Assiniboine Park Zoo
Manitoba
Assiniboine Park Zoo, located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is a renowned zoological facility spanning 80 acres within Assiniboine Park. Established in 1904, it is managed by the Assiniboine Park Conservancy and accredited by both the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo is home to more than 160 species, including rare and exotic animals such as Amur tigers, Asian lions, Siberian tigers, polar bears, and red pandas. One of its signature features is the "Journey to Churchill" exhibit, which highlights Arctic wildlife and conservation efforts. The zoo also offers family-friendly areas like Aunt Sally's Farm, providing interactive learning experiences for children. Over the years, the zoo has undergone significant redevelopment to enhance animal habitats and visitor facilities, including expansions of tiger enclosures and the introduction of innovative exhibits. Visitors can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours and a variety of educational programs, making it a vibrant destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.
Plan your trip to Canada with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit during the daytime hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the best animal viewing experiences. Consider booking behind-the-scenes tours in advance to get closer encounters with charismatic animals like polar bears and tigers. Check the zoo’s website for seasonal events and workshops, and take advantage of family-friendly programs and camps. Arriving early or on weekdays can help avoid larger crowds. The zoo offers various discounts and memberships, so inquire ahead for potential savings.
Interesting facts
- •Assiniboine Park Zoo was the first North American zoo to house a pair of Asian lions starting in 2012.
- •The zoo’s polar bear exhibit was significantly renovated in 1967 to accommodate orphaned cubs.
- •In 2014, wolves dug into the polar bear enclosure, leading to temporary animal relocations but no injuries.
- •The zoo holds accreditation from both the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a rare distinction in Canada.
History
The Assiniboine Park Zoo was established in 1904 when the City of Winnipeg Parks Board purchased native animals to form the initial collection.
Early expansions included a bear enclosure in 1908 and the acquisition of the first lioness in 1935.
The zoo expanded further in the 1960s with new exhibits like the Tropical House and renovations to the polar bear enclosure.
In 2008, the Assiniboine Park Conservancy was formed to oversee the zoo's redevelopment, leading to a comprehensive 10-year plan unveiled in 2009.
This plan included the creation of the acclaimed "Journey to Churchill" exhibit, emphasizing polar bear conservation.
The zoo earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums in 2014, marking it as one of only five Canadian zoos with this distinction.
Place Guide
Journey to Churchill Exhibit2009
This exhibit focuses on Arctic wildlife, featuring polar bears and other northern species in naturalistic habitats designed to educate visitors about conservation challenges in the Arctic region.
Animals of Asia Section
Home to rare and exotic Asian species such as Amur tigers, Asian lions (the first in North America), red pandas, and white-handed gibbons, this section emphasizes biodiversity and breeding programs.
Aunt Sally's Farm1990 (current farm opened)
A child-friendly educational farm area adjacent to a playground, offering interactive learning about domestic mammals and farm life, replacing the original petting zoo from 1959-1989.
Contact
Phone: (204) 927-6000