The capital city of Manitoba, Winnipeg is a multicultural destination with a wealth of notable annual festivals, several professional sports teams and nationally-recognised museums. The city is intersected by multiple rivers that lead to surrounding lakes and lush parklands.

Things to do

Begin your Winnipeg holiday by exploring The Forks, a community hub located at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers. Here you’ll find a range of shopping outlets, restaurants, live music and, in winter, an ice-skating rink. During summer, take the kids to the Variety Heritage Adventure Park, which boasts playgrounds that also showcase the region’s history.

Looking for more local history? Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which dominates Winnipeg’s city skyline and features interactive exhibits designed to get people talking about human rights. Afterwards, visit the Manitoba Museum to see natural history exhibits on planets, humans and creatures of all sizes.

Those interested in Winnipeg’s dining scene should wander the 30-block Exchange District, where 20th-century buildings reveal small-plate restaurants, delis, bistros and boutique bars. There are also small art galleries by up-and-coming artists, vintage shops and numerous cafes. Seek out a bit of extra luxury at Thermëa, where Scandinavian-inspired thermal pools rejuvenate the body and mind.

Get up close to incredible wildlife at the Assiniboine Park Zoo, where you can see polar bears, toucans, butterflies, red kangaroos and African lions. It’s located on the edge of Assiniboine Park, which also features a conservatory, outdoor theatre and playgrounds. Duck over to the neighbouring Leo Mol Sculpture Garden to see intricate bronze sculptures and water features.

Getting around

Winnipeg is serviced by Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, which is about seven kilometres away. You can get around using shuttle buses, public buses, taxis and hire cars, while there are also bicycle and pedestrian pathways around the city.