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The two prominent stars of Manitoba are Winnipeg, with its big-city sophistication, and Churchill, with its profusion of natural wonders. But it's what lies between that truly defines this often misunderstood prairie province. Open spaces seem to stretch forever – gently rolling fields of grain punctuated by silos reach all the way north to the boreal forest and the Arctic tundra beyond.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Inglis Grain Elevators National Historic Site

For a glimpse of the vanishing past, make the detour to tiny Inglis. A stunning row of five 1920s grain elevators – the sentinels of the Manitoba prairie …

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Housed in a stunning contemporary building designed by American architect Antoine Predock, this terrific museum explores human rights issues as they…

Itsanitaq Museum

This one-room museum showcases an exceptional collection of Inuit carvings made of whalebone, soapstone and caribou antler, as well as millennia-old…

Winnipeg Art Gallery

This ship-shaped gallery displays contemporary Manitoban and Canadian artists, and has the world's largest collection of Inuit carvings (at the time of…

Manitoba Museum

Nature trips through the subarctic, history trips into 1920s Winnipeg, cultural journeys covering the past 12,000 years – if it happened in Manitoba, it's…

Assiniboine Park Zoo

White snow leopards, white Bengal tigers and polar bears are some of the 2000-plus animals seen close-up at Assiniboine Park Zoo, which specializes in…

St-Boniface Museum

A mid-19th-century convent is Winnipeg's oldest building and the largest oak-log construction on the continent. The museum inside focuses on the…

Oak Hammock Marsh

Smack in the middle of southern Manitoba's wetlands, this watery home and migratory stopping point for hundreds of thousands of birds is one of the best…

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The Perfect 2-Week Manitoba Road Trip Itinerary [2024]

A 2-week Manitoba road trip itinerary that covers highlights in the southern half of the province. If you love nature, wildlife, culture and cuisine, don’t miss a drive around Manitoba!

On our very first foray into international travel, at the ripe old ages at 20 and 23, we landed in Canada, bought an old campervan and hit the road in search of adventure and wide open landscapes.

Over the course of three years we managed to put almost 50,000km on the odometer as we zig-zagged across the country, from BC to Newfoundland and back, and it’s safe to say that with vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, friendly locals, and endless scenic drives, this spectacular nation cemented our love of road trips.

During our travels we have managed to visit Manitoba three times, and the prairie province truly became one of our unexpected favourites.

Manitoba is massive, and you could easily spend a month at least exploring the entire province, especially if you add on a journey to the far north to see Churchill, the Polar Bear Capital of the World.

But for most travellers who aren’t planning a trip to the Arctic tundra, 2 weeks is a perfect amount of time to see the national parks and charming towns of southern Manitoba by car.

In this new Canada travel guide we outline our suggested itinerary for a 2-week Manitoba road trip, perfect for those driving across the country, or using the vibrant capital of Winnipeg as a base.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our epic guide to the best things to do in Manitoba to discover what else there is to do here!

Of course, you can modify the itinerary however you like, but we’ll recommend all the best national parks, hiking trails, and other attractions within driving distance from Winnipeg.

Whether you follow this itinerary exactly or just take away pieces of it, hopefully this article will help you plan your future Manitoba road trips!

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Winnipeg

Where to stay in portage la prairie, where to stay in spruce woods provincial park, where to stay in riding mountain national park, day 6 – riding mountain national park, day 7 – return to winnipeg, where to stay in hecla-grindstone provincial park, where to stay near grand beach, where to stay in pinawa, where to stay in whiteshell provincial park, day 5-6 – falcon lake, day 7 – head back to winnipeg, our epic 2-week manitoba road trip itinerary.

The first week of this Manitoba road trip will cover a western loop from Winnipeg. The second week will cover an eastern loop.

So even if you’re just looking for 1 week Manitoba road trips, you can choose to do just half of this itinerary.

Either way, you’re sure to have an epic adventure while you explore the province by car.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Week 1 – Western Loop of Southern Manitoba from Winnipeg

Your first half of the Manitoba road trip will begin and end in Winnipeg. You’ll venture west from the city in a loop, passing towns full of history and national parks full of wildlife.

Manitoba has lots of well-equipped official campgrounds for those looking to camp, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sleep beneath the stars, or stay in a cozy local inn if that’s more your style.

Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a fun-filled first week on your Manitoba road trip.

Day 1 and 2 – Fly into Winnipeg, Rent a Car, and Explore

With so many incredible things to do in Winnipeg , it’s a fantastic place to begin your adventure.

Fly into Winnipeg and spend your first two days relaxing, exploring, and prepping for your road trip.

You can organise your car rental , stock up on supplies, and make sure all your accommodations are booked for the rest of the journey.

If you’re travelling outside of winter (which is what we recommend), make sure you book things in advance because summer is the peak tourist season in Manitoba.

Also consider things like entry passes to national parks and weather patterns. Once you’ve gotten all your logistics sorted, you can enjoy Winnipeg!

Your first stop should be The Forks , which is the hub for culture and entertainment in the city. After you wander through the Forks Market, relax in the public parks, or visit the famous museums.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a highly interesting space to learn about the evolution of human rights in Canada and abroad.

It is set in a modern glass building and has numerous exhibits, stories, art installations, and more. This Canadian museum is one not to miss! The Manitoba Children’s Museum is perfect if you’re travelling with small children too.

You can also check out the Assiniboine Park Zoo or stroll along the River Walk at The Forks while hanging out in Winnipeg. Or visit the Exchange District, which is a national historic site thanks to its beautiful architecture, and known for independent restaurants, boutiques and galleries housed in a few blocks of historically preserved buildings.

After spending 2 days in Winnipeg, get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow you’re setting out on your Manitoba road trip!

Winnipeg has lots of nice hotels and Airbnbs, though they’re a bit on the expensive side.

Expect to spend at least CAD$100 per night, but the quality is there which makes it worth the cost.

There are a few hostels in Winnipeg, but consider treating yourself to nice accommodation here, especially if you’ll be camping throughout the rest of your trip.

Humphry Inn and Suites is a good budget option, with a room costing around $140 a night.

If you want to treat yourself, stay at the Inn at the Forks . It’s right in the heart of the city and is quite luxurious.

Day 3 – Drive to Portage la Prairie

Today you can start heading west towards Portage la Prairie. This quaint town is only about an hour away from Winnipeg, so there isn’t much driving to do.

Once you arrive, spend the day enjoying this peaceful town in Manitoba.

There are two main highlights of Portage la Prairie. The first is Island Park , a gorgeous outdoor recreation area.

Here you’ll find walking paths, a golf course, parks and playgrounds for kids, as well as picnic and BBQ areas.

Also check out the Fort La Reine Museum , which showcases countless historic artefacts and buildings. If you’re interested in the history of Canada, this museum is a must-see.

The Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham Portage la Prairie is a comfortable, easy place to spend the night, ideal for couples on Manitoba road trips.

Day 4 – Spruce Woods Provincial Park

The next stop on your Manitoba road trip is Spruce Woods Provincial Park . It is only an hour away from Portage la Prairie, so if you leave early you’ll have the entire day for an outdoor adventure.

You could easily spend a few days in the Spruce Woods Provincial Park as there are so many activities to do here.

This national park is known for its abundance of hiking trails. Some of the best include:

• Spirit Sands and Devil’s Punch Bowl Hiking Trail
• Marsh Lake Trail
• Isputinaw Trail
• Spring Ridge Trail
• Hogsback Trail

All of these hikes are pretty short and can be done in one day.

The longest hike is the Spirit Sands and Devil’s Punch Bowl Hiking Trail, which takes around 3-4 hours.

This is also the most famous hike in the park, due to its unique landscape. Here you’ll find wide expanses of sand dunes, spiky cacti, and the small turquoise lake known as Devil’s Punch Bowl.

If you only have time for one hike, this is the one we recommend doing. The other trails mentioned are only around 1 hour each, so you could combine a few of them into one big day.

The area also has amazing biking trails and campgrounds. Stargazing and bird-watching are top-notch here as well.

The Assiniboine River cuts through the park and this idea is ideal for canoeing. Canoe rentals are available at the store near the campground.

READ MORE: Looking for more adventures in the Great White North? Check out our detailed guide to the top things to do in Canada !

There are two really good accommodation options for Spruce Woods Provincial Park. Kiche Manitou Campground  is the best campsite in the park. It’s not far from the Spirit Sands, so it’s a convenient spot to camp after the hike.

If you’re not camping, head to the nearby town of Glenboro for the night. The Spruce Woods Inn is a modest option, with an on-site restaurant and bar as well.  

Day 5 – Brandon to Riding Mountain National Park

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the city of Brandon on your way to Riding Mountain National Park.

Located along the Assiniboine Rivers, Brandon is less than an hour from Spruce Woods Provincial Park and it’s a good place to stop for a break.

You can refuel, stock up on snacks, and grab some breakfast or lunch. While you’re in Brandon, you can also visit one of the interesting museums and art galleries.

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum showcases the history of the airmen who served in WWII. There are real aircrafts on display as well as other artefacts.

If you’re more interested in art than history, visit the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba . This contemporary art museum was one of the first visual art museums in Canada.

