By Expedia Team, on December 9, 2014

Winnipeg

City Of Winnipeg

The capital city of the Canadian province of Manitoba, Winnipeg  has survived battles, uprisings and floods. It has come a long way since its days as a community of trading posts to become one of the most diversified economies in Canada. The city has a number of heritage sites which have earned it the title of Cultural Capital of Canada.

Winnipeg’s downtown areas are centred on Portage Avenue and Main Street, bounded by Balmoral and Colony Streets, on the west and Logan Avenue, and Princess Street on the north. The Assiniboine River runs along the south and the Red River on the east.

History

The area known as “muddy waters” or Winipek to the Algonquin, was populated by North American Native tribes long before Europeans set foot on the land. The natives exploited the land for basic survival needs like fishing and hunting, agriculture, tool making and trading.

When Europeans arrived they began exploiting the land for resources they did not have back in the Old Country. French and British settlers set up trading posts throughout the area and fought to defend their interests. The union of Europeans and the local natives resulted in mixed race offspring known as the Métis. The role of the Métis as interpreters and mediators was fundamental for the development and evolution of the colony. However, as the population grew so did the battles between the Métis and the British who were in competition over the trade. When all uprisings were eventually subdued and the parties involved settled their disputes, Manitoba became a province in the 3-year old Canadian Confederation.

Winnipeg grew rapidly when the Canadian Pacific Railway was built and by 1911 it was the third-largest in the country. The stagnant economy that resulted during the Depression years picked up again after WWII. Over the years Winnipeg’s economy has had to face several challenges, the 1980s recession and the impending threat of flooding from the Red River. and yet it has managed to maintain a strong economy.

Location

Winnipeg sits in the south of the province of Manitoba at the confluence of two rivers, the Assiniboine River and the Red River. The city sits amidst a vast flatland surrounded by hundreds of parks and lakes. Lake Winnipeg is one of the largest lakes in the world. The province is bordered by Ontario on the East and by Saskatchewan on the West.

Winnipeg map
Winnipeg map

Weather

Winnipeg has four seasons and long snowy winters. Winter temperatures are frigid and have been known to fall as low as -40 C. On windy days temperatures can drop even lower, making it hard to imagine it can be that cold anywhere on the globe. Despite the harsh winters Winnipeg does enjoy well over 300 days of sunshine per year. If you’re travelling to Winnipeg during the summer make sure you bring an umbrella as this season gets considerable rainfall. July is the warmest month of the year.

Did you know?

One of the most loved fictional characters, Winnie-the-Pooh originated in Winnipeg. In 1914 an orphaned bear cub stole the heart of Canadian Lieutenant Coleburn, who bought it for $20 from a hunter who had shot the cub’s mother. The cub was named Winnipeg and became the regimental mascot.

When Coleburn travelled to Europe during WWI he smuggled “Winnie” into London, England. He left the bear at the London Zoo, to avoid the stress of taking the cub back to Canada. A short time later English author A.A. Milne saw Winnipeg during a visit to the zoo and was struck by the cub’s personality. Winnipeg the cub was Milne’s inspiration for the creation of the  character called Winnie-the-Pooh. The statue of Winnipeg, the bear cub and Lieutenant Coleburn, can be found in Assiniboine Park, Winnipeg.

How to Get Around Winnipeg

Flying into Winnipeg from Toronto is a 3.5-hour flight. A flight to Vancouver, British Columbia is under 5 hours. The carriers for this route are Air Canada and WestJet.

Winnipeg Airport Information

Winnipeg’s James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG) is located at 2000 Wellington Avenue, about 15 minutes from downtown Winnipeg, depending on traffic and weather conditions. With almost 4 million passengers passing through each year, this is a very busy airport. Winnipeg International Airport operates non-stop national and international flights on a daily basis, and to remote areas in northern Canada.

All airlines operate out of the airport main terminal. Smaller regional airlines operate out of another terminal building located 2 km south of the main terminal. The airport has a multi-level access road and 4 parking levels. The valet parking service is outside the main terminal. Two upscale hotels are located on site and a  bus stop area is located beside the main terminal.

How to get from the airport to downtown Winnipeg.

Downtown Winnipeg is about 10-15 minutes from Winnipeg International Airport, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Downtown and other areas of Winnipeg can be reached via taxi, car rental, airport limousine, bus, public transportation and bicycle.

Car rental Winnipeg  

Car-Rental offices are located at the Winnipeg International Airport main car parking area (parkade). The airport car rental companies are: National Car Rental, 204-925-3529;  Alamo Rent A Car, 204-925-3448; Hertz Rent-A-Car, 204-925-6625; Avis Rent-A-Car, 204-956-2847;  Budget Rent A Car, 204-989-8510.

Winnipeg taxi

Unicity Taxi is the main taxi service provider from Winnipeg Airport. The airport taxi stop is at Exit 3 at the Terminal Building. The average cost from the airport to downtown Winnipeg is about $20* with a Unicity Taxi, based on an estimated metered rate. There is a flat rate of about $32* if you plan to travel with a Unicity sedan. These rates include tax. Unicity Taxi contact number is 204-925-3131.

There are several taxi companies for getting around the city. Duffy’s Taxi has  24/7 service around the city, at major hotels, city landmarks, night clubs, theatres and restaurants. Contact number is  204-925-0101.

Airport Limousine

Airport limousines are available at Winnipeg International Airport for individuals and groups. Payment with credit and debit cards can be processed inside the car.   All fixed rates are based on destination routes. A fixed rate of $32* will get you from the airport to downtown Winnipeg. The rate includes tax.  Reservation number is  204-999-1860.

Winnipeg Transit

Public transportation is operated by Winnipeg Transit. This is one of the most cost effective ways to get around Winnipeg because the service has some of the lowest fares in Canada. Winnipeg Transit operates 84 routes in the city including regular service, rapid transit, charter bus and airport service 365 days a year. Service runs from 6am to midnight.

Transit fares* are CAD$2.60 for cash fares and CAD$2.25 for tickets. The Transit only accepts exact cash (no bills) fare.  Max 5 (weekday) pass is CAD$20.25 and SuperPass (Mon-Sun Pass) is CAD$22.50. A monthly pass is CAD$86.65.

Reduced fares* for youths (6-16) are CAD$2.10 for cash fares, tickets are CAD$1.57. SuperPass (Mon-Sun Pass) is CAD$15.70, monthly pass is CAD$60.45.  Reduced senior fares are CAD$2.10 for cash fares, CAD$1.13 for tickets, SuperPass (Mon-Sun pass) is CAD$11.25, monthly pass is CAD$43.35.

Winnipeg Transit terminal is located at the south end of the Winnipeg International Airport.  The airport is serviced by route 15 and route 20. The service  runs from 5:50am to 12:49 am.

To pay the bus fare either pay exact cash on the bus or purchase tickets in advance at the Transit Service Centre (SW Concourse, Portage & Main), Winnipeg Parking Authority, Pharma Plus Drugmart, Mac’s, City Hall, City Place Lottery, 7-Eleven, Shopper’s Drug Mart. Tickets can be purchased at many other  retailers around the city.

