winnipeg tourism reddit

18 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Winnipeg

Written by Michael Law and Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law grew up in Winnipeg. He and his wife, author Lana Law, lived in the city for many years and return every year.

Winnipeg is known internationally as the home of the Winnipeg Jets , the city's NHL team, but nationally it is also appreciated for its outstanding arts and cultural scene. Locals, known informally as "Peggers," enjoy a very active cultural life, with everything from drama and ballet to concerts and opera on offer. More recently, the city has gained recognition for the addition of its newest major attraction, the impressive Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Equidistant from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Winnipeg is the heart of central Canada . The city's extreme climate of hot summers and cold winters means the range of things to do in Winnipeg varies by season. But there is always plenty to enjoy here.

For ideas on where to start your visit, see our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Winnipeg.

See also: Where to Stay in Winnipeg

1. The Forks

2. canadian museum for human rights, 3. the manitoba museum, 4. assiniboine park and zoo, 5. legislative building, 6. experience the festival du voyageur, 7. winnipeg art gallery, 8. the exchange district national historic site, 9. fort whyte alive, 10. royal canadian mint, 11. corydon avenue, 12. st. boniface cathedral, 13. manitoba children's museum, 14. manitoba centennial centre, 15. riel house national historic site, 16. kildonan park, 17. prairie dog central railway, 18. living prairie museum & interpretive centre, where to stay in winnipeg for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in winnipeg, best time to visit winnipeg.

Highlights : Restaurants, unique shops, and a fresh food market housed in a historical building

A year-round destination for locals and tourists, The Forks is the place to visit in summer or winter, with indoor and outdoor activities. The Forks is a shopping and entertainment district set in a number of historic buildings and located where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers join.

The main building is The Forks Market , where the highlight is the food vendors who cook up all kinds of tasty dishes. Grab a fresh baked pastry or loaf of bread at Tall Grass Prairie, pick up an expertly cooked steak at Simon's Steak, sample a variety of ethnic foods, or treat yourself to a frozen dessert or cup of coffee. Fruit and vegetable sellers set up in the main hall in season and stores are found on two levels. You can also walk up the lookout tower to get a bird's-eye view over the river and the city.

Right next door is the Johnston Terminal Building , another historic building and a great place for shopping, especially if you're looking for unique items. Stop in at Manitobah Mukluks for Indigenous-inspired products or head to Distant Caravans to discover exotic clothing and designs. This is just a sample of the types of stores you'll find here.

The lower level of the Johnston Terminal Building is a huge Antique Mall .

In summer, people come to The Forks to enjoy indoor and outdoor dining or play on the river. The Riverwalk is a pleasant walking trail along the riverfront, which will take you over to another of Winnipeg's key attractions, the Legislative Building . One of the most popular things to do in winter is to skate at The Forks ice-skating rink or on the frozen river.

The site was once a railway repair facility, and over the years, the various buildings have been meticulously restored to house a mix of interesting shops, restaurants, and museums.

Highlights : Eleven galleries showcasing human rights history housed in an architecturally stunning building

This recent addition to Winnipeg's cultural scene, The Museum of Human Rights , has become the city's state-of-the-art architectural landmark. The museum is known both for its spectacular building design and its unique concept of presenting human rights stories.

You enter the museum on the ground floor and ascend over six levels, visiting 11 galleries along the way. It has proved controversial in many ways but is no doubt an important Canadian cultural institution. In addition to the galleries, there is also the Israel Asper Tower of Hope, which provides wonderful views out over the city.

Address: 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : Fossils, a 17th-century sailing ship, a planetarium, and interactive exhibits

The Manitoba Museum is primarily devoted to the human and natural history of the province. The nine permanent galleries showcase the best of what the province has to offer, and the highly interactive Science Gallery and Planetarium introduces the vastness of the night sky on its domed screen.

Highlights of the museum include a 95-million-year-old Pliosaur fossil, a display that recreates the northern lights, and a recreated Hudson Bay fur trading post.

One of the most famous exhibits is the Nonsuch, a 17th-century replica ketch sailing ship. You can climb on board and explore all areas of the ship to see the hardships of the brave souls that crossed the Atlantic way back when. The museum is located downtown, not far from the Exchange District.

Address: 190 Rupert Ave, Winnipeg

Highlights : One of Canada's best zoos, a mini steam train, and the Leo Mol Sculpture Gardens

Assiniboine Park is Winnipeg's oldest park, encompassing 445 hectares of grassy lawns, mature trees, cultural facilities, and an English garden.

The Assiniboine Park Zoo is located within its grounds and is home to a wide variety of animals, flora, and fauna. Special emphasis is given to creatures of the northern latitudes, including a significant number of polar bears, though there are also some exotic species such as the Siberian tigers and red kangaroos.

Another attraction in the park is the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden . Here, you'll find an extensive collection of his brass pieces created using the lost-wax method of sculpture. His beautiful works of art are arranged in a magnificent colorful garden complete with water features and mature trees.

Located in the same area is the Leo Mol Gallery, a restored schoolhouse where the artist created many of his works. The interior of the building has additional pieces along with a display showing how the lost-wax method works.

If you are traveling with youngsters, a fun thing to do in Assiniboine Park is ride the 4-8-2 miniature steam train . The train runs along a narrow gauge track and leaves from an area just west of the Pavilion building. The train runs daily throughout the summer and on weekends in September and October. The fee to ride is very modest.

Looking for a bit of nature? To the south, a large nature reserve adjoins the park, where deer and other animal sightings are common.

Address: 55 Pavilion Crescent, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : A spectacular early 20th-century building, the Golden Boy statute, and lush gardens

Built of local Tyndall stone and Italian marble, the magnificent Neoclassical Legislative Building in Winnipeg was completed in 1919. Unique features of the building include hidden hieroglyphics, Freemason symbols, and secret numerical codes. Tours are offered weekly and are led by an architectural historian.

The lavish grounds feature statues, monuments, and manicured gardens. Surmounting the 72-meter dome is a statue known as the Golden Boy, a four-meter-high bronze weighing five tons and plated with 23.5-carat gold. A torch in his right hand and a sheaf of wheat on his left arm symbolize Manitoba's enduring agricultural prosperity.

Address: 450 Broadway, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : Live music, dancing, celebrations, French Canadian food, and wacky contests

Festival du Voyageur is Winnipeg's most popular winter festival. Taking place in February, this event celebrates the traditions of the French Voyageurs — the fur traders of early Canada. The festival includes entertainment and events for children and adults, with activities in French and English.

Large tents are set up outdoors at Voyageur Park and other sites in the city, where you can find live music, food, dancing, and more. Make sure you don't miss the stunning ice and snow sculptures, one of the highlights of the festival. Another festival tradition is the beard-growing contest. Participants have 10 weeks prior to the festival to grow their best beard in four categories.

Highlights : An artwork collection of 25,000 pieces, an exceptional collection of Inuit Art

Housed in a very modern building shaped like the bow of a ship, the Winnipeg Art Gallery possesses 25,000 pieces spread across collections of classic and contemporary art by Canadian, American, European, and Inuit artists.

New in 2021, the former Inuit Art Gallery has been renamed and is now known as Quamajuq. In this brand-new architecturally stunning 40,000-square-foot building are over 14,000 pieces of Inuit Art. The craftsmanship of the Inuit is on display throughout the gallery, but the most impressive area is the three-story-high Visible Vault showcasing 7,500 pieces.

The Winnipeg Art Gallery is Western Canada's oldest art gallery and frequently hosts events and a wide range of artists, from poets to jazz musicians. Be sure to check out the very unique triangular rooftop sculpture garden for views over the city. The gallery is located downtown and is not far from The Forks.

Address: 300 Memorial Blvd, Winnipeg

Highlights : Trendy restaurants, shops, and galleries housed in turn-of-the-century buildings

Turn-of-the-century Victorian and Edwardian commercial architecture define Winnipeg's Exchange District, its name a reflection of the many financial institutions that sprung up in Winnipeg between the 1880s and 1920s.

More recently, the Exchange District has seen a revival, with old warehouses, banks, and business premises being converted into fashion boutiques, up-market shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Old Market Square is the unofficial heart of the area and the site of various events and festivals in the summer months.

The Exchange District is also a focus for the city's cultural life, with an impressive selection of venues including the Pantages Playhouse Theatre, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, and Manitoba Centennial Centre .

Highlights : Bison, prairie dogs, lakes for paddling, and an interpretive center

Spread over 259 hectares, Fort Whyte Alive is known for its five lakes, grassy parkland, and bog boardwalks. The interpretive center is home to an aquarium and nature exhibits, including burrowing owls. Outdoors, visitors can watch the bison herd, visit the bird-feeding stations, see the sod house, or watch the antics of the prairie dogs at the prairie dog town.

Fort Whyte Alive has seven kilometers of walking and cycling trails, and sailing and paddling courses are taught in the summer on the small lakes. In the winter, a giant ice-skating rink, toboggan run, and cross-country ski trails are available for those keen to get outside and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Address: 1961 McCreary Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlight : A rare chance to see how money is made

The Royal Canadian Mint produces coins not just for Canada, but for a number of other countries as well. In fact, over 55 billion coins have been produced here. You can follow the whole minting process in the recently renovated tour area. Interactive displays show how coins are manufactured from start to finish.

The on-site museum does an excellent job of showing visitors the ancient history of how coins and currency first started. The ultra-modern, triangular-shaped building also contains a tropical garden and fountain. Reservations for the 45-minute tours are recommended.

Highlights : Restaurants, some with sunny patios, offering cuisines from around the world

This bustling tree-lined street is where locals come to unwind, catch up on the latest trends, and enjoy some downtime. Small, trendy shops with the latest unique fashions will pique your interest.

Restaurants, many of them with outdoor patios in summer, offer a wide range of cuisines. Also of note is the street art — eight large metal figures on display each summer represent the countries of Spain, Greece, Argentina, Japan, Ukraine, Italy, France, and Scotland.

Concerts also take place most Friday and Saturday nights and feature a diverse selection of musicians. The main area is Along Corydon Avenue from Daly Street to Harrow Street, and parking can be a bit challenging.

Highlights : A unique mix of historical and modern architecture

St. Boniface Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in western Canada, founded in 1818. The building was considered Manitoba's best example of French Romanesque architecture, but it has been rebuilt on several occasions due to fire — though the modern cathedral incorporates the historic façade.

Set in a pleasant park, the cemetery is Western Canada's oldest Catholic burial ground. It has many old gravestones of the first settlers and key figures from days long past, including the grave of Louis Riel.

The nearby St. Boniface Museum , the oldest building in Winnipeg, was constructed in 1846 for the Grey Nuns and was the first convent, hospital, girls' school, and orphanage in the Canadian West. After restoration in 1967, it became a museum documenting the history of Manitoba's French minority.

Address: 180 Cathédrale Ave, Saint-Boniface, Manitoba

Highlights : Twelve interesting and interactive galleries that kids love, plus traveling exhibits

The Manitoba Children's Museum is housed in a state-of-the-art facility located at The Forks. Inside this unique building, you'll find 12 interactive permanent galleries, which will appeal to children of all ages.

The galleries range from the Milk Machine, featuring a giant cow cube you can actually go inside, to the Engine House, where kids will find a multitude of gears and levers to pull. Also of interest is the Lasagna Lookout, where your kids are allowed to play with their food.

In addition to the permanent galleries, the museum also hosts traveling exhibits and has special events around key dates like Halloween and Christmas.

