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Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre FortWhyte Alive: John Pura By now you're probably hungry, so make trails to Park Café inside the Qualico Family Centre. While appreciating pretty views of the recently expanded duck pond, savour comfort fare, such as pulled pork grilled cheese sandwiches. Next, pop into the Pavilion Gallery Museum. Browse the largest collections of works by three renowned Manitoba artists—the contemporary works of Ivan Eyre; the historical works of Clarence Tillenius; and the watercolours and woodcuts of Walter J. Phillips. The rotation gallery features exhibitions by Manitoba's premier and emerging artists. For young souls, the Winnie the Pooh Gallery features a permanent collection of art, artifacts and memorabilia. Just across from Park Café is the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. A must-see attraction in the park, it combines the artistic beauty of master sculptor Leo Mol's magnificent works within a tranquil, zen-like setting. Meander among the garden's striking statues, water feature and vine-covered arbour, along with the Leo Mol Schoolhouse. Green thumbs should also check out the English Gardens, where walking paths wind among beautiful blooms. If you're travelling with children, bring them to the Nature Playground to run, jump, climb, explore and play. Filled with wonder and excitement, kids can explore tree forts, bird nest swings, willow tree tunnels, hedges, mazes, sculptures, a magical children's garden inspired by the game "Snakes and Ladders" and so much more. Parks to visit within Winnipeg Located across from Assiniboine Park, Assiniboine Forest is one of Canada's largest urban nature parks, offering 700 acres of wilderness within the city. While exploring the various woodchip, asphalt and crushed limestone trails, keep an eye out for birds, wildlife, rare plants and waterfowl at the Eve Werier Memorial Pond. Kildonan Park is home to a formal garden, trails, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and duck pond. In summer, barbeque pits and picnic tables are available for outdoor gatherings, and Rainbow Stage, Canada's longest-running outdoor theatre, features musical theatre performances in the evening. King's Park borders the Red River and has numerous gravel and paved pathways to follow, some of which lead to marshland. While here, check out the beautiful Pagoda Gardens, Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth, a soccer field, two baseball diamonds and an off-leash dog area. www.tourismwinnipeg.com Inside the Pavilion, dinner is served at Terrace in the Park. This upscale eatery reflects the "greenness" of the park with a menu highlighting local products and suppliers, along with Canadian fish and seafood. Finish off your Assiniboine Park experience with free entertainment at the outdoor Lyric Theatre. Throughout summer, the stage features performances for all tastes and ages, including Ballet in the Park performed by Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet. There are also symphony, opera and jazz performances and even movie screenings. Dedicated to preserving and presenting the 6,000-year history of human activity at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, The Forks National Historic Site includes interpretive exhibits, award-winning sculptures, year-round walking trails, a dock, a canoe beach and a native prairie garden. Take a walking tour in summer, highlighting the history of the site. Also on site at The Forks, the Variety Heritage Adventure Park features a one-of-a-kind park designed for children of all abilities. Learn about the area's history at interactive play structures, such as the Hudson's Bay Company York Boat, musical instruments scattered along the streetscape and a traditional beadwork board. With the rush of the Red River running along the edge of St. Vital Park, its cycling and hiking trails provide picturesque views of the water. Barbeque pits, athletic fields and a play structure make this a great destination for family reunions and recreation. Many species of waterfowl flock to the duck pond, making it a popular viewing spot. Find out the closest local park near you to let your favourite canine run free. A full set of rules of use for off-leash dog parks, locations and code of ethics for dog owners is available at: www.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/ parksandfields/parks/fieldsforfido.asp. winnipeg itineraries 31