Assiniboine Park is Winnipeg's largest and best-loved park, a long loop of lawns, trees and gardens on the south bank of the Assiniboine River. It opened in the early twentieth century, and it still has a Victorian feel, with an English garden and a pavilion. The zoo sits within the park, and so does The Leaf, a modern conservatory of glass and steel that holds a tropical biome, a Mediterranean biome, a butterfly garden and outdoor gardens that celebrate the cultures of Canada. In summer the park is a place for picnics, paths and cycling. In winter The Leaf is a warm, humid refuge where you can walk among palms and flowers while snow lies outside. Allow two to three hours for the park and the gardens, and a full day if you add the zoo.
What to see
The English Garden and the formal pavilion are the classic park views, with a gallery and cafe nearby. The Leaf is the newer centrepiece, with an indoor garden that includes tropical plants, a Mediterranean area and a space for butterflies, as well as outdoor gardens with a focus on Indigenous and diverse cultures. Check the venue's website for the current layout, since gardens are added and refreshed over time. Cycling and walking paths link the sights and run along the river, and sculptures and monuments appear along the way.
Making the visit work
The park grounds are free to enter, and The Leaf and the zoo are ticketed separately, with hours that change by season, so check the visit page before you set out. A self-guided smartphone audio walking tour of the park is available for visitors who like some commentary as they wander, which is a useful way to tie the grounds together.
Wear comfortable shoes, because the loop is long, and dress for the weather. In winter, plan to start with the outdoor paths and finish in the warm conservatory, rather than the other way around.
Fitting it in
The park is a short drive west of downtown, and it is served by buses and rideshares. A car makes it easiest, with parking at the park, but a rideshare works if you do not have one. Because the zoo, The Leaf and the gardens all lie within the park, you can build a full day around them, with a lunch break at one of the cafes.
Families often split the day between the zoo and the gardens, while couples tend to prefer a gentle afternoon at The Leaf followed by a walk through the English Garden. If you are staying only a short time, choose either the zoo or The Leaf, depending on your interests, and enjoy the grounds on the way.
Good to know
The park is large enough that you should decide in advance which areas matter most, and a map from the visit page helps. Cafes and washrooms are placed around the main attractions, and benches and picnic areas make it easy to pause. Cyclists will find paved paths, and walkers can choose shorter loops if they are short of time.
Check whether special events or seasonal light displays are on during your dates, since these can change the atmosphere and the crowds. In summer, bring water and sun protection, and in winter, bring warm layers for the walk between buildings.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit to the park grounds and gardens, with a smartphone audio walking tour available as an option, plus a separately ticketed conservatory.
Best time
A sunny summer day for the grounds, or a cold afternoon when The Leaf's warmth is the draw.
How long
Two to three hours for the park and gardens, a full day with the zoo.
Tips
Check hours and ticket details for The Leaf and the zoo before you go, wear comfortable shoes and bring warm layers in winter.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Garden lovers, families and anyone wanting green space and warmth in the same visit.
- Families
- Space to run, a butterfly garden and the zoo make it an easy family day.
- Couples
- A slow walk through the English Garden followed by a warm afternoon in The Leaf.
- Pair with
- Assiniboine Park Zoo is in the same park and combines well.
- Time needed
- Allow two to three hours, or a full day with the zoo.
Good questions
What is The Leaf?+
It is a conservatory in Assiniboine Park with a tropical biome, a Mediterranean biome, a butterfly garden and outdoor gardens.
Is the park free?+
The park grounds are free to enter, while The Leaf and the zoo are ticketed separately. Check the visit page for current details.
Is it worth visiting in winter?+
Yes, The Leaf offers a warm, green space when the weather is cold. Dress warmly for any outdoor paths.
How do I get there from downtown?+
It is a short drive west of downtown, with buses and rideshares available. Parking is available at the park.
Can I combine it with the zoo?+
Yes, the zoo is inside Assiniboine Park, so the two make a natural full-day visit.
