A Local’s Complete Guide to Kings Park in Winnipeg for the Ultimate Day Out
As a Winnipegger, I’m truly lucky that my city is home to gorgeous green spaces such as Assiniboine Park and FortWhyte Alive. But, if I’m looking for somewhere a bit more intimate and chill, then Kings Park is my go-to.
There are a lot of reasons why Kings Park is one of the best parks in Winnipeg. It might not be as massive as its counterparts, but locals just can’t get enough of its themed gardens, Chinese pagoda, waterfall, and riverbank views.
So, if you want to make the most of your visit, here’s your ultimate guide to Kings Park. I’m pretty sure you’ll come to love it as much as I do!
Where is Kings Park?
Winnipeg’s Kings Park is located at 198 Kings Drive in South Winnipeg, near Fort Richmond and the University of Manitoba. This 92-acre green space is easily accessible by car, bike, and Winnipeg Transit, with free parking at the entrance.
How to Get to Kings Park
By Bus: Take Winnipeg transit routes 662, 671, or 672, which stop at Eastbound Silverstone near King’s Drive. This is only about a 5-minute walk from the park.
By Car: Drive south on Pembina highway (Route 42) and turn into King’s Drive—the park’s entrance is easy to spot. A welcome bonus: there’s free parking inside.
By Bike or Walking: You can follow the King’s Drive bike path from Fort Richmond or use the Trans Canada Trail, which connects parts of Winnipeg to the park.
Best Time to Visit Kings Park
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The best time to visit Kings Park is during spring and summer, when the trails are lush, and the pond is full of wildlife like ducks and deer. Warm weather makes it perfect for walking your dog, jogging, hiking, biking, or just having a picnic.
Things to Know about Kings Park
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Accessibility – The park is wheelchair-accessible, with smooth paved paths through most areas.
Available Facilities – There are washrooms near the entrance and picnic tables and BBQs scattered throughout the park.
Dog Friendliness – Bring your pup! Kings Park has an off-leash dog park and plenty of trails that welcome leashed dogs.
Wildlife Sightings – The area is home to a variety of wildlife. Common sightings include deer, groundhogs, beavers, raccoons, and chipmunks, as well as many bird species.
What to Do in Kings Park
Check out the Chinese pagoda
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You can’t go to Kings Park without visiting its famous Chinese pagoda, a beautiful and elegant structure. It’s surrounded by landscaped gardens filled with ornamental plants and seasonal blooms.
If you’re after Instagram-worthy shots, visit during spring or summer for full blooms, or during fall for breathtaking fiery foliage. And if you want some quiet time in the pagoda area, head there during weekday mornings, when the park is less crowded.
Visit the pond and waterfall
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Right in the heart of Kings Park, you’ll find a peaceful pond and small waterfall. It’s the ultimate chill zone—the soothing sound of water (and some wildlife sightings here and there) will help melt away your worries.
If you’re here for the park’s water features, we recommend visiting during early mornings or evenings. During these times, the soft lighting is perfect for capturing dreamy photos—or just setting the mood (if you’re on a date!).
Go on its walking and biking trails
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Want to blow off some steam? Explore Kings Park’s numerous walking and biking trails that wind through forests, open fields, and along the Red River—some trails are even open to dogs, as long as they’re leashed!
We suggest visiting during fall since the trails will explode with awesome autumn colors; some popular trails are the Kings Park Loop and the Kings Park Inner Loop. Don’t write off winter either, since snow-covered trails here look something out of a snowglobe!
Bring your pup to its off-leash dog park
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Your furry friends would love the off-leash dog park at Kings Park, located northeast of the retention pond. It’s a wide open space where your dogs can run free while you sit pensively with a cup of coffee; plus, there are plenty of shaded areas for warm days.
We suggest bringing water and waste bags to tidy up after your pup. Also, note that the off-leash area can be a bit busy during weekends, so if your pup’s a bit shy or easily intimidated, bring them during weekdays instead.