Winnipeg Transit installs bike racks on a number of buses each spring. Cyclists simply pay the regular fare and then get on the bus with their bikes. Please note that bike racks are not installed on all routes, and there is a limited amount of bike racks on each bus, it works on a first-come-first-served basis.

For information about the Winnipeg bus schedule call 311 from Winnipeg, or 1-877-311-4974.

Airport Shuttle

A number of hotels have airport shuttle service. Best Western Charterhouse Hotel, 204-942-0101;  Hampton Inn, 204-772-3000; Best Western Pembina Inn & Suiites, 204-269-888, Holiday Inn Airport West, 204-885-4478; Canad Inns Fort Garry, 204-267-7450; Holiday Inn Polo Park, 204-775-5055; Holiday Inn South, 204-452-4747; MainStay Suites, 204-594-0500; Clarion Hotel, 204-774-5110; Radisson Hotel, 204-956-0410; Fairfield Inn &  Suites, 204-783-7900; Sandman Hotel, 204-775-7263; Four Points by Sheraton, 204-775-5222; Victoria Inn, 204-786-4801; Hilton Suites Winnipeg Airport, 204-783-1700; Ramada Viscount Gort Hotel, 204-775-0451.

Brandon Air Shuttle provides service between Winnipeg International Airport, Winnipeg and Brandon. Transportation is available daily at certain locations and hotels. Make sure you specify your Winnipeg destination when you make your reservation. When booking a shuttle be ready to provide flight time and number, number of bags, names of passengers and method of payment. The shuttle area is at the Airport Arrivals area, Door #2. Contact number for reservations and prices is 1-888-884-5533.

Airport Bike Racks

Winnipeg International Airport has a bike rack for public use at the Arrivals Level ground floor sidewalk near the Terminal Building. Cyclists need to bring their own locks.

Winnipeg Car Share

Located at 400-460 Main Street, Peg City Car Co-Op is operates on a yearly membership basis for frequent use or on a casual use basis. Access to vehicles is available 24 hours a day at designated areas around downtown Winnipeg. Member rates start at CAD$25*.for frequent users and CAD$50* per year for casual users.

*All rates are approximate and are subject to change without notice. Always check with the individual company at the time of booking or when making your reservation.

Winnipeg Nightlife     

Winnipeg has a country-rock soul and the nightclub scene reflects the city’s roots as a no-nonsense, hardworking town. You rarely, if at all, find the kind of posh, sleek clubs you find in Vancouver or Toronto, but let’s  not forget that this is the Mid-West.

Green Room dance club is a popular dance club located in Osborn Village. It can get crowded on Saturday nights so be sure to get there early to avoid lines.

The Oak Winnipeg (826 Regent Ave) features a large dance floor, an elevated stage, a patio and a bar. The guest bands feature a good mix of music. Past guests include Nazareth, Trooper and Kim Mitchell.

Whiskey Dix (436 Main St) is a busy entertainment venue with 3 bars and a large dance floor spread out over 12,000 sq.-ft. The venue features live bands, DJ nights, classic and country nights and live in-house entertainment. Several lounge areas are dislocated within the club space and offer more privacy. There are cozy areas with fireplaces for private parties or small group gatherings. Several large wood deck patios with 2 bars offer alfresco entertainment during the summer.

A large club with 4 bars, Stereo Nightclub (1034 Elizabeth Rd) features a 360-degree high definition video with thematic visuals that complement the nightclub and dance experience and create wow effects around the club.

Area Night club (1792 Pembina Hwy) is a relatively new club with multiple dance floors, a stage, and 3 bars. The weekly entertainment features dance music, country night Thursdays and  DJ favourites on Saturdays.

Fame Nightclub (279 Garry St) features a mix of music, contemporary dance hits and house music. There are quieter lounges if you don’t care to dance or share the noisy atmosphere with the rest of the crowd.

Cowboys Winnipeg (1034 Elizabeth Rd) is where country music happens. The two-storey club hosts live acts like Biff Naked, Trooper and Black Eyed Peas. The dance floor has a spaceship light show that descends from the ceiling.

Located downtown Winnipeg, Palomino Club (1133 Portage Ave) features weekly live music performances. Country and rock music are staples at this club. Throwback Thursdays feature 80s and 90s music. Fridays are Wine & Roses nights for  ladies who get in free until 11pm.

Part of the Canad Inn club scene, Silverado (2100 McPhillips St) is a multilevel night club featuring a mix of dance music like, rock, funk and retro to dance the night away.

Built in 1907 this national historic site was initially the Walker Theatre, it was renamed Burton Cummings Theatre in 2002, after  former Guess Who band mate and vocalist. The venue features entertainment for a variety of tastes, from Sesame Street bashes, and Celtic music, to Pink Floyd music and acoustic guitar classics.

In its tenth year of operations, Park Theatre (698 Osborne St) is a renovated movie theatre with a stage that hosts over 300 events each year including live bands, jazz music events, retro music, rock, country, comedy, theatrical plays and  children’s shows.

King’s Head Pub (120 King St) features live entertainment most nights of the week including comedy, music and shows. The large 13,000 sq.-ft. pub is available for small and  large groups, parties, etc.

Dylan’s On Pembina (1875 Pembina Hwy)  is a pub with live bands and karaoke nights. The pub provides a variety of popular beers on tap.

Inn at the Forks club (75 Forks Market Rd) is located at the homonymous hotel. The lounge features a variety of jazz music styles.

Club Regent Casino (1425 Regent Ave) is an entertainment complex that goes way beyond gambling. There are restaurants, lounges and bars with all you can eat buffets and regular menus. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays feature live entertainment.  The gaming rooms have slots, roulette, Blackjack, EZ Baccarat and High Stakes Poker, among other things. The casino actively enforces a Responsible Gaming policy.

Located a few minutes from downtown Winnipeg, McPhillips Casino (484 McPhillips St) has a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The entertainment complex features  a restaurant, several lounges and a bar. There is live entertainment on weekends and Thursdays. The bar is equipped with HD TVs for sports events. The gaming side has 800 slot machines and craps, roulette and squeeze baccarat among other things.  A Responsible Gaming policy is enforced.

Based at the Centennial Concert Hall, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) has been around for over 60 years. The first Philharmonic Society in the Prairies, WSO’s success and commitment have made a significant contribution to Winnipeg’s cultural landscape. Concerts are available on a single ticket basis or dinner-and-symphony packages. Tickets start at CAD$95.45. Box office address:  555 Main Street, Winnipeg.

Winnipeg is credited with having the oldest ballet company in North America. An evening spent at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet  (380 Graham Ave)  is worth every penny. Founded in 1938 the company has been touring the country since 1945 and in 1953 it received its Royal title and blessing from Queen Elizabeth II.

Past notable performers and members include Mikhail Baryshnikov. Memorable performances include the Nutcracker, Cinderella, and Swan Lake. Ticket prices vary considerably in price and go hand in hand with the seating area you choose. Tickets start at CAD$29 -CAD$68. The company’s principal venue is the Centennial Concert Hall (555 Main St).

