By Natalie Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Whether you’re planning a weekend family outing or visiting Ontario with kids in tow, there’s no shortage of incredible animal farms in Ontario to explore. From cuddly goats and pony rides to exotic wildlife and overnight wolf cabins, this guide highlights Ontario’s best petting zoos, rescue sanctuaries, interactive farms, and educational wildlife parks—both hidden gems and must-see favorites.

Top-Rated Petting Zoos and Animal Farms Near Me

Reptilia (Vaughan, London & Whitby)
Canada’s largest indoor reptile zoo, home to snakes, lizards, alligators, and interactive reptile shows.

Downey’s Farm (Caledon)
A fan-favorite for families, with a petting zoo, pumpkin fest, play areas, and seasonal produce picking.

Riverdale Farm (Toronto)
Right in the heart of downtown Toronto, this free farm features cows, pigs, goats, and heritage chickens.

High Park Zoo (Toronto)
A peaceful walk through a small city zoo that features llamas, bison, and peacocks.

Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life (Oxford County)
An award-winning farm experience offering goat cuddling, alpaca walks, and quirky adventures like goat yoga and gourmet ice cream tastings!

Triple C Farm (Hamilton)
Book a personal visit to cuddle with cows, goat yoga, horse rides, alpaca walks and other animal experiences in a low-key, family-run setting.

Carma Farms (Markham)
Affordable and interactive, this farm lets kids feed and learn about barnyard animals up close.

Kustermans Adventure Farm (Mount Brydges)
Adventure meets animals here—visit pigs and ponies before jumping into the seasonal zipline or play area.

Rounds Ranch (Elmvale)
A year-round hit with kids, featuring pony rides, petting animals, and wild seasonal festivals.

Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm (Milton)
Petting barn, orchard fun, and nature trails all in one! Great for apple season and outdoor play.

Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm (St. Catharines)
A beautiful lakefront park with goats, pigs, chickens, and a garden to wander.

Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm (Oshawa)
A welcoming zoo experience where kids can feed deer, pet animals, and explore wide open fields.

Brooks Farms (Mount Albert)
A seasonal attraction packed with farm animals, festivals, and fresh market goods.

Pingle’s Farm Market (Hampton)
Known for apple picking and play zones, with adorable goats and sheep on-site during summer and fall.

Springridge Farm (Milton)
Visit the animal barn and enjoy wagon rides, seasonal treats, and fun farmyard games.

Educational Animal & Farm Experiences for Kids

Toronto Zoo (Toronto)
One of the best in Canada, offering not only wild animals but also an interactive kids’ zoo and educational programs.

Twin Valley Zoo (Brantford)
A blend of wildlife and learning with kangaroos, wolves, lemurs, and family-friendly walking paths.

Saunders Country Zoological Sanctuary (Ottawa area)
Rescued animals and conservation education all in one compassionate, rural setting.

Brantwood Farms (Brantford)
A family-run farm with seasonal activities and learning experiences on animal care and agriculture.

Valleyview Little Animal Farm (Ottawa)
Take a ride on the train, visit animals, and learn about life on the farm through exhibits and hands-on fun.

Thames River Melons (Innerkip)
This fruit farm also hosts “Meet the Bees” where you will wear a bee suit and be lead by their beekeeper to the hives. Here you’ll use all your senses to learn about beekeeping practices and bee biology.

Amy’s Farm (Ontario, CA)
This teaching farm offers workshops and tours centered on sustainability and animal care.

African Lion Safari (Cambridge)
Drive through wildlife reserves where lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos roam freely. Families can also enjoy bird shows, boat cruises, and educational animal presentations that make it as informative as it is unforgettable.

Killman Zoo (Cayuga)
Get up close with lions, tigers, jaguars, and more in this walkable outdoor zoo. Known for its glass-free viewing and relaxed setting, it’s a great way for kids to learn about exotic animals in an approachable, interactive space.

Safari Niagara (Stevensville)
A 150-acre nature park with over 750 animals, Safari Niagara offers educational wildlife talks, reptile shows, and an interactive kids’ zone where young visitors can learn while having fun.

Hawkeye: A Falconer’s Experience (Acton)
This immersive, educational falconry adventure lets families meet hawks, falcons, and owls while learning the art of falconry. With licensed falconers leading the way, it’s an unforgettable and deeply respectful experience with birds of prey.

Unique Overnight Animal Stays

Jungle Cat World B&B (Orono)
Stay overnight or visit during the day to learn about exotic animals and conservation efforts. This unique stay lets families sleep just steps from big cats, wolves, and lemurs. Guests can enjoy early-morning feedings and exclusive after-hours animal interactions.

Parc Omega Wolf Cabins (Montebello, QC)
Sleep beside a panoramic glass wall while wolves wander just feet away. Their luxurious nature cabins offer front-row views of wildlife—without sacrificing comfort.

Jireh Hills Family Homestead (Norfolk County)
This peaceful homestead offers not only farm visits with private bookings to meet and learn about farm animals including goats, sheep, alpacas, and rabbitswalks but also immersive overnight experiences, where families can stay on-site and enjoy the quiet charm of the countryside.

Sleeping with the Wolves – Cedar Meadows Resort (Timmins)
This extraordinary experience lets you spend the night in a chalet beside a wolf habitat. Wake up to wolves howling at dawn and learn about these magnificent creatures through guided tours and educational talks.

🐾 Final Family Tip:

Before you go, check each location’s website or social media pages for hours, admission, and program details. Many of these spots offer seasonal programming, birthday parties, and educational tours—so booking in advance is your best bet for a fun, stress-free visit.

Enjoy!

Natalie