Programs at Assiniboine Park & Zoo

Zoo Programs start at the main Zoo entrance at 2595 Roblin Boulevard unless otherwise stated in your confirmation email. A program instructor will meet you and guide you to your program.

The ABC's of Zoos

Preschool/Kindergarten | 60 minutes
Discover the animals of Assiniboine Park Zoo by working your way through the alphabet during a fun, interactive session an a guided tour for “little feet” of tropical Toucan Ridge.

Learning Outcomes: Kindergarten Science
Maximum Students: 30

Creature Classification

Grade 1 | 90 minutes
Some animals have limbs and lungs, while others have fins and gills. Discover the differences and similarities among various animal groups by examining a selection of biofacts and touring a section of the Zoo.

Learning Outcomes: Grade 1 Science

Animal Life Cycles

Grade 2 | 90 minutes
Learn about the life cycles of insects, birds, amphibians, fish, reptiles, and mammals. Students will tour through the Zoo to look at the animals’ daily life. This program is eggciting science!

Learning Outcomes: Grade 2 Science

Polar Bears

Grades 1 – 6 | 90 minutes
Learn the remarkable stories behind the Assiniboine Park Zoo’s polar bears. Tour the Zoo’s Journey to Churchill exhibit and discover how bears have adapted to survive in their habitat. Students will also explore the unique and sometimes challenging relationship between people and bears in the town of Churchill and the western Hudson Bay.

Learning Outcomes: Grade 1, 2, 4 & 6 Science Grade 3 Social Studies.
Please note: this program may not include classroom component during May & June.

Turtle Island Animal Stories

Grades 1–6 | 90 minutes
Storytelling is a significant part of Indigenous cultures. It is one of the many ways for traditions and knowledge to be passed from one generation to another. Through storytelling, our educators will introduce participants to the animals of Turtle Island (ie. North America) and their importance to Indigenous beliefs, values, and ways of life.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 1, 2, 4 and 6 Language Arts and Social Studies
Maximum Students: 30

Gakina Ndinawemaaganag: Kakinow Niwahkomakanak (All My Relations)

Grade 4, 5 & 6 | 90 minutes
First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people of Manitoba have distinct cultures connected by an intimate relationship with animals and the land. In this tour-based program, learn how all nature is inter-connected through Indigenous perspectives and explore how we can all be better stewards of the land.

Learning Outcomes: Grade 4–6 Social Studies, Grade 4–6 Aboriginal Languages and Culture, Grade 4 and 6 Science

Rainforests

Grades 2 – 7 | 90 minutes
Ever wonder what makes a rainforest, a rainforest? These ecosystems are often referred to as “the lungs of the planet”. Home to an amazing array of plants, animals, and insects, rainforests also provide valuable resources. Each layer of the forest hosts different plants and animals unique to that section. We’ll learn about this valuable environment and why it’s so important to conserve.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 2, 3, 5 and 7 Social Studies, Grades 3-4 Science

Arctic Adaptations

Grades 1–8 | 90 minutes
How do animals survive the cold winters of the Arctic tundra? Students will learn how animals survive in their habitat and study specific characteristics of animals here at the Zoo through age-appropriate activities.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 1–8 Science

Arctic Field Research: Studying & Managing Population

Grades 7–10 | 120 minutes
The Zoo’s Conservation and Research Department conducts active field work in the Zoo and in the Churchill area. This program highlights how our research is contributing to a better understanding of Arctic species, including possible impacts from a changing climate. Students will engage with actual field data and learn new analysis techniques. Focus areas include: Behavioural Ecology of Seals in Western Hudson Bay and Population Dynamics of Arctic and Sub- Arctic Marine Species. 

Learning Outcomes: Grade 7 Science and Social Science, Grade 10 Science
Maximum Students: 30

Endangered Species & Conservation

Grades 7–12 | 90 minutes
Did you know that Assiniboine Park Zoo is involved in important conservation and research projects involving muskox, polar bears and even dolphins? Learn about what zoos are doing to Save Animals From Extinction (SAFE).

Learning Outcomes: Grades 7–10 Social Studies, Grade 7 and 12 Science

Join us in the Zoo classroom for an up close and personal encounter with our animal handler/educator and a selection of three to five of our ambassador animals.

Enhance student learning with a one-of-a-kind, hands-on animal encounter. Each workshop is broken up into short segments that have participants using all their senses.