Everything Winnipeg Sports

Hockey and football are synonymous with North American sports tradition and culture and Winnipeg is home to several professional sports teams. Two teams that stand out are the Jets and the Blue Bombers.

No Canadian capital would be complete without its very own ice hockey team. Hockey in Winnipeg is proudly represented by the Winnipeg Jets. The National Hockey League members were born in 1971, after going through a series of name changes and franchises throughout the years, the Jets made a formal season debut in 2011 at the MTS Centre, where they currently play

The Winnipeg football team is called the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Founded over 80 years ago the Blue Bombers have won the Grey Cup championship 10 times.  After 50 years of playing their home games at the Canad Inns Stadium the Winnipeg Blue Bombers began using the Investors Group Field arena as their home field in 2013.

The Manitoba Midget AAA Hockey League comprises 12 Winnipeg’s minor hockey teams. Founded in 1985 the league  provides the opportunity to play at high level competitions and it has been a launching pad for many professional hockey players.

Winnipeg Sports Arenas

Located at 300 Portage Avenue the MTS (Manitoba Telecom Services) Centre is a 440,000 sq.-ft. arena that hosts sports events, concerts, motocross events, and other social events. It has a seating capacity of 15,000+ .

Hotels near MTS Centre: Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown (288 Portage Ave); St. Regis Hotel (285 Smith St); The Marlborough Hotel (331 Smith St); The Fairmont Winnipeg (2 Lombard Place); Delta Winnipeg (350 St Mary Ave); Best Western Plus Charter House Hotel (330 York Ave).

Restaurants  near MTS Centre: York Modern Steakhouse (295 York Ave); Amici Restaurant serves more recherché Italian cuisine (326 Broadway); Bailey’s (185 Lombard Ave) serves lunch and dinner and has an impressive wine list; Rudy’s (375 Graham Ave) features pub food, steak, soups and salads; The Mitchell Block (173 McDermot Ave) serves North American and international cuisine.

Located on the University of Manitoba campus, Investors Group Field stadium is a football stadium that is home to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the University of Manitoba (66 Chancellors Circle) football team, among others. Built in 2013 the partially-covered stadium has a capacity of 35,000 and holds non sporting events like concerts. Illustrious performers include Paul McCartney.

Restaurants near Investors Group Field stadium: Edna Fedya (1 Research Rd); Degrees Restaurant (66 Chancellors Cir); Shurwood Cafe (Chancellor Matheson Rd); Subway Winnipeg (Campo Cafe).

Hotels near Investors Group Field stadium: Queen Bee Hotel (2615 Pembina Hwy); Best Western Plus Pembina Inn & Suites (1714 Pembina Hwy); Quality Inn & Suites (635 Pembina Hwy); Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry (1824 Pembina Hwy); Holiday Inn Winnipeg South (1330 Pembina Hwy).

Did you know?

  1. Blue Bomber Leo Lewis was nicknamed “Lincoln Locomotive” after finishing his career in 1966 with 8,861 rushing yards. Thanks to his speed he maintained this recordd for 21 years.
  1. The Winnipeg Jets do not have a scorer in the top 69 in the National Hockey League.

Winnipeg Parks   

The area in and around Winnipeg is made up of urban and rural parks, community gardens, natural habitat areas, off-leash dog parks, ball fields, sports and recreation areas, ski and tobogganing trails, hiking trails, golf courses, skate board parks, and playground areas. Many of these parks are equipped with public washrooms.

Named after a group of natives who inhabited regions of North America, Assiniboine Park is located in Winnipeg along the Assiniboine River. The 1,000+ acre park is partially landscaped in the English style   with sculptured gardens, and outdoor theatre. The park conservatory houses thousands of plant species from different climactic zones. The conservatory educates people not only about the plants themselves, but also about the specific ecosystems of the flora and the way they work  in nature.

Kildonan Park is situated in Northern Winnipeg. The park’s Witch’s Hut makes this one of the most popular parks in the area. The park also  has an Olympic-sized pool, a soccer field, a picnic area with tables and BBQ pits and miles of pathways for leisure walks and jogging. A duck pond is the home of the park’s permanent, feathered residents. The park’s Rainbow Stage is an outdoor theatre with seating for 2,000+ people.

Children of all ages love Kildonan park’s Witch’s Hut which was designed in the 1970s by a German architect to commemorate Hansel and Gretel, one of the most famous tales of the brothers Grimm.

Located 20 minutes north of Winnipeg, Birds Hill Park is a provincial park with an area with an area of 8300 acres. A broad area of the park has been designated as campgrounds. There are also horse stables and horse back riding trails. This is a quiet, well managed park with clear signage throughout all areas – a great place to enjoy family outings with plenty to do, swimming, picnics, hike, bike,  boating and kayaking. The campgrounds are equipped with washrooms and shower facilities.

Little Mountain Park is located less than 15 km from downtown Winnipeg, on a limestone ridge with bedrock (Farmer Avenue, Stony Mountain). The park has ball fields, fields for other sports and recreational activities, ski trails, hiking trails, BBQ pits and washroom facilities.  The park is open 7 days a week from May to October, from 8am to 9pm.

About 78 km north of downtown Winnipeg, Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park lies on the west shore of Lake Winnipeg. This is a popular cottage vacation area where vacationers can windsurf in the summer or go for a stroll along the boardwalk. The area is equipped with a campground with over 100 full service sites.

115 km northeast of downtown Winnipeg, Elk Island Provincial Park is an island conservation area that is only accessible by boat. The island is just over 1km from the mainland. The lack of development on the island gives visitors a chance to view Canada’s rugged wilderness at its best. Visitors are asked to respect all park rules to maintain the integrity of the park. There is no camping or lighting of fires on the island. Motorized vehicles are not permitted.

Harbourview Park & Recreation Complex (1867 Springfield Rd) has a 9-hole golf course, miniature golf, tennis courts, a soccer field, washrooms and restaurants. The park also has sand volleyball courts, gardens, a pond, a pro-shop and ice skate rentals area.

Popular among the locals, King’s Park is located 13km south of Winnipeg’s downtown area. Park amenities include an off-leash area for canine park patrons, a football-soccer area, a beautiful lake with a waterfall, a rock garden, a labyrinth and a Chinese pagoda. The beauty of this park has made this a favourite destination for weddings and photo shoots. The park is open daily from 8am to 9pm.

Bunn’s Creek Centennial Park is open from sunrise to sunset. During the winter the park is a winter destination for ice skating and tobogganing. During the summer the picnic shelter is open from 8am to 8pm. Summers are also for enjoying the beautiful flower gardens and the creek that flows through the park. The park is located 10 km northeast of downtown Winnipeg.

Maple Grove Park (190 Frobisher Rd) has a good off leash area for dogs, a large rugby park, a boat launch on the Red River with its own parking lot and another parking area.  The park also has Ultimate Frisbee fields and beach volley courts.

