Spanning over 400 acres in the heart of Winnipeg, Assiniboine Park is one of the city's most beloved green spaces. Whether you're looking for family fun, peaceful walks, world-class gardens, or a visit to the zoo, this park offers something for everyone. And with the recent addition of The Leaf—a stunning new conservatory—Assiniboine Park has become an even more essential Winnipeg destination.

A Park for All Seasons

Assiniboine Park has been a Winnipeg treasure since it opened in 1909. Designed by landscape architect Frederick G. Todd, the park was created to provide residents with a beautiful natural space for recreation and relaxation. Over a century later, it continues to serve that purpose while evolving to meet modern needs.

The park is open year-round, transforming with each season. Spring brings cherry blossoms and tulips, summer offers lush greenery and outdoor activities, fall showcases brilliant colors, and winter provides opportunities for skating, cross-country skiing, and enjoying the snow-covered landscape.

The Leaf: A Modern Conservatory

One of Winnipeg's newest and most impressive attractions, The Leaf is a state-of-the-art conservatory that opened in 2022. This architectural marvel houses four distinct biomes, each representing different climates and ecosystems from around the world.

The Biomes

  • Mediterranean Biome - Experience the plants and climate of the Mediterranean region, with olive trees, citrus fruits, and aromatic herbs
  • Tropical Biome - Step into a tropical rainforest with exotic plants, waterfalls, and a canopy walkway
  • Boreal Biome - Explore Canada's boreal forest, showcasing native plants and ecosystems
  • Butterfly Garden - Walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies in a carefully controlled environment

The Leaf isn't just about plants—it's an educational experience that teaches visitors about climate change, biodiversity, and the importance of conservation. Interactive displays, guided tours, and special programs make it engaging for visitors of all ages.

Assiniboine Park Zoo

The Assiniboine Park Zoo is one of Canada's premier zoological facilities, known for its commitment to conservation and animal welfare. The zoo is home to over 200 species, including polar bears, red pandas, Amur tigers, and many more.

Key Exhibits

  • Journey to Churchill - One of the world's best polar bear exhibits, featuring underwater viewing areas and educational displays about Arctic conservation
  • Touch of the Tropics - An indoor rainforest environment with monkeys, birds, and tropical plants
  • Animals of Asia - See Amur tigers, red pandas, and other Asian species in naturalistic habitats
  • Canadian Wilds - Explore native Canadian wildlife including bison, elk, and wolves

The zoo places a strong emphasis on conservation and education, with programs that help visitors understand the challenges facing wildlife and what can be done to help.

Beautiful Gardens

Assiniboine Park is home to several stunning gardens, each with its own character and beauty:

  • Leo Mol Sculpture Garden - A beautiful garden featuring over 300 bronze sculptures by renowned artist Leo Mol
  • English Garden - Classic formal gardens with seasonal plantings and beautiful water features
  • Lyric Theatre Gardens - Surrounding the outdoor amphitheater, these gardens provide a beautiful setting for summer concerts

Recreation and Activities

Beyond the gardens and zoo, Assiniboine Park offers numerous recreational opportunities:

  • Walking and Jogging Trails - Miles of paved and natural trails wind through the park
  • Picnic Areas - Numerous picnic sites with tables and shelters
  • Playgrounds - Multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups
  • Skating - In winter, the duck pond becomes a skating rink
  • Cross-Country Skiing - Groomed trails for winter recreation
  • Pavilion - A beautiful historic building that hosts events and offers dining

Special Events

Throughout the year, Assiniboine Park hosts a variety of events:

  • Summer Concerts - Free concerts at the Lyric Theatre
  • Festivals - Various cultural and community festivals
  • Holiday Events - Special programming during holidays
  • Educational Programs - Workshops, tours, and learning opportunities for all ages

Planning Your Visit: Assiniboine Park is free to enter, but the zoo and The Leaf require admission tickets. Consider purchasing a combination ticket for both attractions. The park is large, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Parking is available, and the park is also accessible by public transit. Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience the park, zoo, and The Leaf.

Getting There

From our Airbnb in Crescentwood, Assiniboine Park is about a 15-minute drive or easily accessible by public transit. The park is located in the Tuxedo neighborhood, making it convenient for visitors staying in various parts of the city.

Why Assiniboine Park Matters

Assiniboine Park represents Winnipeg's commitment to green space, conservation, and community. It's a place where families can spend quality time together, where nature lovers can find peace, and where visitors can learn about the natural world. The addition of The Leaf has made the park even more special, creating a year-round destination that combines education, beauty, and recreation.

Whether you're interested in animals, plants, gardens, or simply need a beautiful place to relax, Assiniboine Park offers it all. It's a testament to the value of preserving and enhancing urban green spaces, and it's one of the many reasons why Winnipeg is such a livable and enjoyable city.

Plan your visit, take your time exploring, and don't miss The Leaf—it's truly one of Winnipeg's most impressive recent additions. Assiniboine Park is more than just a park—it's a destination that showcases the best of what Winnipeg has to offer.