The 5 Best Petting Zoos in Saskatoon for Family Fun
Saskatoon is a fantastic city for families, offering plenty of outdoor activities and kid-friendly attractions. Among these, petting zoos stand out as a perfect way for children (and adults!) to interact with animals in a safe, fun, and educational setting. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend outing or a full day of farm adventures, Saskatoon has several great options.
In this article, we’ll explore the top five petting zoos in and around Saskatoon, highlighting what makes each one special. From hands-on animal encounters to unique farm experiences, these spots promise smiles, learning, and unforgettable memories for the whole family.
The Best 5 Petting Zoos in Saskatoon
1. Grotto Gardens Family Fun Farm
Why It’s Great: Located just outside Saskatoon, Grotto Gardens is one of the most interactive petting zoos in the area. Visitors can feed and pet friendly goats, alpacas, pigs, and even peacocks! A standout feature is "Leo’s Goat Walk," where goats climb elevated walkways—a fun and unique experience.
- Address: 21 Saskatchewan 1, Maple Creek, SK S0N 1N0, Canada
- Rating: 4.8/5 Stars
Bonus Features:
✔ U-pick berries (seasonal)
✔ Gift shop with farm-themed souvenirs
✔ Educational talks from staff
Best For: Families who want a full farm experience beyond just petting animals.
2. Prairie Lily Petting Zoo (Nutrien Playland at Kinsmen Park)
Why It’s Great: Right in the heart of Saskatoon, this free-entry petting zoo is perfect for a quick and easy animal encounter. Kids can meet goats, sheep, rabbits, and sometimes even llamas. The nearby Nutrien Playland (with a mini-train and playground) makes it a full-day outing.
- Address: 945 Spadina Crescent E, Saskatoon, SK S7K 3H6, Canada
- Rating: 4.6/5 Stars
Bonus Features:
✔ No admission fee (donations welcome)
✔ Located inside a larger park with rides and play areas
✔ Easily accessible for city dwellers
Best For: Families looking for a convenient, budget-friendly animal experience.
3. Dutch Growers Garden Centre & Petting Zoo
Why It’s Great: This hidden gem combines a garden center with a small but charming petting zoo. Kids can meet goats, chickens, and bunnies while parents browse plants and home decor. The relaxed setting makes it a great stop for younger children.
- Address: 1818 Central Ave, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z9, Canada
- Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Bonus Features:
✔ Beautiful garden scenery
✔ Seasonal events (like Easter bunny visits)
✔ Café on-site for snacks
Best For: A laid-back visit with a mix of nature and animals.
4. Wanuskewin Heritage Park (Indigenous Cultural Experience + Bison Encounters)
Why It’s Great: While not a traditional petting zoo, Wanuskewin offers a one-of-a-kind Indigenous cultural experience where families can observe (and sometimes interact with) a herd of plains bison—animals deeply tied to Plains Cree history. The park also hosts seasonal events with storytelling and hands-on activities.
- Address: 4 Penner Rd, Saskatoon, SK S7K 3J7, Canada
- Rating: 4.6/5 Stars
Bonus Features:
✔ Guided walks to view bison in their natural habitat
✔ Indigenous craft workshops and dance performances
✔ Scenic hiking trails with interpretive signs
Best For: Families wanting to combine animal encounters with cultural education.
5. Berry Barn Animal Village
Why It’s Great: Known for its delicious pies and fresh berries, the Berry Barn also has a small but delightful petting zoo. Kids can meet goats, sheep, and chickens while parents enjoy the famous homemade Saskatoon berry treats.
- Address: 830 Valley Rd, Saskatoon, SK S7K 3J6, Canada
- Rating: 4.2/5 Stars
Bonus Features:
✔ Famous bakery and restaurant on-site
✔ Scenic riverside location
✔ Seasonal berry picking
Best For: Families who want great food along with their animal fun.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking for a full farm adventure (Grotto Gardens), a free city option (Prairie Lily), or a culturally enriching bison encounter (Wanuskewin), Saskatoon offers diverse animal experiences for every family. These spots go beyond simple petting zoos—they create lasting memories, teach kids about nature and Indigenous heritage, and provide wholesome outdoor fun.
Which one will you visit first?