Zoos are beloved by children and often enjoyed by adults seeking a fun day out to observe animals and learn about their habits. A visit to the zoo creates lasting memories, especially when there’s an opportunity to feed and interact with the animals.
Ottawa’s zoos feature a wide variety of friendly creatures ready to charm visitors. Ottawa Name explores the best zoos in Ottawa and shares their unique histories.
Papanack Zoo
Papanack Zoo, a private zoo located in Wendover, is just a 25-minute drive from Ottawa and well worth the trip.
History and Highlights
- Established in 1980 as a private breeding centre for exotic animals and birds, the zoo opened to the public in 1994.
- In 2014, under new ownership, the zoo began its transformation into a conservation park.
- Home to over 40 species, including rare animals, it provides environments that mimic natural habitats.
- Visitors can learn about the animals’ lifestyles and habits. Notably, a lion named Simba served as inspiration for the beloved Disney film The Lion King.
Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Located within the grounds of the Central Experimental Farm, this unique museum was founded in 1920 by E.S. Hopkins. A mere 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, it showcases Canada’s agricultural heritage.
What to Expect
- The museum is home to farm animals like pigs, sheep, and horses.
- Open year-round, it features interactive exhibits on topics like tractors, space, and food preservation.
- Ottawa is the only world capital with a working farm, making this museum a standout destination.
Parc Omega
A dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts, Parc Omega in Montebello, Quebec, offers a safari experience just an hour from downtown Ottawa.
Highlights
- Founded in 1985 and open to the public since 1991, the park spans 890 hectares and features over 20 animal species.
- The 12-kilometre safari route includes scenic lakes, valleys, forests, and rocky hills. Visitors encounter wolves, raccoons, beavers, moose, boars, wild turkeys, and bison.
- Animals like reindeer, deer, and elk roam freely throughout the park.
- Visitors can spot black bears, the most common bear species in Canada, along with rarer brown bears.
Little Ray’s Nature Centre
Since its opening in 1995, Little Ray’s Nature Centre has become one of Canada’s most popular interactive attractions.
Key Features
- Founded by Paul “Little Ray” Goulet and his wife Sheri, the centre evolved into a reptile zoo in 2000.
- It’s one of Canada’s largest rescue centres for exotic animals, housing reptiles, turtles, and snakes.
- The centre upholds core values of compassion, environmental awareness, integrity, and responsible management.
- Visitors can explore a vast aquarium and watch live feeding demonstrations. The collection includes over 150 animals, with more arriving regularly.
Elmvale Jungle Zoo
This educational outdoor adventure is perfect for families, offering shaded paths, playful monkeys, majestic white lions, and more.
History
- Established in 1967, the zoo originally spanned just two hectares and focused on reptiles.
- After the Percy family acquired the zoo, it expanded to cover 12.14 hectares and now hosts a wider variety of species.
Canadian Museum of Nature
This castle-like museum in Ottawa houses exhibits featuring iconic and prehistoric Canadian animals. It’s a must-visit for families.
Highlights
- Displays include giant dinosaurs, spiders, and an extensive collection of Canadian birds.
- The water gallery features a 19-metre blue whale skeleton—the largest animal on Earth.
- The “Nature Live” zone showcases beetles, honeybees, cockroaches, and spiders.
Feline Café
While not a zoo, this cozy spot in Hintonburg, west of Ottawa, is a haven for cat lovers.
Unique Experiences
- Guests can relax and enjoy the company of friendly felines.
- Events like “cat yoga” offer a blend of relaxation and fun interactions with the café’s resident cats.
Memorable Animal Encounters in and Around Ottawa
Ottawa offers a variety of attractions for animal lovers, from traditional zoos to interactive nature centres. Whether you’re admiring farm animals, observing exotic reptiles, or enjoying the charm of playful cats, there’s something for everyone. These destinations provide educational and entertaining experiences for families and children, making them perfect for a memorable day out.