Shopping in Winnipeg

Downtown Winnipeg has the largest retail and entertainment district in the city. Located at 1485 Portage Avenue, Polo Park Winnipeg shopping mall has been Winnipeg’s shopping destination since 1959. This was one of the first enclosed shopping malls in the country. The retail space includes 200 shops, an entertainment area with Cineplex Entertainment and IMAX venue. The mall has major department stores like the Hudson’s Bay Company, Sears and Home Depot. The entire space is over 1 million square feet.

Garden City Shopping Centre (2305 McPhillips St)  has almost 400,000 square feet of space for 75 stores, services, 11 restaurants  and ample parking. The mall features popular, mid-range retailers like Footlocker, Peoples Jewellers and Hallmark Cards.  Hours of operation are Mon – Fri from 9:30am to 9pm, Sat from 9:30am to 6pm, Sun from 11:am to 6pm.

Winnipeg Square (360 Main St) is a smaller shopping mall built in 1979. The mall is connected to the rest of the city via a network of pedestrian walkways. It  has a large heated parkade and about 45 average-priced stores and services.  The mall can be accessed from Portage, Main, Fort and Graham, or through the concourse walkway. Public transportation services the mall all day long with stops at three sides of the building. Hours of operation are Mon to Fri from 9am to 5:30pm.

One of the oldest malls in the city, Grant Park Shopping Centre (1120 Grant Ave) has almost 100 retail shops, restaurants and services. Mall hours are Mon to Fri  from 10am to 9pm, Sat from 10am to 6pm, Sun from 10am to 5pm.

Portage Place (393 Portage Ave) is  located downtown Winnipeg. The modern steel and glass complex houses over 100 shops, services and restaurants. This is where you can find independent shops and chain retailers. The mall is also home to Canada’s luxury department store, Holt Renfrew. Mall hours are Mon – Wed from 10am to 6pm, Thurs – Fri from 10am to 9pm, Sat from 10am to 6pm and Sun from 12pm to 5pm.

Winnipeg Shopping Districts

Osborne Village is located between Donald Street and the Assiniboine River. This densely populated area has a mix of residential and commercial buildings immersed in an eclectic, bohemian atmosphere with lots of local colour. You can find several blocks of unique shops, restaurants, cafes and night clubs.

The Historic Exchange District is lined with well-preserved, early 20th century buildings and locally owned boutiques. This national historic site is located just north of Portage Avenue and Main Street. This bustling part of town is also one of the cultural and commercial centres of Winnipeg with an array of shops, art galleries, cafes, restaurants and night clubs. You can find one-of-a-kind gifts, fashions by Canadian designers, chic and upscale linens, cocktail dresses, and trendy attire. Several main theatres and entertainment venues are also located in this area.

Academy Road runs from Maryland Bridge to Wellington Crescent, and intersects with Wellington. This is Winnipeg’s business improvement zone and also one of the most exclusive districts in Winnipeg. This is where you can find exclusive designer boutiques, specialty food shops, luxury bath and beauty products, European fashions and footwear, among other things.

The Forks district is at the intersection of Red River and Assiniboine River (bordered by Main St). This heritage site is also a crossroads of civilizations where local traders met and did business hundreds of years ago. Today this is a recreation and commercial area with shops, and restaurants. The Forks Market is a revitalized building which has been turned into an indoor market with vendors  selling everything from pottery, jewellery and stained glass items to fresh produce, wine and cigars.

Winnipeg restaurants

For the most part, the Winnipeg restaurant scene falls in the mid, mid-high price range. This town wants hearty food that sticks to your ribs. Unlike other Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver or Ottawa, the menus here have a decidedly mid-western flavour that spells “steak house-pub.” For food on the go that is also very affordable visit the city’s markets, like The Forks Market. Overall, Winnipeg is a carnivore city with a handful of choices for vegetarians and vegans. Chinatown is a good choice for healthier meals if the steak-fast food-pub scene is not your thing.

Winnipeg Mid-Range Restaurants  

While this is not authentic Italian food, Olive Garden Winnipeg (51 Reenders Dr) is a chain restaurant that features Italian-inspired cuisine with a varied menu and rustic dishes at average prices.

The Keg Winnipeg (115 Garry St) is a popular steak tavern franchise known across Canada. The menu features classic tavern fare, plus salads, fish, and the usual side dishes of fries, veggies and baked potatoes. If you’re on a budget bear in mind that steaks fall into the high price range.

Bonfire bistro (1433 Corydon Ave) is a restaurant with a casual atmosphere and an eclectic mix of Mediterranean inspired and North American cuisine. The average price for a dinner ranges from medium-high to high – especially if you add anything from the wine list.

Marion street eatery (393 Marion St) is a diner with a traditional breakfast menu. The lunch menu includes soup, salads, chili, mac & cheese, burgers, sandwiches and the omnipresent fries.

Cafe Dario is a small eatery with ambiance. Located at 1390 Erin Street, the  Latin-cuisine menu includes a 5-course tasting menu for under $40. As with most Winnipeg restaurants, this is heavy on meat dishes and includes soups and salads.

Centrally located, Sargent Sundae (2053 Portage Ave)  has something that is almost impossible to resist – ice cream. Conveniently located across Assiniboine Park, this place fills up quickly with park patrons during the warmer months.

You don’t have to be Spanish or Latin American to have a good time at Segovia Tapas and Bar (484 Stradbrook Ave). The menu includes classic dishes from Spain cooked up by the chef-owner whose travels to Spain are now the pleasure of Winnipeg palates.

The restaurant layout at Round table Steakhouse and Pub (800 Pembina Hwy) has areas for large groups, and smaller, more intimate nooks tucked away in the cozier areas of the restaurant. While this does not have the atmosphere you associate with a public house, the menu does offer some pub grub, along with the ever present steak dishes.

The Oakwood features a North American cuisine with a few international influences here and there. The breakfast and lunch menu features burgers and fries, sandwiches and salads. There are few options for vegans and vegetarians on the menu.

Delicious Vegetarian Restaurant (1467 Pembina Hwy)  serves Asian food that is tasty and is served in generous portions. The menu includes fried mushrooms, eggplant, peanut tofu. The vegetarian chicken and duck are tasty enough for carnivores. The interior decor is simple, and yet it has a soothing quality about it. The prices are as unpretentious as the menu.

Affinity Vegetarian Garden (100-208 Edmonton St) is a Taiwanese-Chinese owned  vegetarian restaurant. This place is all about using fresh ingredients to get the most out of the carefully selected simple ingredients. The restaurant is frequented by meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike. The menu has no MSG and only purified water is used to prepare the meals. The high quality tea comes directly from Taiwan. Restaurant prices are based on a  pay-by-weight lunch buffet.

Bellissimo Restaurant & Lounge (877 Waverley St, Suite 1) features Italian inspired cuisine with a considerable North American influence. The menu is varied and  includes pasta, pizza, club sandwiches, burgers and lobster.

Street Food Vendors

If you like Filipino food you can find Pimp my Rice truck downtown Winnipeg. For the price you pay this is a good alternative to the usual street food. This is where you can find classic Filipino fare like Lumpia, Pansit Bihon and deep fried banana rolls. You can locate the truck at the Forks, Broadway, Portage and Main, Osborne Village and Corydon Avenue.

