Open daily
8:30 am to dusk
FREE admission
We are a unique facility offering attractions to people of all ages. Located just north of downtown
Peterborough, Riverview Park and Zoo is a fabulous place to enjoy a leisurely stroll in a peaceful and
tranquil setting while experiencing the natural beauty of Peterborough.
We are Canada's only free-admission accredited zoo. Donations make us possible.
News and Special Events
Spanning over 55 acres of park area along the shores of the Otonabee River, Riverview Park and Zoo is proud to be Canada's only FREE-admission accredited zoo, open daily from 8:30 a.m. until dusk all year round. Our winter operating hours remain in effect, that it's a wonderful time to come visit the zoo! We offer 25 animal exhibits with more than 40 different species and over 150 animals calling us home.
Don't forget to join us at 1:30 p.m. daily at our North American River Otter Exhibit where you can see Splish, Boldt, Lawrence and their newest playmate, Meadow, receive their afternoon enrichment snack. You'll also have the chance to ask one of our zookeepers some questions.
Still need to complete your volunteer hours for high school? Or headed into Grade 9 next year and want a jumpstart? Consider joining our large team of volunteers who help make us possible and allow us to do more. Submit your application form today! NOTE: Summer student job applications for the 2025 season have now closed. Thanks to everyone who applied, however only candidates considered for an interview will be notified.
School groups considering a year-end class trip to the zoo are encouraged to submit your requests early! Zoo Treks and Zoo Tours are offered on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, or you can simply come to explore the zoo on your own. Knowing that you plan to visit helps us to manage expectations and ensure all safety and liability measures are in place.
Picnic shelters are now open to reserve between Victoria Day weekend and Thanksgiving Monday. NEW: All bookings now require a 25% non-refundable advance deposit to tentatively hold your reservation, with discounts being offered to City of Peterborough residents. Anyone reserving a shelter or room at Riverview Park and Zoo will now have to provide proof of insurance coverage. More details will be provided on this requirement closer to spring.
We hope to see you soon!
The Riverview Park and Zoo Team
We are proud to be the only free admission accredited zoo in Canada. Operated as a department of Peterborough Utilities Commission since 1933.
Advancement and growth has been made possible through generous donations and support from community members, local businesses and visitors.