Winnipeg is one of the top-rated cities to visit in Canada. Set in the prairies of central Canada, it’s full of surprises – which makes it an unforgettable destination for any traveller or visitor.
There are several world-class experiences in Winnipeg you need to add to your list for your next visit. From getting up close with polar bears at the Assiniboine Park Zoo to soaking in the city’s artistic and cultural richness at the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, you’ll quickly see why Winnipeg is truly one of Canada’s most underrated destinations.
Read on to discover the top things to do in Winnipeg you won’t want to miss!
READ MORE: What to see and do in Winnipeg as recommended by locals and travellers
Top 8 Things to Do in Winnipeg, Canada
Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving arts scene, Winnipeg offers a mix of outdoor experiences, unique attractions, and exceptional dining experiences.
Whether you’re a nature lover, sports fan, or history buff, there’s something for everyone.
After several visits to the city, I’ve curated a list of 8 must-see experiences that showcase the best of Winnipeg.
Travel Tip: You’ll need to plan for at least three days if you’d like to experience everything on this list.
1. See the Polar Bears at the Assiniboine Park Zoo
There are only a few places in the world to see real-life polar bears. Manitoba is home to one of these bucket-list destinations, near the northern community of Churchill, MB.
But you can also see polar bears in Winnipeg.
The Assiniboine Park Zoo has a permanent exhibit called “Journey to Churchill.” There are interactive displays, a fantastic indoor and outdoor play area for kids, information on how climate change impacts the tundra – and polar bears!
A highlight is walking through the underwater tunnel called the “Sea Ice Passage.” If you’re lucky, a polar bear might swim over the top while you’re in the tunnel. There’s also a great viewing area to see the seals. They love to interact and play with visitors – swimming straight at the glass and then effortlessly gliding down it in front of you.
The bears you see in the park have all been orphaned. The zoo provides a safe home for them since they cannot be re-released into the wild. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and research is all about “the betterment of animals in their care while assisting conservation efforts in the wild.” You can read more about the park’s conservation efforts here.
There’s also so much more to see and do at the zoo, including visiting other animals from across Canada to Asia, and participating in a wide variety of park programming, depending on the season when you visit.
2. Visit The Leaf at Assiniboine Park
There is so much to see and do at Assiniboine Park, you’ll want to plan for a whole day here.
A visit to The Leaf at Assiniboine Park should be top of your list if you’re a nature lover. At first glance, this impressive architectural feat looks like it could be set in Singapore. But it’s right here in Winnipeg. It’s a gorgeous botanical garden set on 30 acres of green space. It’s stunning outdoors at full bloom in summer and a perfect balmy indoor escape in winter.
The building is shaped after nautilus shells and sunflowers and its focus on glass windows throughout the building creates an open-access space where you can see both in and out.
There are four different biomes and six different gardens with tropical plants to visit, including a koi pond and butterfly garden.
Another highlight: this is the location of Canada’s largest indoor waterfall at nearly 60 feet high. The view from the upper walkway is Instagram-worthy.
There’s an on-site coffee shop and Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar restaurant. The restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced seasonal ingredients from the on-site gardens (with the occasional banana and pineapple from the tropical gardens)
The best part is the Leaf is less than $20 to visit.
3. Soak Away Stress at Thermea Spa
I cannot rave about Therma by Nordik Spa-Nature enough. While you’ll need a day at Assiniboine Park, you’ll also need a day here (but plan for it to be one of your last days when visiting the city to maximize relaxation).
The spa is based on the concept of thermal hydrotherapy and relaxation techniques: hot, cold, rest. You can dip into a sauna (dry or wet), step under a waterfall of cold water, and then spend time lounging in hammocks or sun chairs, in front of fireplaces, at the restaurant, or in the napping rooms. Then repeat as many times as you’d like.
No phones or cameras are allowed so you can be present in the space and in the moment. There are so many cozy corners to hang out in and relax.
There is an on-site spa for massages and treatments. But I recommend experiencing the Aufguss Ritual (it’s free with your entry fee). Water and snow are poured onto the heated stones in the sauna and the Rituals Artisan uses choreographed movements with a towel to create a movement of scented air in rhythm with a soundscape of music. It’s an intense and emotionally moving experience.
While it’s fun to go with friends, it’s a great place to take a good book and soak away the day.
Thermea is a popular place so make sure to book in advance.
4. Visit the Winnipeg Art Gallery
At Qaumajug (“it is bright, it is lit”) at the Winnipeg Art Gallery, you’ll find the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit Art. The piece-de-resistance is a three-story curved, glass vault displaying 5000 Inuit carvings. There’s even a glass floor so you can see down into the lower floors.
Qilak, the main gallery on the third level is 8,000 square feet and not to be missed. The space is reflective of the natural environments of the north and is filled with carefully placed pieces of Inuit art. The space is just as beautiful as the work displayed here.
Don’t forget to check out the rooftop sculpture garden at the WAG.
5. Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is one of the most moving museums you will ever visit. The museum is dedicated solely to the evolution, celebration, and future of human rights.
