Complete Guide to Assiniboine Park Zoo to Help You Plan Your Family Day like a Pro
I don’t care how old you are—there’s something magical about walking into Assiniboine Park Zoo and locking eyes with a swimming polar bear right over your head. That moment never gets old.
This zoo is located inside Assiniboine Park, which is one of the best sightseeing spots in Winnipeg. It has also become one of my favorite spots to visit, especially in the fall.
I like to think that the polar bears and seals actually recognize me at this point (which I know is wishful thinking). Plus, I could spend hours watching the gorgeous Amur tigers and snow leopards just lounging around like total bosses.
But if it’s your first time, the zoo can feel a bit overwhelming. Without a little direction, it’s easy to miss some truly awesome exhibits and animals.
Enter this local guide. With our help, you can skip the guesswork and dive right into the good stuff at Assiniboine Park Zoo. Let’s go!
Where is Assiniboine Park Zoo?
Assiniboine Park Zoo is located on the west end of Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park. The zoo’s official address is 2595 Roblin Boulevard, and it sits near the Assiniboine River, just west of the Corydon and Tuxedo neighborhoods.
How to Get to Assiniboine Park Zoo
By Bus:
Hop on the Winnipeg Transit—routes 11, 18, 21, 67, or 79 will get you close. The nearest stop is Westbound at Shaftesbury (Assiniboine Park), just a short 6-minute walk from the zoo entrance.
By Car:
Coming from downtown? Take Portage Avenue, then turn left on Shaftesbury Boulevard. If you’re coming from the south, use Corydon Avenue West, which becomes Roblin Boulevard, then turn right on Shaftesbury to reach the zoo.
By Bike:
If you love a good ride, the zoo connects to several city bike trails like Wellington Crescent, Harte Trail, and the Assiniboine River Trail. Bike racks are available once you arrive.
On Foot:
If you’re in Tuxedo, Charleswood, or River Heights, look for park paths near Corydon and Shaftesbury.
Best Time to Visit Assiniboine Park Zoo
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The best time to visit the Assiniboine Park Zoo is on weekday mornings, when it’s quieter and animals are most active. Spring and fall offer milder weather and fewer crowds, while winter is perfect for seeing polar bears and arctic foxes.
Things to Know about Assiniboine Park Zoo
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History
Assiniboine Park Zoo has been part of Winnipeg’s story for over a century. It all started in 1904, when the City of Winnipeg Board brought in native animals like deer, bison, and elk to create a small wildlife exhibit in the park.
Now, the zoo spans 80 acres and is home to over 160 species from around the world, including polar bears, tigers, and snow leopards. It’s run by the Assiniboine Park Conservancy and continues to evolve, offering education and old-fashioned family fun.
Hours of Operation
Regular Hours
| Area | Hours |
| Assiniboine Park Zoo | Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM |
| Tundra Grill | Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM |
| Wild Things Unique Gifts | Mon – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM |
Holiday Hours
| Holiday | Hours |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
| Remembrance Day | Mon – Sun: 1 PM – 4 PM |
| Other Holidays | Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM |
Admission Rates
| Visitor | Gate Rate | Online Rate |
| Adults (18-59 years) | $25.20 | $22.90 |
| Seniors (60+ years) | $22.05 | $20.05 |
| Students (with valid student IDs) | $22.05 | $20.05 |
| Children (3-17 years) | $14.30 | $13.00 |
| Children (2 years and under) | FREE | FREE |
Parking
Parking at Assiniboine Park Zoo is free, and there are two large parking lots near the zoo entrance off Roblin Boulevard. If you’re driving an electric vehicle, there’s a charging station as well (near the entrance).
If things are busy, especially on weekends or during special events, there’s an overflow lot at 54 Zoo Drive—perfect for extra cars or bus parking. Note that there’s a short footpath that conveniently connects it to the main zoo entrance.
Zoo Mobility Services
From spring to fall, you can go to Assiniboine Park Zoo by riding the free Domo Trolley, which also stops at the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, Park Cafe, The Leaf, and more. Inside the zoo, a seasonal tram travels between the entrance and the north end.
For extra comfort, the zoo offers rentals like strollers, electric scooters, and a small number of wheelchairs. You can check the Domo trolley and zoo tram schedule online to help plan your routes for the trip.
What to Do in Assiniboine Park Zoo
Check out polar bears at Journey to Churchill
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Journey to Churchill is a fun way to explore Canada’s north without leaving Winnipeg. You can walk through tunnels under swimming polar bears and seals or watch a cool short film in the Aurora Borealis Theatre.
Don’t forget to visit the Polar Bear Conservation Centre to learn more about these amazing animals and how we can help protect their home. Along the way, you’ll also see arctic foxes, snowy owls, muskox, reindeer, and more!
