Family Fun in Moose Jaw: Exploring Zoos and Parks

When it comes to family-friendly travel, few places can match the charm and relaxed atmosphere of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. This quaint Canadian city is filled with activities that are perfect for families, especially those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Whether you’re looking to explore nature, interact with animals, or simply have a picnic in a scenic park, Moose Jaw offers a variety of parks and animal attractions that are sure to keep everyone entertained.

I spent quite a bit of time in this wonderful city, I can attest to how welcoming and family-friendly it is. With my own children in tow, we’ve had some truly memorable experiences in Moose Jaw’s parks and animal attractions. These places offer not only the opportunity for outdoor fun but also a chance to connect with nature and wildlife in a meaningful way.

In this article, I’ll be sharing five of the best parks and zoos in Moose Jaw that are perfect for family outings. I’ll also provide tips on how to make the most of your visit, from must-do activities to the best souvenirs to pick up, ensuring that your family gets the full experience.

1. The Moose Jaw Zoo

Location:

Queen Elizabeth Park, 1290 9th Ave NW, Moose Jaw, SK

Overview:

The Moose Jaw Zoo is a delightful small-town zoo that offers an intimate, up-close experience with a variety of animals. Located in the heart of Queen Elizabeth Park, this zoo is the perfect place for a family outing, especially for young children who may be experiencing their first visit to a zoo. Despite its smaller size compared to some larger zoos in major cities, the Moose Jaw Zoo is packed with a range of animals that are both entertaining and educational to visit.

Highlights and Features:

The zoo is home to a range of animals, including bison, reindeer, capuchin monkeys, bald eagles, otters, and a variety of birds of prey. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed, with plenty of open spaces for animals to roam, which is always great to see in a zoo. The paths throughout the zoo are stroller-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families with little ones.

What I particularly love about this zoo is its community-driven vibe. It’s not overly commercialized like the big-city zoos, and the staff are incredibly friendly and passionate about the animals. Each animal exhibit provides informative signage about the species, their natural habitat, and conservation efforts, which helps educate young minds.

Must-Do Activities:

• Feeding the Animals: The zoo offers opportunities to interact with certain animals, including feeding sessions. My children especially loved feeding the farm animals—it’s such a great hands-on experience!
• Playground Fun: After exploring the zoo, take a break at the playground located nearby in Queen Elizabeth Park. The park has swings, slides, and climbing equipment, which is ideal for children to burn off some extra energy.

Cost:

Entry to the zoo is very affordable. Admission typically costs around $10 CAD for adults, $6 CAD for children, and $30 CAD for families. Given the quality of the experience, this is a fantastic value for a day of entertainment and education.

Souvenir Recommendations:

Don’t forget to check out the gift shop near the entrance to grab a small memento of your visit! From plush animal toys to educational books, there are plenty of family-friendly souvenirs to choose from.

Booking Tips:

While the zoo doesn’t typically require reservations, it’s always a good idea to check out special events or seasonal activities on their official website, especially if you plan to visit during busy times like summer. Use Visit Moose Jaw for up-to-date information on zoo hours and events.

2. Wakamow Valley Park

Location:

Wakamow Valley, Moose Jaw, SK

Overview:

For families looking to spend a full day in the great outdoors, Wakamow Valley Park is a must-visit. This sprawling park is one of Moose Jaw’s largest green spaces and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. It’s a perfect destination for families who enjoy hiking, biking, or just spending time outdoors in a peaceful, natural setting.

Highlights and Features:

Wakamow Valley is an urban park that features lush trees, winding paths, and stunning views of the Moose Jaw River. There are multiple picnic areas scattered throughout the park, making it an excellent spot for a family lunch surrounded by nature. The park also features a playground, making it an ideal location for kids to run around and play.

What I find particularly appealing about Wakamow Valley is how well it integrates natural beauty with recreational opportunities. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll along the river or a more energetic hike up the Trans-Canada Trail. The park is also great for birdwatching, with plenty of waterfowl and songbirds inhabiting the area.

Must-Do Activities:

• Walking & Biking Trails: The park has an extensive network of trails that are perfect for family walks or bike rides. My kids and I loved biking along the river, taking in the sights, and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
• Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the scenic picnic areas. There’s something so special about eating outside in nature, and Wakamow Valley is one of the best spots for it.
• River Activities: For an adventurous twist, you can rent kayaks or canoes at the nearby Wakamow River Campground during the summer months, making it a fun water activity for families.

Cost:

Wakamow Valley is free to visit, which makes it a fantastic, budget-friendly option for families. You might pay a small fee for renting bikes or canoes, but overall, this park is an incredibly affordable day out.

Booking Tips:

If you’re planning on renting bikes or kayaks, it’s a good idea to check availability in advance through Wakamow Valley’s official website or local tourism boards.

