Riverview Park & Zoo
Free, year-round zoo and park with train rides.
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Free
Time Needed
2-4 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Weather Fit
Great for sunny days; dress for weather
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free paths
Washrooms
On-site with accessible changeroom
Food
Coffee shop (seasonal); picnics welcome
Parking
Free on-site parking
Booking
Not required for general visit
Parent Effort
Low to medium
Canada's only free CAZA-accredited zoo is a gem for families, combining animal exhibits with a huge accessible playground, splash pad, miniature train, and riverside trails. The year-round, no-cost admission makes it easy to drop in for an hour or spend a whole day exploring.
About This Place
Riverview Park & Zoo in Peterborough, Ontario is a year-round, free-admission destination combining a small zoo with extensive park amenities. Spanning 55 acres along the Otonabee River, the park features scenic walking trails, shaded picnic areas, and a wildlife collection attracting over 250,000 visitors annually. Its combination of animals, natural riverside setting, and no-cost access makes it one of Peterborough's most popular family destinations.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 09:00 – 16:30
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
- Admission
- FREE
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Free admission zoo
Over 150 animals and 40+ species including monkeys, otters, meerkats, and barnyard animals with daily enrichment sessions.
Accessible playground
One of the region's largest inclusive playgrounds with wheelchair swings, sensory features, and an 80-foot super slide.
Splash pad & train
Seasonal splash pad and miniature train ride with wheelchair-accessible cart keep kids entertained all summer.
Riverside nature trails
One-kilometre trail along the Otonabee River plus disc golf, picnic shelters, and scenic spots to explore.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Pet policy
- No pets allowed; certified service animals only (check in at guest services first)
- Food policy
- Litter-less picnics encouraged; coffee shop open seasonally Wed–Sun
- Water stations
- Three water refill stations throughout the park—bring reusable bottles
- Train tickets
- Train ride operates seasonally on weekends; wheelchair-accessible cart available
- Splash pad
- Open during summer season only (Victoria Day to Labour Day)
- Picnic shelters
- Three shelters available to reserve for a minimal fee; walk-ins welcome at tables
- Playground access
- Wheelchair swing requires ID sign-out at guest services; staff assist with use
Kid Fit by Age
Stroller-friendly paths, shaded areas, and sensory play elements
Toddler play structures, splash pad, barn animals, and accessible equipment
Animals, playground, train rides, and touch tables in summer
Otter enrichment, disc golf, super slide, and nature trail exploration
Disc golf, animal exhibits, and conservation education programs
Volunteer opportunities, disc golf, and conservation-focused events
Insider Tips
Catch the daily otter enrichment session at 1:30 PM for the best animal viewing experience
Borrow disc golf kits from Peterborough Public Library if you want to try the course without buying gear
Visit the Dobbin Building (June–September) for seasonal conservation exhibits focused on local species
- •Children must be supervised near water features, the river, and animal enclosures
- •No feeding or petting zoo animals, including barnyard residents
- •Wheelchair swing requires staff assistance and ID sign-out for safe use
- •All washrooms and buildings are wheelchair accessible with ramps as needed
- •Wheelchairs available free at guest services in summer (ID required)
- •Wheelchair-accessible train cart and swing; sensory playground features including braille labels and musical instruments
- •Accessible changeroom near playground; key sign-out from guest services in season
schedule Best Time to Visit
Summer mornings and weekdays are the quietest times to visit. The splash pad, train, and guest services run on weekends only in fall and are closed in winter, so plan a summer weekday visit for the fullest experience. Spring and fall are lovely for walking the riverside trail with fewer crowds.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxReusable water bottles for the refill stations
- check_boxWeather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen (limited indoor shelter)
- check_boxPicnic lunch or snacks to enjoy at the tables and grassy areas
- check_boxFrisbee if you want to try the disc golf course
Location
Address
1300 Water Street North, Peterborough, ON K9H 7G4
Phone
+17057489301