While there have been many dark moments in human history, there is always light around the corner. This theme follows the architectural design of the museum as you journey from the main floor, up eight floors and 100 metres, to the top viewing platform, filled with glass windows, light and a view over the city.
You’ll leave this museum feeling hope as you discover the stories of the people working to defend human rights and make the world a better place.
See here for current hours and admission.
6. Visit FortWhyte Alive
For an escape from city life, a visit to FortWhyte Alive is the perfect outdoor getaway, right in the city. On the 660 acres of reclaimed urban land are paddling routes and hiking, cycling, and skiing trails. It’s perfect to visit in any season.
During the autumn, you can experience the annual migration of thousands of geese. The geese stop here to rest for the evening on Lake Devonian. A unique option is enjoying a three-course evening meal. After, you can step out to the back patio or out to the docks and hear the rustles of thousands of wings and honking calls across the water.
7. Catch a Professional Sports Game
Winnipeg has been home to the CFL Football team The Winnipeg Blue Bombers since 1930. They also welcomed back professional NHL hockey team The Winnipeg Jets in 2011.
Even if you’re not a major sports fan, I’d recommend picking up a ticket. It’s worth it to experience the thrill, action, and hype of football or hockey.
We went to my first-ever Jets game which also happened to be the season opener! I was so impressed by the in-game experience and the passion of fans attending. Grab a photo with the mascots, indulge in a local brew, and cheer your head off for the home team.
Even if you’re not from the city, you’ll be greeted with welcoming arms here.
Tip: If you don’t own any Blue Bomber or Jets gear, your safe bet is dressing in anything blue.
8. Eat in Winnipeg!
If you travel to Winnipeg and don’t dine out – you are missing out.
I could make an entire blog to list out *a fraction* of the amazing places to stop to grab a bite to eat in Winnipeg.
Here’s a quick guide to some must-eat spots in Winnipeg. I’ve curated it by time of day or vibe you’re looking for.
Breakfast in Winnipeg
Clementine – This is one of the top spots to visit for breakfast or brunch in Winnipeg. Located in the lower floor of a historic building in the Exchange District, Clementine is always top of the list for a classic brekkie.
Stella’s Café and Bakery – For nearly 25 years, Stella’s has been a mainstay in Winnipeg and its 8 locations are a testament to the value this coffeeshop and baked goods store brings to the city. It’s perfect if you need something quick to go, something to take home for later, or if you want to grab a bite with friends.
Casual Dining in Winnipeg
The Forks – This is a must-stop spot in Winnipeg. The Forks has a variety of casual restaurants, breweries, baked goods, and an open-seat dining hall to enjoy a variety of goodies. There are also numerous shops to explore and find local, handmade items to take home, including a Jenna Rae Cakes store.
James Avenue Pumphouse – It’s not every day you can dine next to a preserved pumphouse that once drew water from the Red River for distribution to the area’s fire hydrants. This historical-building-and-current-day-restaurant is a unique spot to stop for a night out with friends.
Gusto North – While you can visit Gusto North in a Winnipeg Jets jersey, don’t let this pizza shop fool you. The “casual” menu of pasta and pizza takes a contemporary spin on comfort food for an elevated experience thanks to the unexpected ingredients. This was one of my favourite restaurant stops during my trip to Winnipeg.
Elevated Dining in Winnipeg
Nola – Nola is a fun and elegant restaurant specializing in small and shared plates. Dishes are inspired by cuisine from the Pacific Northwest. It’s ideal for work meetings or celebrating a special moment with friends and loved ones.
(I also happen to share my middle name with this restaurant. As it’s not a common name, I was excited to see the sign and dine here).
Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar – Located in Assiniboine Park in The Leaf, Gather Craft restaurant is bright and airy and focuses on fresh, locally sourced foods from the on-site garden. This includes pineapples and bananas harvested from their tropical fruit garden.
Cocktails in Winnipeg
Rose Coffee and Wine – This cocktail bar is perfect for a ladies night out or an intimate date with your partner. The décor is glamorous and cozy at the same time. Think velvet drapes, leopard print bar seats and golden goose faucets in the bathroom.
Where to Stay in Winnipeg
Alt Hotel
The Alt Hotel is always a favourite of mine. They’re an affordable boutique-style hotel, consistent across the country. They’re bright,and spacious, and have floor-to-ceiling windows in the room. Located in downtown Winnipeg, the Alt is right across the street from the home of the Winnipeg Jets. This makes it easy to walk over to catch the game.
Book in here.
Inn at the Forks
You can’t book a better place to stay than the Inn at the Forks. The location is a highlight in Winnipeg at the heart of where the Assiniboine River meets the Red River. This hotel is next door to the Museum for Human Rights and across the street from The Forks which includes numerous shopping and dining options. Rooms have great views of the river, museum, and park. There’s also an on-site restaurant and spa to enjoy.
Book in here.
I was a guest of Travel Manitoba and Tourism Winnipeg as part of a media trip. But as always, all thoughts and experiences shared in this article about the top 8 things to do in Winnipeg are genuinely and authentically my own.
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