Address: 45 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : The city's cultural heart, home to classical music, opera, and ballet performances

If you are looking for things to do in the evening in Winnipeg, particularly during the winter months, have a look at what's happening at the Manitoba Centennial Centre . Consisting of the Centennial Concert Hall, the Manitoba Museum, and the Manitoba Theatre Centre, this is the home venue for the city's premier arts organizations, including the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and Manitoba Opera . Around the building, attractive fountains and sculptures embellish lovely terraced gardens.

Address: 555 Main Street, Winnipeg

Highlight : A restored Red River-frame home from the late 19th century

Riel House belonged to Louis Riel's family and has been restored to reflect the social, economic, and cultural realities of life for the Lagimodière and Riel families in 1886. Louis Riel was the leader of the Metis and the founder of Manitoba.

He led several rebellions in 1869 and 1884. He was executed in 1885, and his body lay in state at Riel House for two days. The house, in the Red River-frame style, is typical of early settler homes in the Manitoba region. Riel's descendants lived in this house until 1969.

Riel House is open seasonally in the summer, June, July, and August only.

Address: 330 River Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : A massive outdoor pool, theater performances in the summer, recreation trails

Some of the province's most ancient trees grow in the delightful Kildonan Park, along with splendid flower gardens and a Hänsel and Gretel Witch's Hut. The park is spread over 99 acres and has 2.7 kilometers of recreation trails, much of it running along the Red River.

This is an ideal spot for bird-watchers. Kildonan Park is also home to Canada's longest-running open-air theater, Rainbow Stage . Other tourist attractions include an outdoor swimming pool and golf course.

Address: 2015 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlight : A ride through the prairies on a restored steam locomotive train

The Prairie Dog Central is a fully restored, steam-powered locomotive offering trips from Winnipeg to Grosse Isle. The train consists of vintage coaches, which carry visitors on this 60- to 75-minute journey, including a stopover before returning to Winnipeg. Various themed excursions are offered including train robberies, Halloween events, and more.

Highlights : Displays showcasing the history of the prairies plus an outdoor interpretive walk

The Living Prairie Museum lands preserve one of the few remaining vestiges of tall grass prairie land. It harbors 150 species of native grasses and wildflowers and has an excellent interpretive center. A second-story platform allows visitors to gaze out at the preserved prairie — a now greatly diminished ecosystem that once covered one million square kilometers throughout North America.

The museum grounds cover 16.3 hectares, and a self-guided trail winds its way throughout the area. Grab a pamphlet and stop along the way at the numbered posts to learn more about the flora and fauna surrounding you.

Address: 2795 Ness Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba

The best area for tourists to stay in Winnipeg is right downtown, close to many of the city's top attractions. These include The Forks, the Legislative Building, the Exchange District, and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, all of which are located in the city center. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations.

Luxury Hotels:

• The Fairmont Hotel occupies a prime location at the junction of Portage & Main Streets, in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. From here, you can easily access the underground mall and walk to The Forks and the Exchange District, as well as several museums.
• For a completely different experience, try Mariaggi's Theme Suite Hotel & Spa . The uniquely designed rooms follow various themes, and the Caribbean and India rooms even have waterfalls. This hotel also offers easy access to the dining and entertainment of the Exchange District.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Located right at The Forks, the Inn at the Forks has one of the best locations for visitors, especially in summer. This boutique hotel offers contemporary décor and sleek blown-glass vanities, along with the convenience of the on-site Riverstone Spa.
• For a historical experience, be sure to check out the Fort Garry Hotel dating from 1913. Rooms are a bit small due to the design style at the time, but the hotel offers the grandeur and sophistication of the era. The Fort Garry is conveniently located across the street from The Forks.
• Enjoying a prime riverfront location, the boutique Mere Hotel is another quality mid-range option, just steps from the vibrant Exchange District.

Budget Hotels:

• A good-value option, not far from the city center is the Humphry Inn & Suites .
• If your main destination is the Winnipeg Mint, or you are just looking for good value, the Super 8 by Wyndham Winnipeg East is a great option.
• The Holiday Inn & Suites Winnipeg Downtown is a bit farther out from the heart of the city but is ideal for those interested in visiting the Winnipeg Art Gallery, located a short stroll away.

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Winnipeg is in the summer. The months of July and August are the best , with guaranteed warm weather and sunny days. The city and parks are green and lush. Also at this time, the city is alive with festivals and events, including Folklorama and the Red River Exhibition.

June is also a good time to visit, with warm temperatures and exceptionally long days. The sun doesn't set until nearly 10pm. September is also good — you'll get the added bonus of seeing the leaves change color as the month progresses.

May is okay; the last two weeks see the trees and flowers bloom and the trees burst forth with their leaves. October sees the occasional burst of warm weather, but the days get shorter quickly, and the nights are cold.

Winter in Winnipeg is brutally cold. Most years it starts in November and doesn't end until late April.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Manitoba: Although this province is often overlooked by travelers exploring Canada, Manitoba offers some experiences you simply won't find in other parts of the country. Before you begin your trip, be sure to see our article on the top attractions in Manitoba . In summer, some of the most popular destinations are the lakes in Manitoba , where you can fish, lounge on a beach, or set up for a night or two at a campground . The parks are another hot spot, where you can enjoy many of these same activities.

Canada: Where should Manitoba fit into your trip to Canada? For ideas on where to go and what to see from, as Canadians like to say, coast to coast to coast, have a look at our article on top Canada itineraries .

More on Canada

Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 25 Best Things to Do in Winnipeg (Canada)

25 Best Things to Do in Winnipeg (Canada)

Winnipeg is located at the heart of North America, quite literally. This city in Canada with a population of under a million, has an impressive selection of famous exports. From childhood characters, to famous writers and cultural icons, this mid-size city offers visitors an endless things of to do and see.

Winnipeg straddles the mighty Red and Assiniboine Rivers and was recognized as the Culture Capital of Canada in 2010. Rich Aboriginal, French and European roots have created a unique collision of cosmopolitanism, modern art and history.

Want some great Winnipeg trivia to use at your next party? Did you know that the childhood character Winnie the Pooh was named after a bear at the Winnipeg Zoo? And if you love caviar, Winnipeg exports over 25,000 pounds of award winning caviar to some of the world’s top restaurants. And Winnipeg is home to the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, the world’s first national Aboriginal network. Have we piqued your interest? We’ve got the top 25 things to do in Winnipeg so you can go explore this fascinating city!

1. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights

For museum buffs, this should be your first stop. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights or (CMHR) is Canada’s first museum built for the sole purpose of illustrating the evolution, crisis and future of human rights around the globe. In the spirit of the human narrative, this museum is engaging, emotional and inspiring. Coming to terms with our own painful history, Canada’s human rights policies have been adopted and celebrated around the world, but progress is a journey and the CHMR is the story of the global struggle for equality.

2. Cheer on the Blue Bombers

Winnipeg is a city full of sports fanatics, and football is one of its most beloved games. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have been entertaining die-hard fans for over 80 years. The Canadian Football League (CFL) runs over a 20 week season, starting in July and ending in early November, which gives you plenty of time to sweep into town and catch a game. This is no ordinary club, they’ve won the Grey Cup Championship 10 times, the third highest in the league.

3. The Assiniboine Park and Zoo

It can be difficult to find things to do in Winnipeg that are open all year round, but the Assiniboine Zoo is an activity that isn’t seasonal. First established in the West end of Assiniboine Park in 1904, the area blossomed into a 400 acre zoo, park and entertainment zone. Starting with just 116 animals from 19 species, the zoo has acquired some 1193 animals across 271 different species. You’ll find the usual lions, tigers and bears here, as well as a whole host of endangered and unique species including polar bears, lemurs and red pandas.

4. Watch a Ballet

You may be surprised to know that the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is one of the world’s most prestigious ballet companies! It is the first ballet company to receive a royal title under by Queen Elizabeth II and today stands as one of the most difficult schools to be accepted into. Dancers of note such as Mikhail Baryshnikov and Evelyn Hart were once students here. This historical company spends nearly half the year touring the globe, however, if you have the opportunity to see them perform in their home town, it is an experience you won’t forget.

5. The Forks National Historic Site

Once you understand that the city of Winnipeg was founded at a significant intersection of two mighty rivers, you realize the importance of togetherness, and can’t help but feel a sense of community. The Forks is a historic area located in the heart of the city, and is Winnipeg’s most visited attractions, seeing more than 4 million visitors a year. Why is it so popular? It represents 6,000 years of trading among Aboriginal nations, European fur traders, Scottish settlers, Métis buffalo hunters and anyone else looking to do business. Here you will find everything from museums about the site itself, to chic boutiques, to a marketplace to buy produce and rub shoulders with the locals.

6. Winnipeg Art Gallery

If you happen to be here for the colder months, consider indoor activities that will leave you entertained, mesmerized and inspired. The Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) is as impressive on the outside, with its architectural brilliance, as the expansive indoor space housing some 24,000 objects. The WAG hosts installations from all major cities around the world, and is home to the world’s first and most substantial collection of contemporary Inuit art.

7. Visit the Royal Canadian Mint

Coin collectors and history buffs will love visiting the Royal Canadian Mint. Come experience this unique museum and manufacturing facility with a bilingual guide. Find out how this mint has cranked out more than 55 million coins for over 75 countries across the globe. Learn how 50-ton presses manage to pump out more than 1000 coins per second – how’s that for math?

8. Cool Your Heels at Raw Almond

No, we don’t all live in igloos and drive dog sleds, however, you’ll quickly learn that winter is the season where Canadians outshine the rest. Winnipeg has a whole host of incredible winter festivals that are sure to warm your heart and set your tastebuds ablaze. Raw Almond is an outdoor pop-up restaurant located directly on the frozen river at the Forks National Historic Site. Every year, top chefs submit their best menus and designs to festival organizers, but only one is bestowed the honor of serving the masses. The upcoming design concept is entitled the “immersive experience.” This festival occurs in late January into early February.

9. The Thrill of the Jets

Canada is hockey country, and it doesn’t matter what home city you have the pleasure of catching a game, you’ll never be disappointed. If you’re in town from October into the late spring, head down to the BEll MTS Place and cheer the Jets to victory with 15,000 of your newest friends.

10. Manyfest on Broadway

If you spend any time in Winnipeg in the late summer months, the street festival line-up is impressive. One of the most popular festivals is Manyfest, a family friendly street party that occurs annually on Broadway, between Osborne and Main Street. This three day festivals offers up wine and beer gardens, DJ’s, delectable food trucks and a pancake breakfast. Admission is free, and so too is the entertainment. It’s the perfect way to spend a weekend in Winnipeg.

11. Skate the Red River Mutual Trail

Skating outdoors in the winter is one of the most Canadian things you can do, and if you’re going to try it, why not do it on the longest naturally frozen skating trail on Earth! The Red River Mutual Trail is just over 6km, and home to a whole host of outdoor activities such as hockey, curling and sledding. Because the trail is weather dependent, you have to wait for the mercury to drop for the trail to open.

12. Stroll About the Legislature

Winnipeg, like all major Canadian cities, has a number of beautiful and historic neighborhoods, including the Osborne Village, voted one of ‘Canada’s Best Neighbourhoods’ for its tree-lined streets, historic homes and charming eateries. Take a wander over the bridge and stroll around the provincial Legislature. For history and government buffs, take a tour or just snap a few photos. The grounds make for fantastic people watching, and once you’re done, head back over to the Village and choose from any number of international restaurants.

