I have lived in Toronto for 28 years and only found out this place existed after it was targeted for significant budget cuts by our troll of a mayor. I went down there this past summer, not knowing what to expect other than some barnyard standard animals. It turned out to be a pleasant place to take a walk but I don't really get the hype.
Riverdale Farm is picturesque. The path that winds throughout the park area of the Farm is a nice place to take a brief stroll.
Riverdale Farm is tiny. It took us about 30 minutes to cover the entire grounds and we were certain we must have missed something.
Riverdale Farm is underwhelming. While I like zoos, this place just doesn't really cut it. While there are a few standard barnyard animals, they are simply that - animals. There are no real exhibits to go with any of the enclosures and you get bored of looking at them after a few minutes.
While I understand while local residents want to keep this place open (it's better than another condo or mall), I also can see why the city may not want to fund it. If they liven up the place a bit, I am sure it can survive without government assistance.