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Zoo and park on the banks of the Otonabee River that is great value, particularly for families with young children. Animals include camels, takins, yaks, reptiles, turtles, a river otter, birds, emus, wallabies and some farm animals. There's also a splash pad, several playground structures and a large grassy area with picnic tables. The train ride, which usually operates from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving (late May to early Oct), is also popular.
The Riverview Park & Zoo is a park and zoo located in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. It was founded in 1933 by Ross Dobbin, general manager of the Peterborough Utilities Commission. In 1968, the commission took over its operations. The zoo was accredited in 1985 and remains the only free admission accredited zoo in Canada. Parking is also free. It is funded through Peterborough Utilities Commission revenue and public donations. In addition to its animal exhibits, the zoo features a miniature train ride, playgrounds, picnic areas, disc golf course, and a CL-13 Sabre Mk V fighter aircraft on display.
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Good spot to spend a couple of hours if you want to learn about the history of Peterborough and surrounding area. The exhibits, stories and photos take you through some of the local First Nations history, European settlement and the city's early growth. There is also an archives that is accessible by appointment and a small gift shop. The museum is on top of Armour Hill, which provides views of the city and area.
Built in 1904, the lift lock is the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world, raising boats 65 m. Watch the boats and lock operate from the bank of the canal or stop by the visitor's centre, which has exhibits and explains how the lock works. It's best to go in summer (between Victoria Day and Canadian Thanksgiving) when the Trent Severn waterway is operational.
In winter, the area below the Lift Lock is turned into an outdoor skating rink that can be nearly 400 m long. Family skating is closer to the Lift Lock; hockey is closer to the Maria St bridge. Operations are weather-dependent — a flag will indicate the current status (green means safe, red means unsafe).
Large, mostly undeveloped park along Jackson Creek popular with walkers and cyclists. The lake and Pagoda Bridge are nice spots for a stroll or to take in the view from the bench. There is also a playground for children. The Trans-Canada Trail runs through the park, continuing north of the city.
Historic market building and Peterborough landmark since 1890, including the four-faced clock tower that looks over downtown. The ground floor is mostly retail while the second floor now hosts the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre. There's an exhibit in the ground floor lobby that displays the history of the building and nearby area.
Small park with a beach, playground, splash pad and picnic tables with mature trees. The park provides views of Little Lake and the fountain. A short walk on a good trail at the south end of the park takes you to Lock 20 (of the Trent Severn Waterway), with additional picnic tables and views of Little Lake. The Lock is notable as one of the few remaining locks where the gates are opened manually.