13. Day Trip to Iceland

Ever wanted to take a day trip to Iceland without having to jump on a plane? Perched on Lake Winnipeg’s west shore lies Gimli, a small village first settled by Canadian Icelanders in 1875. Over the century, Gimli has managed to preserve the Icelandic language and culture. The railroad reached Gimli in 1906, and in the 1930’s the southern shore area of Gimli saw a number of cabins and cottages pop up, and an influx of tourists. Gimli is home to the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, Canadians descend on Gimli to enjoy Icelandic food, performances and art displays.

14. Visit the Manitoba Children’s Museum

When those winter months roll through, Winnipeggers bring their little ones indoors for some culture, exploration and fun. But regardless of what season you’re here, the Manitoba Children’s Museum is a great pit stop for the whole family. The museum sits in one of Winnipeg’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1889, which also happens to be the oldest surviving train repair shop west of Toronto. Home to a number of award winning permanent exhibits, like Pop m’Art where kids can “shop” for their art supplies in a grocery-inspired exhibit and the create! Kids can also learn about dairy farming at the “Milk Machine” exhibit, or throw on a lab-coat slicker and run around the Splash Lab.

15. Photo Ops Along the River Walk

Spring, summer and fall are Winnipeg’s most popular seasons for visitors, reading this awesome list makes it easy to see why! Winnipeg is one of Canada’s most walkable cities, with plenty of green spaces and fantastic walks. The Riverwalk shows the city off, and takes visitors from the Riel Esplanade all the way to the Winnipeg Legislature buildings. In the fall, blasts of reds, yellows and burnt oranges rustle in the trees along the way so don’t forget to bring your camera.

16. Canad Inns Winter Wonderland

Winter may be unforgiving around these parts, but it’s still beautiful. If you are brave enough to weather the cold, Winnipeg has plenty of ways to show you how to make winter fun. From the beginning of December to the beginning of January, visitors are invited to take a 2.5 km drive and enjoy 26 uniquely themed areas, with more than 1 million lights. If you’re feeling extra festive, take a pit stop along the way and enjoy some outdoor ice skating or go dashing through the snow, on a one-horse-open-sleigh!

17. Visit the Saint-Boniface Museum

The further east of the Rockies you travel, the richer Canada’s Metis and Francophone heritage becomes. Winnipeg is home to a sizable Metis community, and no place is it better documented than the Saint Boniface Museum. The Museum itself is the site of what once was Western Canada’s first hospital, dating back to 1847. It was later a school, attended by Louis Riel, and in 1995 received the Heritage Canada Foundation award for its contribution to Canadian history.

18. Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Exchange

Winnipeg is comprised of a network of eclectic neighborhoods, each with their own flavor, style and story. If you have shopping on the brain, there is no better place to get your retail therapy than the Exchange District, a National Heritage Site. This collection of 150 heritage buildings date back to the 1800’s and house some of the swankiest boutiques in the city. Whether you’re here to bring back a one of a kind souvenir, or just want to learn more about Winnipeg’s humble beginnings, it’s all down at the Exchange.

19. Take a trip to Churchill

One of the number one destinations in the province of Manitoba is Churchill. Using Winnipeg as a jumping off point, visitors can have a once in a life time encounter with one of nature’s most majestic creatures, the polar bear. Located on the western shore of Hudsons Bay, 1000km from Winnipeg, lies the historic community of Churchill. The area was first peopled in 1000AD, and Europeans arrived in 1619 led by Danish explorer named Jens Munk. Of the 64 expeditions, only 3 survived the winter here! The area now has a significant settlement, and is affectionately known as ‘The Polar Bear Capital of The World’. There are a number of companies offering Polar Bear expeditions in giant rovers, as well as a number of nature tours to view whales, arctic foxes, caribou and wolves.

20. Routes Along the Red

One of the most unique things to do in Winnipeg is walk in the footsteps of all those who came before and visitors can do this by exploring life around the highly significant Red River valley. There are at least 20 self-directed tours to take, be it cycling along the shores of ancient Lake Agassiz, or packing up your canoe and paddle along the Red River. The routes are all family friendly and a great way to explore this historic part of Canada.

21. Go On a Dinosaur Dig

Did you know that Canada is home to the richest concentration and best preserved collection of dinosaur fossils anywhere on earth? Jurassic Park jumps to life at the Canada Fossil Discovery Centre just 90 minutes south of Winnipeg. Open 7 days a week, this impressive museum is home to a mind-blowing collection of fossils including ‘Bruce’, the famous Guinness Record holder for largest T-Rex at more than 13 meters (42 feet!) long. If being a passive bystander isn’t your thing, join an actual fossil recovery expedition, and earn your stripes as a paleontologist. You could easily spend a weekend here, so consider pitching a tent in the beautiful Morden Heritage area and getting the most out of your stay.

22. Watch the Northern Lights

Manitoba is considered one of the top 3 places on earth to see the Northern Lights, and while you may not be able to see them in Winnipeg because of light pollution, a short drive north offers infinite ideal viewing locales for one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular displays. The best viewing months are, you guessed it, the coldest ones – January to March!

23. Bird Watching

Winnipeg is not only located at the geographical heart of North America, but it’s also where western feathered friends meet their eastern cousins. Which means, the areas surrounding Winnipeg boasts bird diversity scarcely seen anywhere else in Canada. Manitoba’s environmental variety, from the Connecticut Warbler to the Baird’s Sparrow and Great Gray Owl, from the heart of the Boreal Forest, across prairie grasslands to endless wetlands, more than 390 species of birds all have called Manitoba home at one point or another.

24. Go Rock Climbing

Meandering through the rather flat streets of Winnipeg, you might wander just what mole hill you’re supposed to climb. Jump in the car and head east to Canadian Shield territory. Home to some of the oldest geological features on earth, Whiteshell Provincial Park has become one of the most popular granite cliff climbing destinations in Western Canada. For those less experienced, there are plenty of great top-lining and bouldering spots in nearby Wekusko Falls Provincial Park.

25. Head to the Beach

Yes, Winnipeg is a landlocked city, but did you know that if you take a 60 minute drive north of the city you’ll bump into one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! (Be advised that there can be a lot of traffic on Highway 59 during the summer months). Canada is full of surprises. Grand Beach along the shore of the vast Lake Winnipeg boasts crystalline waters, sugary white sand and the perfect launch pad for an afternoon on the lake. A vacation destination since the 1900’s, Lake Winnipeg is the perfect place to pack a picnic, soak up some rays and enjoy the ever fleeting summer months.

25 Best Things to Do in Winnipeg (Canada):

• The Canadian Museum for Human Rights
• Cheer on the Blue Bombers
• The Assiniboine Park and Zoo
• Watch a Ballet
• The Forks National Historic Site
• Winnipeg Art Gallery
• Visit the Royal Canadian Mint
• Cool Your Heels at Raw Almond
• The Thrill of the Jets
• Manyfest on Broadway
• Skate the Red River Mutual Trail
• Stroll About the Legislature
• Day Trip to Iceland
• Visit the Manitoba Children’s Museum
• Photo Ops Along the River Walk
• Canad Inns Winter Wonderland
• Visit the Saint-Boniface Museum
• Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Exchange
• Take a trip to Churchill
• Routes Along the Red
• Go On a Dinosaur Dig
• Watch the Northern Lights
• Bird Watching
• Go Rock Climbing
• Head to the Beach

The Top 20 Places to Visit in Winnipeg, Manitoba: What to Do in Winnipeg on Your Next Visit!

Winnipeg, Manitoba is, simply put, an underrated city. There are many Winnipeg attraction and places to visit in Winnipeg that make it a great place to visit.

Perhaps like all Canadian children, in my youth I was a dedicated fan of Winnie the Pooh . Tigger was something of an inspiration to me, so I bounced off the walls, much to the chagrin of my parents and teachers. I learned early on that A.A Milne’s character, “Winnie,” was actually based on a real female black bear named “Winnipeg” (nicknamed “Winnie” for short) who was rescued by a cavalry veterinarian in the First World War.

I think that’s when my fascination with visiting Winnipeg began. I wasn’t necessarily concerned with all the fun things to do in Winnipeg or anything of that nature, but, somewhere in my innocent youthful heart, I thought I might find Tigger.

On a cross-country train trip around the age of 12, we stopped in Winnipeg just for a few hours. Winnie the Pooh was a bit of an afterthought at that point, but that trip was the moment I feel that my travel heart began beating in this life. I didn’t have time to experience all the Winnipeg attractions, or even wander too far away from The Forks, but I remember pulling out of the station and vowing that one day I’d return.

And, nearly twenty years later, that’s exactly what I did.

Winnipeg, as you might imagine, has changed a great deal in that time, as have I. Despite all the anticipation and build-up that I felt in returning after all these years, Winnipeg did not disappoint. I found a lot of pockets and places to visit in Winnipeg that I really jived with, and I thought I ought to share them with you, like any good travel blogger should.

About Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg is named after the nearby Lake Winnipeg , and the lake’s name comes from the Western Cree words for "muddy water" - “ winipīhk ”. Given its location, centered at the confluence of the Assiniboine and the Red River of the North (now known as "The Forks"), this point was historically a crossroads of canoe routes traveled by Indigenous peoples.

The two rivers were part of an extensive transportation network linking south to the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. Even before the arrival of Europeans, the surrounding region was a trading centre. The city is traditional territory of the Anishinabe (Ojibway), Ininew (Cree), Oji-Cree, Dene, and Dakota, as well as the birthplace of the Métis Nation.

By 1870, twelve thousand people lived in the District of Assiniboia, mostly of mixed First Nation and European heritage (Métis), with more than half of them speaking French, with the rest speaking English and a mix of Indigenous languages.

In modern times, Winnipeg is the largest city in and capital of the province of Manitoba . As of 2021, Winnipeg was the sixth largest city in Canada - a considerable drop in status from 1911, when it was the third largest city. The city has had public transportation in place since 1882, and has a railway hub and an international airport.

The 30-block Exchange District in downtown Winnipeg received National Historic Site of Canada status in 1997. The district holds one of North America's most extensive collections of early 20th-century terracotta and cut stone architecture. Downtown isn’t the only place to experience historical locations - as of 2021, there were 26 National Historic Sites in the city .

What Are the Best Things to do in Winnipeg When You Visit?

Winnipeg is, in my opinion, regularly underestimated, but let’s not forget that in terms of Canadian cities, only six are bigger than Winnipeg (in order - Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa). It is, in a variety of ways, a quintessential cultural hub of the Prairies, central Canada, and the nation at large.

I’ve never been a writer who is comfortable painting an endlessly rosy picture without some counterbalance, so, sure, Winnipeg has had its difficulties in the past, and still has some difficulties in the present. But, too often, not unlike Cleveland , I’ve seen a tendency for people to form their opinions from afar without ever coming here to see for themselves what Winnipeg is all about.

So that’s what this post is about for me. Urging you to come see for yourself what kind of city Winnipeg is, and my gut feeling is that, ideally with the aid of this article, you might just like what you find. I know I did .

Alright, let’s talk about what to do in Winnipeg if you’re headed there!

NOTE: This post may contain some affiliate links. That means, simply, that I may get commissions from some of my recommendations. That being said, my opinions are fully my own.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is the only museum in the world devoted solely to human rights , and you simply cannot visit Winnipeg without stopping here. There’s a reason that the government still gave this museum the designation as a national museum, despite it being the only museum with that status outside of the Ottawa area.

