You can't go to Calgary without going to the zoo. It is easy to find as there are many signs on the road telling you where to turn. There is also conveniently close public transit and LRT. The zoo is open year-round from 9am to 5pm daily. We went in March so it was a little chilly, although it is $1 cheaper than in the summer. There are some indoor exhibits that you can warm up in between the outdoor animal enclosures. If you can go in the summer it is probably preferred as there were a few animals that don't brave the Canadian winters. There are typical zoo animals such as bears, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. The zoo also has a prehistoric park and a botanical gardens. There are food services and a gift shop as well.

I highly recommend picking up a map when you come into the zoo. This will help make sure you don't miss anything as the layout is not circular. The map also shows where there are washrooms and eating places. There is good signage throughout the zoo. The zoo is actually on both sides of the Bow River so you have to cross the bridge to get to all of the animals that are not native to North America. Be sure to take your camera and good walking shoes. We spent several hours there and could have spent longer. Both children and adults should find the zoo entertaining.

As mentioned before, there are all sorts of rides for kids to go on as well. There are tons of vendors selling tons of junk food (and some healthy stuff, too). The petting zoo is always a hit with kids, too.