Located at Fort Garry, On  a Roll Sandwich Truck focuses on hearty sandwiches with  spicy notes that evoke a decidedly southern influence.

Located in Winnipeg’s Broadway area, Habanero Sombrero is popular amongst locals for its tasty  tacos.

Winnipeg Hotels    

The Winnipeg hotel scene maintains a decidedly affordable profile. Moderately priced, quality hotels are easy to find even in the heart of Winnipeg.

Popular Hotels

Hampton-Inn-By-Hilton  (730 Berry St) is 20 minutes from downtown Winnipeg. The hotel features an indoor pool, free internet and public parking, a fitness centre and free airport shuttle. Pets are not allowed in the hotel. Rates start at CAD$109 – CAD$130.

Hampton Inn by Hilton
Hampton Inn by Hilton

Greenwood Inn Winnipeg  is a Best Western Plus Winnipeg Airport Hotel located  at 1715 Wellington Avenue, 15 minutes from downtown Winnipeg. The hotel features free shuttle service to and from the airport, an indoor pool, a hot tub and a steam room on site. The rooms are spacious and are equipped with a refrigerator and coffee making facilities. Pets are permitted on request. The hotel has a lounge on site. Rates start at CAD$95.20 – CAD$111.20.

There are 4 restaurants from which to choose at the Sandman-Hotel (1750 Sargent Ave). The free airport shuttle whisks hotel guests to and from the nearby airport. Assiniboine Park is less than 10 minutes away. Rates start at CAD$119 -CAD$149.

Sandman Hotel
Sandman Hotel

Located downtown Winnipeg, Howard Johnson Express Winnipeg (3740 Portage Ave) offers clean, upgraded rooms and a cozy atmosphere in the city. Rooms have  Keurig coffee machines, microwave ovens and refrigerators. A VLT gaming lounge is on site. The nearest golf course is a couple of minutes away. Free parking is available, however reservations are needed. Rates start at CAD$89.95.

Mainstay Suites Winnipeg (670 King Edward St) is a pet friendly hotel with dozens of amenities such as free breakfast, free local calls and free internet. Rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, refrigerators, coffee makers and microwave ovens. There is a laundry room on site, a sauna, a hot tub and a fitness room.  Suites have computers with wireless internet. Business travellers can use the business centre,  photocopy, fax service and meeting facilities. Rates start at CAD$119.99.

Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry (1824 Pembina Hwy) is a popular destination for visitors. This family hotel features an indoor pool with a waterslide, a gaming lounge, 2 restaurants, a pub, refrigerators and microwave ovens in all rooms. Rates start at CAD$121.

Econo Lodge Winnipeg (690 Notre Dame Ave) features two meeting rooms, free coffee and continental breakfast, free newspaper, and high speed internet. Rates start at CAD$87 – CAD $100.

Holiday Inn & Suites Winnipeg Downtown (360 Colony St) is a clean, downtown hotel with comfortable rooms. Featured amenities include free internet, in-room coffee making facilities, a mini refrigerator, an on site restaurant, a lounge and room service. Other on site services include a currency exchange desk, a luggage storage, an ATM. Rates start at CAD$105 – CAD$127.

Best Rated Hotels

15 minutes from downtown Victoria-Inn-Hotel-And-Convention-Centre-Winnipeg  is also close to the airport (1800 Wellington Ave). The generously-sized rooms include a 37-inch TV, a coffee maker, an office desk and ironing facilities. This is a family hotel with entertainment features like a dinosaur theme indoor pool with water slides. There is a restaurant on site for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a bar for evening cocktails. A shuttle bus service is available 24-7 to and from Winnipeg International Airport.  Hotel rates start at CAD$109.79 – CAD$122.39.

Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre
Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre

Centrally located, The-Fairmont-Winnipeg (2 Lombard Place) is conveniently connected to shopping malls via the underground passage way. This modern hotel structure has a saltwater pool, hot tub, steam room and fitness centre. The Velvet Glove, is an elegant restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is also a lounge where you can relax over cocktails or enjoy some finger food. The hotel staff speak English, French and Spanish. Rates start at CAD$160 – CAD$269.

The Fairmont Winnipeg
The Fairmont Winnipeg

Located downtown, five minutes from the Forks Market, Delta-Winnipeg is an affordable hotel that offers all the amenities of a chain hotel. Internet is free throughout the hotel, and there is a business centre with fax and photocopying services. A restaurant, Lounge and café are all on site. Winnipeg International Airport is 5 minutes away. On cold days you can take advantage of the Skywalk to get to Winnipeg’s Convention Centre. Room rates start at CAD$139 – CAD$239.

Delta Winnipeg rooftop
Delta Winnipeg rooftop

Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown (289 Portage Ave) is located downtown Winnipeg minutes away from some of the major city sites. The MTS stadium is one block away and Assiniboine Park is 10 minutes away. A hotel shuttle provides transportation within the city.  Rooms have a seating area with a desk. The hotel has a bar, restaurant and fitness centre. On site parking costs CAD$10 per day. Pets are allowed on request. Rates start at CAD$159 – CAD$189.

The Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites (1800 Wellington Ave) is located near the airport location, downtown Winnipeg however, is a mere 15-20 minutes away. Winnipeg casinos are a short distance away. There is free use of internet throughout the hotel. Pets are allowed on request. Rates start at CAD$127 – CAD$199.

Unique Hotels

Situated next to the Red River, Mere-Hotel (333 Waterfroon Dr) is a boutique hotel with contemporary decor and spacious rooms. Parking is $10, a daily rate that is considerably below that of other Canadian city hotels. Everywhere you look there are finishing touches and extras that show that attention to detail makes the difference. The room decor is funky with splashes of colour here and there. Rates start at CAD$139 – CAD$159.

Mere Hotel Winnipeg
Mere Hotel Winnipeg

A hotel with character and charm, The-Fort-Garry-Hotel (222 Broadway) is a historic property that offers all the amenities and services of a modern hotel at affordable rates. The old railroad hotel is like a grand dame who may show a little wear and tear here and there but its class and timeless appeal are unmatched when compared to contemporary hotels. Amenities include 24-hour room service, 46-inch TVs, fitness centre, indoor pool, in-room bathrobes, free internet, on site restaurant and lounge with daily live entertainment, a gift shop, a wellness centre with a Hammam Turkish bath. Pets are not allowed in the hotel. Rates start at CAD$126 – CAD$159.

The 100-year old Marlborough-Hotel (331 Smith St) is centrally located, just a few minutes from Central Park a couple of minutes from downtown Portage & Main and the historic Exchange District. This stately building boasts elegant interiors that evoke the aristocratic grand hotels of the late 19th Europe.  This is a historic building in the heart of Winnipeg and it should be viewed as such, however all the modern amenities are there: TV with pay-per-view options, on site restaurant, a pub, an indoor pool, room coffee making facilities, a gym, a gift shop and a hair salon. This is a pet friendly hotel.  For the average rate of CAD$79 -$89, this  a steal deal!