The museum opened in 2014, and it’s world class. I would take the time to plan your visit before arrival and think about what you feel you have to see, or what issues are close to your heart.

There are 10 core galleries at the museum, but you’ll likely spend the bulk of your time on the 2nd and 4th floor if you’re constrained for time. The galleries attempt to examine events that have occured in Canada and elsewhere through the lens of human rights, break down what human rights actually consist of, shed light on issues that must be remembered in the future as well pressing issues of the present, and a whole lot more.

I personally spent about 4.5 hours here as I started at the top (the 8th floor lookout), then made my way down to the Nelson Mandela exhibit on the main floor (note that exhibition has finished, but you can find out what is on while you’re there right here ), but you could get a good feeling for the museum in 1.5-2 hours if you were pressed for time.

When you’re thinking about places to go in Winnipeg, this is a must. My visit here was both emotional and humbling, and I’m grateful for the perspective I gained.

The Exchange District

The Exchange District is what you can think of as the historic centre of Winnipeg . Within the Exchange District, you’ll find the bulk of the historic buildings, and that alone makes it one of the top Winnipeg attractions.

It seems there’s always something going on in the Exchange District, and, thankfully, there’s a helpful little event calendar so you can see what’s going on while you’re here.

The Exchange District is comprised of 20 city blocks , and is the ideal area to just wander around and see what you find. I’d head to Portage Avenue and Main Street, then start your exploration from there. What you’ll find is old warehouses, terracotta skyscrapers, and now, an influx of hip bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Upper Fort Garry National Historic Site

In this historic location, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in history, taking in the Upper Fort’s building locations and gardens identified by historic records and archaeological excavations, demarcated by raised limestone walls.

Upper Fort Garry was originally built in 1822 as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post , and served as the centre of the fur trade within the colony. Central to the administration of HBC, a severe flood destroyed the fort In 1826. It was rebuilt in 1835 by the HBC and named Upper Fort Garry to differentiate it from "the Lower Fort" (see below).

The Fort was gradually demolished between 1881-1888 as it was no longer of economic or military use, leaving only the Governor’s Gate. In the 1890s, the gate and surrounding parcel of land was surrendered to the city as a public park.

Use this app to explore the history of the park in fun, interactive ways.

Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature

What I liked about Thermëa was the “escape factor” of it all. You arrive, throw on the robe, toss the phone in the locker and for once get to focus on relaxing without the potential for that being interrupted.

They’ve got four outdoor baths, 4 distinct saunas, an exfoliation room, a restaurant, lounge, and plenty of places to just grab a seat in the sun or shade and take a deep breath. My personal favourite part of it all was hopping in the eucalyptus room, then rushing out to the ice cold water and feeling more awake and refreshed than any caffeine could ever hope to do for me.

If I lived in Winnipeg, this is one of those Winnipeg attractions that I’d be making time for on the regular. It’s honestly a breath of fresh air considering how busy and hectic life can get in the modern world. At the very least, I’d budget 2-3 hours here to experience it all. And, quite honestly, if you’ve got the time, you’re best to just bring a book, arrive early, and spend as much time as you’d like.

High Tea Bakery

If my inclusion of Thermëa just above piqued your interest, then my assumption is you’re looking for things to do in Winnipeg that constitute “treating yourself.” If that’s the case, then you need High Tea Bakery in your life.

Full disclosure, my pal Belinda owns the place, but, objectively, I’ve rarely if ever tasted baked goods like this. Get yourself a box like I did, and make sure you’ve got a few Imperial Cookies in there, along with some Lemon Poppyseed Shortbread, Cardamom Caramel cookies, a few Raspbery Coconut Thumbprints, and as many macaroons as you can have without passing out.

I know that she mixes things up a fair bit, so it’s possible some items may not be there when you visit, but I’m confident you can choose whatever you want, and you won’t be disappointed.

The place is also aesthetically appealing to the maximum, and the upstairs area is an ideal place to get a cup of coffee or espresso, and munch on some baked goods while working.

Beyond everything, Belinda is a friend and fellow entrepreneur that I love and respect, and she deserves every ounce of her continued success because I know personally just how hard she works.

Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site

A short drive outside the city, you’ll find the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, a trading post built in 1830 by the Hudson’s Bay Company after the flooding of the Upper Fort . The site was chosen because it was on higher ground, but still below the Saint Andrews rapids. As most of the population was centreed around the Upper Fort, the Lower Fort never became the administrative center it was intended to be, and as a result, the Upper Fort was rebuilt.

At the site, you can enjoy their new outdoor walking experience. As you stroll, you can take in various historic demonstrations and interactive activities including blacksmithing, historic firearms, the fur trade, candle making, music and more, all led by costumed interpreters.

FortWhyte Alive

It’s difficult to describe FortWhyte Alive in a sentence or two, but, essentially, it’s an environmental education centre (as well as area for recreation) located in southwest Winnipeg. The area is enormous (nearly 650 acres in size), and it includes everything from forest trails, to wetlands, and, perhaps most notably, the large field for the roaming bison.

When I visited, I took part in the three hour, extensive tour known as “A Prairie Legacy.” Connor was our guide for the tour, and his belief in the value of FortWhyte Alive was palpable.

While we were out on our “bison safari,” getting up close and personal with these magnificent beasts, he mentioned something that I really liked. He said he was proud to have the bison on the Manitoba flag because when there’s a storm, bison face the storm head on, and that’s emblematic of the people in the province. What a cool sentiment, right?

On the rest of the tour, we learned how to use an atlatl (basically an indigenous weapon that was a mixture of a spear and bow and arrow), made our own bannock bread, paddled around in a voyageur canoe, visited a model prairie house, and went on a forest walk to learn about the Manitoba flora and fauna.

It was a neat little tour and one of those fun places in Winnipeg where you’ll also learn a thing or two about the history of Winnipeg and Manitoba. Also, if you get Connor as your guide when you go, say hey to him for me, won’t ya?

This is another spot that is not right in the centre, so it’s worth thinking about whether you might want to rent a car. It’s relatively easy, generally speaking, to rent a car in Canada .

If this is up your alley, you might also like my article on Ontario’s Highlands or Port Stanley and Elgin County!

The WAG - Winnipeg Art Gallery

Western Canada’s oldest public art gallery was founded in Winnipeg in 1912. The Winnipeg Art Gallery is the sixth-largest in the country and hosts the world's largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art. And for those looking for a bargain, the first floor features nearly 5,000 stone carvings and you can visit admission free.

Investors Group Field (IG Field) - Home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers

As an avid sports fan, when I was thinking about what to do in Winnipeg, my mind immediately went to catching a Winnipeg Blue Bombers game. The only problem, however, is that when I was there, they weren’t playing. Well, it turns out there was an NFL preseason game going on while I was there, so I settled for that instead!

The first thing I’ll say is that I was seriously impressed by Investors Group Field. It was only built about 5 years ago and the price tag was over 200 million, so they didn’t skimp. It’s actually the largest canopied structure in Canada , and apparently it was designed to make sure that this spot is extra loud and rocking when the Bombers are playing.

The stadium seats about 35,000, so it’s sizeable, but it was designed in such a way that there’s really not a bad seat in the house. Despite not seeing the Bombers, it was still great to be able to visit and independently verify that a visit here needs to be on my top places to visit in Winnipeg list.

Manitoba Museum

The Manitoba Museum is the province's largest, not-for-profit centre for heritage and science education. Opened in 1965, along with the adjacent planetarium, the museum’s focus is collecting, researching, and sharing Manitoba's human and natural heritage, culture, and environment. Admission includes entry into the Museum Galleries, the Science Gallery, and timed entry into a Planetarium show of your selection.

Assiniboine Park (and the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden)

Assiniboine Park, though not quite in the heart of the city, is an important part of what makes Winnipeg, well, Winnipeg. The park, believe it or not, covers over 1000 acres, so there’s a variety of spaces within the park itself. Notable spots would include the Assiniboine Forest, Assiniboine Park Zoo, Assiniboine Park Pavilion, and the Assiniboine Park Conservatory.

The two places that I wandered through, which I would strongly recommend (if the weather is right, naturally), are the English Garden as well as the Leo Mol Sculture Garden.

The English Garden contains thousands of flowers all arranged in an elegant English style. It is almost impossible to believe while you’re walking through that you’re technically still in an urban centre. In terms of things to see in Winnipeg, this is up there for me, especially if it’s date night (or date morning or afternoon, I suppose).

The Leo Mol Sculpture Garden has over 300 works from the late Dr. Leo Mol, a Ukranian Canadian sculptor and artist, who has received both the Order of Canada and Order of Manitoba for his works. The hour or so that I spent walking around the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden might be the fondest hour I spent in Winnipeg.

While I was sitting there, breathing it all in, a man sat down and began to play this extraordinary music on an instrument I’d never seen. I went and spoke to him, and he introduced himself as Leo, one of the foremost “Grand Stick Soloists” in the world.

I should note before moving on that the Assiniboine Park Zoo is very high up there for a lot of people in terms of their own list of Winnipeg attractions and Winnipeg activities, but I’m just not a zoo person. But if you are, you may want to check it out.

Chaeaban Ice Cream

Joseph Chaeban and his wife, Zainab Ali, fled the Syrian war and promptly opened up the most popular ice-cream spot in the city. The community of Osborne Village rallied around them, and raised enough money to sponsor Zainab’s family of 13 to get to Canada. That’s a heartwarming story, no doubt, but their ice-cream also tells its own story - I’ve never had ice-cream in Canada like this.

All of their ice-cream is made from scratch, and it featured flavours which many WInnipeggers and Canadians probably aren’t used to. Take the flavour Abir Al Sham , for example, which is made with rose and orange blossom water and toasted pistachios (and it’s delicious, by the way). And yet, they also show love for Canada as well with flavours like Louis Lavender which features a rich offering of Purple Berry Orchard Saskatoon Berries.

They usually have 12 flavours on their menu. If you can, I’d share a “flight of ice-cream” for $9 and instantly get to try roughly a third of what they make. That’s what I did, along with my trusty friends Belinda and Ralph, and we had a ball.

Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

Opened in a new building in May of 2022, the Royal Aviation Museum’s mezzanine has a magnificent view of the adjacent airport runways.

You’ll feel small as you observe aircraft both on the floor and suspended on the ceiling of the large hangar. The ever-changing exhibits include one-of-a-kind aircraft, military jets, commercial aircraft and contains one of the most significant bush plane collections in the world.

You can learn all about different aspects of aviation history and innovation, and can enjoy multiple interactive and hands-on activities.

The Forks Market

No place changed more since I was last in Winnipeg than the Forks Market. It went from a place to waste a little time to one of the top things to do in Winnipeg in a flash! Last time I was there, it was a bit of a confused space that sold produce and the like. Now, it’s the most vibrant food hall in the city with a emphasis on all that’s local. It’s the place to be!

There’s also plenty of retail options now as well, and the whole vibe of the spot is hip, hip, hip. I was a huge fan of The Common , which has 20 craft beers and 20 wines on tap to pair with your food choices, and you can enjoy your beverage indoors, or take it outside to the back patio area.

I ate as much as I could at The Forks Market, and I’d say it’s worth getting a burger at NuBurger , some baked goods at Tall Grass Prairie Bread Co. , and if you’re looking for a classic Canadian breakfast, look towards Danny’s All Day Breakfast.

