History

The Toronto Zoo opened in 1974 and marked a major shift in how zoos were designed and experienced. It was one of the first zoos in the world to organize animals by geographic regions rather than by species, creating more natural and spacious habitats. Built on hundreds of acres in the Rouge Valley, the zoo was designed to focus on animal welfare, education, and conservation. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest zoos globally, playing an important role in wildlife research, breeding programs, and environmental awareness while remaining a beloved attraction for visitors of all ages.