There is something special about packing up the car early in the morning, coffee in hand, snacks ready to go, and setting off on a family adventure. This month, we did exactly that as we made the journey from Brockville, Ontario, to Granby Zoo in Quebec. It was a trip I had been looking forward to for months.
Last summer, my mum, my daughter and I visited Granby Zoo together and had such a wonderful experience that I knew I wanted to return. This year was a little different. My daughter’s father joined us for the trip, making it a special opportunity for our daughter to spend the day with both of her parents while creating more summer memories together.
If you’re wondering whether Granby Zoo is worth the drive from Eastern Ontario, my answer is a definite yes. Here’s how our two-day getaway unfolded.
An Early Start from Brockville
drive to Granby zoo
Our alarm clocks went off early, and by 7:00 a.m. we were on the road heading towards Quebec.
The drive from Brockville to Granby is approximately four hours, making it a manageable road trip for families. Traffic was surprisingly light, allowing us to enjoy the rolling countryside, occasional hills and changing scenery as we crossed into Quebec.
My daughter was fairly calm during the drive and even managed to have a little nap, which certainly helped make the journey easier.
One thing I noticed as soon as we entered Quebec was the change in atmosphere. Road signs switched to French, the scenery felt slightly different, and it reminded me that although we weren’t travelling very far from home, it still felt like we were visiting somewhere new.
Using Waze made the drive straightforward, and before we knew it, we were pulling into the Granby Zoo parking lot around 11:00 a.m.
Lunch at Marché
Granby zoo entrance
marche restaurant
Before exploring the zoo, we decided to grab lunch at Marché, one of the on-site restaurants.
We ordered:
- Chicken salad wrap
- Poutine
- Menu Petit Zoo (McNuggets and fries for my daughter)
I’ll be honest—it wasn’t the cheapest lunch, especially for a family, but I really enjoyed my meal. The chicken wrap was fresh and filling, and of course, when you’re in Quebec, it’s hard to resist ordering poutine.
If you’re travelling on a tighter budget, I would recommend packing your own lunch. It would definitely help keep costs down, especially if you’re visiting with several children. I also noticed several food options inside the water park that looked worth trying if you prefer purchasing food throughout the day.
Exploring the African and South American Exhibits
Granby exibit
With full stomachs, we headed towards the African exhibits.
One of the things I love most about Granby Zoo is how easy it is to navigate. The pathways are well maintained, the grounds are incredibly clean, and there are plenty of shaded areas to escape the summer sun.
Although the weather was beautiful at around 24°C, many of the animals were taking advantage of the shade.
Unfortunately, the lions were nowhere to be seen, most likely hiding from the heat. While it was a little disappointing because lions are my daughter’s favourite animals, that’s simply part of visiting any zoo during warmer weather.
Thankfully, there were still plenty of amazing animals to enjoy.
Some of our favourites included:
- The elephants
- The hippos
- The large black bear
The elephant exhibit remained my personal favourite of the day. They’re such incredible animals to watch, and I always find myself standing there longer than I planned.
Although we couldn’t see as many animals as we had hoped because of the heat, the zoo itself was spotless, beautifully landscaped and very enjoyable to walk around.
Compared to our visit last August, I also noticed that the water park area had changed. The old wooden play structure had been replaced with a newer design, making it feel a little different from our previous visit.
Taking a Break at Amazoo Water Park
Amazoo waterpark
After exploring the zoo, it was time for what my daughter had been waiting for all day—the Amazoo Water Park.
Before heading in, I realised I had forgotten my water shoes in the car.
Thankfully, getting back into the zoo couldn’t have been easier. As long as you have your hand stamped before leaving, re-entering is quick and simple.
It was a small inconvenience, but definitely a reminder to double-check you’ve packed everything before entering.
Once we returned, my daughter wasted no time running straight into the splash pad.
Without question, this ended up being her favourite part of the entire trip.
Watching her laugh, splash through the fountains and race around the play area reminded me exactly why these family trips are so worthwhile.
We also wandered over to the wave pool.
Although she was curious and wanted to give it a try this year, she quickly decided it was a little overwhelming. Even so, it was nice to see her becoming more adventurous compared to last year’s visit.
We spent approximately two hours enjoying the water park before drying off and continuing with the rest of our day.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Amazoo Water Park
If you’re planning to visit during the summer, here are a few things I’d recommend bringing:
- Water shoes (especially if, like me, you’re prone to getting plantar warts)
- Towels
- Plenty of sunscreen
- Extra snacks
- A reusable water bottle
One thing I forgot was sunscreen for myself, and I definitely regretted it later in the day.
