Before we dive into my visit to the Winnipeg zoo, let me say the weather was horrible the entire time I was in the city, save for a few hours when I was downtown. Otherwise, absolutely horrible. And the bad thing about this travel content is our schedule is locked in so if it's something outdoors and the weather is terrible, there's little wiggle room to move things around at the last minute. That's why booking excursions in Winnipeg for a brief two-day visit was tough -- because it rained most of the time.
With the frequent downpours it made a visit to Assiniboine Park Zoo, well, an experience. Truthfully, just stepping out of the car and running to the main entrance saw me completely soaked even though I did have an umbrella for the 15-second sprint. (Good thing the parking lot was empty. I mean, who goes to a zoo in a rainstorm? This guy.) Alas, my shorts were soaking wet like I'd just been swimming. Spending two hours in that was, well, yeah, an experience.
As a lifelong animal enthusiast, venturing to a new zoo always sparks a delightful sense of anticipation and Assiniboine Park did not disappoint. It was a day filled with fascinating encounters (as minimal as they were because of the weather conditions and animals refusing to take part!), educational experiences and a deep appreciation for the incredible work being done to conserve our planet’s diverse wildlife.
My adventure began in the heart of the zoo, where the majestic polar bears hold court. The newly renovated Churchill Northern Studies Centre is a marvel, designed to mimic the Arctic tundra with its rocky outcrops and glacial blue waters. Watching the massive bears gracefully paddle through the icy depths, their powerful form a testament to nature's engineering, was simply breathtaking.
I spent a good chunk of time here (because it's indoors, away from the rain!), captivated by their every move, and learned from the informative signage about the challenges polar bears face in a changing climate. It's a stark reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the zoo plays a crucial role in raising awareness.
From the icy north, I journeyed to the warmer climes of the Toucan Ridge. This lush, tropical exhibit is a sensory delight. (Again, a decent escape from the rain.) The vibrant colours of the macaws and parrots flitting between branches, the humid air and the gentle trickle of water created an immersive experience. I particularly enjoyed observing the playful antics of the marmosets, their tiny forms darting through the foliage. The detailed enclosures here, simulating a rainforest environment, are a testament to the zoo's commitment to providing naturalistic habitats for their animals.
One of the highlights of my visit was undoubtedly Journey to Churchill. This immersive exhibit goes beyond just housing polar bears. It also showcases other Arctic inhabitants like seals, muskoxen and snowy owls. The underwater viewing area for the seals was a particular thrill. Seeing them glide effortlessly through the water, their sleek bodies cutting through the currents, was mesmerizing. I also learned about the incredible adaptations that allow these animals to survive in such extreme conditions, reinforcing the idea that nature is full of wonder and resilience.
I spent time watching the social meerkats, their sentries diligently watching over their burrow. The Australian Outback exhibit offered a glimpse into the unique wildlife of the land down under, with kangaroos hopping lazily in their enclosure and kookaburras perched contemplatively.
Everywhere I turned, there were engaging displays, interactive elements and knowledgeable staff ready to answer questions. The "Keeper Talks" were particularly insightful. I attended one on the Amur tigers and hearing the keeper speak with such passion about these endangered big cats and the zoo’s breeding programs was both humbling and inspiring. It’s clear that the zoo isn’t just about displaying animals; it’s about fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for them.
I also appreciated the thoughtful layout of the zoo. It’s easy to navigate, with clear pathways and plenty of seating areas to rest and soak in the atmosphere (no pun intended). The grounds themselves are beautifully maintained, with well-kept gardens and a charmingly rustic feel. It makes for a very pleasant day out, whether you’re a solo visitor like myself or with family and friends.
I even found a mother goose shielding her babies from the rain with one of their heads poking out from under her feathers.
As the wetness of my clothes became too distracting and heavy, I decided it was time to leave since the weather showed no signs of letting up.
Overall, my visit to Assiniboine Park Zoo was more than just a day of animal sightings; it was an educational journey, a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet's ecosystems, and a testament to the vital role zoos play in conservation.
Definitely check out the zoo -- but more importantly, check out the weather forecast first!