The Penguin Plunge
This is the zoo’s newest animal exhibit – when it first opened the lines were huge but it has calmed down quite a bit. It’s still not a bad idea to go when you arrive as it is usually less busy earlier in the day.
Although most of the penguins are inside, there is usually a group of penguins that you can see wandering around outside too.
Inside you can many different kinds of penguins up on the rocks and swimming in the water.
The Canadian Wilds
The Canadian Wilds are often passed by in favor of the more exotic animals like monkeys and tigers but they are just as interesting. It’s not very often that kids get to see animals like wolves, bison and bears right up close. This area is large and can take a while if you want to see everything.
We missed the Riverside Nature Walk this trip, but I’ve heard that it’s pretty cool. It’s located in the area along the river and you get to walk right in the enclosure with animals like mule deer and wild turkeys.
My friend Lindsay sent me the two pictures below. She said her son really loved being inside the enclosure with the animals.
Just to the East of this waterfall you’ll find the aviary where you can go right inside and walk among the birds including owls and eagles.
The Cequel Energy Lodge is also worth a stop. The river otters inside might be my favorite animals to watch at the zoo.
I’ve also made up a free Calgary Zoo Bingo Printable featuring animals from the Canadian Wilds.