3. Buffalo Pound Provincial Park

Location:

Buffalo Pound Provincial Park, 5 km north of Moose Jaw, SK

Overview:

Located just outside Moose Jaw, Buffalo Pound Provincial Park offers a full range of outdoor activities that are perfect for a family outing. It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown Moose Jaw and is a haven for nature lovers. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and opportunities for various outdoor activities, making it a great spot for families who enjoy spending time in nature.

Highlights and Features:

Buffalo Pound Provincial Park is a year-round destination, offering activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, bison, and beavers. My family and I have spent many afternoons hiking the trails, and we’ve always been excited to see the abundance of animals along the way. The park also features campgrounds, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.

Must-Do Activities:

• Hiking the Trails: There are several easy-to-moderate hiking trails that wind through the park, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forest. My kids love the Heritage Trail, which leads to the lake where we often stop for a rest and enjoy the view.
• Swimming and Beach Time: During the summer, the park’s swimming area is perfect for a day of fun in the water. The beach is sandy, and the water is clean, making it ideal for a family swim.
• Wildlife Watching: Buffalo Pound is home to some incredible wildlife. I highly recommend bringing binoculars for some excellent birdwatching, and don’t be surprised if you spot a bison or deer during your hike!

Cost:

Entry to the park is free, but there are fees for camping or boat rentals, which can range from $20 CAD to $40 CAD per night for camping, depending on the time of year.

Booking Tips:

For camping, reservations are highly recommended during peak seasons, especially in the summer months. You can book through Reserve Saskatchewan for guaranteed spots.

4. Moose Jaw’s Crescent Park

Location:

Crescent Park, Moose Jaw, SK

Overview:

One of the most popular parks in Moose Jaw, Crescent Park is a picturesque green space located right in the city center. The park is beautifully designed with well-maintained pathways, large open spaces, and an impressive variety of trees. It’s perfect for a relaxing family outing with plenty of opportunities for picnics, sports, and leisurely walks.

Highlights and Features:

Crescent Park is known for its beautiful landscaping, including flower beds and fountains that add a touch of elegance to the environment. The historic bandstand in the park hosts regular community events, which is a great way to experience local culture. This park is also home to a large playground, where children can enjoy swings, slides, and climbing structures.

Must-Do Activities:

• Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy it under the shade of one of the park’s mature trees. The park is so peaceful and picturesque, making it an ideal place for a family meal outdoors.
• Attend a Bandstand Event: If you visit during the summer, there may be a local concert or performance at the bandstand. This is a great way to experience Moose Jaw’s community spirit.

Cost:

Crescent Park is free to visit, making it an ideal spot for a budget-friendly family day out. There may be a small charge for events at the bandstand, but general park access is free.

Booking Tips:

While there’s no need for reservations to visit the park, it’s worth checking the City of Moose Jaw’s Events Calendar for any upcoming performances or activities.

5. Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum

Location:

Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village, 1.5 km south of Moose Jaw, SK

Overview:

If you’re looking to mix some history with your outdoor fun, Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum is an excellent place to visit. While it’s not a traditional zoo or park, this open-air museum offers families a chance to step back in time and experience life in early Saskatchewan. The museum is home to numerous historic buildings, including a pioneer village, steam engines, and even a shipwreck.

Highlights and Features:

The main attraction here is the Sukanen Ship, a steamship that was once intended to travel the rivers of Saskatchewan. It’s an intriguing piece of history, and kids will enjoy learning about how the ship was constructed and why it never sailed. The museum’s layout includes authentic log cabins, a blacksmith shop, and a schoolhouse, providing a fascinating look at early Canadian life.

Must-Do Activities:

• Explore the Pioneer Village: Walk through the historic buildings, where you can step inside and experience life as it was in the late 1800s. The village is interactive, so there’s plenty to engage the kids.
• Climb on the Ship: The Sukanen Ship itself is a fun and educational experience. My kids loved climbing around the ship and imagining what it would’ve been like to travel across the water in such a vessel.

Cost:

Admission is very affordable, generally costing around $10 CAD for adults and $5 CAD for children. Families can typically get a group rate.

Booking Tips:

You can visit the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village at any time, but it’s a good idea to check out their hours and any special events on Tourism Moose Jaw’s website before you go.

Moose Jaw is a fantastic destination for families, with its abundance of parks, zoos, and outdoor attractions that offer fun, education, and relaxation all in one. Whether you’re exploring the local wildlife at the Moose Jaw Zoo, hiking through the tranquil Wakamow Valley, or learning about Saskatchewan’s history at Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village, there’s no shortage of activities to keep your kids engaged and entertained.

For booking tickets to these attractions or planning your trip to Moose Jaw, platforms like Ticketmaster Canada for tickets, Booking.com for accommodations, and Expedia for flight bookings can be invaluable resources.

Moose Jaw offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, and it’s the perfect place for creating lasting memories. Happy exploring!