After you explore the history and art of Brandon, drive north for an hour towards Riding Mountain National Park.

Wasagaming is a small town on Clear Lake, and it’s the most convenient place to base yourself for exploring Riding Mountain National Park.

Honeycomb Bed and Breakfast is a cozy, rustic, moderately-priced place to stay outside of the Park and Wasagaming, in the town of Onanole.

We personally loved staying in the oTentiks in Wasagaming, run by Parks Canada. These warm and spacious A-frames are comfortable at any time of year and come complete with dorm beds, wood-fire heaters and cooking equipment.

Check out this site for more ideas on where to stay.

Like Spruce Woods Provincial Park, there is so much to do here in Riding Mountain National Park .

It’s one of the best places to explore on Manitoba road trips, and you could easily spend a few days enjoying the area.

The abundant wildlife and dense boreal forest make this a paradise for animal and adventure enthusiasts. If you’re lucky you may even spot an elusive black bear here!

Spend all of day 6 of your road trip canoeing or kayaking on Clear Lake, hiking the Buris and Bittersweet Trail, and exploring the Ominik Marsh.

Alternatively, the Bald Hill Trail or Gorge Creek Trail are two of the most epic hikes in the park for the views along the Manitoba Escarpment, which is a large elevated ridge that cuts through the park.

In the winter, the park is amazing for cross country skiing or snowshoeing.

Another one of the top activities in Riding Mountain National Park is visiting the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure .

This is potentially the only place you’ll get to see plains bison roaming around in Manitoba on your road trip.

Bison have been hunted almost to extinction, so this vast, protected space ensures that a captive herd of plains bison is able to thrive.

Drive through the enclosure in the hopes of seeing these magnificent animals up close.

READ MORE: Along with seeing the plains bison, see what else made our list of the top wildlife experiences in Canada !

You can stay at your accommodation in Wasagaming for another night, but before going to bed, drive out to the eastern end of Clear Lake for a popular sunset spot called the Wishing Well.

Colourful, lakeside sunsets are essential to the best Manitoba road trips!

After your week-long road trip through the western side of Manitoba, drive 3 hours from Riding Mountain National Park back to Winnipeg.

Take some time to do the activities you may have missed at the start of your trip. Go see the polar bears at the Journey to Churchill exhibit in Assiniboine Park Zoo, walk along the shores of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers or further explore the Forks if you haven’t already done so.

For a real treat head to the  Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature . This relaxing spa has warm thermal baths, massages, and other luxurious treatments.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in Winnipeg, especially after a week of hiking and camping.

Also in Winnipeg, definitely make time for the award-winning Canadian Museum for Human Rights if you missed it before.

You can also visit the Winnipeg Art Gallery or the famous Royal Canadian Mint coin making facility.

Another fantastic option is Qaumajuq, the new Inuit Art Centre that houses the largest collection of contemporary Inuit Art in the world. It’s attached on all levels to the Winnipeg Art Gallery.

Before or after your Manitoba road trips is a great time to explore Winnipeg, as it’s the heart of culture and entertainment in the province.

Week 2 – Eastern Loop of Southern Manitoba from Winnipeg

Week 2 of this southern Manitoba road trip will cover the eastern side.

You’ll start with a journey up to Lake Winnipeg, then continue further east to explore the lakes and provincial parks.

Be sure to spend at least a few days in Whiteshell Provincial Park, as it’s one of the top places to visit in Manitoba.

Day 1 – Drive to Hecla Provincial Park

Start by driving about 2 hours north of Winnipeg to Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park . Set on Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba’s largest lake, this gorgeous park consists of islands, beaches, hiking trails, and cross country skiing trails.

You can walk along the rocky shores of the lake, hike to the Hecla Lighthouse, and observe the abundant wildlife and birds.

Grassy Narrows Marsh is the park’s top hiking trail. It will lead you through the marsh of the park.

The Black Wolf Trail and the Gull Harbor Trail are other popular hiking or cycling trails to consider.

After hiking, visit Hecla Village and the Heritage Home Museum to learn about the history of Icelandic settlers in the area.

Another great activity on your road trip is to head to the Wildlife Viewing Tower for bird-watching and nature photography.

You’re almost certain to see geese, pelicans, ducks, and other water birds. But be on the lookout for moose, as they are also common in the area.

Manitoba Parks has numerous holiday cabins and a nice campground available for overnight guests.

You can stay right on the shores of the largest lake in Manitoba and enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature during your road trip.

Check out the official Manitoba Parks website to view information on the Hecla Vacation Cabins and Gull Harbour Campground .

Visitors can also stay in guest rooms at Hecla Lakeview Resort (higher-end) or Gull Harbour Marina & Lighthouse Inn .

Day 2 – Grand Beach

For the next adventure on your 2-week Manitoba road trip, head to Grand Beach on the east shore of Lake Winnipeg. The drive takes just over 2 hours, as you have to journey around the lake.

When you arrive, spend your day enjoying one of Canada’s hidden gems. Most beach-loving tourists in Canada flock to the west coast, but Grand Beach is truly stunning.

Grand Beach is the longest white sand lake beach in Canada, so it’s extremely popular in summer.

Spend a day swimming in the freshwater and relaxing on the velvety sand. You can also take windsurfing or kite surfing lessons if you’re looking for a full-day adventure.

If you head about 15 minutes north of Grand Beach, you’ll discover the cutest bed and breakfast known as Pebble Springs Belair B&B . The cozy, family-owned beach cottage has a wood stove, hot tub, and top-rated local hosts.

Alternatively, you can camp at Grand Beach Campground on your road trip.

Day 3 – Drive to Pinawa 

The next stop on your southern Manitoba road trip is Pinawa, one of the best outdoor adventure spots in the province.

It’s only a 1-hour drive from Grand Beach to Pinawa, so you have the entire day to explore the area.

Start by completing the Pinawa Channel Heritage Walk, where you’ll cross the impressive Pinawa Suspension Bridge.

Next, try whitewater kayaking! Many wouldn’t expect rapids in Manitoba since it’s a prairie province. But Pinawa Dam Provincial Park is perfect for kayakers of all experience levels.

Prairie Whitewater is an amazing local company in Manitoba that provides equipment and in-depth instructions for any travellers looking to try whitewater kayaking.

The most popular and accessible ways to get out on the water in Pinawa is by tubing, kayaking or SUPing the Pinawa Channel. You book times and equipment from tour companies like Pinawa Float and Paddle and Pinawa UnPlugged Eco Tours .

So any water-sport lovers doing road trips through central Canada should definitely stop in Pinawa.

This charming wilderness town in Manitoba has some lovely local accommodation for your road trip, including L’Eau Calme Resort, The Pinawa Motel, and Voyageur Houseboats .

Visit the official Pinawa website for more details and travel tips.

Day 4 – West Hawk Lake

After an exciting stay in Pinawa, head to West Hawk Lake, located in one of the most beautiful provincial parks in Canada, Whiteshell.

All Manitoba road trips should include a visit to Whiteshell Provincial Park. This is the largest park in Manitoba, so it is jam-packed with natural beauty including lakes, forests, rivers, wildlife, and hiking trails.

The trip from Pinawa to West Hawk Lake in the park only takes an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time for activities.

Once you arrive in West Hawk Lake, enjoy the area by hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, or canoeing.

One of the hidden gems in the area is the Caddy Lake Tunnels. Here you can canoe or kayak along the peaceful lake and pass through magical, mad-made tunnels.

A fun fact about West Hawk Lake: it was formed due to a meteor crashing into earth millions of years ago. So the water is surrounded by dramatic granite cliffs formed by the crash.

Days 4-6 of this Manitoba Road Trip are spent near West Hawk Lake and Falcon Lake.

The two lakes are only a 15-minute drive apart, so you can pick one nice accommodation and stay there for a couple of nights on your road trip.

Falcon Trails Resort owns a number of stunning, lakeside log cabins in the forest that will fill the last days of your Manitoba trip with absolute zen.

This is our top recommendation for accommodation not just in Whiteshell, but all of southern Manitoba. Book early though!

The area also has lots of amazing campgrounds, including West Hawk Lake Campground and Falcon Lake Lakeshore Campground .

Spend the next two days of your road trip enjoying another one of the most beautiful lakes in Manitoba.

Falcon Lake is surrounded by fun hiking and cycling trails and a rich boreal forest that is full of life.

A fun way to experience the area is by booking a horse riding tour.

Falcon Beach Ranch , which also has lovely cabins, offers highly-rated horseback riding tours through the forest, making for a very exciting and adventurous way to discover the beauty of the area.

The Ranch has tours for all experience levels, so even if you’ve never ridden a horse before, they will make sure you feel comfortable.

Other fun activities in this gorgeous area of Manitoba include hiking to Rainbow Falls, biking along the boardwalk, and hiking the Falcon Creek Trail.

If you’re visiting Manitoba in the winter, you can also go ice-skating, snow-tubing, snow-shoeing, or cross-country skiing in Falcon Lake.

Now it’s time to finish the road trip, head back to Manitoba’s capital city, where you can return your rental car and get ready for your next adventure.

Whether you’re planning on flying to northern Manitoba, elsewhere in Canada, or elsewhere in the world, you’re sure to carry these unforgettable road trip memories with you.