Enjoy its prairie and riverbank views
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You don’t have to be a photography nut to enjoy the park’s gorgeous prairie and riverbank views. Its open landscapes are perfect for a lazy afternoon picnic, a quiet stroll, or an amateur photo shoot, especially around sunset.
Watch out for gorgeous prairie flowers during spring and summer. Plus, birdwatchers should visit during migration seasons, which typically occur during spring and fall—they might see waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors.
Exercise at the park’s workout stations
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If walking and biking is not your thing, don’t worry—you can still break a sweat by taking advantage of Kings Parks fitness loops and outdoor workout stations. Feel free to do circuit training or bodyweight exercise while enjoying the area’s fresh air.
Early mornings are the best time to exercise if you want the area all to yourself, or you can bring your friends for an informal yoga or meditation session. Maybenea bring your furry friend along—they might need some exercise too!
Use the park’s sports fields
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Kings Park has a kickass soccer field that’s great for organized soccer matches—such as community matches—or just a casual game amongst friends. However, if you’re planning to play on weekends, make sure to arrive early to snag a spot.
If baseball’s more your thing, the park has two spacious baseball diamonds, surrounded by lots of green space and shady areas. Make sure to bring your own gear (or maybe even a frisbee!), and reserve ahead if you have a larger group that wants to play.
Where to Eat near Kings Park
Degrees Diner
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Website: https://umsu.ca/degrees/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/degreesdiner/
Address: 65 Chancellors Cir
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 8 PM
Contact: (204) 474-7370
Degrees Diner is just a 7-minute drive away from Kings Park—you can grab some breakfast before your visit. Speaking of which, we love their delicious Rise & Grind Breakfast with 3 eggs, bacon strips, and sausages, coupled with drip coffee.
If you’re craving something sweet, try their Berry French Toast, Dulce de Leche Pastry, or Fruit Cheesecake. Pair your chosen treat with their luscious Café Mocha w/ Cocoa Powder—or even Iced Pumpkin Pie Latte during fall.
Punjabi Taste
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Website: https://order.online/store/punjabi-taste-winnipeg-25169582/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/degreesdiner/
Address: 33 University Crescent
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 AM
Contact: (204) 615-0015
If you’re craving a hearty, Indian meal, then Punjabi Taste is a must-visit. Just a 9-minute drive away from Kings Park, it’s known for its yummy Chicken Biryani—tender, juicy chicken, with fluffy basmati rice and traditional spices.
Another must-order here is their Tandoori Chicken—an order gets you two legs and two thighs, which were marinated in yogurt and house spices and served with mint chutney on the side. Wash it all down with a mango shake, and you’re good to go!
Nicolino’s
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Website: https://www.nicolinosrestaurant.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolinosrestaurant/
Address: 2077 Pembina Hwy
Hours: Tue – Wed: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
Fri – Sat: 11:30 AM – 1 AM
Contact: (204) 269-5004
Now, if Italian food’s more your speed, then you’re in luck—Nicolino’s is only 11-minutes away. A crowd favorite is their Lasagna Emiliana, offering delicious layers of rich red sauce and gooey cheese toppings—homey food that’s perfect after a day at the park.
As for pasta, we recommend their Cavatelli & Salsicce dish—it’s made of housemade sausages, rich Pomodoro sauce, aged Parmigiano, topped with fresh basil and parsley. Other offerings include salads, crostinis, sandwiches, pizzas, and burgers.
Where to Stay near Kings Park
Best Western Plus Pembina Inn & Suites
Website: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.63012.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/best-western-plus-pembina-inn-suites/
Address: 1714 Pembina Hwy
Hours: Check in: 3 PM
Check out: 11 AM
Contact: (204) 269-8888
The best place to stay near Kings Park is Best Western Plus Pembina Inn & Suites—in fact, it’s only a 10-minute drive away. This cozy hotel offers a complimentary hot breakfast (waffles, scrambled eggs, etc.) and 24/7 tea and coffee—yum!
After exploring the park, unwind in their saltwater pool or relax in the hot tub while the kids zoom down the water slide—note that children 12 and under stay for free. Other offerings include pet-friendly rooms, laundry services, and free WiFi.