Tastefully decorated in a sleek, minimalist style, Inn at the Forks (75 Forks Market Rd) has bright  colours that offer a welcoming change from the unoriginal brown decor of most chain hotels. The hotel is steps away from the Forks Market and overlooks the Human Rights Museum. Rates start at CAD$178 – CAD$205.

Winnipeg Organized Tours & Trips  

 Winnipeg’s organized tour repertoire is big on walking tours, which is probably the best way to experience any city. There are also a couple of boat tours along the Red River and the Assiniboine River. Your reference contact in Winnipeg for organized tours  is the Winnipeg tourist board.  Winnipeg Tourism has its office at 300-259 Portage Avenue, phone: 204-943-1970 or toll free 1-855-734-2489.

River Tours explore the city’s waterways. Boats depart from The Forks harbour and tour the city with guides who provide information about Winnipeg’s cultural and historical background. Tours are 7 days a week from 10am to sunset, May through October. Price is CAD$11 for adults and CAD$9 for seniors and youths. Tickets are available from Splash Dash at the Forks ticket office.

Mural Tours are organized by West End Biz. These are walking tours of the city’s West End, and main sites at Sargeant, Portage, Maryland and Sherbrook. The tour highlights the area’s dozens of art murals and the story behind them. Tour prices are CAD$5.

Boat Cruises along the Assiniboine and Red Rivers are organized by River Rouge Cruise line which offers several cruise options: public, chartered bookings, boat parties, special cruises and shuttle services. Public tours are fully guided 2-hour tours of both rivers and cost CAD$18.95 for adults, CAD$16.95 for seniors 65+ and CAD$9.95 for children aged 4-12 years.

Winnipeg Walking Tours take you through the streets of the historic Exchange District with guides who provide insight into the history of the area, with anecdotes, secrets, and stories of the ordinary and the extraordinary. Tours depart from Old Market Square at 133 Albert Street and run from June to the end of August. Contact number is 204-942-6716. Tours of the Exchange District range in length from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours each and are divided into sections.

The East Tour explores the east side of Main Street, its history and architecture of buildings like the banks and the Grain Exchange Building. The West Tour explores the west side of Main Street including hotels, turn of the century buildings and one of Canada’s early car dealerships.

Food Tours explore the Exchange District’s culinary side. Tours include a cultural and historic account of the area’s food culture and food tastings. These tours can accommodate vegetarians (on request).

Theatre District tour takes visitors through Winnipeg’s arts scene from the early 1900s by exploring the history of the area’s theatres such as John Hirsch Place, the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, Cinematheque and the Pantages Playhouse theatre.

Newspaper Row tours are 45 minutes long and take you along the corner of Albert Street and McDermot Avenue. Once known as Newspaper Row this area was the site of the city’s early newspapers, their battles and the competitive edge that drove them to become Winnipeg’s main source of information.

Winnipeg City Tours explore the city’s historical and cultural landmarks such as the Legisltive Building, Assiniboine Park, the sculpture gardens and St. Boniface Cathedral. Tours run on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8:30am to 11am and depart from the VIA train station at 123 Main Street.

Heart of the Nation City Tours are organized by the Winnipeg Trolley Company Tours, a tourism and charter transportation company. Public tours take place on reproductions of historical electrically powered street cars, which were once Winnipeg’s main means of public transportation.

The main city attractions explored during these tours are the Exchange District historic sites, the French quarter, St. Boniface, Osborne Village, Assiniboine Park, the Museum of Human Rights, Manitoba Legislature and the MTS Centre. 90-minute tours run on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:30am and on Sundays at 1pm from June to August.

Tickets can be bought on the trolleys at least half an hour before departure. Prices are CAD$26.25 for adults, CAD$25.20 for students, CAD$14.70 for youths 12 years of age and under and free for children 2 years of age and under.

What to see in Winnipeg    

The Royal Canadian Mint (520 Lagimodière Blvd) produces coins for Canadian and international circulation in gold and silver. To date they have made over 55 billion coins for 75 countries. There are guided and self guided tours that are informative and educational. Hours of operation for public tours are Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm. Admission is CAD$6 for adults over 18 years of age, CAD$3 for children 5-17 years old, seniors pay CAD$5 and families pay CAD$15 for two adults and 4 children. These prices are reduced on weekends.

The gift shop sells collector coins and souvenirs.

 Also known as WAG, Winnipeg Art Gallery (300 Memorial Blvd) always has fascinating temporary exhibits like Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol, just to name a few. Collections and exhibitions include Inuit Art, Canadian and European works, photography, sketches and decorative arts.  The Gallery is open from 11am to 5pm weekdays, Friday it is open until 9pm. The Gallery is closed on Mondays. Admission price is CAD$18 for adults, CAD$14 for seniors and students.

One of the best ballet companies in North America, Royal Winnipeg Ballet (380 Graham Ave) is a showmanship of art and culture, grace and dedication. The company performs at several venues: Centennial Concert Hall, John Hirsch Mainstage and Founder Studio 116. Performances include all the great classics: the Nutcracker, Cinderella, Swan Lake. The Faerie Queen. The accompanying orchestra is the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Ticket prices range depending on the theatre seating arrangement, from CAD$29 to CAD$107.

One of Winnipeg’s heritage sites, Fort Gibraltar (866 St Joseph St) is staffed with cultural interpreters dressed in period clothing who provide valuable information about the site. This is where local history began when the area was a commercial trading post. The place doubles as a heritage site open to public visits and as a venue for weddings, conferences and private functions. Fort Gibraltar is open from May to August, Mon- Fri 10am to 5pm. Admission is CAD$8 for adults, CAD$5 for youths and seniors. Children under 5 years of age have free admission.

Manitoba Legislative Building (450 Broadway) speaks of architectural grandeur and proves that there is more to this building than a place of business for the legislative assembly. Public visits are free and staff is always available to provide guided tours, information and curious facts. The public is also welcome to observe the proceedings of the Legislative Assembly when it is  in session.

Located at 190 Avenue de la Cathedral, Saint Boniface Cathedral is part of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Saint Boniface in eastern Manitoba for the local francophone community. The church was initially built in wood in 1818 but a fire partially destroyed it in 1832. It was rebuilt in stone in 1862. Visitors can also stroll the church grounds and cemetery.

The recently built Canadian Museum for Human Rights (85 Israel Asper Way) is a destination for those who know and don’t know what to expect. The striking modern architecture of the building houses exhibits and collections illustrating  human rights violations and the history of inequality in Canada and around the world.

From North American natives, and Japanese relocations during WWII, to the Underground Railroad exploitation of immigrants and the Chinese Head Tax, the Holocaust, genocides, wars and ethnic cleansing, this museum highlights the worst and most shameful chapters of human history.

The museum is open 6 days a week, Tues- Sun from 10am to 5pm. Admission is CAD$15 for adults, CAD$12 for students and seniors and CAD$8 for youths (7-17 years).