Manitoba road trips are perfect for travellers looking to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and get in touch with nature.

The forests, lakes, and wildlife of Manitoba are some of the best in Canada, so hopefully you made the most of your road trip here!

DISCLAIMER:  This article was created in partnership with our friends at Destination Canada and Travel Manitoba. All words, opinions and days of epic fun driving across the province are, as always, our own.

About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Manitoba

Written by Lana Law Updated Sep 13, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law lived in Manitoba and returns every summer to spend time in Winnipeg and Whiteshell Provincial Park.

In the heart of central Canada, Manitoba is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but those who take the time to explore the province will find a wealth of unique experiences. Watching polar bears in the wild, seeing the northern lights, or enjoying a winter festival celebrating French Canadian history are just some of the memorable things to do in Manitoba.

The beaches around Lake Winnipeg and the beautiful provincial parks offer great retreats on hot summer days in this prairie province. For cultural attractions and city entertainment, it's hard to beat Winnipeg , the provincial capital.

For a more complete look at the highlights, see my list of top tourist attractions in Manitoba.

1. The Forks, Winnipeg

2. polar bears of churchill, 3. canadian museum of human rights, winnipeg, 4. grand beach, 5. riding mountain national park, 6. gimli & the icelandic festival of manitoba, 7. whiteshell provincial park, 8. festival du voyageur, winnipeg, 9. lower fort garry national historic site, 10. the royal canadian mint, 11. narcisse snake dens, 12. pinawa dam provincial park, 13. hecla island & lakeview hecla resort, 14. canadian fossil discovery center, morden, 15. mennonite village in steinbach.

The Forks , located at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers near Winnipeg's downtown core, is the place to be in summer and equally fun in winter. The Forks Market and the Johnston Terminal Building are restored historical buildings housing a lovely market area with interesting shops, restaurants, and casual food stalls.

Some restaurants feature outdoor patios overlooking the Riverwalk that runs along the river. In winter, the outdoor skating rink is particularly popular with families. Also located at The Forks are the Manitoba Children's Museum and the new Canadian Museum of Human Rights . Skateboarders and BMX riders can try out their latest moves on Winnipeg's best skate park.

Churchill, popularly known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World," lies on the harsh, rocky coast of Hudson Bay . In autumn, polar bears wander onto the ice-floes in the bay to hunt seals, and the town comes to life with visitors from around the world who come here to see these amazing animals. Tours in tundra buggies - giant large-wheeled vehicles with caged windows - allow visitors close up encounters with the bears.

Also of interest is the Itsanitaq Museum (also known as the Eskimo Museum) with exhibits of Inuit works of art and tools dating from 1700 BC through the Dorset and Thule cultures to the present day.

Fort Prince of Wales National Historic Site , built by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 1700s, can be visited during July and August, and is reached by boat.

Depending on the night, visitors may also be lucky enough to see a display of northern lights .

The Canadian Museum of Human Rights is Winnipeg's newest major attraction and an important addition to Canada's national museums. Many years in the making, the structure containing the museum is a unique, standout building with a design based on the Canadian landscape.

The museum focuses on a variety of themes that tell the stories of human rights issues from different perspectives. Permanent exhibits offer a look at the subject of human rights as it pertains to Canada and around the world. Changing exhibits offer insight into current human rights issues taking place across the globe.

Determining which stories would be told became the source of much tension and controversy during the planning stages, an indication of how important this museum is to so many people.

Address: 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Grand Beach Provincial Park encompasses a huge stretch of soft sand beach on the shores of Lake Winnipeg , one of Manitoba's best lakes . The beach here is one of the best beaches in Canada and in the summer, it's a hot spot for sunseekers looking to get away from the city.

The park is about a one-hour drive from Winnipeg, and there are a variety of accommodation options in the area, from motels to cottage rentals. Restaurants in the area offer casual dining and entertainment.

Nestled in the trees and just a short stroll from the beach and towering sand dunes is the park campground with 350 sites. Spread over 17 bays, the sites are a mix of serviced and unserviced; some bays are alcohol free.

Accessible throughout the year, this scenic park is a combination of recreation area and nature reserve, with a varied landscape of prairie, forest, and wonderfully clear lakes and streams. The park extends over part of the glacially-formed Manitoba Escarpment where a series of plateaus rising to heights of about 340 meters overlook the surrounding prairies of gentle hills, meadows, and lakes.

The deep lakes in Riding Mountain such as Clear Lake , Lake Katherine , and Deep Lake are popular fishing spots. Near Lake Audy, you'll find a herd of bison roaming freely in a 552-hectare enclosure, Bears, wolves, elk, and deer also inhabit the park.

Numerous walking and cycling trails can be found throughout the park. One trail leads to the log cabin formerly belonging to the English naturalist Grey Owl who, in the early 1920s, wrote books about the wildlife of the area.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/mb/riding/index.aspx

Gimli is a small resort town, approximately an hour's drive north of Winnipeg, on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. In the summer, Gimli comes to life as visitors and cottagers flock to this area to enjoy the beaches, restaurant patios, and ice-cream stands, and to take a stroll along the 298-meter-long seawall.

One of the annual highlights is the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, known as Islendingadagurinn, which takes place over the long weekend at the start of August. The festival is a fun event for everyone with all kinds of activities and entertainment for children and adults.

Official site: http://www.icelandicfestival.com/

About a 1.5-hour drive east of Winnipeg is the Whiteshell Provincial Park, a popular summer destination for Winnipeggers looking to get away from the heat of the city and spend some time by the lake. The landscape is typical of the Canadian Shield , with hills, lakes, valleys, forests, and rivers. Moose, deer, black bear, and other wildlife inhabit the park. Cottages dot the shorelines of the lakes but much of the wilderness area is undisturbed.

The Whiteshell, as it's called locally, has four of the best campgrounds in Manitoba , and is also home to some of Manitoba's best beaches. The resort communities of Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake , located in the southern end of the park, are popular weekend destinations, with small towns back from the lakes.

Golfers take note: Falcon Lake has one of Manitoba's best courses, a 6,922-yard track with some seriously challenging holes. The course has recently built a brand new architecturally stunning clubhouse with a fantastic patio out front, a perfect spot to relive the highlights and lowlights of your recent game.

Official site: http://www.whiteshell.mb.ca/no_flash.html

One of Manitoba's premier winter events is the Festival du Voyageur, celebrating the French Voyageurs who transported furs in birch bark canoes. The Festival takes place each year in February in St. Boniface, the French-speaking district of Winnipeg.

The festival is popular with families, as well as adults. Outdoor events are featured prominently, from games to snow sculpting competitions. Traditional French music, cuisine, and other entertainment is held in outdoor tents. Despite the cold weather at this time of year, the event draws large crowds.

The Fort Garry National Historic Park outside Selkirk has as its centerpiece the only stone fort from the fur trading era to survive intact anywhere in North America. Lower Fort Garry was erected by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 1830s , becoming an important center for the fur trade and serving as a base for the exploration of the Northwest Territories. In later years, Lower Fort Garry was used successively as a training camp for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, a prison, a mental institution, and a company headquarters.

The fort displays period furniture and household items painstakingly gathered together over a period of years from within Canada and also from Britain and the USA. Costumed Parks Canada employees act out the roles of the fort's earlier inhabitants. Visitors are able to talk to the "Governor" and his wife and to various employees and domestic staff. The result is a vivid impression of the complexities of life in a fur trading community.

Displayed in the building where the furs were stored are samples of pelts of every kind and a Hudson's Bay Company shop has been recreated, stocked with everything from clothing and household goods to beads, horse bells, traps, and blankets.

Address: 5925 Hwy 9, St. Andrews, Manitoba

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/mb/fortgarry/

If you've ever wondered where the coins we use on a day to day basis come from, then you should be sure to make some time when visiting Winnipeg to stop in at the Royal Canadian Mint. This high tech and high security facility is open to the public and provides informative tours.

The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide history and background and also explain the production process. A boutique on site sells specialty coins along with other souvenirs.

Official site: https://www.mint.ca/store/mint/visit-the-mint/visit-the-mint-1200026

The Narcisse Snake Dens offer visitors a unique opportunity to witness a spectacle of nature each spring. In late April and early May tens of thousands of red-sided garter snakes emerge from their winter slumber and exit the dens, ready to mate. See the action from observation platforms near the four dens, and while you are peering down, watch for mating balls, which see as many as a hundred male snakes swarming a female.

The snakes leave the dens for the summer but return in the fall, where visitors again have the chance to see them, before the weather turns cold. The dens are six kilometers from the town of Narcisse, which is approximately 100 kilometers north of Winnipeg.

The crescent-shaped ruins of the 1906 Pinawa Dam are the central feature of this park, just a short drive north of the town of Pinawa. Set in a picturesque area of the Canadian Shield in Manitoba's cottage country, the park makes a nice day trip from Winnipeg, just 1.5 hours away.

Visitors can wander around the site on a self-guided tour and appreciate views of the old dam, which stopped operating in 1951, from the Centennial Spillway Trail . Also in the park are picnic facilities and an amphitheater.

For a nice escape to nature and a relaxing getaway in Manitoba, Hecla Island is a favorite destination. Part of Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park , Helca Island is located on Lake Winnipeg, two hours north of Winnipeg.

