2 Best Sights in Toronto, Ontario

For those who like things that have scales and slither, Reptilia is home to more than 250 animals, from tiny turtles and tree frogs to massive pythons and crocodiles. The family-friendly indoor zoo is also Canada’s largest reptile rescue, and about 75% of the animals on display were saved or surrendered by their owners. The "Feed a Reptile" add-on is highly recommended—but call in advance for something big like the pair of American alligators. Hourly shows let you get up close to touch the animals, and behind-the-scenes tours and night programs are also available. Although this branch is located in Vaughan (near Canada’s Wonderland), there are also Reptilia zoos in nearby Whitby and London.

With terrain ranging from river valley to dense forest, the Rouge Valley was an inspired choice of site for this 710-acre zoo in which over 5,000 different mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish are grouped according to their natural habitats, in both indoor and outdoor enclosures. Daily activities might include chats with zookeepers and animal demonstrations. A visit takes at least three hours and includes the Africa, Americas, Australasia, Indo-Malaya, and Canadian Domain pavilions. In the spring and summer, the Zoomobile can take you through the outdoor exhibit area. The African Savanna is a fantastic walking safari: a dynamic reproduction that brings rare and beautiful animals and distinctive geological landscapes to the city's doorstep. Reserve ahead for a VIP behind-the-scenes tour or to camp overnight in the Serengeti Bush Camp.