The Leaf is an indoor horticultural attraction at Assiniboine Park where visitors will journey through four distinct biomes; the Hartley and Heather Richardson Tropical Biome, Mediterranean Biome, Babs Asper Display House, and the Shirley Richardson Butterfly Garden. Experience a stunning showcase of our diversity, expressed through plants that shape our lives here and across the globe.
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The Leaf Canada's Diversity Gardens

4.6
·3k reviews·Winnipeg, Canada

Discover Canada's Diversity Gardens, a year-round horticultural marvel featuring distinct biomes, a towering indoor waterfall, and a magical butterfly...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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The Leaf is an indoor horticultural attraction at Assiniboine Park where visitors will journey through four distinct biomes; the Hartley and Heather Richardson Tropical Biome, Mediterranean Biome, Babs Asper Display House, and the Shirley Richardson Butterfly Garden. Experience a stunning showcase of our diversity, expressed through plants that shape our lives here and across the globe.

The Leaf Canada's Diversity Gardens

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Canada's Diversity Gardens, a year-round horticultural marvel featuring distinct biomes, a towering indoor waterfall, and a magical butterfly sanctuary.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"The Leaf exceeded my expectations; a tranquil, beautiful place for all family members to enjoy nature."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Hang Your Coat!

It gets surprisingly warm inside, especially in the biomes. Hang your coat upon entry!

⏱️ Time Your Visit

Allow 45-60 minutes to explore leisurely, or under 30 if you're quick.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canada's Tallest Indoor Waterfall

Canada's Tallest Indoor Waterfall

Tropical Biome

Marvel at the breathtaking 60-foot indoor waterfall, a stunning centerpiece of the tropical biome.

Instagram
Butterfly Garden

Butterfly Garden

Butterfly Garden

Wander through a magical space filled with fluttering butterflies amidst vibrant flora.

Reddit
Mediterranean Biome

Mediterranean Biome

Mediterranean Biome

Immerse yourself in the fragrant scents of sage and explore diverse plant life in this unique climate zone.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Plan your visit to The Leaf to avoid peak times. While it's a year-round attraction, consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for evening dining at Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar. TikTok

Embrace the Biomes

The Leaf features distinct biomes, each with its own climate. Be prepared for warm, humid conditions in the tropical areas. Wearing light clothing is advised, and you might want to hang your coat upon arrival as it can get quite warm inside. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Evening dining
Why
Ambiance at Gather
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter visits
Why
Cozy escape from cold
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Leaf at Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg is opening this Saturday, December 3, 2022! This new horticultural attraction offers guests the opportunity to explore a tropical biome (featuring Canada’s tallest indoor waterfall), gorgeous floral exhibits, a butterfly garden and more. Plan your visit in the evening and book a table at Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar. The restaurant opens on Monday, December ...
@travelmanitoba
21.1K likes • 349.3K views

🧥 Hang Your Coat!

It gets surprisingly warm inside, especially in the biomes. Hang your coat upon entry! Reddit

⏱️ Time Your Visit

Allow 45-60 minutes to explore leisurely, or under 30 if you're quick. Reddit

The Leaf: Canada's Diversity Gardens is part of the Assiniboine Park revitalization project in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is one of Canada’s largest year-round biodiversity gardens. #leaf #manitoba #gardens #flowers #plants #trees Prett LoveNancy MerkleyGretel Greta Williams
cheryl_lahdbabe
4 likes • 74 views
Have you visited The Leaf at Canada's Diversity Gardens yet? We're delighted to have been part of the amazing design team that created this new #Winnipeg tourism destination! @tourismwinnipeg @assiniboine_park @assiniboineparkzoo @travelmanitoba
smsengineers
24 likes • 302 views

🦋 Butterfly Magic

The butterfly garden is a spectacular highlight for all ages. Reddit

🌿 Plant Identification

Look for labels to learn about the diverse plant species. Reddit

The Leaf, Canada’s Diversity Gardens @assiniboine_park houses the tallest indoor waterfall in Canada! . . #biomes #theleaf #horticultural #assiniboinepark #assiniboineparkconservatory #exploremb #wpg #travelmanitoba #canada #waterfall #botanicalgardens #madefromwhatsreal
gordonjmclean
11 likes • 201 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Hang Your Coat!