In summer, you can hike the trails, golf at the 18-hole golf course, or simply enjoy the beaches and lake. In winter, head out on the cross-country ski trails, book a treatment at the spa, or relax around a fire.

For many people, Lakeview Hecla Resort is the main reason to come to Hecla Island. Set on the northern tip of the island, this resort offers indoor and outdoor pools, dining, a spa, and lovely rooms with views, some of which are pet friendly.

Containing Canada's largest collection of marine reptile fossils, the Canadian Fossil Discovery Center is worth making the 1.5-hour trip from Winnipeg to see. All the fossils here, including the huge mosasaur, known as Bruce, are from Manitoba. Due to ongoing research in the field, fossils are continually being added to the collection.

The center is open seven days a week. If you're coming to the town or driving across Highway 3 in southern Manitoba, you may want to plan a little extra time to stop in at the CFDC.

Address: 111-B Gilmour Street, Morden, Manitoba

Official site: https://discoverfossils.com/

The Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach recreates Mennonite life from the 16th century to the present day, and features changing themes. More than 20 furnished buildings are spread over 17 hectares, showcasing a time when villages like this could be found all across Southern Manitoba.

One of the most prominent structures on the site is the large Dutch windmill, which can be seen from the highway. Be sure to stop in at the gift shop and check out the locally made hand crafted items.

Address: 231 PTH 12N, Steinbach, Manitoba

Official site: http://www.mennoniteheritagevillage.com/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Best of Canada: To make Manitoba part of your larger trip across Canada, have a read through our Canada Itineraries . Manitoba's central location means it's often visited in combination with the provinces of Ontario and Saskatchewan , but flights from Winnipeg can quickly connect you with cities across the country. Explore other options with our articles on the Best Places to Visit in Canada and the Top Tourist Attractions in Canada .

More on Canada

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Tourist information
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 6.4.1 Within Canada
• 6.4.2 From the United States
• 6.5 On foot
• 7.3 By train
• 8.1 Historical sites
• 8.2 Museums and galleries
• 8.3 Wildlife and gardens
• 9.1 Bear watching
• 9.2 Fishing
• 9.3 Festivals
• 9.4 Beaches
• 9.5 Winter activities
• 14.1 Universities
• 14.2 Colleges and Technical Institutes
• 14.3 Language Schools
• 15.1 Weather
• 15.2 West Nile Virus

Manitoba is a province in the Prairies of Canada . It is well known for its agriculture, culture and history. Visitors come for the fishing and other outdoor activities, although there are several historical sites worth visiting.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 49.883333 -97.15 1 Winnipeg — with over half of the province's population, Winnipeg is its metropolis, with museums, galleries, a mix of cultures, and many historical sites
• 49.833333 -99.95 2 Brandon — the province's second largest city
• 58.7692 -94.1692 3 Churchill — the polar bear capital of the world
• 51.149444 -100.049444 4 Dauphin — it's named after the heir to the French throne, but a quarter of the population speaks Ukrainian
• 54.768056 -101.864167 5 Flin Flon — a mining town with a sense of humour: it was named after a character in a novel
• 49.5258 -96.6839 6 Steinbach — visit the Mennonite Heritage Village
• 49.972778 -98.291944 7 Portage la Prairie — its early 18th-century French fort is a must for history buffs, and the crossing of Canada's two transcontinental railways draws train fans
• 55.743333 -97.855278 8 Thompson — the bustling metropolis of the North (population 13,000)
• 49.1817 -97.9397 9 Winkler — explore the town's Mennonite heritage

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 50.5681 -96.5617 1 Grand Beach Provincial Park — 12-m-high dunes and kilometres of warm sand beach
• 55.197778 -98.396667 2 Pisew Falls Provincial Park — beautiful 13-m-high waterfalls accessible from the parking lot
• 50.8639 -100.036 3 Riding Mountain National Park — three different ecosystems converge in the area: grasslands, upland boreal and eastern deciduous forests
• 51 -95 4 Pimachiowin Aki – Canada's only mixed world heritage site

Understand [ edit ]

The province has 1.3 million inhabitants, half of them in Winnipeg , the capital. One-tenth of the population belongs to the First Nations (Indigenous) peoples.

It has a widely varied landscape, from arctic tundra and the Hudson Bay coastline in the north, to dense boreal forest and prairie farmland in the central and southern regions.

History [ edit ]

Indigenous peoples have inhabited what is now Manitoba for thousands of years. In the early 17th century, European fur traders began arriving in the area and establishing settlements along the Nelson, Assiniboine, and Red rivers, and on the Hudson Bay shoreline. Great Britain secured control of the region in 1673, and created a territory named Rupert's Land which was placed under the control of the Hudson's Bay Company. Rupert's Land, which covered all of present-day Manitoba, developed significant settlements of Indigenous and Métis people in the Red River Colony.

In 1869, negotiations with the Government of Canada for the creation of the province of Manitoba commenced. During the negotiations, several factors led to an armed uprising of the Métis people against the Government of Canada, a conflict known as the Red River Rebellion. The resolution of the rebellion and further negotiations led to Manitoba becoming the fifth province to join Canadian Confederation, when the Parliament of Canada passed the Manitoba Act on July 15, 1870.

Climate [ edit ]

Manitoba has an extreme continental climate. Because of the generally flat landscape, it is exposed to cold Arctic high-pressure air masses from the northwest during January and February. In the summer, air masses sometimes come out of the Southern United States, as warm humid air is drawn northward from the Gulf of Mexico. Temperatures exceed 30 °C (86 °F) frequently in the summer, and the combination of heat and humidity can bring the humidex value to the mid-40s. Within Canada, Manitoba has the clearest skies year round, and ranked second for clearest skies in the summer and for the sunniest province in the winter and spring.

Southern Manitoba (including the city of Winnipeg), falls into the humid continental climate zone. This area is cold and windy in the winter and often has blizzards because of the open landscape. Summers are warm with a moderate length. This region is the most humid area in the prairie provinces, with moderate precipitation. Southwestern Manitoba is drier and more prone to droughts than other parts of southern Manitoba. This area is cold and windy in the winter and has frequent blizzards due to the openness of the Canadian Prairie landscape. Summers are generally warm to hot, with low to moderate humidity.

Southern parts of the province just north of Tornado Alley, experience tornadoes, with 16 confirmed touchdowns in 2016.

The province's northern sections (including the city of Thompson) fall in the Subarctic climate zone. This region features long and extremely cold winters and brief, warm summers with little precipitation. Overnight temperatures as low as −40 °C (−40 °F) occur on several days each winter.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Travel Manitoba website

Talk [ edit ]

English is the predominant language. French is also spoken in Winnipeg and other parts of the province but is slowly disappearing. Ukrainian, Polish, German, Filipino (primarily Tagalog), Icelandic, and First Nations languages (Cree and Ojibway) are also spoken in local circles.

Get in [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ].

• Kasper Bus , ☏ +1-807-699-7200 , toll-free: +1-855-566-2378 . Operates bus service in Northern Ontario and Manitoba. ( updated May 2022 ) Operates a route between Winnipeg and Sioux Lookout . Same day connection available between Sioux Lookout to Thunder Bay .
• Rider Express , toll-free: +1-833-583-3636 . Offers interprovincial bus service on its Regina - Winnipeg route. ( updated Feb 2021 )

By plane [ edit ]

International travellers coming by plane to Manitoba will arrive in the international airport in Winnipeg. Smaller cities usually have domestic-only air service.

• Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport ( YWG  IATA ), ☏ +1 204-987-9402 .

By train [ edit ]

• The Canadian transcontinental train makes six stops in Manitoba, with the primary hub in Winnipeg. Major cities outside Manitoba on this route are Vancouver , Edmonton , Saskatoon , and Toronto .
• Operating primarily in Manitoba and partly in eastern Saskatchewan is the Winnipeg-Churchill train, which travels to the Northern Manitoba town of Churchill on the shores of Hudson Bay.

By car [ edit ]

Within canada [ edit ].

Highway 1 ( Trans-Canada Highway ) runs for 519 km (322 miles) through southern Manitoba and Winnipeg. The Trans-Canada Highway connects westbound from Ottawa and eastbound from Regina . Nearly the entire route in the Prairies is a divided 4-lane roadway. It is also the only road that crosses the Ontario–Manitoba border.

Highway 16 ( Yellowhead Highway ) terminates at its junction with Highway 1 west of Portage la Prairie . The highway is an east-west highway travelling from British Columbia along a route significantly more north than Highway 1. Eastbound travel on Highway 16 includes from Edmonton and Saskatoon .

From the United States [ edit ]

Interstate 29 in North Dakota connects to Manitoba Highway 75 at the Pembina ND- Emerson MB border. From Minnesota, traffic on U.S. Route 75 will need to detour slightly west to the I-29 border crossing, as the Noyes MN-Emerson MB crossing on US 75 is closed. Route 59 is an alternative, though most of it is only a two-lane highway.

On foot [ edit ]

There is relatively little within walking distance of Manitoba's borders; this is sparsely-populated rural prairie and bitterly cold in winter (-20°C is not uncommon). The largest of these tiny border villages is Emerson (population 600), which is 8 km (5 miles) centre-to-centre from Pembina , North Dakota.

