Magazoo The Universe Of Reptiles
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
45-90 minutes
Best Ages
5-17
About
Magazoo on Rue Bélanger in Montreal's Rosemont neighborhood describes itself as the universe of reptiles — and it is not overselling. This is one of the most unusual free family outings in the city, a dedicated reptile specialty store packed with hundreds of species of snakes, lizards, turtles, and other reptiles all housed in professional display terrariums.
Walking into Magazoo feels more like entering a herpetology exhibit than a retail store. The selection is extraordinary: ball pythons in every color morph, boa constrictors, corn snakes, bearded dragons, chameleons that change color in front of you, blue-tongued skinks, crested geckos, leopard geckos, sulcata tortoises, and many species most kids have only ever seen in books. Each enclosure is clearly labeled with the species name and origin, making it genuinely educational.
Kids who have any interest in reptiles, dinosaurs, or unusual animals will be completely absorbed for an hour. The 4.6-star rating from over 800 reviews reflects how much people genuinely love the place. Staff are experienced keepers who are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge with curious visitors.
It is not the right stop for toddlers or kids who are frightened of snakes, but for school-age children and up it is a memorable experience that you cannot replicate elsewhere in the city. The Rosemont location makes it easy to combine with a walk along Rue Jean-Talon or a stop at Marché Jean-Talon for lunch afterward.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Limited
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons for a quieter experience
Wait Times
Rarely busy — walk in freely
Nearby Food
Rue Bélanger in Rosemont has several cafés, bakeries, and casual restaurants within easy walking distance.
Why Kids Love It
Magazoo is genuinely unlike any other stop in Montreal — an entire pet store dedicated exclusively to reptiles, and the selection is extraordinary. Ball pythons, boa constrictors, bearded dragons, chameleons, geckos, blue-tongued skinks, tortoises, and more, all visible in well-lit displays. Kids who are into reptiles will think they have died and gone to heaven, and even those who are initially nervous often warm up quickly when they see how docile the animals are.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Staff at Magazoo are passionate reptile keepers who will answer kid questions in depth — encourage your kids to ask.
- Some animals may be available for supervised handling — ask the staff politely if a brief interaction is possible.
- Not ideal for toddlers or kids who are scared of snakes; save it for kids who are curious and ready for it.
What to Bring
- Curiosity — this is an educational experience as much as an outing
- Hand sanitizer for after handling any displays
- A phone for photos of exotic species
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
Free to browse; reptile supplies or small animals available for purchase
Tips to Save
- No admission fee.
- One of the most unique free outings in Montreal for kids who love animals.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