It gets surprisingly warm inside, especially in the biomes. Hang your coat upon entry! Reddit

⏱️ Time Your Visit

Allow 45-60 minutes to explore leisurely, or under 30 if you're quick. Reddit

🦋 Butterfly Magic

The butterfly garden is a spectacular highlight for all ages. Reddit

🌿 Plant Identification

Look for labels to learn about the diverse plant species. Reddit

🍽️ Dining Reservations

Book ahead for Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar for an evening meal. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Leaf for exceeding expectations, highlighting its stunning indoor waterfall, vibrant butterfly garden, and diverse biomes. It's described as a tranquil, beautiful place perfect for families and plant lovers alike, offering a unique escape. Some minor points of feedback relate to the need for reservations at the restaurant and the warm indoor climate.

"This was a great way to spend a few hours with the family. Honestly The leaf exceeded my expectations. I will definitely be coming back here at least once a year to enjoy the beautiful plants and trees that this place has to offer. My children ages 20 to 8 also really enjoyed the experience. The butterfly sanctuary is amazing as well!"

William Juenke

"If you've ever wanted to feel like you're somewhere else or experience feeling really small on a grand adventure, this is the place to go. Green thumb heaven! The place where you can see how grand your beautiful house plants can be in all of the right conditions."

elizabeth meulenbelt

"I am a local resident and this was my first time at the leaf. I am going to buy a seasons pass. A tranquil.beautiful place to relax, see new plants, enjoy nature. The butterfly garden is spectacular. A place for all members of your family. A coffee shop for just a quick bite. And a restaurant which you need a reservation for all located in the leaf."

Sylvia

What People Like

Stunning indoor waterfall
Magical butterfly garden
Diverse and beautiful biomes

What People Dislike

Warm indoor climate
Restaurant reservation needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Leaf is located within Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg, Manitoba. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the park. Instagram

Yes, Assiniboine Park offers parking facilities. It's advisable to check the park's website for the most current parking information and any associated fees. Instagram

Absolutely! The Leaf is a fantastic addition to a day trip in Winnipeg, especially when combined with other attractions at Assiniboine Park like the zoo. Reddit

The Leaf is well-integrated into Assiniboine Park. Depending on your starting point within the park, you can walk or use park pathways to reach the gardens. Instagram

While specific transportation discounts aren't widely advertised, purchasing package tickets that include the zoo might offer value. Check for any current promotions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices vary. It's best to check The Leaf's official website for the most up-to-date pricing for general admission and any special exhibits. Reddit

Tickets can often be purchased at the entrance, but booking online in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time slot, especially during busy periods. Reddit

The Leaf is open year-round. Operating hours can vary, so consult their official website for the most accurate daily schedule. TikTok

Yes, timed entry is often implemented to manage visitor flow. Booking a specific time slot online is highly recommended to guarantee your entry. Reddit

Yes, package tickets that combine admission to The Leaf and the Assiniboine Park Zoo are often available, offering a cost-effective way to experience both attractions. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend between 45 to 60 minutes exploring The Leaf at a relaxed pace. Some may take longer if they wish to revisit areas or spend more time in specific biomes. Reddit

The Leaf features distinct biomes, including a tropical biome with Canada's tallest indoor waterfall, a Mediterranean biome, and a dedicated butterfly garden. InstagramReddit

Yes, The Leaf is very family-friendly. Children of all ages, from toddlers to older kids, tend to enjoy the diverse plant life and the magical butterfly garden. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in sensitive areas like the butterfly garden. Instagram

Yes, The Leaf provides restrooms and other amenities for visitor comfort. There is also a coffee shop for quick bites and a restaurant for more substantial meals. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, The Leaf has a coffee shop for quick snacks and beverages, as well as Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar, a restaurant that requires reservations for dining. Reddit

It is highly recommended to make a reservation for Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar, especially for evening dining, to ensure you get a table. TikTokReddit

Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar offers a culinary experience, likely featuring locally inspired dishes. It's best to check their menu online for specific offerings. TikTok

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside attractions like The Leaf. It's best to consume them before entering or utilize the onsite dining options. Reddit

While specific menus can change, most modern restaurants like Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar aim to offer a variety of dietary options. Inquire directly or check their online menu. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The indoor waterfall in the tropical biome, the vibrant flowers, and the butterflies in their garden are all incredibly photogenic. The Mediterranean biome also offers unique visual appeal. InstagramReddit