Get around [ edit ]

Like most of Canada's provinces, Manitoba is large, so a car or any other road vehicle is probably the most convenient way to get around Winnipeg and all areas in the province.

• Maple Bus Lines , ☏ +1 204-289-4197 , toll-free: +1-833-339-4197 . Service between Winnipeg , Swan River (via Neepawa and Dauphin ), Cross Lake and Thompson . ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Highway 6 Express , ☏ +1 204-997-1099 , toll-free: +1-844-HWY-6EXP (499-6397) . Winnipeg to Thompson ($95, 8 hr) by appointment. ( updated Nov 2019 )

VIA Rail runs an intraprovincial service from Winnipeg Union Station to Churchill in the far north, three trains weekly. The complete 1700 km journey takes 37 hours. A branch line from The Pas continues northwest to Pukatawagan twice weekly.

See [ edit ]

Historical sites [ edit ]

There are many historical sites and ruins found in Manitoba from the fur trade era of Canada.

Learn about the life in the past by visiting the Lower Fort Garry Historic Site found in the Interlake region that shows how life was like in the 1800s.

Another place to visit is the remains of the St. Boniface Cathedral in Winnipeg which was burned down now another church is placed inside the cathedral ruins.

The Forks National Historic Site is a place where people have been meeting for around 6000 years. The Forks is the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, Winnipeg 's founding place. There are many different activities to do at the Forks like shopping at the Forks Market, the Johnson Terminal. Skating on river paths is a popular activity during winter. The Forks is a beautiful place in the heart of the city that includes things like parks,gardens, sculptures, shops, and restaurants. The site is a model for urban renewal and waterfront development.

Another great place to visit in Winnipeg is the Exchange District in downtown Winnipeg, the Exchange District is well known for its well preserved and stunning turn of the century architecture telling the story of Winnipeg's amazing history. The Exchange District is now a days well known for its trendy boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and cool theatres. The Exchange District holds many festivals including The Winnipeg Fringe Festival.

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

Winnipeg has the spectacular Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which opened in 2014 as the first museum focused on human rights. The city is also home to the Manitoba Museum, the Winnipec Art Gallery, and many other cultural institutions. Smaller cities innthe province typically gave smaller, regional museums and galleries.

Wildlife and gardens [ edit ]

The International Peace Garden found on the Canada-US border near Bossivain in Western region is a beautiful place that celebrates the peace between Canada and US. Oak Hammock Marsh found in the Interlake region is a nature reserve where you can see many different type of birds including the Canada goose and the Snowy Owl. Riding Mountain National Park is an excellent area to see large wild mammals and many species of birds in their natural habitat.

Do [ edit ]

Bear watching [ edit ].

Churchill is known for its Polar Bears and Riding Mountain National Park and adjacent Prairie Mountain area for its abundant population of Black Bears that vary in color from blond, cinnamon and chocolate to black.

Fishing [ edit ]

During the summer time there are many fishing areas found in Manitoba like in Lockport found in the Interlake region is an example where you can see many fishermen around the Red River. During the winter time you can experience ice fishing where people can rent huts to go ice fishing in.

The Prairie Mountain region has world-class trout lakes.

Festivals [ edit ]

There are many festivals in different regions of Manitoba.

Some of the best known festivals celebrated in this region is the Folklorama festival found all over Winnipeg.

The Winnipeg Fringe Festival is a popular festival that takes place in Winnipeg 's Exchange District.

Another popular festival in Winnipeg is the Festival du Voyageur during February at Fort Gibraltar.

The Corn and Apple festival found in Morden found in the Pembina Valley region which sells some of its delicious Morden sweet corn and apple cider.

Beaches [ edit ]

There are also many inland beaches found throughout the province. Some of the well known beaches are Grand Beach and Winnipeg Beach in the Interlake region that are along Lake Winnipeg. Lake Winnipeg is the world's 11th-largest lake.

Winter activities [ edit ]

During the winter time there are many activities available like tobogganing on some of the toboggan slide like the one found in Kildonan Park in Winnipeg. Skating on the river paths including skating on world's longest skating trail on the Assiniboine and Red Rivers, and other skating trails in Winnipeg. Snowmobiling throughout the province is a fun way to get around.

Always check the weather report prior to going out in winter . Temperatures can reach as low as −40 °C (−40 °F) from late December to early March, presenting significant dangers for anyone who is unprepared.

Buy [ edit ]

An 8% provincial sales tax is added to most retail products sold in Manitoba, in addition to the 5% federal value added tax.

Eat [ edit ]

Enjoy the fine grain products such as the different varieties of bread offered in the different communities and restaurants. Manitoba also is known for producing the best pork products in the world, including back bacon. A popular dish in Manitoba are perogies.

Drink [ edit ]

The drinking age is 18 - younger than most other provinces in Canada. Manitoba is also the home of Crown Royal in Gimli .

The tap water in most communities is quite delicious, as far as water goes, though in some locales, where wells are used to supply the municipal water system, there is a pronounced mineral taste. The provincial capital of Winnipeg has an aftertaste to its water, though it does not settle-out solids like, say the water in Regina , Saskatchewan . Manitoba is known as one of the wettest provinces, and has in excess of 100,000 lakes.

Sleep [ edit ]

Those interested in meeting people and learning about Manitoba rural culture could stay at a B&B or a farm .

Study [ edit ]

Manitoba is home to many excellent educational institutions, offering a wide range of study options.

Universities [ edit ]

• University of Manitoba , [1] , located in Winnipeg, is the largest university in Manitoba. It offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields such as Arts, Engineering, Law, Medicine, and Business.
• University of Winnipeg , [2] , also located in Winnipeg, offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields such as Arts, Business and Economics, Education, and Science.
• Brandon University , [3] , located in Brandon, offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields such as Arts, Education, Music, and Science.

Colleges and Technical Institutes [ edit ]

• Red River College , [4] , located in Winnipeg, is Manitoba's largest institute of applied learning and research, offering diploma, certificate, and apprenticeship programs in various fields such as Business, Health Sciences, Trades, and Technology.
• Assiniboine Community College , [5] , located in Brandon, offers diploma and certificate programs in various fields such as Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, and Trades.

Language Schools [ edit ]

• Heartland International English School , [6] , located in Winnipeg, offers English language training for international students.
• International College of Manitoba , [7] , located in Winnipeg, offers programs for international students to improve their English language proficiency and to prepare for university studies in Canada.

Other [ edit ]

• Canadian Mennonite University , [8] , located in Winnipeg, is a Christian university offering undergraduate degree programs in various fields such as Arts, Business, Music, and Social Science.
• Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology , [9] , located in Winnipeg, offers certificate and diploma programs in various trades such as Automotive Technology, Construction Trades, and Information Technology.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Weather [ edit ].

Winters in Manitoba are harsh, and the relative lack of moderating effects by oceans and its relative flatness makes most of the province exposed to weather extremes. Parts of Manitoba near lakes are prone to lake effect snow. Summers are another story, with the possibility of high humidity when the warm air from the Gulf of Mexico in the south blows through the province.

West Nile Virus [ edit ]

There have been some cases of West Nile Virus in the province it is recommended that you do the following things:

• Reduce the number of hours you spend outside especially during dusk and dawn
• Use mosquito repellent
• Wear light coloured and loose fitting clothing

Go next [ edit ]

• Neighbouring provinces of Saskatchewan and Ontario , Nunavut and the Northwest Territories
• The state of North Dakota
• Travel on the Trans-Canada Highway

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Manitoba Travel Guide

The province of Manitoba Canada has a lot to say, make the journey and let it speak to you.

About Manitoba

Manitoba Canada is a prairie province with thousands of lakes and many rivers and it’s a land of great opportunities. Northern Manitoba has some of the best wildlife viewing areas in Northern Canada . You can go snorkelling with beluga whales, come face to face with polar bears and spend long nights in awe of the wonder of the Northern Lights .

Winnipeg, the gem of the prairies

Winnipeg lies at the confluence of the TED and Assiniboine Rivers, a location known as The Forks . This point was at the crossroads of canoe routes used by Aboriginal people prior to European contact.

The city rises above the prairie and it’s a metropolis where you the least expect it . It is a destination worth stopping at to stroll through its historic neighbourhoods.

Winnipeg’s emerald jewel is the Assiniboine Park , worth at least a half day’s visit.

The great white North of Manitoba Canada

If you follow your compass farther north, the northern lights not only occur more frequently but are brighter too. In towns like Churchill , the lights are a major attraction.

But the major attraction in this small community in the north of Manitoba Canada is its big, furry neighbours, the polar bears . Best time of year for sightings of the great white animals are in October when they migrate onto rapidly freezing Hudson Bay to fish, and late June, when thawing ice forces a return to shore.

Much of Manitoba’s outdoor fun involves its 100,000 lakes and the many rivers that link them.

Manitoba’s lakes are home to dozens of species of fish. Fly-in fishing at isolated spots like Aikens and Dogskin lakes, northeast of Bissett in Atikaki Provincial Park attract anglers of all skill levels. Other popular places are Gods River, Knee Lake, and Island Lake, all in northeast Manitoba Canada. In the north-west region, you find Big Sand, Egenolf, and Nueltin lakes.