I got well acquainted with the area in Winnipeg known as The Forks, especially because I was staying at the Inn at the Forks .

I haven’t mentioned this elsewhere, but I was actually in Winnipeg as I was selected to come and stay at the Creator House , an initiative from Hecktic Media, Tourism Winnipeg, and Travel Manitoba. Basically, I came for 5 nights to explore and stay at the “Creator House,” a suite at the Inn at the Forks that was decked out to the nines with all things Winnipeg and Manitoba.

The best thing to do is check out my Winnipeg Instagram Stories on my profile to get the full tour and experience. You’ll see them saved as a highlight right when you get to my profile.

It was a great spot to be, and I’d strongly recommend staying there both for the hotel itself, the restaurant on the main floor, Smith, and the location!

<! data-preserve-html-node="true"-- Anything inside will go away once widget is loaded. --> Booking.com

Osborne Village

Osborne Village is a neighbourhood for people who like nightlife, bars, interesting shops, and good restaurants. Funny enough, since legislation passed for the legalization of marijuana, this area also happens to be littered with pot shops nowadays as well, for better or worse depending on your preferences.

I talked to a lot of people while I was in Osborne Village, many of whom felt that the area’s best days might be in the past, but, as an objective outsider, I still liked a lot of what I found. I enjoyed perusing what they had on offer at Tharnzie Clothing, looking through the variety of teas at The Canister , and just generally pausing to people watch and get a feel for the area. I ended up buying a Chinese Rose Tea at the Canister that I brought home with me, and it’s still my favourite tea in my cupboard.

It’s a neighbourhood to walk around a bit and throw direction out the window. I’d budget an hour or so to do that, then pop into a bar or restaurant that catches your eye. I’m actually going to recommend a restaurant right below to answer where you might want to go.

Royal Winnipeg Ballet

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is Canada's oldest ballet company and the longest continuously operating ballet company in North America. Founded in 1939, the company was granted its royal title in 1953, the first granted under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

In addition to group ticket discounts, the company also offers $35 Access Pointe tickets for those ages 18-35.

Segovia Tapas Bar

If I was writing an article on the best restaurants in Canada, I’d include Segovia, plain and simple. This isn’t a Winnipeg attraction in the classic sense, I know, but my gosh you’d be mistaken to not have it on your list of places to go in Winnipeg.

Again, I’m not just talking about Segovia being notable on a scale of Osborne Village restaurants, or Winnipeg restaurants, I’m talking about about Canada and the world at large. It would, in short, be hard for me to love a restaurant much more.

I was very fortunate to get a spot right up front to chat with Chef Adam Donnelly while he made dishes for the restaurant. He was generous with his time and sharing his philosophy.

A woman came up to him as she was leaving and thanked him for sharing his sourdough recipe, and that’s what I think sums up this place. It’s a warm community feel, with a chic interior, and internationally recognized food. It comes from a head chef being comfortable sharing recipes, as the menu is ever changing, and he knows he’s got no shortage of creativity. I just felt like that moment said it all for me. Everything is out in the open at Segovia.

I had the Sourdough & Brown Butter with Boquerones + Anchovies . I then had the Shrimp Tostada with Avocado Mojo (as well as orange, radish, and sautéed garlic), and Shishito Peppers with Za’atar , and Manchego . Every single bite was something to savour.

Segovia can be a touch pricey, but honestly it’s not bad at all if you’re sharing, and remember it’s tapas style.

I legitimately feel like eating here has to be on the list of the best things to do in Winnipeg, and thus has to be on my places to visit in Winnipeg list.

If this article has been to your liking, check out my thoughts on Middlesex County, Ontario or Ottawa’s Tulip Festival.

Some Choice Winnipeg Breweries and Distilleries

I knew that I was going to be limited for time in my exploration of Winnipeg breweries and distilleries and, as such, I decided to do a Winnipeg Brewery Tour from the Winnipeg Trolley Company . I was on the Friday night tour, which means that we visited Little Brown Jug , Capital K Distillery , and One Great City Brewing Co.

Little Brown Jug was great in that they’re just growing, and focusing on making one great beer at a time. They’ve got lofty ambitions, but are comfortable in perfecting their 1919 Belgian Pale Ale before moving forward.

Capital K Distillery had some really interesting flavours going on, most notably their Tall Grass Dill Pickle Vodka , which is truly something to behold. The actually distillery isn’t anything too special in terms of interior, but they make good booze.

One Great City Brewing looked to me like it was more a brewpub at this point than anything else, but it’s a good spot to get some food, especially if you’re just come from another brewery, then followed that up with a distillery before arrival.

You can get more information about Winnipeg Trolley Company Brewery Tours by clicking the linked text.

Pantages Playhouse Theatre

Opened in 1914, Winnipeg’s Pantages Theatre was the ninth theatre built by the Pantages Company, a major American vaudeville chain.

Alexander Pantages touted the theatre as a proving ground for performers, and was quoted as saying "all my acts originate in Winnipeg and move around the circuit." Among its many achievements, the theatre was host to the first ever jazz concert in Canada in 1914. The two story building has a beautiful Edwardian baroque facade with a lit marquee across the front.

Despite several changes of hands between then and now (including a stint as a cinema), the building has retained its original interior layout including marble sheathing and decorative plaster ceiling. This site is recognized as a National Historic site.

Clementine Cafe

Let’s just get right into it, the brunch at Clementine Cafe is off the charts. The one thing I would say that is that I’m not giving you a hidden gem here, everyone in Winnipeg knows this is one of the best places to go in Winnipeg for brunch.

They’re open Monday-Friday from 7am-3pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8am-4pm. You’re best to go early on weekends, and you may still expect a bit of a wait, but you should be alright on weekdays, at least for the most part.

With Clementine - think a cozy, buzzing lower level brunch spot with a seriously creative drink and food menu. I personally had the fresh squeezed orange juice with Roasted Mushroom Toast (kale, tare, truffle cheese, black bean puree, and a poached egg), as well as the Fried Potatoes covered with chickpea mayo, maple, and BBQ spice. Both were a delight, but there was something about the black bean puree that stole my heart - it was immensely flavourful.

What Makes These the Places to Go in Winnipeg?

I’ve been thinking for a while about a unifying thread with these spots, and I’ve come down one thing. I think each and every one of these spots is deeply rooted and connected to the city, and that means to visit these places in Winnipeg is to experience Winnipeg itself, in all its variations.

Whether it’s showcasing prairie life at Fort Whyte, catching a Bombers game and seeing the true fanaticism for the home club, or sipping on tall grass dill pickle vodka, you’re going to get a taste for the city and province, especially in the last instance.

What I mostly want to convey is that I was only able to spend a few hours in Winnipeg all those years ago, and I could not possibly get a feel for the city, but all these years later I got to give the city a real shot, and I genuinely loved it.

Not enough people make time to come here and consciously build out an itinerary like they would for Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver or Montreal, but they should. And, now, with the help of this posts you’re off to the races, my friend.

Take your time, keep your eyes open, give yourself to the city, and you might just form a few unforgettable memories.

I want to humbly thank Travel Manitoba, Tourism Winnipeg, and HMI (Hecktic Media Inc.) for hosting me as media. All opinions are completely my own. Below, I’d love to know in the comments if you’ve visited Winnipeg or Manitoba before and your thoughts! I respond to each and every comment personally.

Like it? Pin it!

15 things to do in Winnipeg in winter

Stuart Forster visits Manitoba, Canada, and outlines 15 things to do in Winnipeg in winter.

Disclosure: Some of the links below and banners are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Winnipeg, the provincial capital of Manitoba , has lots to offer travellers visiting in wintertime. Cultural and sporting attractions, as well as seasonal festivals, count among the reasons to visit Winnipeg in winter. If you’re looking for a winter getaway that will fill you with a sense of delight and wonder, look no further than Winnipeg.

Tourism attractions in Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a city of culture and adventure, and there’s no better time to experience it than in winter. When the temperatures dip, the city comes alive with the spirit of winter. The snow-covered streets and frost-covered trees create a scene of serene beauty and enchantment that will take your breath away. Winnipeg is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse cultural attractions, and endless outdoor activities, and winter is the perfect time to experience it all.

Tourism attractions in Winnipeg include the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Manitoba Museum and Winnipeg Art Gallery. If you enjoy sports, why not book to watch the Winnipeg Jets in action? Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet is an option if you prefer the performing arts.

There’s much for foodies to enjoy, including the RAW: almond food festival. International chefs serve their creations in a pop-up restaurant on the frozen waterway at The Forks, the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. The three-week event was founded as a collaboration between architect Joe Kalturnyk and chef Mandel Hitzer.

Into wildlife? You may be tempted to visit Manitoba and head north to Churchill, particularly in October or November, to view polar bears waiting for the water of the Hudson Bay to freeze. From late February into March polar bear cubs emerge from dens in Wapusk National Park . Why not add a city break in Winnipeg onto the trip?

Sure, it’s cold outside during a Winnipeg winter but dress appropriately and you’ll be fine. As the British fell walker Alfred Wainwright wrote, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing,” so wrap up warm and make the most of seasonal attractions in Winnipeg.

Visiting the Canadian Museum for Human Rights counts among the key things to do in Winnipeg in winter and other times of year.

1 – Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights occupies an eye-catching building designed by the architect Antoine Predock. The museum’s glass tower provides fine views over the city.

Set aside at least half a day to listen to stories, watch videos and interact with the informative exhibits. Visiting can be edifying and emotional. As the name of this museum suggests, you’ll be confronted by human rights abuses, genocide and conflict. Gender, race and religion are just some of the many reasons why humans make each other suffer.

Touring the museum, from its dark lower level to the tower of light, is an opportunity to appreciate the symbolism of the building’s design.

A visit on winter afternoon means you’re well placed to explore the Arctic Glacier Winter Park, also at The Forks, in the early evening. Thousands of lights illuminate trees and canopies over walkways. On weekends you can see snow-sculpting and horse-drawn rides.

2 – Ride a sledge at Assiniboine Park

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Winnipeg during winter, head to the ever-popular Assiniboine Park.

Try out activities such as cross-country skiing and sledding at the toboggan hill. The frozen Riley Family Duck Pond, at the centre of the park, becomes an ice rink in the wintertime.

Stroll through the winter landscape of the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden which blooms into colour during the summer season.

The Journey to Churchill at Assiniboine Park Zoo conveys the challenges of conservation and environmental issues facing the tundra and arctic regions. Expect to see polar bears and other animals from the Canadian north.

3 – Party at the Festival du Voyageur

During February, the predominantly francophone St Boniface district of Winnipeg hosts the Festival du Voyageur , western Canada’s biggest winter festival. The event commemorates the historic significance of fur trading, for which The Forks and the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Garry were key locations. The original Fort Gibraltar , the Festival du Voyager’s venue, was built by the Montreal-based North West Company at The Forks.

Expect live music, snow sculptures and family-friendly activities. Jigging competitions test dancing skills. Fiddling contests provide a platform for talented string musicians.

The Festival du Voyageur also celebrates indigenous heritage and cuisine. The Ishkode Indigenous Cuisine Pop-up showcases Métis dishes.

Louis Riel Day, held on the third Monday of February, commemorates the legacy of the founder of Manitoba. A complex character, Riel was executed in 1885 after being found guilty of treason. He is buried in the churchyard of the St Boniface Cathedral.

