Winnipeg follows the curves of the Red River on Treaty No. 1 Territory, the traditional lands of the Anishinabe, Ininew, Oji-Cree, Dene, and Dakota peoples, and the birthplace of the Métis Nation. Visitors will find things to do in Manitoba’s capital city no matter the season, from exploring the shops and restaurants at The Forks Market to attending a show in the Exchange District, exploring the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and strolling through the riverside Peace Park. Even in the midst of winter, Winnipeg offers a warm welcome.
Visitors might be put off by the winter months, when temperatures can dip to -13°F (-25°C), but February brings the fantastic Festival du Voyageur, held in the neighborhood of Saint-Boniface. The winter festival celebrates French-Canadian culture with music, food, and ice sculptures. If you prefer a bit more warmth, come in early July for the Winnipeg Folk Festival, which brings artists and attendees from around the world.
While Winnipeg does have a public bus system, it can be slow, and it’s mostly limited to the downtown. If you’re visiting in the winter or if you want to check out some of the nearby parks and lakes, it’s much easier to rent your own car. Areas of the city—like The Forks, the Exchange District, and Osborne Village—are walkable once you get to them.
For a chance to learn about the city’s history and people, visit the Manitoba Indigenous Cultural Education Centre Inc. in North Point Douglas. The center has a stunning collection of artifacts and artworks, from beadwork to regalia to traditional medicines, along with an extensive library where visitors can take in the stories of the area's Indigenous peoples. Browse the collection or check out their calendar to see if any programs or events will coincide with your visit.