Lake Winnipeg is known by windsurfing enthusiasts which take advantage on breezy days.

When canoeing down the Grass River, near the junction of Highway 10 and 39 you have the opportunity to see the beauty of the northern frontier.

Chilling out

When the lakes freeze over in Manitoba Canada, ice fishing and ice skating are favoured activities. Such places as Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg are irresistible for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Many snowmobiling trails criss-cross the province and call the adventures to kick up some powder in Duck Mountain and Turtle Mountain provincial parks.

Skiers can take on over 20 runs at Asessippi and Winter Park ski areas.

Riding Mountain National Park rises from the flat and offers a wealth of opportunity for activity. Self-guiding hiking trails range from the easy Beach Ridges Trail to the difficult Bald Hill Trail, named for the barren hill towering over lush green trees. Another suggested trail is the Ochre River Trail, which entices both trekkers and cross-country skiers.

The park’s Clear Lake Trail is a challenging, 25 km cycling route that traverses part of an Indian reserve. Before starting the trip, you will need permission from the reserve.

There are also long trails for Mountain bikers and horseback riders available, like the 73 kilometres Central Trail.

Manitoba Canada’s Scenic Routes

Taking a road trip in Manitoba Canada can definitely turn into an adventure. Manitoba Canada has plenty of scenic routes, just hop into the car and go whichever way the wind blows.

Drive east and follow the yellow and blue signs which tell you’re on the La Vérendry Trail. There are five travel corridors to choose from. You can spend days touring the small towns and natural path around Whiteshell Provincial Park.

Continue north to Rennie and Seven Sisters Fall before you circle back to the beaches on the east side of Lake Winnipeg.

Follow Hwy 9 north along the west side of the lake, the road winding along the shore to Gimli, with a stop at Winnipeg Beach. Have a break here to stretch your legs on the boardwalk.

Drive north on Hwy 8 to Hecla Island and Arborg, where you can follow PTH 68 west to Lake Manitoba and drive across the bridge spanning the lake at The Narrows.

Stop to enjoy the vibes, before moving west towards Dauphin, skirting the southern edge of Rainbow Beach Provincial Park .

Special Place To Visit

Churchill, Manitoba – known as the polar bear capital of the world . Churchill is located on the shore of Hudson Bay. It is Canada’s northernmost subarctic seaport and is the site of the Hudson’s Bay Co. This is a place to put on your bucket list. Can you imagine viewing polar bears in the wild?

Manitoba Canada – mysterious and enlightening, ready to be explored!

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Manitoba Complete Travel Guide - Things To Do, Activities & Food

Discover the unique polar bear and wildlife tours of Manitoba, and learn more about the top sights, best road trips, and most amazing things to do.

Quick Links

Fast facts about manitoba, manitoba - accommodations, top sights, polar bear tours & activities.

• Major Towns And Cities That Make Up Manitoba: Winnipeg, Thompson, Portage La Prairie, Brandon, Morden.
• Timezones include: Central Standard Time (CST).
• Most Populous Cities: Winnipeg, Brandon, Steinbach.

Geographic Places of Note

• Mountains to see: Baldy Mountain, Turtle Mountain, Hart Mountain.
• Thomson is home to the Pisew Falls Provincial Park.
• Notable bodies of water include Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba, Falcon Lake, West Hawk Lake, and Little Limestone Lake.
• Manitoba is home to the Riding Mountain National Park.

MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN MANITOBA

Accommodations.

Budget-Friendly

Budget-friendly options can be found in Manitoba when searching for affordable accommodations. Those places can include several amenities, such as air conditioning, wireless internet, and television.

• Bellas Castle Bed and Breakfast , Morden
• Aromansse Bed & Breakfast , Winnipeg
• Micro Inn and Suites by Wyndham Portage La Prairie

Mid Range accommodations in Manitoba usually have more amenities that are upgrades to budget-friendly locations. Centrally-located and popular addresses make these spots more desirable.

• Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Center Winnipeg
• The Fairmont Winnipeg
• The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Center, Ascend Hotel Collection , Winnipeg

High-End accommodation options are available in Manitoba and offer world-class amenities, such as swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and spas. Those are more the most expensive accommodations.

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Winnipeg
• Mariaggi's Theme Suite Hotel & Spa , Winnipeg
• The Souris Hotel

Manitoba Travel Guides

Top sights in manitoba.

Manitoba is home to several unique landmarks and attractions, including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Riding Mountain National Park, The Forks Market, Winnipeg Art Gallery, Manitoba Museum, Assiniboine Park Zoo, and others.

• Lake Winnipeg is a must-see in Manitoba
• This stunning prehistoric lake covers much of southeastern Manitoba
• Here are the most stunning attractions to witness in Manitoba
• What to see in Hudson Bay ?

Polar Bear Tours In Manitoba

One of the most exciting and exclusive activities one can undertake in Manitoba is taking a tour to see the beautiful grizzly polar bears in Churchill. The best time to spot the bears is during October and November. Moreover, the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg houses polar bears with which people can get up close and personal.

• Where to go on a polar bear tour in Manitoba
• Guide to polar bear-watching tours in Manitoba
• What to know about the polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba

Things To Do In Manitoba

People enjoy doing several activities while vacationing in Manitoba. These include visiting the Forks Market in Winnipeg for summer and winter fun, hitting the Grand Beach Provincial Park, attending the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba in Gimli, witnessing Whiteshell Provincial Park, and much more.

• Top things to do in Manitoba and reasons to visit
• The coolest stops when driving through Manitoba
• This harmless snake den is a must-visit in Manitoba

• Destinations

Manitoba Travel Guide

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Introducing Manitoba

About manitoba.

• Images of Manitoba
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography

Plan your trip

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Manitoba travel guide

Overlooked by many, Manitoba could be Canada’s best-kept secret, spanning Arctic tundra and sprawling prairies, a classy capital and vast swathes of wildlife-packed wilderness.

At one extreme, there’s the sub-Arctic coastline at Churchill on Hudson Bay where you can spy frolicking beluga whales in summer or roaming polar bears in the autumn. At the other, there’s cosmopolitan Winnipeg, crammed with thrilling museums and fascinating historic districts.

In between, there’s not much at all other than a phenomenal landscape of sweeping farmland, flowering prairies and some 100,000 lakes, which support a range of wildlife including elk, black bears, wolves, muskox, moose and various migratory birds.

No wonder outdoor adventurers are in heaven, paddling the historic Hayes River, or camping at spots like Paint Lake Provincial Park for a hike to Kwasitchewan Falls.

If all that open space overwhelms you, head for the city. Winnipeg is usually either blisteringly hot or bitingly cold, but don’t let the weather put you off. The city boasts Canada’s oldest public gallery as well as the Canadian Museum of Human Rights, opened in 2014 and the first national museum built for nearly 50 years.

For a city plonk in the middle of the prairies, Winnipeg boasts a seriously impressive cultural line-up, including a professional ballet, symphony orchestra, theatre and opera. And who’d have thought it? Every single Canadian coin in your pocket was minted in Winnipeg.

Manitoba is a huge province with comparably few residents, but the people that do live there are renowned for their friendly, hospitable natures and embrace of diversity. Winnipeg is the centre of the cultural festival Folklarama, a celebration of Canada's ethnic communities. Manitobans themselves are a vibrant international mix, and include Icelandic, Japanese and Italian.

647,797 sq km (250,116 sq miles).

1,278,365 (2016).

2.3 per sq km.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad , which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK Health Security Agency) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Canada

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Canada. Avoid travelling if you have symptoms of COVID-19. See the Government of Canada’s website for more information on COVID-19 and travel.

Public spaces and services

The Government of Canada recommends that all travellers wear a face mask on public transport.

You may be asked to wear a face mask indoors, such as in hospitals or on public transport. You may need proof of vaccination to visit settings such as care homes.

Local authorities in Canada can introduce restrictions or measures at short notice. Comply with the rules and advice of the local authorities. Check the COVID-19 guidance for each province and territory .

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Visa requirements

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada – not both.

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to six months). You will need an eTA instead. Check entry requirements and find out if you need a visa or an eTA for your visit using this tool.

You may need to provide fingerprints and photos at a visa application centre to apply for permanent residence or a study or work permit. Find out if you need to give biometrics. If you do need to give biometrics, see the list of biometrics collection points .

When you arrive, you must show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

You must get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter or transit Canada by air, unless you’re exempt. Read the list of exemptions on the ETA website . If you enter Canada by land or sea, you don’t need an eTA. However, you must travel with acceptable travel documents and identification .

If you have British-Canadian dual nationality, you cannot apply for an eTA. You need a valid Canadian passport instead.

The eTA website has information about the eTA system and how to apply .

Visa and eTA scams

Some  unauthorised websites  charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Government of Canada.

If you think you may have been a victim of a scam, use the eTA Check Status tool to confirm if your eTA is valid. If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received a confirmation of your application, complete this enquiry form .

Transiting through Canada

You must have a valid Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to transit Canada, unless you are exempt.

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Travelling with children

If only one parent is present, carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For further information, check with Canada’s High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into - and out - of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Banned food products will be confiscated and you could be fined. Check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website for more information.