The changing facilities were excellent, with family change rooms alongside separate men’s and women’s change rooms. That meant there was no need to wear swimsuits underneath our clothes all day.
The splash pad is fantastic for toddlers and preschoolers, while older children seemed to enjoy the larger slides and wave pool.
Facilities Around the Zoo
One thing that stood out during both of my visits was just how well maintained Granby Zoo is.
Throughout the day we found:
- Clean washrooms
- Plenty of shaded seating
- Water refill stations
- Wide walking paths
- Friendly staff
Even the washrooms around the water park, despite naturally being wet, were kept very clean.
Little details like these really make a difference when you’re spending an entire day with young children.
Wrapping Up Our Day
Hotel Principal entrance
After leaving the zoo around 5:00 p.m., we stopped to pick up McDonald’s before making the short drive to Hotel Le Principal.
The main reason we chose this hotel was its close proximity to Granby Zoo, making it convenient after a long day walking around.
Our original plan was to use the hotel swimming pool.
However, after spending so much time outside in the sunshine, we all agreed that relaxing in our room sounded much more appealing.
The room itself was comfortable and quiet. Although it seemed just a little tired in places, it was perfectly adequate for one night.
The following morning, we enjoyed the complimentary continental breakfast.
I had expected a hot breakfast with eggs and sausages, but instead it was a simpler continental selection. While it wasn’t quite what I had anticipated, it was still enough before beginning the drive home.
If I returned in the future, I’d probably choose one of the Marriott hotels instead, simply based on previous positive experiences staying with that brand.
Hotel Principal room
The Journey Home
After breakfast, we packed up the car and left around 10:00 a.m. for the drive back to Brockville.
Having broken the journey into two days made the whole experience much more enjoyable.
Instead of rushing to drive four hours home immediately after walking around the zoo all day, we were well rested and able to enjoy a much more relaxed drive.
Was Granby Zoo Worth It?
Absolutely.
In fact, after visiting for the second year in a row, I can confidently say I’d happily go back again.
For me, Granby Zoo offers more than just animal exhibits.
The combination of:
- A fantastic zoo
- An excellent water park
- Beautiful grounds
- Family-friendly facilities
- An easy drive from Eastern Ontario
makes it one of my favourite family destinations.
Personally, I enjoyed it even more than the Toronto Zoo. While both are wonderful attractions, I found Granby Zoo offered a more relaxed experience, and having the water park included makes it feel like much more than just a traditional zoo visit.
Tips for Visiting Granby Zoo
Granby monkey
If you’re planning your own visit, here are my top recommendations:
- Arrive when the zoo opens (around 10:00 a.m.) to secure a good parking space.
- Plan which exhibits you want to visit before arriving.
- Pack sunscreen and reapply it throughout the day.
- Bring towels and water shoes if you’re visiting Amazoo.
- Pack snacks and lunch if you’d like to save money.
- Use Waze to make the drive easier.
- Remember to get your hand stamped if you need to return to your vehicle.
- Consider staying overnight if travelling from Eastern Ontario.
Our Trip Budget
Hotel Le Principal
Here’s roughly what we spent:
| Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Granby Zoo Admission | $150 |
| Gas | $60 |
| Hotel | $400 |
| Food | $30 |
| Extras | $20 |
Approximate Total: $660
Of course, your budget will vary depending on accommodation choices, meals and whether you purchase souvenirs.
Also we had 2 rooms at the hotel due to our family dynamic.
Final Thoughts
Hotel Le Principal breakfast
Looking back on our weekend away, what I’ll remember most isn’t just the animals or even the beautiful weather.
I’ll remember watching my daughter run through the splash pad with the biggest smile on her face, confidently trying new things like approaching the wave pool, and enjoying a day filled with simple family moments.
It was also lovely that she was able to spend the day with both of her parents. Those are the kinds of memories that matter most.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway from Brockville or anywhere in Eastern Ontario, I genuinely think Granby Zoo is worth the drive. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, preschoolers or older children, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Sometimes the best family adventures aren’t the ones that take you across the country—they’re the ones just a few hours down the road.
We’ll certainly be back again one day.
If you enjoyed reading this blog post as much as I enjoyed writing it, you may enjoy reading one of these other blog posts:
The Journey: Brockville to the Toronto Zoo with a Toddler
Celebrating Canada Day in Brockville: A Family Day at Hardy Park
Spring nature walks & new discoveries
I share more real-life moments from single motherhood, Ontario adventures, everyday style, food finds, and behind-the-scenes blogging over on Instagram.
Come say hello: @lifeofgem28
Leave a Reply