Zoo like a Pro

Make the most of your day here!

Riverview Park and Zoo is located at 1300 Water St. N. in Peterborough, Ontario, along the Otonabee River. The main entrance is at the intersection of Water Street and Carnegie Avenue and is accessible by both car and public transit.

Beat the crowds

Summer is our busiest season between Victoria Day and Labour Day when we can see over a quarter of a million visitors!  Between school trips, class visits, educational programs and camps, and out-of-town travelers on-site, we are especially busy from 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

We recommend visiting during our off-peak seasons or times for your best chance to avoid the busy crowds and long line-ups. When that isn't possible however, here are some suggestions to make the most of your trip to the zoo.
close up of the side of a camel face

Best times to see the animals

Some of the best times to visit the animals in their exhibits are early mornings, late afternoons and early evenings. This is often your best chance to catch them during meal times and see them active in training and exhibiting their natural behaviours.

A reminder that, as part of our CAZA-accreditation, all our animals have the option to either be inside the sheltered area of their exhibit or outside on display. The weather, feeding times, and natural behaviours all influence their decision. This means you may not always see your favorite animals while you're here, but it's also what makes each trip to the zoo so special.
Feeding the Otters

Summer programs

From July to September, we offer a variety of educational programs and exhibits spread throughout the grounds. Be sure to include these special activities as part of your zoo experience!
close up of day lily flower in the gardens

Don't overlook these hidden gems

With so much to enjoy at Riverview Park and Zoo, it's easy to miss out on everything during your visit. Here are some often overlooked items of interest you may wish to consider for an upcoming or future trip!