• All programs include hands-on animal contact.
• Maximum number of participants is 25 per program.
• Programs are 60 minutes in length.
• Ambassador animals include, but are not limited to: leopard and gargoyle geckos, anaconda, boa constrictor, box turtle, pancake tortoise, and giant African land snail.
• Availability is subject to animal care schedules. 

Choose from the following age-appropriate programs: 

Animal Essentials (Grade 1)

Learn the basics of animal care for pets at home and animals at the Zoo. Meet a few of our animal ambassador and discover what our animal care professionals do to take care of them and meet their needs. Students will also learn the value of teamwork as they work together to design their own animal exhibits.

Learning Lifecycles (Grade 2)

Learn about the lifecycles of reptiles and invertebrates and how this compares to our own. This experience is brought to life through encounters with ambassador animals of various ages, biofacts, and a guided lifecycle activity.

Homes and Habitats (Grades 3 & 4)

Learn about different habitats (including soil) and the animals found within them, as well as what people can do to save these homes. This learning experience is brought to life with some of our ambassador animals and an interactive habitat modelling activity.

Creature Climates (Grades 5 & 6)

Animals have adapted to survive in a variety of habitats from the Arctic to the Sahara Desert. Students will learn how habitats and climate influence the lives of reptiles and invertebrates. This learning experience is brought to life with some of our ambassador animals and an interactive guided activity.

Make the most of your Zoo visit with a tour with our knowledgeable guides. Themes and language level are adapted to age or group. Please note: guided tours do not include a classroom component.

Choose Your Own Adventure

Grades 1–12 | 90 or 120 minutes
Who would you like to see? We can customize your tour. Here are a couple of examples of how your guide will enhance your experience at Assiniboine Park Zoo:

• Manitoba Mammals – From bison in the south to polar bears in the north, learn more about the animals in our own “backyard”.
• Asiatic Animals – Gibbons and tigers and more, oh my! Explore the animals of a faraway land.

Learning Outcomes: dependent on grade level and focus of tour

Journey to Churchill

Grades 1–12 | 90 minutes
Discover the animals of Canada’s north as we tour the award-winning Journey to Churchill exhibit. Learn about the Zoo’s role in conservation while observing these amazing animals.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 1 - 12 Science and Social Studies 

Purrfect Predators: Big Cats

Grades 4-6 | 90 minutes
Learn about the distinct characteristics of tigers and leopards and compare their vocalizations to smaller cats such as cougars and lynx. Find out why two-thirds of the world’s cats are endangered and learn what the Assiniboine Park Zoo is doing to conserve them.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 4 and 6 Science

Zoo Careers

Grade 9–12 | 90 or 120 minutes
Working at the Zoo includes more than just zookeepers. Whether you like animals, food or people, there’s a job for every kind of person here at Assiniboine Park Zoo. Get a look at the people that work behind the scenes to keep the animals, plants, and zoo visitors happy.

Learning Outcomes: Grade 9–12 Career Development

NEW: The Climate Change Challenge

Grade 9-12 | 120 minutes
Your challenge should you choose to accept it…we are currently facing a climate crisis, and the outcome depends on you! Well, on all of us. Take part in this active teambuilding program as you travel throughout the zoo collecting tips and clues on how we can all reduce our carbon footprint. Do your part and identify changes you can adapt into your daily routine to work towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

Maximum Students: 100
Program Availability: January - June
Learning Outcomes: Grades 9 - 12 Science and Social Studies 

Programs take place in the Acorn Activity Room at the Qualico Family Centre (330 Assiniboine Park Drive/near the Riley Family Duck Pond) unless otherwise stated in your confirmation email. An Education Program Instructor will meet you at the entrance and guide you to your program.

Nature Photography

Grade 3 – 8 | 90 minutes | Qualico Family Centre
Photography is a great way to connect with nature and take a closer look at the environment around you. Discover the Park through the lens of a camera and learn basic techniques that will help you take great outdoor photographs. Cameras are provided.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 3–8 Social Studies and Art
Maximum Students: 30 
Program Availability: March - October
 

A River Runs Through It

Grades 3 – 5 | 90 minutes | Qualico Family Centre
The riparian forest is a very special and important habitat to our local rivers, plants, animals and people. Students will unearth the ecological secrets of the riparian forest through water quality investigations, forest walks, photography, and sensory activities designed to enhance their appreciation and understanding of forests. This program runs April through early November, weather permitting.

