Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/117969
Pa r k s & B e a c h e s 26 Nature Playground – Assiniboine Park It's right in the city, But It's Not just a walk in the park >>Assiniboine Park — A sprawling expanse of open greenspace, forests and waterfronts, Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park is bigger and better in 2013. The city's crown jewel since 1904, the 283-acre park is in the first stage of a multi-tiered redevelopment plan — one that's already resulted in a brand new Nature Playground, where kids can scale a sky-high crow's nest, traverse willow tree tunnels, and explore a garden inspired by the classic board game snakes and ladders. Leo Mol Sculpture Gardens Be sure to stop & smell the roses >>Assiniboine Park Gardens — Something's always in bloom at Get quacking at the duck pond, stop and smell the roses at the the park's picturesque gardens — from the stylishly symmetrical Conservatory, and raid the honey pot at the well-known Winnie flowerbeds of the Formal Gardens (which date back to 1907), to the the Pooh statue which has been moved from the Zoo to the winding paths and freeform arrangements of the English Gardens, playground, where families can enjoy a covered picnic area or home to two of the park's most iconic statues — the Boy with the catch a few rays at the beach-like Sand & Water play zone. Boot and the Queen Victoria Monument. Peruse the bronze busts of illustrious Winnipeggers at the You can learn about horticultural therapy in the Abilities Garden, Citizens Hall of Fame, located near the Formal Gardens. Then organ transplantation at the Garden of Life, and culinary and take a break at the Park Café in the new Qualico Family Centre, medicinal remedies in the circular Herb Garden. Or surround yourself where you can enjoy some indoor fun at the Acorn Activity with works by one of Winnipeg's most prolific artists in the Leo Mol Room. Sign up for children's crafts and nature photography Sculpture Garden, where nature provides a nice contrast to Mol's workshops, Winnie the Pooh songs and stories, adult fitness bronze sculptures. You can also explore a gallery and restored studio and cooking classes and gardening workshops for all ages. devoted to his career. www.assiniboinepark.ca.