4 – See the bison herd at FortWhyte Alive

Bison once roamed in their millions across the prairies of North America. Canada’s only urban herd is at FortWhyte Alive , on Winnipeg’s southwest edge.

Clay was once mined from the land, a site formerly dominated by a cement factory. Since 1983 the has been utilised for environmental education.

Visiting also means an opportunity to step inside a turf hut, of the kind built by early European settlers. The turf is an impressively effective insulator.

Interpreters explain how First Nations peoples and early settlers lived from the land and water. You can try ice fishing out on the lake.

Hiking and snowshoeing also count among the winter activities at FortWhyte Alive

5 – View street art in Winnipeg

You’ll find murals on walls dotted across the city.

One of the highlights is Back Alley Arctic, near Vimy Ridge Park, in the Wolseley district. Kal Barteski has created depictions of animals, including walrus and polar bears, on the lane between Canora and Ethelbert Street.

6 – Learn about indigenous heritage

Travel can be educational as well as fun. While in Winnipeg, why not take time to learn about the indigenous peoples of Manitoba ?

Canada was established in 1867 and Manitoba became a part of it in 1870. Yet long before Europeans settled in what we today know as Winnipeg, the land was inhabited.

This explains why you may see signs referencing Treaty Number One when visiting attractions. They mention that Winnipeg is on the original lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininiwak, Dakota, and Dene peoples, as well as the homeland of the Métis Nation.

The Forks, at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, has been a meeting place of peoples for more than 6,000 years.

The impressive Thunderbird House is one of the places where elders and indigenous knowledge keepers meet.

First Nations elders share insights at tipis at the Arctic Glacier Winter Park between 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm each Sunday.

7 – Visit Qaumajuq and the Winnipeg Art Gallery

The Winnipeg Art Gallery is also known by its WAG acronym. Only a fraction of the WAG’s broad collection of approximately 30,000 artworks is on public display.

Landscapes by the Group of Seven feature as part of the WAG’s collection of Canadian art.

The angular modern building stands on Memorial Boulevard.

Qaumajuq , which connects to the WAG, displays works from the world’s largest public collection of Inuit modern and contemporary art. Designed by architect Michael Maltzan, Qaumajuq opened in March 2021.

8 – Watch an ice hockey game

Canadians refer to ice hockey simply as hockey. Attending a game is an opportunity to better understand Canada’s sporting passions while having an entertaining afternoon or evening.

Canada Life Centre, in the heart of Winnipeg, is the home venue for two professional teams. The Winnipeg Jets play in the elite National Hockey League (NHL). The Manitoba Moose play in the American Hockey league, the NHL’s principal development league. Consequently, tickets for Moose games cost a fraction of those for Jets matches.

9 – Go ice skating in Winnipeg

If watching hockey inspires you to take to the ice, head to Winnipeg’s Arctic Glacier Winter Park at The Forks. Pull on a pair of skates and glide onto the ice at the Canopy Skating Park, a covered rink.

Depending on the ice conditions, you may be able to skate on the frozen surfaces of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers while following the River Trail. The skating trail also runs on land at The Forks. Rental skates are available.

10 – View warming huts designed by international architects

Each year, international architects are invited to participate in Winnipeg’s Warming Huts competition. Winning entries are assembled by the River Trail. The 2020 winners were by architects based in Calgary, Strasbourg, Tokyo and Winnipeg.

The huts are works of both art and architecture. They are judged on factors such as their design, ease of construction and creativity.

11 – Unwind at Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature

Thanks to the seasonal weather, finding a place to chill in Winnipeg in winter isn’t difficult. However, chilling at Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature has a whole different meaning — it’s a chic spa with saunas and steam rooms around four outdoor pools of varying temperatures.

The saunas are in wooden cabins. At two-hour intervals a saunameister enters the Finnish-style sauna to perform an aufguss , a ritual wafting of a towel that raises the temperature and infuses the air with the aroma of essential oils.

You can grab the salt and exfoliate, cocoon yourself in sleeping bag-like hammocks and relax on heated benches while listening to classical music.

Into wellness treatments? Set aside an hour for a massage. Duo massages are an option for couples.

There’s also the option of pulling on your robe to grab a drink or bite to eat in the onsite restaurant.

12 – Take in a show in Winnipeg

Traditionally, Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet winter season includes a series of performances of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker around Christmastime.

If you’re into classical music, book tickets to a concert by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Many of the orchestra’s performances are at Winnipeg’s Centennial Concert Hall .

Prefer theatre? Check out the shows at the Prairie Theatre Exchange and Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre .

13 – Shopping in Winnipeg

Beyond shops in the downtown area, Winnipeg has several malls if you’re into shopping. CF Polo Park is the largest.

If you enjoy browsing branded fashion and sporting goods, prioritise a trip to the Outlet Collection Winnipeg , which has more than 100 stores. Stores selling discounted goods from brands such as Under Armour, Tommy Hilfiger and Michael Kors operate at the mall.

14 – Pop into the Manitoba Museum

Whatever time of year you visit, the Manitoba Museum counts among the top places to visit in Winnipeg.

It has exhibitions on Manitoba’s natural history and human settlement of the land, as well as a planetarium and science section.

15 – Lose yourself in a snow maze

Exhausted your list of Winnipeg things to do? St Adolphe, a 30-minute drive south of Winnipeg, is home to the world’s biggest snow maze.

Snow Maze at A Maze in Corn is open from January into March between Thursday and Sunday. Expect to see snow sculptures and fire pits while following the labyrinth of passageways formed by packed snow.

The walls of the snow maze are two metres (6 feet 6 inches) high, meaning it’s suitable for most adults as well as youngsters.

Map of Winnipeg

The city is pretty easy to get around. Zoom in on the map below to find attractions in Winnipeg:

Google Map showing Winnipeg, Manitoba

Travel to Winnipeg

There are no direct flights from UK airports to Winnipeg in the winter. Flights with one connection are available.

WestJet operates flights between London Gatwick and Toronto and has connections to Winnipeg.

Air Canada operates flights from London Heathrow to Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. It’s then possible to fly to Winnipeg from each of those Canadian airports.

Winnipeg has direct flights from several airports in the USA. They include Chicago, Denver and Minneapolis, which operate daily flights to Manitoba’s provincial capital.

Hotels in Winnipeg

The Inn at the Forks is a modern, four-star hotel with a spa. As this 116-room hotel’s name suggests, it’s at The Forks, meaning it’s well-placed for visiting the nearby market and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

If you stay at the Inn at the Forks and have a preference for rooms with views, ask for a bedroom on a higher floor facing the museum. Foodies may well enjoy staying here as it means not having to head back outside, after a day of sightseeing, to have dinner at the Smith Restaurant.

The Fairmont Winnipeg hotel is at Lombard Place in the historic Exchange District. The 340-room property is well-placed for exploring the city’s downtown and visiting The Forks.

The hotel’s Velvet Glove restaurant serves prairie favourites such as perogies and buttermilk fried chicken. Vegan options also feature on the menu.

If you like staying centrally, consider the Fort Garry Hotel. The four-star, 246-room property opened in 1913 in a grand building that’s widely regarded as one of Canada’s finest Chateau-style hotels. It takes its name from the Hudson’s Bay Company trading post that stood at the confluence of the Assiniboine and Red Rivers. Like to relax after a day of sightseeing? There’s a spa on the tenth floor.

Where to eat in Winnipeg

Winnipeg is home to some outstanding restaurants.

Clementine is a standout choice for breakfast or brunch. The informal café is hidden away down a set of stairs in the Exchange District and has the feel of an insider tip on where to dine in Winnipeg.

Dishes such as the Turkish eggs, featuring hummus, and braised bacon benedict make it worth an early pitstop. Try a side too. The thick-sliced maple bacon and fried potatoes served with chickpea mayo make this a place worthy of more than one visit. You could always go über Canadian by ordering a Caesar, the clamato-based cocktail that’s essentially a pimped Bloody Mary.

Also in the Exchange District, Deer and Almond is a notable restaurant to visit for zinging flavours and beautifully presented tapas-style small plates. Mandel Hitzer is recognised among Manitoba’s most creative chefs and co-founded RAW: almond, the pop-up food festival which brings together top chefs from across Canada and beyond. The chefs serve their dishes in a temporary restaurant on the frozen river.

Eating out in Winnipeg

Scott Bagshaw is renowned as another of Manitoba’s top chefs. Enoteca serves Mediterranean-style dishes while the focus at Maque is Asian-inspired small plates. You can also experience the sharing plate concept at Passero in The Forks Market where Italian-style dishes dominate the menu. I was impressed by both the beef tartare, served with sourdough bread, and the gnocchi. Sitting by the bar meant a prime seat for observing the chefs at work in Passero’s open kitchen.

Head to Feast Café Bistro to try dishes inspired by Canada’s indigenous cuisines. Chef and owner Christa Bruneau-Guenther is a member of the Peguis First Nation. Her dishes include the likes of fire-roasted buffalo lasagne and maple cedar salmon.

Smith Restaurant , at the Inn at the Forks, serves seasonal dishes made with Canadian ingredients. The menu features small plates, including arctic char, and comfort food such as buttermilk fried chicken.

Where to drink in Winnipeg

Winnipeg has an impressive array of craft breweries. I enjoyed sampling local brews at The Common within The Forks Market . The Commons serves 20 different draught beers, of which five are local. It also serves wines by the glass, making it a good bet if you’re with someone who doesn’t like beer.

For cocktails stop by the Forth (117 McDermot Ave). The long list of signature cocktails includes delectable creations such as the brandy-based Lady Washington and Troubled Paradise, made with spiced bourbon.

Six (sort of) fascinating Winnipeg-related facts

Did you know?

• The name of the city is derived from words from the Cree language. ‘Win’ means ‘muddy’ and ‘nippee’ is the Cree term for water.
• Winnipeg was incorporated as a city back in 1873 when its population was just 1,869. In 2020 the city’s population is estimated at around 762,000.
• The city is 3,463 kilometres from Halifax, 2,372 kilometres from Vancouver and 2,659 kilometres from New York.
• The British capital, London, is more northerly than Winnipeg. London’s latitude is 51.50°N while Manitoba’s provincial capital is at 49.89°N.
• The actress Anna Paquin was born in Winnipeg. Paquin has played roles in films such as The Piano, X-Men: The Last Stand and The Irishman .
• Winnipeg International Airport bears the name of James Armstrong Richardson (1922-2004), a businessperson and politician who served as a minister in Pierre Trudeau’s government.

Squirrel these gems away to impress people you met while travelling or to roll out during pub quizzes.

Winter weather in Winnipeg

If you plan to visit Winnipeg in winter be prepared for snow and sub-zero temperatures. From December to February the city experiences average daytime temperatures of well below zero.

January is typically Winnipeg’s coldest month. According to one of the websites I viewed, the average high temperature of -11°C (13°F) and an average low of -20°C (-4°F).

Snowfall is common from mid-October until late April. The city’s average annual snowfall is 110.6 centimetres (43.5 inches).

Some Canadians affectionately refer to Winnipeg as ‘Winterpeg’ because of the cold seasonal weather.

An eTA to enter Canada

Most UK passport holders flying to Canada for business or leisure purposes require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Some people need visas to enter the country.

Apply for your eTA via the official Government of Canada website before booking travel. Any site charging more than CAD$7 to process an eTA application is not the official Government of Canada website.

Don’t leave the application until shortly before just prior to travel as the approval process sometimes requires supporting documentation and can take several days. Once approved, eTAs are valid for up to five years.

