Zooz

Zooz Animal Park

Another natural wonder comes to Niagara, Canada with the opening of ZOOZ in the spring of 2002. ZOOZ - much more than a zoo features a wide variety of zoological exhibits of both domestic and exotic animal species in well-designed enclosures. Among many exhibits and attractions there are outdoor picnic facilities, a five-kilometer walkway through lushly landscaped and manicured gardens and the animal exhibits, trolley tours, a play area, stocked ponds, original pieces of modern sculpture and numerous educational exhibits.

ZOOZ, led by the Tykolis family is located off the Queen Elizabeth Highway and #3 Highway via Sodom Road. ZOOZ is a unique attraction unlike any other such park locally or regionally. The property is less than a 10 minute drive from both Niagara Falls, Canada's second most popular tourist draw, and the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Canada's second busiest international bridge crossing. FREE parking for tourists via car and bus is conveniently located on site.

ZOOZ will provide tourists, students and families with a relaxing, engaging, affordable, fun day in a way that no other such attraction in Southern Ontario or Western New York can.

ZOOZ recently acquired an additional 200 acres of property to allow for future expansion. ZOOZ is committed to the best value for entertainment dollars and therefore are looking to new and exciting on-site exhibits and attractions. Some of the proposed new items include COUNTRY CANADA - a working Canadian farm, camping area, equestrian facilities for the new Fort Erie Equestrian Trail, jungle adventures and much more!

The timing of the development of ZOOZ is ideal. Niagara Region, long known as an international travel destination, is experiencing unprecedented growth in its tourism industry fuelling travel to the region. The number of visitors coming to Niagara is conservatively expected to grow from approximately 13 million at present to more than 16 million by 2003. ZOOZ's development also comes as intensive tourism research by many institutions demonstrates that travelers today are looking for new types of experiences. Travelers want interactive experiences, and are seeking tourism services and products of increasing diversity and sophistication. They are increasingly interested in adventures in which they will learn about new things. ZOOZ is uniquely positioned to provide this service and product to a fast-growing market.

Site facts:
Spread over 110 acres of land with 200 additional acres for future expansion in Stevensville, Ontario just minutes from the QEW.
Approximately 10 minutes by car from Niagara Falls
Less than 10 minutes by car from the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie
Over 400 exotic and domestic animals
Affordable
Ample FREE parking for individuals and buses
Park provides flexibility of an all day or part day attraction
Many exhibits are interactive
Retail outlets, themed, green house etc
Restaurants, picnic areas
Variety of admissions, Group rates, season etc.


A Little Bit Of History About The Founder Of ZOOZ - Nothing Is Impossible

Born in Pine River, Manitoba in 1920, Stephen J. Tykolis came to Niagara when he was seventeen years old. He married Yolande and moved with his seven children to the hamlet of Stevensville in 1955.

Mr. Tykolis was an entrepreneur and worked hard to achieve his dreams. With the help of his family he built a successful landscaping business and Garden Gallery retail outlet.

He loved his community and the people in it. His philosophy in life, according to his children "everything is achievable if you worked hard enough".

In retirement Steve turned his passion to his love for animals. He started a private hobby farm for his personal enjoyment. Soon he discovered that many residents shared his love and curiosity of animals.

Stephen J. Tykolis passed away in December of 1992 at the age of 72, however his passion and love of animals lives on through his children in the form of ZOOZ.

His children in memory of their father established ZOOZ as a means of sharing the wonder of wildlife while providing a learning and fun experience for all.