A non-profit charitable organization, the Manitoba Childen’s Museum (45 Forks Market Rd) building is hard to miss. There are a dozen permanent galleries that “spark kids’ creative learning.” What makes this museum unlike other museums is that kids can enjoy an interactive experience with a lot of hands-on programs, workshops and events. Galleries and temporary exhibitions include the Engine House, the Mellow Marsh, the Tumble Zone, the Milk Machine and the Lasagna Lookout.

The museum is open Sun – Thurs from 9:30am to 4:30pm, Fri – Sat from 9:30am to 6pm. Admission is CAD$10 plus tax per person.

Things to do in Winnipeg

Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park (2355 Corydon Ave) is a place of recreation, relaxation, meeting and admiring the sites. There is an art gallery at the Pavilion, picnic tables, trails for leisurely strolls or jogging, a beautiful sculpture garden with colorful flower beds, and duck pond hosting the park’s feathered residents. During the summer you can watch performances held at the park’s Lyric Theatre. During the winter the pond becomes an ice rink for novice and expert skaters.

Centennial Concert Hall (555 main St) is a small, intimate venue for the arts. If you’re  in Winnipeg and you’re not keen on clubs and bars, this is a great way to spend the evening. The venue hosts musicals, plays, concerts of all music genres, from classical and jazz to pop music. The Centennial Concert Hall is also home to the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Previously called Winnipeg Convention Centre, the RBC Convention Centre  (375 York Ave) is a 5-level facility with over 160,000 sq.-ft. of space for trade shows, meetings, conventions, conferences and other services. It is also a venue for year round events like sports and concerts. The facility was built in 1975 and has the retro style and character  that are typical of that era. RBC Centre is conveniently connected to the Winnipeg Walkway system. The facility includes a café, a lounge and a beauty salon. Parking includes spaces for 500+ vehicles.

The centrally located MTS Centre (300 Portage Ave) is easy to reach during sporting events.  The arena is home to the National Hockey League team the Winnipeg Jets. The arena also doubles as a venue for concerts and other events.  Bon Jovi and Metallica have performed at the MTS Centre and 2005 and 2014 saw the Juno Awards at this venue.

Catch a performance at Celebrations Dinner Theatre (1824 Pembina Hwy) where  the whole family can participate and enjoy an evening of live entertainment and laughs. Shows have 3 acts and there is a 4-course meal served during the show. Stage shows include movie remakes and television production spoofs. Tickets start at CAD$59.95 for adults, CAD$44.95 for seniors and students, and CAD$30.95 for children.

Situated at the crossroads of the Red River and the Assiniboine River, The Forks Winnipeg (401-25 Forks Market Rd) is a national historic site and  a good starting point for a tour of the city. There is a large market, restaurants, cafes, gift shops, a ball park and hotels. The market is spread out over 6 stories with a viewing platform.

The area includes an Olympic-sized skating rink, skating, tobogganing and snowboarding trails. The “Explore Manitoba Centre” is a pavilion with displays and exhibits and an information centre. The area also includes the Manitoba Children’s Museum, the Manitoba Theatre for Young People and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Adrenaline Adventures Clubhouse (600 Caron Rd)  is a recreation park with summer and winter activities that include paintball, beach volleyball, climbing and zipline, cable wakeboarding, snow tubing, snowboarding. There is a restaurant on site and an outdoor patio. Prices vary according to type and length of activity and do not include equipment rentals. Contact number for bookings is 204-800-2060.

Travel 45 minutes north of Winnipeg to reach the shores of Lake Winnipeg where locals cool off during hot Winnipeg summers. There is a lot more to do at Winnipeg Beach than just swim, the area is equipped for recreational activities and seasonal events. The shores of Lake Winnipeg are a celebration of sports, events and festivals during the summer. The annual July festival features parades, fireworks and an outdoor market.

Fort Whyte Alive (1961 McCreary Rd) is a nature reserve with the aim of educating the public about environmental education. Attractions include bison herds, beautiful Canada geese, bird feeding stations, lakes, trails, owls, prairie dogs, a Tipi camp, a biodiversity garden, cross country ski trails and a museum.

The District of St. Boniface, along the east bank of the Red River is the site of the Tache Promenade, a beautiful  trail along the river, from the Provencher Bridge to the Norwood Bridge, with historic interpretative plaques to educate visitors and locals about the city’s  historic site.

Winnipeg events  

Each year in June the Winnipeg International Jazz Festival animates Manitoba with great music performed by local and international artists. Notable artists who have performed at the festival include Herbie Hancock, George Benson, Booker T. Jones, Wynton Marsalis and Dave Brubeck.  There are several Festival venues throughout the city, Old Market Square, Manitoba Theatre Centre, Burton Cummings Theatre and Cinematheque are just a few.

Every year in December, Festival du Voyageur celebrates the heritage of Winnipeg with a focus on the travels, and explorations of Manitoba’s Francophone residents. Events and activities include snow sculptures, contests and school programs.

Manitoba Association for Rights & Liberties is the annual festival that highlights racial discrimination and social inequalities through a series of films and conferences. The annual festival takes place on March 21 and most of the events are free.

Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival is a yearly festival showcasing live  entertainment from over 100 companies. The 11-day festival includes drama, dance and comedy performances and takes place at the historic Exchange district.

Folklorama Winnipeg takes place each August. Multi-heritage and cultural exhibitions are on display for two weeks. Each culture brings its own unique colour as pavilions throughout the city are marked by different countries and regions. This is a main event that brings thousands of tourists to Winnipeg each year. Contact number for upcoming events: 204-982-6210.

Each June Winnipeg hosts the Red River Exhibition, a 10-day festival with shows and concerts. There is a large amusement park for the duration of the Festival and agricultural exhibits. The Exhibition takes place at the Red River Exhibition Park.

For two days each May Winnipeg opens its doors to everyone by hosting the Doors open Winnipeg. An event that has visitors and locals exploring the city’s historic buildings through a series of walking tours and organized learning events. The Doors Open event is free for everyone. This is a great way to learn about the heritage, architecture and interesting facts  about Winnipeg historic buildings.

A relatively recent event, the annual Manitoba Electronic Music Exhibition saw its inception in 2010 and has already gained popularity. Old Market Square in the Exchange District is the site of western Canada’s electronic music and digital arts festival that features free outdoor concerts, events and workshops.

Santa Claus Parade showcases music, lights and colour while the parade highlights the spirit of the season and Mr. Christmas himself delights children  and parents alike.

Teddy Bears’ Picnic is a free event for children and the young at heart held at Assiniboine Park  each year. The proceeds of the event go to the Children’s Hospital foundation of Manitoba. The event takes place annually in May and sees thousands of children, parents and stuffed teddy bears. This, after all, is the city of Winnie-the-Pooh!

A 4-day outdoor event, the Winnipeg International Children’s Festival takes place at 201- One Forks Market Road each year. The Forks is animated with entertainers , fun and educational activities, workshops and events from diverse social and ethnic backgrounds.

Day Trip To Winnipeg

If you only have a day to spend in Winnipeg, there’s still plenty of time to get to know the largest city in Manitoba. Here are just some of the top things to see and do during a day trip to Winnipeg:

Canadian Museum for Human Rights (85 Israel Asper Way)

It was the first of its kind and is still a wonder all its own. Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) during your day trip. The centre is dedicated to the history and advocacy of human rights around the world. It’s an interactive museum filled with powerful exhibits. The museum focuses both on Canadians as well as the international population, and it’s an excellent place to bring kids to learn about other cultures.