Further information

Discover more things to do in Winnipeg in winter on the Tourism Winnipeg and Travel Manitoba websites.

Looking for things to do in Canada in winter? Take a look at the Destination Canada website, which includes ideas about what to do in Winnipeg.

Thank you for visiting Go Eat Do and reading this post about 15 things to do in Winnipeg in winter. You can find several posts about Canada here on Go Eat Do. If you’re thinking about visiting Winnipeg you may also want to consider heading to Churchill, the town known as ‘the polar bear capital of the world’ .  A polar bear safari in Manitoba, Canada may also interest you.

Stuart Forster, the author of this post, is an award-winning travel writer who has visited Canada multiple times. He was presented with the 2017 British Annual Canada Travel Award for Best Online Content. Stuart is available for commissions and can be contacted via this website.

Photos are by Why Eye Photography unless otherwise stated. Thank you to Travel Manitoba for the use of images, where stated.

If you enjoyed this post why not  sign up for the free Go Eat Do newsletter ? It’s a hassle-free way of getting links to posts on a monthly basis.

‘Like’ the  Go Eat Do Facebook page  to see more photos and content.

A version of this post was originally published on Go Eat Do on 11 July 2020.

Share this:

You may also enjoy reading these posts:.

Aparna Sisodia

Loved what you shared in your post. Personally, I feel Canada is a treasure trove of nature’s beauty. Winnipeg surely cements my vision. The wintry town looks so beautiful.

Canada is indeed a great place to appreciate nature. Winnipeg is an outstanding destination and a great base for going on to explore elsewhere in Manitoba.

Proud Winnipegger

For item 13, although still an historic building, the Hudson Bay downtown location (pictured) closed to shoppers in November 2020. There are, however, locations at CF Polo Park and St. Vital Centre.

Thank you for that update.

This seemed very interesting and fun to me. I was looking forward to passing my time funnily, and I have got this blog or website. I will indeed be doing this challenging, and I hope there will be more of them.

Winnipeg has so much do during winter and I also enjoyed being there in the summer months.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » North America » Winnipeg

Where to Stay in Winnipeg (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

Winnipeg was one of those cities that left me pleasantly surprised. I wasn’t expecting much from the Canadian Prairie City, but what I got completely blew me away!

The food, the history, the architecture and the culture – Winnipeg was a proper good time.

But, Winnipeg is a large city and not all of its neighborhoods will offer much to travellers, which is exactly why we wrote this no-stress guide for where to stay in Winnipeg.

Our article breaks down Winnipeg’s best neighborhoods by interest so you’ll be able to quickly identify which is the best for you.

Whether you’re looking to party like a rock star, dive deep into history, or eat amazing Canadian and international fare, we’ve got a neighborhood that’s perfect for you!

Let’s jump right to it. Here are our top picks for where to stay in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Where to Stay in Winnipeg

Winnipeg neighborhood guide – places to stay in winnipeg, winnipeg’s 5 best neighborhoods to stay in, faq about finding a place to stay in winnipeg, what to pack for winnipeg, don’t forget travel insurance for winnipeg, final thoughts on where to stay in winnipeg.

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Winnipeg.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

La Cabane Guesthouse | Best Hostel in Winnipeg

This cosy and social hostel is strategically located in St. Boniface. This neighborhood is bursting with culture and has tons of cafes, restaurants and parks to enjoy. This hostel offers three unique styles of rooms, perfect for all types of travellers. A small breakfast is also included with each reservation.

Sometimes the best way to experience a destination is from a good dorm room with good people. Book one of these sweet hostels in Winnipeg and get ready for the time of your life!

Alt Hotel Winnipeg | Best Hotel in Winnipeg

The Alt Hotel is our choice for the best hotel in Winnipeg. It is located just moments from Winnipeg’s best restaurants, bars and clubs. This charming three-star hotel offers spacious rooms with comfortable beds and plenty of amenities. There’s also a concierge, 24-hour reception and free wifi.

Downtown Winnipeg is home to the flagship store of the Hudson’s Bay Company. A venerable Canadian institution, the history of The Bay dates back to the 17th-century when it was used as a fur trading post.

St. Boniface

St. Boniface is a large neighbourhood located on the eastern side of the Red River. It is Winnipeg’s French Quarter and is home to the largest Francophone community west of the Great Lakes.

Exchange District

Set north of downtown is the Exchange District. The commercial and cultural centre of the city, the Exchange District is a thriving neighbourhood that is home to exciting annual festivals, excellent restaurants, and approximately 150 heritage buildings and warehouses.

Wolseley is one of the coolest and most unique neighbourhoods in Winnipeg. Once known as the “granola belt” thanks to its residents’ progressive politics, Wolseley is a neighbourhood that today embraces modern culture.

Historic, modern and bursting with green space, The Forks is our recommendation for where to stay in Winnipeg for families.

Winnipeg is the capital and largest city in Manitoba. Off the beaten path for most travellers visiting Canada, Winnipeg is a charming city packed with history, culture, cuisine and fun. It’s a major centre in the Canadian Prairies and is home to approximately 705,000 people.

The city covers nearly 465 square kilometres and lies at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It is divided into 236 neighborhoods, each offering something unique to travellers.

To help you plan your time in Winnipeg, this guide will breakdown the five best neighborhoods in detail.

Located west of the city centre is Wolseley. A former haven for hippies, Wolseley is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Winnipeg (not only because it snows a lot here). Thanks to its rustic coffee shops and independent boutiques this area has soul and character.

Travel northeast from here to the Exchange District. A hotbed for action and activity, the Exchange District is packed with restaurants, bars, cultural centres and thriving nightclubs. It’s the ideal place to stay if you’re looking to enjoy a night out.

Head slightly south and you’ll find yourself in downtown, at the heart of Winnipeg. The busiest neighborhood in the city, downtown is home to historic landmarks, cultural institutions and a great variety of tourist attractions.

Continue south and you’ll pass through The Forks. A lively neighborhood that seamlessly combines history and modernity, The Forks is where you can enjoy the best of the city against a stunning natural backdrop.

And finally, cross the Red River and you’ll find yourself in St. Boniface. This neighborhood oozes Francophone culture and history around every turn. It has great landmarks as well as a good variety of budget accommodations.

Still not sure where to stay in Winnipeg? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

In the next section, we’ll take a look at Winnipeg’s five best neighborhoods to stay in. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the one that’s the best fit for you!

#1 Downtown – Where to Stay in Winnipeg First Time

At the intersection of Portage and Main is downtown Winnipeg. The heart and soul of the city, downtown is one of the busiest neighborhoods in Winnipeg. It’s where you’ll find an excellent array of restaurants, shops and bars, and is our pick for where to stay if you’re visiting Winnipeg for the first time.

Downtown Winnipeg is home to the flagship store of the Hudson’s Bay Company. A venerable Canadian institution, the history of The Bay dates back to the 17th-century when it was used as a fur trading post. Talk to almost any Canadian and they’ll tell you there’s no more iconic department store in the country. If you like to shop, a visit to this excellent institution is a must!

Humphry Inn & Suites Winnipeg | Best Budget Hotel in Downtown

Thanks to its location in downtown Winnipeg, this is one of our favourite budget options in the city. You’ll enjoy great restaurants, nightlife and sightseeing options at your front door. This three-star hotel offers large rooms with desks and modern amenities. There’s also a convenient on-site restaurant.

Alt Hotel Winnipeg | Best Hotel in Downtown

The Alt Hotel is our top choice for where to stay in downtown Winnipeg. This hotel is moments from Winnipeg’s best restaurants, bars and clubs. This charming three-star hotel offers spacious rooms with comfortable beds and plenty of amenities. There’s also a concierge service, 24-hour reception and free wifi.

Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown

This fantastic hotel is located at the heart of Winnipeg and is within walking distance of great bars, shops and restaurants. This hotel is comprised of 263 traditional rooms with a variety of features. Guests can also enjoy an indoor pool, a spa, and a free shuttle service.

Things to See and Do in Downtown

• Admire the architecture of the beaux-arts Union Station railway depot.
• the shops and stalls at Portage Place.
• Catch a stunning performance of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
• Dine on delicious contemporary Canadian dishes at 12 Resto Bar.
• Root for the National Hockey League’s Winnipeg Jets at The MTS Centre.
• See incredible works of art at the Winnipeg Art Gallery.
• Shop until you drop at central Winnipeg Square.
• Take a tour of The Manitoba Legislative Building and see the famous Golden Boy statue.
• Visit the iconic flagship store for the Hudson’s Bay Company.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

#2 St. Boniface – Where to Stay in Winnipeg on a Budget

St. Boniface is a large neighborhood located on the eastern side of the Red River. It is Winnipeg’s French Quarter and is home to the largest Francophone community west of the Great Lakes. This neighborhood is steeped in history and bursting with culture. Here you can learn all about legendary Louis Riel and see an incredible selection of designated historical sites.

It is also where you’ll find a variety of budget accommodation options, including the only hostel in the city. For cost-conscious travellers and tourists counting their pennies, there’s no better place to stay in Winnipeg than the St. Boniface neighborhood.

Love to eat? This is also a great place to indulge in delicious French and Franco-Canadian dishes and delicacies.

La Cabane Guesthouse | Best Hostel in St. Boniface

This cosy and social hostel is strategically located in St. Boniface. The neighborhood is bursting with culture and has tons of cafes, restaurants and parks to enjoy. This hostel offers three unique styles of rooms, perfect for all types of travellers. A small breakfast is also included with each reservation.

Norwood Hotel Winnipeg | Best Apartment in St. Boniface

This awesome hotel comes complete with laundry facilities, a concierge service and a golf course. Set in St. Boniface, this two-star hotel offers a convenient base for exploring the city. Enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which provides a range of breakfast options each day.

St Boniface | Best Vacation Rental in St. Boniface

Located in Winnipeg’s French Quarter, this hotel is a great base in Winnipeg with so many fantastic attractions and landmarks nearby. It’s also close to great restaurants, cafes and parks. This cosy vacation rental provides comfortable accommodations and modern amenities perfect for all styles of travellers.

Things to See and Do in St. Boniface

• Dine on gourmet French dishes at the chic bistro Resto Gare.
• Eat delicious and traditional Caribbean fare at Deen’s Caribbean Restaurant & Patio.
• Enjoy incredible vegan desserts and more at Le Monkey Bar.
• Experience the incredible Festival du Voyager, a must if visiting in February.
• Explore the grounds of the Université de Saint-Boniface.
• Marvel at the design of the Basilique-Cathedrale de Saint-Boniface.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Mini Donuts Factory.
• Take a stroll along the Provencher Boulevard.
• Visit the Royal Canadian Mint and learn all about Canadian money.
• Walk across the Provencher Bridge which connects St. Boniface and The Forks.

#3 Exchange District – Best Area to Stay in Winnipeg for Nightlife

Set north of downtown is the Exchange District. The commercial and cultural centre of the city, the Exchange District is a thriving neighborhood that is home to exciting annual festivals, excellent restaurants, and approximately 150 heritage buildings and warehouses.

The Exchange District is our recommendation for where to stay in Winnipeg if you’re looking for nightlife. Dotted throughout the neighborhood are an array of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and pubs that cater to travellers of all ages and styles. So whether you’re keen to dance until dawn, enjoy a cosy glass of wine, or see a world-class show, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in Winnipeg’s Exchange District.