Learning Outcomes: Grades 3–5 Social Studies, Grade 3 Science
Maximum Students: 30

• Chaperones must be responsible adults (i.e. teacher, volunteer, or parent).
• Chaperones provide safety and help guide your students’ educational experience at Assiniboine Park and Zoo and should take an active role in supervision.
• Class and group behaviour is the responsibility of chaperones NOT Assiniboine Park Conservancy’s Program Instructors.
• Chaperones who fall within these ratios are included free of charge:
  • 1:10 – Gr. Pre-K - 6
  • 1:15 – Gr. 7 - 12
  • 1:25 – Post-secondary
• Extra chaperones are $20.70/adult + GST at the Zoo

Booking Policies

• All programs are subject to a minimum charge of $150 + GST, regardless of the number of participants. 
• An invoice for the balance owing will be emailed upon your booking being processed. The remaining amount can be paid upon arrival for your program with cash, debit, MasterCard, Visa, or business cheque to “Assiniboine Park Conservancy."
• All prices are subject to change.

Space is limited and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure availability, please contact us at least 3 - 4 weeks in advance for non-peak months and 3-4 months in advance for the peak months of April, May, and June.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your program, please do so as soon as possible by contacting our Education Department at education@assiniboinepark.ca or call 204-927-6070. We will work with you to find another date or time that is available.

Refunds:

• Cancellations made 15+ business days in advance = full refund
• Cancellations made 11 - 14 business days in advance = partial refund. Cancellation is subject to a $35 + GST administrative fee.
• Cancellations made 10 or less business days in advance = no refund.

We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule any program. A full refund will be issued if the Education Department cancels your tour or program.

Weather Policy

All programs run rain, snow or shine, with the exception of severe weather conditions (e.g. thunderstorms, high wind-chills, unsafe travel conditions, school closures). In the event of an unstable weather forecast, please contact us about possible cancellations on the day of your program so we can reschedule your visit.

Good Behaviour Policy

• Groups visiting the Zoo must respect and follow the Zoo rules.
• Please be kind to the Park and Zoo. Do not litter. Use the available garbage and recycling cans.
• Class and group behaviour is the responsibility of chaperones NOT Assiniboine Park Conservancy’s Program Instructors.
• We reserve the right to ask a group that is disruptive, or presents a danger to themselves or others, to leave the Zoo without compensation.

Field Trip Tips

If a student is lost or injured, please notify any staff member or volunteer. They will immediately alert security.

• ALL ZOO/PARK VISITORS are to arrive at the location listed on your confirmation letter which you will receive after we have processed your deposit payment. Buses are to park at the Zoo overflow parking lot located inside the Park on the East side of the Zoo (view maps). Your group can exit through the former East Gate entrance however re-entry is not allowed at this location. For re-entry to the Zoo you must enter at the Zoo entrance (2595 Roblin Blvd).
• For Guided Programs led by our Education Coordinators, please bring the confirmation sheet that has been emailed to you in advance of your visit.
• We strongly encourage all visitors to bring filled water bottles.
• Please dress appropriately for your visit. We recommend visitors wear weather-appropriate clothing and protection from the elements.
• We do not offer lockers or storage and are not responsible for visitors’ personal belongings.
• Outside food is not allowed in Tundra Grill. Food can be purchased in the restaurant and at various concessions located within the Zoo.
• Picnic tables can be found throughout the Zoo. There are covered eating spaces available in the Zoo, Nature Playground, and Duck Pond.
• It is recommended that groups bring a wagon for lunches as there is nowhere to refrigerate or store them during your visit.

Payment

For guided programs (booked in advance and led by our education staff):

• An invoice will be emailed to you after your booking is processed (based on numbers on your booking form).
• Numbers can be changed up to 7 days prior to your visit.
• To adjust your numbers please contact us by email with your updated numbers along with your invoice number. Otherwise, you will be charged for the numbers on your original booking form.

Payment is due upon arrival. POs are not an accepted form of payment. Accepted forms of payment include cash, debit, Mastercard, Visa, and business cheque.

Program Locations

Qualico Family Centre | 330 Assiniboine Park Drive
Please meet your instructor in the lobby of the Qualico Family Centre located next to the Riley Family Duck Pond.

Assiniboine Park Zoo | 2595 Roblin Boulevard
Please meet your instructor at the Zoo Entrance at 2595 Roblin Boulevard. A Program Instructor will meet you and guide you to your program.

Special Events Entrance | 54 Zoo Drive
Please meet your instructor at the Special Events Entrance at 54 Zoo Drive. A program instructor will meet you and guide you to your program location.

*Please note: your program location will be indicated on your confirmation.