your admission at the front counter. Reserving in advance will guarantee admission and avoid line-ups.
Note: Children ages 13 and under must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Hours
Effective May 9 - September 7, 2026
Please reserve your spot before your visit!
| Days | Times |
|---|---|
| Monday-Sunday, Holidays | 9am-5pm |
Effective September 8 - October 12, 2026
| Days | Times |
|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | 10am-4pm |
| Saturday-Sunday, Holidays | 9am-5pm |
The last admission window is 1 hour prior to closing time. The zoo will be cleared at the closing time listed.
Location
13315 Buena Vista Road, Edmonton, Alberta
Closest Transit Centre: South Campus/Fort Edmonton Park Transit Centre
On Demand transit is also available to the zoo.
Contact Us
Edmonton Valley Zoo
Email attractions@edmonton.ca
Phone 311 | Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
Address 13315 Buena Vista Road (87 Avenue) PO Box 2359 Edmonton, AB