The Marlborough Hotel | Best Hostel in Exchange District

The Marlborough Hotel is located between the Exchange District and downtown Winnipeg. They have both a restaurant and bar on-site, perfect for enjoying a drink before a night on the town. It has 148 modern rooms and there’s even an indoor pool. Enjoy great options for dining, shopping and nightlife at your doorstep.

Mere Hotel | Best Hotel in Exchange District

This colourful and unique hotel is our pick for where to stay in the Exchange District. It boasts wonderful views, luxurious bathrooms, and a superb on-site restaurant. It’s also well-positioned for exploring Winnipeg as there are many landmarks, shops and cafes nearby. Enjoy modern facilities at this excellent three-star hotel.

The Fairmont Winnipeg | Best Hotel in Exchange District

If you’re going to stay in one of Winnipeg’s hippest districts, why not enjoy one of the city’s most luxurious hotels. The Fairmont Winnipeg is conveniently located in the Exchange District. It offers comfortable and contemporary rooms and boasts a stylish lounge and delicious restaurant. There’s also a sauna, a Jacuzzi and a heated pool.

Things to See and Do in Exchange District

• Catch an entertaining show at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.
• Dance the night away at 441 Main.
• Dive deep into the history at the Manitoba Museum.
• Enjoy great cocktails at the Amsterdam Tea Room.
• Grab a drink at Browns Social House.
• Listen to live music at the World Famous Palomino Club.
• Party until dawn at Citizen Nightclub.
• Sample from a wide selection of beers at Yellow Dog Tavern.
• See an outstanding performance by the Manitoba Opera.
• Sip great coffee at Forth Café.
• Visit the Winnipeg City Hall.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#4 Wolseley – Coolest Place to Stay in Winnipeg

Wolseley is one of the coolest and most unique neighborhoods in Winnipeg. Once known as the “granola belt” thanks to its residents’ progressive politics, Wolseley is a neighborhood that today embraces modern culture. It’s where you’ll find hip cafes and trendy boutiques nestled alongside organic bakers and independent shops.

It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re keen to embrace your inner hipster and enjoy an afternoon of people watching on Sherbrooke Street.

This is also our recommendation for architecture aficionados as Wolseley is home to one of the best-preserved collections of historic character houses in the city. Wander along Wolseley’s charming streets and marvel at the funky, fun and colourful 20th-century houses that line them.

Winnipeg Holiday | Best Apartment in Wolseley

This excellent property is conveniently located in Winnipeg at the heart of Wolseley. It’s within walking distance of the neighborhood’s trendiest restaurants, cafes and boutiques. This apartment comes complete with five comfortable and spacious rooms each outfitted with essential amenities and wonderful features.

Hansen | Best Guest House in Wolseley

The Hansen Guest House is a fantastic place to make your base in Wolseley. It has six comfortable and spacious rooms that are equipped with modern features. This property also provides a swimming pool, room service and free wifi. You’ll enjoy plenty of sightseeing, dining and nightlife options close by.

The Columns Bed & Breakfast | Best Bed & Breakfast in Wolseley

This bed and breakfast is our pick for where to stay in Wolseley. It is located a short walk from the neighborhoods coolest bars, restaurants and shops and is close to downtown Winnipeg. This BnB offers four cosy bedrooms, laundry facilities, a sun deck and a garden.

Things to See and Do in Wolseley

• Indulge in cinnamon buns, cookies and more at Tall Grass Prairie.
• Enjoy drinks at Handsome Daughter.
• Grab a beer and a sandwich at Cousins Deli.
• Dine on American fare at The Tallest Poppy.
• Sip hip coffees and cappuccinos at Thom Bargen.
• Sink your teeth into a savoury burger at Boon Burger Café.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth at Decadence Chocolates.
• Kickstart your day with a filling breakfast at Stella’s Café & Bakery.
• Savour excellent sandwiches, soups and more at the trendy Sherbrook Street Deli.
• Browse the shops and stalls at the Wolseley Farmer’s Market.

#5 The Forks – Best Neighborhood in Winnipeg for Families

This fantastic neighborhood is located west of downtown, nestled at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It is a designated National Historic Site of Canada and is packed with plenty of activities and attractions perfect for families of all ages and sizes. From bustling food markets to one-of-a-kind museums, The Forks has something for every type of traveller.

The Forks is also home to a number of cultural institutions geared towards children. From lively theatres to colourful museums, you won’t have to go very far to keep your little ones entertained in The Forks.

Fort Garry Hotel | Best Hotel in The Forks

The Fort Garry Hotel is one of our favourite hotels in Winnipeg. Set in The Forks, this hotel is close to landmarks and a wide selection of eateries and shops. It has a myriad of wellness features, including a Turkish steam bath, a sauna and free wifi.

Inn at the Forks | Best Hotel in The Forks

This exquisite four-star hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay in The Forks. It is ideally located in the neighborhood offering easy access to tourist attractions, dining and shopping options. This modern hotel has a gym and valet parking. Rooms are spacious and boast wonderful views of Winnipeg.

Luxury Furnished Suites | Best Apartment in The Forks

This property is an excellent place to stay if you’re keen to explore The Forks. It’s set at the heart of the neighborhood and is walking distance to great tourist attractions and restaurants. This property has nine modern apartments, perfect for families. There’s also a swimming pool and restaurant on-site.

Things to See and Do in The Forks

• Be engaged at the Manitoba Theatre for Young People.
• Discover more than 100 years of rail history at the Winnipeg Railway Museum.
• Eat well at the Old Spaghetti Factory.
• Explore the importance of human rights through interactive displays and exhibits at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
• Go for a stroll along the peaceful Riverwalk.
• Learn and play at the Manitoba Children’s Museum
• Root for the home team, the Winnipeg Goldeyes Baseball Club.
• Shop and snack your way through the Forks Market.
• Wander throughout the Forks National Historic Site, a nine-acre green oasis.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Winnipeg and where to stay.

Where is the best place to stay in Winnipeg?

Downtown is our top pick. It is the central hub of all the action in Winnipeg. It is rich in history and culture with all the modern amenities of a great modern city.

Which is the best place for couples to stay in Winnipeg?

We love Exchange District. There’s an endless list of things to do in this neighborhood that are great to share with someone you love. You can eat, drink and dance to your heart’s content.

What are the best hotels in Winnipeg?

These are our top 3 hotels in Winnipeg: – Alt Hotel Winnipeg – Humphry Inn and Suites – Norwood Hotel

Are there any areas to avoid in Winnipeg?

North Point Douglas has one of the highest crime rates in the city. Winnipeg is generally a safe place to visit but we always suggest you take good precautions everywhere you are .

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Winnipeg is a gem city that enchants travellers. It’s one of the most overlooked capital cities in Canada, but one that rewards tourists who do venture off the beaten path. With its rich history, thrilling culture, diverse food scene and incredible natural surrounding, Winnipeg is truly a city that has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Winnipeg. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap of our favourites.

La Cabane Guesthouse in St. Boniface is our favourite hostel in Winnipeg. Not only is the neighborhood brimming with history and culture, but it’s conveniently located near downtown, The Forks, and Winnipeg’s Exchange District.

Another great option is the Alt Hotel Winnipeg with its spacious room, comfortable beds and modern amenities and features.

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Canada .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Winnipeg .
• Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Canada instead.
• Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Canada . 
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.

Sheridan Cahoon

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Upcoming Events | Tourism Winnipeg

• Festivals & Events

Upcoming Events

Summer Ready at Delta Hotels by Marriott Winnipeg

Delta Winnipeg does Summer like no one else. Great Room Packages and enjoy our indoor and outdoor pools. The most incredible outdoor pool deck, full-service Menu and Bar service, with Delta’s Simple made perfect approach to living well.

Visit website

Unlock the Secrets of the Zoo!

Join us on June 13 & 14 for Locked Zoo: Finders Keepers, presented by Manitoba Liquor Marts. In this adults-only, after hours Zoo event, you will find clues, solve puzzles, and try to save the day before time runs out! Are you up for the challenge?

Culinary Night at the Museum

Treat your favourite foodie to an experience combining exquisite food and inspiring architecture. Enjoy four courses in four different spaces as a guide, along with Executive Chef/Managing Partner for WOW! Catering and the Museum Bistro, move you through the space and share stories.

Experience MA-BUHAY! A NEW all Filipino musical at Rainbow Stage

June 27 - July 14 2024! Three young singers compete to win STAR ON THE RISE, a reality TV singing competition that has come to Canada from the Philippines! This show is for ages 8 and up!

Let's Narrow It Down

Jun 22, 2024

Jun 27, 2024 to Dec 26, 2024

Jun 5, 2024 to Aug 31, 2024

Jun 7, 2024 to Jan 3, 2025

Jun 9, 2024 to Dec 8, 2024

Jun 5, 2024 to Jun 30, 2024

Jun 14, 2024 to Dec 14, 2024

Jun 5, 2024 to Jul 14, 2024

Jun 5, 2024 to Jun 28, 2024

Visitor Information

21 Forks Market Road Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R3C 4T7 1 855 PEG CITY (734-2489)

• Meetings & Conventions
• Travel Trade
• Sport Tourism
• Français
• Privacy Policy

Visitor Guide

Request our Winnipeg Visitor's Guide. It's FREE!

• Zachary Quinto
• John Tavares
• Foreign Interference

• Local Change location
• Entertainment
• Perspectives

TV Programs

• Global National
• The Morning Show
• Video Centre
• More…

Radio - CJOB

• Email alerts
• Breaking News Alerts from Global News
• License Content
• New Brunswick
• Peterborough

Go Back Close Local

Your local region, share close, calendar close.

• All event types

Search Close

Quick search, trending now.

Add Global News to Home Screen Close

Instructions:

• Press the share icon on your browser
• Select Add to Home Screen

Comments Close comments menu

Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.

“This work needs to be done’: Winnipeg mulls $586M upgrades to Kenaston Boulevard

If you get Global News from Instagram or Facebook - that will be changing. Find out how you can still connect with us .

The City of Winnipeg is one step closer to widening Kenaston Boulevard.

Upgrading the notoriously slow route, parts of which are crumbling, and widening it to three lanes, have long been the subject of debate in Winnipeg.

A preliminary report released Tuesday calls for upgrades on Kenaston between Taylor Avenue and Ness Avenue, with a price tag of $586.1 million.

An additional $150.6 million in construction-period interest would come along with that, should the city tackle the project solo by taking on debt.

The report, which will go to the city’s public works department, also discusses building a new bridge over the Assiniboine River, plus sewer and water improvements to service the Naawi-Oodena development, to be built at the site of the former Kapyong Barracks.

Mayor Scott Gillingham said Tuesday that the project has been on the city’s radar for a decade-and-a-half, and it’s finally time to take action.

“People know that this road is in deplorable condition,” Gillingham said. “My guess is that right now there are listeners who are on that section of the road who are avoiding potholes and are trying to dodge holes in the road.

“The work needs to be done.”

Gillingham said the city is already on the hook for costly repairs to the road, and can’t afford to be shortsighted on this issue.

“We have a growing city. As of July 1 last year, Winnipeg’s population is now 815,000. The capital region population is over 920,000, and so much of the trade goes along Kenaston/Route 90.

“So when we’re making decisions, we’ve got to think long-term.”

• City of Winnipeg reveals proposed design for new St. James Bridge, widening of Kenaston Blvd.
• Kenaston lane widening project speeds up
• Kenaston Boulevard expansion

Sponsored content

Report an error, subscribe here.