How do I get to the zoo?

The zoo is located on St. George's Island in the Bow River, just east of downtown Calgary. It is easily accessible via the C Train light rail system.

How much time should I plan for my visit?

While you can see the highlights in a few hours, it is recommended to set aside at least half a day to fully explore the diverse exhibits and botanical gardens.

Is the zoo open all year round?

Yes, the zoo is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day, offering different experiences depending on the season.

Does the zoo participate in conservation efforts?

Yes, the zoo is a global leader in conservation and works on numerous projects to reintroduce endangered species back into the wild.

What is the recommended Calgary Zoo visit duration?

A typical visit takes about 5 hours. We recommend planning your schedule accordingly to make the most of your time there.

It dates back to 1929, making it 97 years old.

Calgary Zoo

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1929 FOUNDED

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97 YEARS OLD

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5h EXPLORATION

Discover Canada's most visited zoo, an oasis of biodiversity set against the backdrop of the Bow River. From the icy charm of the Penguin Plunge to the awe inspiring Prehistoric Park, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo offers an immersive journey through the natural world. More than a tourist attraction, it is a world class conservation powerhouse dedicated to reintroducing species to the wild. Stroll through botanical gardens, learn about unique creatures from across the globe, and engage with a legacy of research that spans continents. Whether you are seeking a family adventure or a deep dive into wildlife biology, this destination promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Alberta.

Videos

History of Calgary Zoo

The story of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is one of transformation. What began in 1917 as a simple collection of two mule deer on St. George's Island has evolved into a global powerhouse for wildlife conservation. By 1929, the formal establishment of the Calgary Zoological Society took the reins, setting the stage for decades of growth. The institution grew from a community park into a major regional centre, cementing its status when the Banff Zoo closed in 1937 and transferred its entire collection to Calgary. The character of the zoo was tested during the catastrophic 2013 Alberta floods. Facing rising waters, the dedicated staff worked around the clock to move nearly every animal to safety, a feat that remains a defining chapter in its history. This event showcased the deep bond between the keepers and the animals. Following the recovery, the institution continued to push boundaries, rebranding in 2021 to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo to better reflect its expansive conservation mission. Today, the institution is recognised as a world leader in species recovery. Researchers from Calgary operate projects as far away as Ghana and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, all while maintaining a massive, visitor friendly campus in the heart of the city. From the research teams identifying new butterfly species to the educators inspiring the next generation, the zoo is a vibrant hub of science and discovery. It stands as a proud emblem of the city, merging the thrill of seeing exotic animals with the serious work of saving our natural world.

Events spanning 96 years

YEAR 1929

Foundation of the Calgary Zoological Society

The Calgary Zoological Society was formally established to take over the administration of the animal collection on St. George's Island. This marked the official beginning of the zoo as a dedicated institution for the community.

YEAR 1937

Expansion from Banff Zoo

The closure of the Banff Zoo necessitated the transfer of numerous species to Calgary. This major event allowed the zoo to establish itself as the premier zoological collection in the region.

YEAR 1972

Ban the Bars Campaign

The zoo launched an ambitious campaign to modernise its exhibits by removing iron bars in favour of more natural enclosures. This shift significantly improved animal welfare and visitor viewing experiences.

YEAR 2003

Opening of Destination Africa

The major expansion project known as Destination Africa was opened to the public. It introduced the African Savannah and Rainforest exhibits to the park.

YEAR 2013

The Great Flood Rescue

Severe flooding of the Bow River forced staff to execute a massive emergency operation. In just twelve hours, they successfully moved 140 animals to higher ground to protect them from rising waters.

YEAR 2021

Rebranding as the Wilder Institute

The organization rebranded to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. This change reflected an increased focus on global conservation science and international wildlife recovery efforts.

YEAR 2025

Discovery of the Curiously Isolated Hairstreak

In a remarkable scientific achievement, researchers discovered a new species of hairsteak butterfly in Alberta. This discovery highlights the continued involvement of the institution in regional biodiversity research.

Fun Facts

• In 2025, scientists associated with the institute identified a new butterfly species in the nearby national parks.
• King penguins are occasionally taken on walks through the zoo for exercise and enrichment during winter.
• Researchers from the zoo are ranked among the top five globally for conservation science impact.
• St. George's Island was originally established as Calgary's first public park for community picnics.
• Staff once successfully relocated 140 animals to high ground during a 12 hour window to survive massive flooding.
• The Prehistoric Park contains over 100 living plant species to replicate dinosaur habitats.
• The conservatory is LEED Gold certified, making it a leader in energy efficient building practices.
• The initial animal collection consisted of just two mule deer in 1917.
• The institution operates the Wechiau Community Hippo Sanctuary in Ghana, which received a UN Equator Prize.
• The zoo is involved in the Species Survival Plan for 44 different endangered species.

RESOURCES

Official Website

Calgary Zoo FAQ

While we strive to keep this information accurate and up to date, we recommend verifying any details independently before making decisions based on them.

Calgary Zoo Map & Neighborhood Explorer

This interactive map is centered on Calgary Zoo. Zoom in and move the map around to automatically discover Wikipedia photos and summaries of other nearby sights, monuments, and historical points of interest and stories in real-time!

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