Located at the heart of Canada, in the Prairies, Winnipeg is a vibrant city packed with cultural attractions. Winnipeg is the so-called ‘Gateway to the West’ – known for its sun-kissed summers and snowy winters. But no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find plenty of attractions to explore.
Check out our ultimate guide to the 10 best things to do in and around Manitoba’s capital.
The Forks
At the heart of Winnipeg, where the Red and Assiniboine rivers meet, is a bustling area called The Forks. There are plenty of metered parking lots conveniently located around this hub, with daily and hourly rates available.
This historic site boasts some of the city’s top attractions, along with eclectic shopping and dining options. If the sun is shining, why not walk through the flourishing gardens or take a boat ride to enjoy views of the city from the river?
Whatever the weather, make sure you swing by The Forks Market. Here you can feast on delicious local goods including succulent meat and creamy cheese – and then head upstairs to the second floor where you’ll find gifts and handicrafts expertly made by artists from Manitoba and beyond.
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
The Forks is also home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, one of the city’s newest visitor attractions, which first opened its doors in 2014. Housed within a state-of-the-art building that forms an unmissable part of the city skyline, it offers a unique journey through centuries of human rights history.
The visitor entrance is at ground level, and as you progress through the floors you’ll gradually ascend “from darkness to light”. The pinnacle of the journey is the Tower of Hope, reached either by stairs or the elevator, to enjoy panoramic views of the city from 100 metres up.
Manitoba Legislative Building
Follow the Assiniboine River from The Forks and you‘ll reach the magnificent Manitoba Legislative Building, a neoclassical landmark that dates back to the 1920s. Open all year round for self-guided tours, the building is packed with fascinating artworks – most famously the Golden Boy who stands atop a 72-metre-tall dome.
The legislative hub is also known for the curious codes and symbols which are hidden throughout its architecture. To find out more, join the weekly Hermetic Code Tour and explore all of its secrets. Free guided tours are also available from September to June.
Winnipeg Art Gallery
Just five minutes’ drive from The Forks is Winnipeg Art Gallery, located on Memorial Boulevard on the other side of the river. Boasting a collection of more than 25,000 works across four floors, it’s a real must for any art lover.
Highlights include a hugely impressive photography collection, featuring shots by 20th-century masters such as Andrè Kertèsz. There’s also a collection of international paintings dating back to the Renaissance, plus a fascinating and rather unusual selection of Inuit sculptures, drawings and prints.
Manitoba Museum
Another of Winnipeg’s top cultural attractions is located just two kilometres away. The Manitoba Museum is a fascinating day out for all ages, with a planetarium and interactive exhibitions that allow you to step inside the history of this Canadian province.
Seek out the full-scale replica of the Nonsuch, a historic ship that played a key role in establishing the lucrative fur trade route between England and Canada. Step back in time to Deptford in London, England and hop aboard the iconic merchant vessel to experience what life was like for those who took that famous voyage in the 17th century.
The museum is open seven days a week in the summer, and every day except Monday in the winter. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.
Exchange District National Historic Site
Once you’ve explored the museum, head into the Exchange District to admire the historic architecture in the open air. Many of these structures date back to the Victorian and Edwardian era, when this was the city’s financial heart. Today, old buildings and warehouses are transformed into hip stores, galleries and restaurants, many of which are located around Old Market Square.
You’ll also find some of Winnipeg’s most famous cultural venues in this part of town. If you’re in the mood for some live music or a dose of theatre drama, check out the upcoming performances at Centennial Concert Hall or the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre. There’s usually a touring Broadway show in town.
FortWhyte Alive
Take a break from city life and drive from downtown Winnipeg to FortWhyte Alive. It might feel a world away from the city – such is its diverse array of wildlife nestled amid the forests, lakes and prairie habitats – but it’s actually only a 20-minute drive.
Head to the Bison Viewing Mound to admire the centre’s resident herd, or take a walk on the floating boardwalk to see the wetland wildlife up close. In the summer you can explore the hiking trails or rent a canoe on one of the sheltered lakes, while in the winter there’s an ice-skating rink and cross-country skiing to enjoy.
Assiniboine Park and Zoo
Close by you’ll find Assiniboine Park, which draws in visitors with the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden and, of course, the Assiniboine Park Zoo. Here you can see hundreds of animals from all over the world. The star attraction is the Journey to Churchill, where you can come face-to-face with Arctic animals including polar bears, wolves and seals. From there, head down into the Sea Ice Passage and you’ll see the polar bears swimming above your head. It’s just breathtaking.
You can also go behind the scenes at Assiniboine Park Zoo and learn what they’re doing to protect these beautiful animals in the wild. The zoo is open to visitors all year round and tickets can be purchased online up to 90 days in advance.
Oak Hammock Marsh
Another highlight for nature lovers lies 20 kilometres north of Winnipeg, which will take around 40 minutes in your rental car. Oak Hammock Marsh is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary that attracts bird watchers from all over the globe.
The sprawling prairies, grasslands and marshes attract hundreds of migratory bird species – from snowy owls to bald eagles and even the endangered peregrine falcon. Grab a pair of binoculars from the visitor centre and take a walk along one of the scenic trails to spot these majestic creatures.
The Marsh is open daily all year round, but opening hours vary during the fall migration period so check online if you’re visiting in September or October. Entry to the walking trails and wetland areas is free, but there is an admission charge to access the visitor centre and floating boardwalk.
Lake Winnipeg
Lake Winnipeg is the place to be during the summer months. Head for the resort town of Gimli on the western shore of the lake to enjoy sunbathing or a stroll along the sand, before exploring the artisan cafes and shops close to the waterfront.
Alternatively, you could drive to Grand Beach on the southeast shore – the perfect spot for swimming, windsurfing and hiking. The area boasts two outstanding scenic trails too – Spirit Rock and Ancient Beach – both with parking lots nearby.
Whether you’re staying in the city for business or enjoying a Canadian staycation, car rental in Winnipeg is the most convenient way to get around. We have collection points across the city, including one at Winnipeg International Airport, so it couldn’t be easier to pick up your vehicle and start your adventure.