Flash photography is generally discouraged, especially in areas with delicate plants or live insects like the butterfly garden, to avoid disturbing them. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check The Leaf's visitor guidelines or inquire at the entrance to ensure you comply with their rules. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful, but the indoor nature of The Leaf means lighting is consistent. Consider visiting during less crowded times for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Don't miss capturing the scale of the indoor waterfall, the colorful array of butterflies, and the unique textures and scents of the Mediterranean biome. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Leaf is a fantastic outing for families, offering an engaging and educational experience for all ages. The tropical biome's waterfall and the butterfly garden are guaranteed hits with children, sparking wonder and excitement. It's a great way to introduce kids to diverse plant life and ecosystems in a fun, accessible environment. Reddit

Visitors often mention how much their children, from toddlers to teens, enjoy exploring the different biomes. The visual stimulation and the sheer variety of plants make it an adventure. Remember to dress kids in light clothing due to the warm, humid conditions in some areas. Reddit

🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers

For those with a green thumb or a passion for horticulture, The Leaf is a must-visit. You'll be impressed by the diversity of plant species showcased in each meticulously maintained biome. The opportunity to see how grand houseplants can become under ideal conditions is a unique draw. Reddit

Local residents rave about the tranquil beauty and the chance to discover new plants. The Mediterranean biome's fragrant sage and the vibrant displays in the tropical section are particularly noteworthy. Consider purchasing a season pass if you anticipate frequent visits to fully appreciate the changing exhibits. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Leaf offers a visually rich environment for photographers. The tallest indoor waterfall provides a dramatic backdrop, while the vibrant flora in the tropical and Mediterranean biomes offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. The butterfly garden is a dream for macro photography. InstagramReddit

Aim for less crowded times to get unobstructed views and compositions. Be mindful of lighting conditions and always respect the venue's policies regarding tripods and flash photography to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring The Biomes

The Leaf is designed to transport visitors to different climates through its meticulously crafted biomes. The Tropical Biome is a lush, humid environment featuring Canada's tallest indoor waterfall, a truly awe-inspiring sight. Here, you'll find a dense collection of exotic plants that thrive in warm, moist conditions. TikTokInstagram

Adjacent to the tropical paradise is the Mediterranean Biome, offering a stark yet beautiful contrast. This area is characterized by its drier climate and aromatic plants like sage, evoking the feeling of a sun-drenched Mediterranean landscape. It's a sensory experience, with the distinct scents filling the air. Reddit

Finally, the Butterfly Garden provides a magical, immersive experience. Wander through this enclosed space and witness hundreds of colorful butterflies flitting among the flowers. It’s a tranquil and enchanting section that appeals to visitors of all ages. Reddit

Family Fun at The Leaf

The Leaf is an excellent destination for families, offering an engaging and educational experience for children. The diverse environments within the biomes spark curiosity and wonder, making learning about plants and nature fun. The butterfly garden is a particular hit with younger visitors, providing a chance to see these delicate creatures up close. Reddit

Parents often note how much their children enjoy the experience, from toddlers to older kids. The sheer scale of the indoor waterfall and the variety of plants provide plenty of visual stimulation. It’s a great way to introduce children to different ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity in a captivating setting. Reddit

Practical tips for families include bringing a stroller if needed, as the pathways are generally accessible. Be prepared for the warm, humid air in the tropical sections, so light clothing is key. The onsite coffee shop also offers a convenient spot for a quick break or snack. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

For photography enthusiasts, The Leaf presents a wealth of stunning visual opportunities. The 60-foot indoor waterfall in the tropical biome is a dramatic focal point, perfect for capturing dynamic shots. The lush greenery and vibrant floral displays throughout all the biomes offer endless possibilities for close-ups and wide-angle landscapes. Instagram

The butterfly garden is another prime location for photography, offering the chance to capture close-ups of these colorful insects in their naturalistic habitat. The unique textures and colors of the plants in the Mediterranean biome also provide excellent subjects. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the environment when taking photos. Reddit

While natural light can be a factor, the controlled indoor environment ensures consistent lighting. Consider visiting during less crowded times to have more freedom to compose your shots without obstruction. Always check the venue's policy on tripods and professional equipment beforehand. Instagram

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