Assiniboine Park Zoo (2595 Roblin Blvd)

Lions, tigers, and polar bears, oh my! Bring the whole family to one of Winnipeg’s best known attractions. The Assiniboine Park Zoo features over 1,500 animals from 200 species. The polar bears are a particular favourite amongst visitors. Watch the enormous furry animals play with their friends, swim in the cool waters, and bite into their dinner.

Manitoba Legislative Building (450 Broadway)

With towering columns and intricate design, it’s hard not to be impressed with the Manitoba Legislative Building. Sign up for a guided tour, which will allow you to see the ins-and-outs of the building while an expert narrates its rich history. Additionally, if you’re in town when the legislative assembly is in session, you can watch the debates and discussions from the visitor’s gallery.

Winnipeg Art Gallery (300 Memorial Blvd)

Located in the heart of Winnipeg, see what makes this town beat with a visit to the Winnipeg Art Gallery. There are nearly 24,000 pieces of art located throughout the centre, with the largest collection of contemporary Inuit art found in the world. Spot everything from 15th-century European art pieces to modern day multi-media. The gallery is wheelchair friendly.

Other popular attractions in the area include Forks National Historic Site, Tache Promenade, the Royal Canadian Mint, and the Exchange District. Feel free to take a peek at Tourism Winnipeg for any upcoming activities in town. Pick your favourites, and enjoy a day trip to Winnipeg!

Weekend Trip to Winnipeg

Day 1.

Fort Gibraltar (866 St. Joseph St)

Tache Promenade

Located along the Red River, between Cathedrale Avenue and Provencher Boulevard.

Manitoba Legislative Building (450 Broadway)

The Forks National Historic Site   (401-25 Forks Market Rd)

Assiniboine Park (2355 Corydon Ave)

Exchange District

Located in the heart of Winnipeg, between Portage, Main and Waterfront Drive

Day 2.

Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park

Elk Island Park

Canadian Museum of Human Rights (85 Israel Asper Way)

Centennial Concert Hall (555 Main St)

Week Trip to Winnipeg

Day 1.

Tache Promenade

Located along the Red River, between Cathedrale Avenue and Provencher Boulevard.

Manitoba Legislative Building (450 Broadway)

Royal Canadian Mint (520 Lagimodiere Blvd)

Assiniboine Park- Sculpture Gardens (2355 Corydon Ave)

Manitoba Theatre Centre (174 Market Ave)

Day 2.

Exchange District

Winnipeg’s historic neighbourhood covers 20 blocks. You can easily spend the entire morning strolling the streets lined with the beautiful Chicago-style heritage buildings and early skyscrapers. The Winnipeg Grain Exchange building symbolizes the importance of the commercial trade that took place here well over a century ago.  Explore everything the area has to offer and visit any of the local attractions like the Manitoba Museum, the Planetarium, the Science Gallery and a host of shops. At lunch you can stop at the Old Market Square and visit the restaurants, cafes and food trucks. During the spring and summer there are free concerts and other entertainment.

Manitoba Children’s Museum (45 Forks Market Rd)

Fort Gibraltar (866 St. Joseph Street)

Centennial Concert Hall (555 Main St)

Wikimedia Commons Photo

Day 3.

Shaw Park (1 Portage Ave)

A beautiful, clean park, this is home to Winnipeg’s baseball team, the Goldeyes. There is always something going on here, BBQ events, competitions, lots of food, and of course, baseball.

Portage Place (393 Portage Ave)

Winnipeg Square (360 Main St)

Manitoba Crafts Museum & Library

Located downtown at 1B-183 Kennedy St. the museum has its roots in Manitoba’s Crafts Guild and aims to preserve the artisanship and uniqueness of hand made objects. You can view collections textile, paper, wood, metal glass and ceramic objects made by the hands of men and women of diverse cultural and ethnic background.

The library is an archive of related books and other literature dating back to the 19th century that shed light on the practice of crafts. There are thousands of materials that are anything but frivolous or insignificant because cultures around the world have been expressing themselves through their crafts for thousands of years. The museum is open on Tues and Wed from 10am to 4pm, Sat from noon to 4pm.

Polo Park (66Q-1485 Portage Ave)

Pantages Playhouse Theatre  (180 Market Ave)

A small theatre with great acoustics, Pantages Theatre is another piece of local history. Built in 1912 during the heyday of Vaudeville when tickets used to cost 10¢. this venue has been providing entertainment for over 90 years. The beautifully decorated layout has a balcony section, a mezzanine and a main floor, with a special seating area at the front.

Day 4.

Kildonan Park (2015 Main St)

Chinatown

Winnipeg’s Chinatown is situated between James Avenue, Logan Avenue, Main and Ellen Streets. It is over 100 years old and thus it is an integral part of the city. This is a great place to shop and dine and the culinary repertoire in Chinatown is a colourful array of fresh, healthy ingredients. The shops abound  in herbal remedies, spices and teas.

St Boniface Cathedral (190 Avenue de la Cathedrale)

St. Boniface Museum (494 Tache Ave)

This is a  small, well organized museum with collections that highlight Winnipeg’s French and Métis heritage which played a key role in the cultural and economic development of the area. Through thousands of artifacts including paintings, tools, sculptures and documents visitors embark on a journey that shows how the presence of Europeans changed the local landscape in many ways.

Riel House National Historic Site (330 River Rd)

Louis Riel’s name is inextricably tied to the founding of Manitoba. The heritage site was the home of the Riel family and their descendants who lived here until the 1960s. Louis Riel was a Métis leader who was born in Saint Boniface in 1844, by overcoming a series of conflicts and political uncertainties he helped found Manitoba and helped maintain the political stability and a degree of security for the local Métis and other natives.

Day 5.

Harvourview Park & Recreation Complex (1867 Springfield Rd)

Winnipeg Art Gallery (300 Memorial Blvd)

Fort Whyte Alive (1961 McCreary Rd)

St. Vital Centre (1225 Saint Mary’s Rd)

This is a large mall where you can find chic stores and department store chains like Walmart, Sears and the Hudson’s Bay Company.

Manitoba Theatre for Young People  (2 Forks Market Rd)

Fort Whyte Alive Bison

Day 6.

Elk Island Park

Club Regent Casino (1415 Regent Avenue W)

Day 7.

Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park

Burton Cummings Theatre for the Performing Arts  (364 Smith St)

Winnipeg is a city that lacks the quantity of sites that other Canadian cities have but it certainly does not lack character. The city has a mid-western feel to it with a strong French heritage and community. The well preserved buildings in the city’s bustling historic district have earned it the nickname “The Chicago of the North.” Winnipeg is connected to all four corners via a walkway concourse that makes it easy for visitors and locals to access the main sites especially during the cold winter months. Travel a little farther north to experience Canada’s rugged wilderness – Elk  Island National Park and Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park.