If you visited a farm, or had contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and intend to visit a farm during your stay, you must complete the relevant section in your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see the Government of Canada’s website on biosecurity .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from  terrorism  while abroad.

Terrorism in Canada

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Canada.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent attacks include:

• in 2023, one person was stabbed and injured in Surrey, British Columbia
• in 2021, 4 people were killed and one injured by a vehicle in London, Ontario
• in 2020, one person was killed with a hammer in Scarborough, Ontario
• in 2020, one person was killed and 2 wounded in a machete attack in Toronto, Ontario

See the  Government of Canada’s national terrorism threat level .

Take precautions to protect yourself from petty crime, including:

• not leaving your bag or luggage unattended
• keeping luggage out of sight in cars
• keeping valuables and passport in a hotel safe
• leaving copies of important documents with family and friends in the UK
• carrying a photocopy of your passport for ID

Laws and cultural differences

Recreational cannabis is legally available in Canada. Local laws vary depending on the province or territory you are visiting . It is illegal to carry any form of cannabis into the UK without a valid licence issued by the Home Office. This includes cannabis and cannabinoid oils prescribed for medicinal purposes in Canada. It is illegal to take cannabis across the Canadian border without a permit or exemption authorised by Health Canada.

There is more information on the  Canadian Border Services Agency website .

If you are hiking or camping, be considerate and cautious of local wildlife. You should:

take all rubbish with you including food items to avoid attracting animals to your site

be careful around animals with nearby young or nests – they may be aggressive when protecting their territory

research the region to learn about the local wildlife

take particular care if you’re in an area where bears have been sighted

keep a safe distance from any wildlife including marine animals and birds

follow park regulations

Transport risks

Road travel.

Traffic and safety laws vary between provinces and territories. This includes laws on whether you are allowed to turn right on a red light. See more information on driving in Canada.

Follow speed limits and take extra care when travelling on country roads. Watch out for wild animals.

For more information on road conditions and road safety, see Transport Canada , the Canadian Automobile Association and Travel Canada .

Driving in winter

In winter, highways are often closed because of snowstorms and avalanches in Alberta, British Columbia and other provinces. Check local weather conditions on  The Weather Network .

Driving conditions can be dangerous, even when roads remain open during a winter storm. Take care, follow local restrictions or guidelines, and make sure your vehicle has snow tyres and emergency supplies.

Car hire in Canada

You can drive a car in Canada using a full UK driving licence. However, some car hire companies may require you to have an International Driving Permit . Check your car hire company’s requirements before you travel. Always carry your driving licence and take out full insurance cover if you hire a vehicle.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

From July to November, coastal areas can be affected by hurricanes. Check the  National Hurricane Centre ,  Environment Canada  and  The Weather Network  websites for the latest weather conditions. See FCDO advice on tropical cyclones.

Avalanches can happen in mountainous regions, including Alberta and British Columbia. Always follow avalanche advice and stay away from closed trails. Follow the directions of local guides or instructors. For more information and avalanche news, visit the  Canadian Avalanche Foundation.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake or tsunami. The Government of Canada has more information about emergency preparedness .

Thunderstorms

Summer thunderstorms are frequent in most parts of Canada, particularly between April and September. They can cause property damage and threaten lives.

Winterstorms

Winter storms, which can involve severe freezing rain, blizzards and hail are frequent in many parts of Canada, particularly between November and April. They can cause perilous driving conditions, property damage and threaten lives. Follow local warnings or news for details.

Tornadoes can occur anywhere in Canada between May and September, but June to July is the peak season in:

• Southern Ontario
• southeastern Quebec
• Southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba through to Thunder Bay
• the interior of British Columbia and western New Brunswick

Follow instructions from Canadian officials or law enforcement. Check the  National Hurricane Centre  for weather updates.

Forest fires

Forest fires can start at any time, whatever the season. There is more risk of fire in the grasslands and forests of western Canada, although in summer 2023 there were also significant fires in parts of Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Follow local warnings or news for details on latest outbreaks.

For more information about active wildfires and forecasts, visit the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System website .

Arctic travel

Parts of Canada are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land and sea. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. See Arctic travel safety advice .

Before you travel, check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check:

• the latest information on health risks and what vaccinations you need for Canada on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre)
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Canada, including the ski and hiking destinations in the Canadian Rockies, such as Banff and Lake Louise. More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Canada

The cost of medical treatment can be very expensive. There are no special arrangements for British visitors. 

For emergency healthcare, go to a hospital emergency room or a walk-in clinic.

If you have dual British-Canadian citizenship, you may still have to pay for medical treatment if you don’t meet provincial residency requirements for healthcare. Check with the relevant province or territory for more information .

COVID-19 healthcare in Canada

Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Canada on TravelHealthPro.

Seek medical assistance if you develop COVID-19 symptoms while in Canada. Follow the advice from Public Health Canada   for updates and guidance. These Twitter accounts are also official sources of information and guidance:

• @GovCanHealth
• @CPHO_Canada

The TravelHealthPro website has more advice on  travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Canada

Telephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)

Coastguard maritime emergencies

Telephone: 1-800-463-4393

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Canada
• dealing with a death in Canada
• being arrested in Canada
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Find more support for British nationals abroad .

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Manitoba Travel Guide

"Friendly Manitoba," as the license plate slogan on the Canadian province reads, may be among the country’s best kept secrets. Manitoba may not have mountain peaks, oceans, or world-famous landmarks, however, visitors who make time for an in-depth visit to this prairie wonderland will encounter surprising expanses of forested wilderness and blooming wildflowers among Manitoba’s wide open spaces. This "land of 100,000 lakes" even includes plenty of beautiful beaches along its sandy shores.

Manitoba can best be divided into two parts: the provincial capital, Winnipeg , where over half of Manitoba’s population lives, and the largely rural remainder where forests and wildlife often outnumber people. The vast majority of Manitoba’s people live below the 53rd parallel, and many Manitoba communities ‘North of 53’ are only reachable by air.

Visitors can easily spend their entire Manitoba stay in Winnipeg, home to most of the province’s museums, the greatest variety of shopping opportunities, and all of its professional sports teams. Winnipeg is home to North America’s longest operating ballet company, Canada’s oldest regional theaters in both English and French, and a stately concert hall that hosts frequent symphony orchestra and opera performances.

Winnipeg also offers Manitoba’s largest variety of accommodations, most of which are situated along Pembina Highway South, close to Polo Park Shopping Centre and near Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. Those seeking more rural surroundings have plenty of farm holiday camps, as well as bed and breakfast establishments to choose from across Manitoba’s countryside. Maple syrup, bannock, pork products, and smoked gold eye caught from Lake Winnipeg are some of the area’s most famous signature dishes.

Cars are the easiest way to travel across most of southern Manitoba, as some parts of Winnipeg are virtually impossible to reach by public transit and smaller communities have no public transportation at all. The overwhelming majority of passengers who fly to Manitoba enter the province through Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, whose enormous catchment area extends well into the two neighboring Canadian provinces, two adjacent American states, and the territory of Nunavut.

Rail is another viable, but not necessarily speedy way to travel in Manitoba. The Canadian route stops at six different southern stations on its way between Toronto and Vancouver, while the Hudson Bay service is a scenic 37-hour rail journey between Winnipeg and Manitoba’s far northern communities. Both are operated by VIA, whose main hub is Winnipeg’s Union Station.

• Watch polar bears, beluga whales, and the Northern Lights at the Hudson Bay port of Churchill
• Fish, boat, and swim in any of Manitoba’s more than 100,000 pristine water bodies
• Sunbathe at any of the Interlake region’s serene beaches
• See the original Winnie the Pooh statue at the entrance of Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park Zoo
• Follow the footsteps of over 6,000 years of history at The Forks , the meeting place of Winnipeg’s two most important rivers
• Create a souvenir coin at Winnipeg’s Royal Canadian Mint
• Bond with Canada’s largest Icelandic population at Gimli’s annual Islendingadagurinn festival
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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Winnipeg, Manitoba

Hi Everyone! Megan ( @meghonan ) here, with another incredible Canadian destination to explore with you. While everyone raves about the west coast and the major metropolises of Canada, this under the radar city should be at the top of your Canadian bucket list. 

In the face of the global pandemic, travelers are seeking out more meaningful experiences right in their own backyard more than ever before. Which is exactly why Winnipeg, Manitoba is currently booming.

In the search of underrated (and crowd-free) destinations, travelers are swapping the traversed mountains of British Columbia and the pristine coast of Nova Scotia for a city of just 750,000 people. And why wouldn’t they when Winnipeg is home to a booming multi-cultural food scene, Nordic-inspired wellness hotspots and the warmest locals on the planet— after all, the province’s slogan is “Friendly Manitoba.” Here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

What To Know Before Visiting Winnipeg, Manitoba

Getting to Winnipeg, Manitoba: The region is best reached by direct flights into Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. Be sure to pre-arrange transfers in advance if you do not plan on renting a car yourself. Use Google Flights to find the cheapest flight options. 

Currency & Money : Most vendors accept all major credit cards, though it is advised to keep some local currency on you. I’d recommend stopping at the airport for the lowest conversion rate. 

