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 accredited zoo, open daily from 8:30 a.m. until dusk all year round.
Our winter operating hours are now in effect, but fall is still 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. During the cooler temperatures, the animals can typically be found out on exhibit more often and enjoying the sunshine. Every day at 1:30 p.m. you can also take part in our River Otter Enrichment sessions where Splish, Boldt and Lawrence receive their afternoon enrichment snack and you can ask a zookeeper some questions.
Riverview Park and Zoo also features the City's largest playground with a number of structures to entertain all ages, including a separate Tot Lot for the little ones to play. We are also proud of our efforts to be accessible to all with a pair of wheelchair swings and sensory play items such as musical instruments and braille labels.
Take a leisurely walk on our 1km walking trail that winds along the Otonabee River shoreline and enjoy the beautiful fall colors. The trail can be accessed behind the playground area and comes out at the Dobbin Building at the south end of the park. The gravel trail includes an uneven set of stone stairs with a park bench located about halfway to sit and relax or enjoy a good book.
Looking for a unique birthday present, classroom fundraiser, or starting your holiday shopping early? Consider a symbolical animal adoption here at the zoo where 100% of the proceeds are directed back toward animal care. Watch for the Gift Shop to reopen on select December dates when you can stop by to purchase one of our popular RPZ hoodies, a variety of stuffed animals, books or toys. Honey from our very own apiary onsite would make a perfect stocking stuffer!
While our miniature train ride is now closed for the season, our capital campaign to keep the train ride going for generations to come remains ongoing. You can also help support animal enrichment here at the zoo through our Amazon Wish List. Any and all donations are always greatly appreciated and help make us possible. Thanks to everyone for your generous support!
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.