Assiniboine Park Zoo, Winnipeg

Located in the west end of Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park, the Assiniboine Park Zoo is one of Canada’s oldest zoological institutions, established in 1904. Spanning 80 acres, the zoo is home to more than 160 species of animals and is operated by the Assiniboine Park Conservancy. It proudly holds accreditations from both the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), reflecting its commitment to high standards in animal care and conservation.

The zoo is perhaps best known for its Journey to Churchill exhibit, which replaced the original polar bear enclosure in 2013 and remains a flagship attraction showcasing Manitoba’s Arctic wildlife. Another major highlight is the Animals of Asia section, where visitors can encounter a fascinating variety of species including Arabian and Bactrian camels, Sichuan takins, domestic yaks, Turkmenian markhors, reindeer, snow leopards, Amur tigers, and even white-handed gibbons. Bird lovers won’t be disappointed either, with Steller’s sea eagles and emus among the feathered residents.

In 2010, the zoo introduced the Pavilion of Lions, originally housing African lions. By 2012, it made history by becoming the first facility in North America to house a pair of Asiatic lions. A year later, in 2013, a 26,000-square-foot enclosure for Siberian tigers was added to support breeding efforts and enrich the big cats’ environment.

With a century-long legacy and continued growth, the Assiniboine Park Zoo stands as a key destination in Manitoba for wildlife education, conservation, and family-friendly exploration.