Watch gorgeous tigers at Animals of Asia
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The Animals of Asia exhibit is home to my favorite animals—Amur tigers—as well as red pandas and white-handed gibbons. The area is designed to look natural, giving animals plenty of space, shade, and even a pool to enjoy.
You’ll see both big cats and smaller creatures, plus birds like the massive Steller’s sea eagle. There are also unique animals like the Sichuan takin, domestic yaks, and Turkmenian markhors, so you definitely won’t get bored here.
Say hi to tropical animals at Toucan Ridge
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Toucan Ridge is a tropical indoor exhibit full of colorful birds, monkeys, and greenery. You can also spot everything, from flying foxes, parrots, and owls to anacondas, dwarf caimans, and tree frogs.
While you’re here, why not take part in their special animal experience? You’ll learn all about the birds from the zoo’s friendly animal care pros, and you can even help feed or train one of their featured birds!
Visit playful goats at Aunt Sally’s Farm
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Aunt Sally’s Farm is a playful and colorful spot where kids can explore and watch goats climb rainbow bridges right above them (so cute, I swear!). In addition to goats, you’ll see other adorable farm animals like donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, and llamas.
This cute spot mimics the original farm that opened back in 1959, with a lot of modern additions like parallel playgrounds. What’s cool is that they retained the wishing well from the original Aunt Sally’s farm—very Insta-worthy.
Scope out Percheron horses at McFeetors
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Up in the north part of the zoo, you’ll find McFeetors Heavy Horse Center, a calm and cozy spot where some seriously big and beautiful horses live. It’s home to gentle Percheron and Shire draft horses—strong workhorses that helped build towns.
The space has a big red barn, open field, paddocks, and even an old-fashioned carriage shed. Feel free to walk through the barn and meet the horses—you might even learn (from their caretakers) the tough jobs they did before machines took over.
Join a Zoo Group Tour
Canadian Signature Experience Tour
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The Canadian Signature Experience Tour offers a 90-minute guided adventure through the Journey to Churchill exhibit. You’ll explore Manitoba’s northern wildlife and culture with a knowledgeable guide and meet a member of the zoo’s animal care team.
The tour also includes a visit to the Leatherdale International Polar Bear Conservation Centre, where you’ll chat with a conservation expert. Available year-round, this unique experience must be booked at least two weeks in advance.
Journey to Churchill Tour
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The Journey to Churchill Tour is a guided walk through the zoo’s northern-themed exhibit focused on spotting polar bears and other tundra animals. You’ll also visit the Gateway to the Arctic Building to learn about climate change in Churchill.
Unlike the Canadian Signature Experience Tour, this tour is shorter, more focused on climate education, and doesn’t include behind-the-scenes access or staff meet-and-greets. It’s also available year-round.
Zoo Tour
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For something a bit more laidback, join the standard Zoo Tour—a fun, general walk through Assiniboine Park Zoo. With a flexible route based on the time you choose, you’ll explore key zoo highlights guided by a knowledgeable staff member.
Unlike other tours, this one isn’t focused on a specific exhibit or theme, making it perfect for first-time visitors, kids, or anyone wanting a broad zoo experience. It’s ideal for groups of six or more.
All My Relations Tour
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This unique tour explores the rich cultures of Manitoba’s First Nation, Metis, and Inuit communities. You’ll learn about Indigenous views on nature, the concept of being connected, and ways in which we can take better care of the environment.
Unlike the other zoo tours, this one focuses on cultural understanding and environmental responsibility via an indigenous lens. It also discusses the importance of cultivating a deep connection with animals and the land.
Where to Eat in Assiniboine Park Zoo
Tundra Grill
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Website: https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/zoo/shop-eat-play/restaurants-and-food
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tundra-grill/
Address: Assiniboine Park Zoo, 2595 Roblin Blvd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 927-8040
Who wouldn’t want their meal with a side of cute polar bear views? Yep, at Tundra Grill, you can grab a delicious, kid-friendly meal (burgers, fries, etc.) while polar bears splash and play just a few feet away in full view of their huge windows!
Pizzas, rice bowls, poutine, and even ice-cold beers are available as well. And don’t forget to take your kids to the restaurant’s Polar Playground, where they can burn off some energy before heading back out.
Where to Stay near Assiniboine Park Zoo
Hilton Garden Inn
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ywgmngi-hilton-garden-inn-winnipeg-south/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilton-garden-inn-winnipeg-south/
Address: 495 Sterling Lyon Pkwy
Hours: Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 12 PM
Contact: (204) 594-7436
Just a 10-minute drive from Assiniboine Park Zoo, Hilton Garden Inn is a comfy place to stay after a day of animal fun. The rooms are well-equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee makers, fridges, microwaves, TVs, free WiFi, and more.
You can relax at the indoor pool with a view, work out at the fitness center, or grab a bite at the on-site restaurant and bar. Its location is also convenient since it’s close to the airport, Forks Market, and several local shops.