Renting a car: Renting a car is incredibly easy and a great way to explore the province. Be sure to get full coverage insurance, if not already covered by your credit card. 

Bring : If visiting during the warmer months, you’ll want to pack light and breezy outfits. If visiting during the winter––pack as many layers as possible, as the temperatures can drop well below 0ºF. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Winnipeg

Is it cold in Winnipeg? 

To be honest, yes, Winnipeg is one of the five coldest cities in the world, according to  AccuWeather. But, one misconception about Canada is that it’s cold all year round. If you visit during the summer months of June, July or August, you can expect gorgeous 79ºF weather any day of the week. One thing about the locals, they embrace winter unlike any other place in the world with skating trials, winter festivals and incredible ice sculpture. Rest assured you’ll have an incredible vacation regardless of when you visit. 

What is Winnipeg known for? 

The city is incredibly diverse, representing well over 100 cultures and nationalities among its unique neighborhoods. Regardless of what area you choose to explore, you’ll find no shortage of international cuisine and colorful art galleries. Plus, expansive green spaces that are dedicated to hosting a myriad of festivals and exhibits throughout the year. 

Is there a local dish to try? 

Canadiana fare is often brushed over, but there are plenty of delicious signature dishes that shine. You simply can’t leave Winnipeg without sampling Bison, preferably in burger form. Another local favorite is Goldeye, a freshwater fish that is native to Winnipeg. It can be fried up a multitude of ways, so keep an eye out for it on the local menu. Finally, bannock, a type of flatbread that originates within Canada from the Indigenous community. It is best served fresh out of the oven with a side of jam. 

Where to Stay in Winnipeg, Manitoba

Hotel recommendation: Inn at the Forks

If location is everything, then Inn at the Forks is home to prime real estate. Find this sleek, modern hotel nestled right in the heart of the city where the Assiniboine River meets the Red River. With shopping, culture, history and art just steps from the Inn at the Forks, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more central spot to call home during your visit. 

Stop by the Canadiana SMITH restaurant tucked away on the main floor for Hudson Bay. Inspired booths, rustic antler chandeliers and sleek, modern bars make for an Instagram worthy brunch spot. Or perhaps stop off for a nightcap, selecting one of the craft cocktails from the ever-growing list to enjoy on the spacious patio. 

The rooms truly reflect a modern, luxe boutique hotel feel with elevated furnishings that seem hand-picked straight from Scandinavia. While minimalist in style, the space evokes warmth with plenty of dimmable lighting and cozy built in bench setting. At night, snuggle up under the covers and take in the bustling downtown Winnipeg skyline, as you drift off to the best sleep of your life. 

FIND THE BEST RATES HERE

Where To Eat and Drink In Winnipeg, Manitoba

New to the local food scene, Passero features modern Italian cuisine from Chef Scott Bagshaw. Bagshaw puts a modern twist on the classics, resulting in a flavorful menu built on small plates. With choices clustering around several categories, you have salads, raw options, pasta, vegetables, meat and seafood. Watch the masters at work from the open-concept kitchen and don’t be shy to ask the expert staff for a wine pairing — they get it spot on every time. 

Nestled away in Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District, this exceptional brunch spot is perhaps the hidden gem of the city. After walking down a set of stairs, guests are greeted to a bright and airy room. It features brick exposed walls, colorful neon signs and an exposed, open-concept kitchen where you can watch the magic happen. Sourced directly from local producers, the menu offers playful twists on brunch staples, like Braised Bacon Benedict and Fried Chicken on Toast — both finger-licking good. 

Nonsuch La Brasserie and Brewing Co.

This mico-brewery feels anything but tiny, with an incredibly passionate and knowledgeable staff always on-hand. With a focus on Belgian-style beers, each batch is conducive to an elevated ABV for stashing away in your cellar for years to come. Yes, Nonsuch Brewing Co. crafted a beer that finally ages as well as fine wine. The small, but tastefully decorated taproom also excels at locally-sourced tapa style dishes. Don’t miss the Zinn Farms Rabbit & Pork Terrine, Endive Salad with pickled grapes and soft herbs, as well as a selection of house-made charcuterie options. 

Patent 5 Distillery and Tasting Room

For craft cocktails, there is no better spot than this premium, small batch distillery. Housed within an old stable turned tasting room, this spot features much of the 20th-century original architecture that the Exchange District is known for. Utilizing 90 per cent Manitoban wheat and 10 per cent Manitoban barley, the spirits created here are as Canadian as it gets. For a unique twist on an age-old recipe, the distillery uses vapour infused botanicals within their gin, alongside Manitba-made bitters crafted from local rhubarb and cherries. 

Feast Cafe Bistro

There are few Indigenous-owned and operated restaurants within Canada and lucky for Manitobans, Feast Cafe Bistro is one of them. Serving up First Nations cuisine, chef and owner Christa Bruneau-Guenther is a special talent who recently appeared as a judge on MasterChef Canada. Her menu is inventive, while creating the comforting feeling of a well-versed homemade meal. With a focus on local ingredients, you can’t pass on the dessert bannock, pickerel sliders, or elk stew. 

Hargrave Street Market

If you can’t quite put your finger on what you’re in the mood for, head straight for Hargrave Street Market. This inventive food hall is contributing to the shift towards upscale European markets, with endless options to satisfy everyone. And we’re not talking about your run of the mill food chains here––no, Hargrave is home to some of the best chef’s in Manitoba all gathered under one roof. Satisfy your cravings with pizza, tacos, ramen, burgers, or perhaps…all of the above. 

What To Do In Winnipeg, Manitoba

Canadian museum for human rights (cmhr) .

Visit the world’s only museum dedicated to human rights education and awareness. You can discover the oldest forms of storytelling and the timeless power of art through interactive technology. With rotating exhibitions and events, no two visits to the museum are the same. This means guests can come back time and time again for a revitalized experience.

Stop by Manitoba’s number one tourist destination with unique winter and spring attractions. Like the Arctic Glacier park with on-land skating trails/rinks, crokicurl and warming huts designed by architects from around the globe. Inside The Forks, find a marketplace of delicious cuisine from across the globe, alongside a craft beer stand for sampling. If shopping is more your speed, find a collection of curated shops and maybe even grab a souvenir to bring home. Something like a locally crafted candle from Farmer’s Son Co. 

Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature

Embrace the changing of seasons at Thermëa, a haven that features world-class thermotherapy facilities inspired by the best Scandinavian traditions. For the ultimate rest and relaxation experience, hop between the four outdoor baths ranging in temperature to help circulate blood flow. Then breath deeply inside the aromatic sauna to stimulate the senses. Immersed in a natural environment, guests are encouraged to kick back in the numerous rest spaces both indoors and outdoors. To top off a full day, be sure to grab a healthy meal from the on-site restaurant to enjoy al fresco, alongside a crisp glass of wine. 

Qaumajuq, Inuit Art Centre

Recently unveiled in 2021, Qaumajuq is the world’s first purpose-built Inuit art centre. Inspired by the light and landscape of Canada’s great north, the domed structure is a masterpiece within itself. Built as an extension of the Winnipeg Art Gallery, visitors can immerse themselves in a full day of innovative works that weave together the story of the homeland of Canada. Currently running until the end of the year, exhibit INUA features the contemporary and early works of 90 Inuit artists. It is all housed within a 8,000 sq ft gallery, the largest space ever created dedicated solely to Inuit art and culture. 

Assiniboine Park Conservancy 

Just a quick drive from downtown Winnipeg will bring you up close and personal to animal species from across the globe at the Assiniboine Park Conservancy. Open all year round, the zoo is particularly known for its award-winning Journey to Churchill exhibit. Home to muskoxen, polar bears, wolves, Arctic fox and other northern species, the conservancy offers the most comprehensive northern species exhibit of its kind in the world.

FortWhyte Alive

Snap on some hiking boots or snowshoes to explore over 660-acres of reclaimed urban green space at FortWhyte Alive. Seeped in conservation and sustainability, the park is dedicated to encouraging visitors of all ages to practice understanding of the natural world. With plenty of on-going events, you never know what you’ll learn during a visit. Plus, during the warmer months you can pop by the summer market to sample homegrown, organic fruits and veggies. 

Festival du Voyageur

While this is a seasonal activity, no Winnipeg guide would be complete without mentioning the famed winter festival. Embracing the cold, Manitobans celebrate the change of seasons every February with the Festival du Voyageur. Tucked away within Winnipeg’s French Quarter, Saint-Boniface, find some of Canada’s big name talent performing each and every night. Alongside, find good old Canadian fun––like ice sculpture contests, Caribou shots and heaping portions of poutine. 

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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The COMPLETE Guide for Visiting Churchill, Manitoba (updated 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Manitoba team

Last updated on January 18, 2024

One of the most amazing destinations in the province, Churchill, Manitoba is known as the polar bear capital of the world. And while seeing polar bears in the wild is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there are many other things to do in Churchill, too.

From the Northern Lights to kayaking with belugas to learning about the local Inuit culture, we’ve put together this guide for you with everything you need to know about Churchill. We’ve listed tour companies, where to stay, where to eat, and everything there is to do in the small community, no matter the season. Read on for your ultimate guide to visiting Churchill, Manitoba.

Land Acknowledgments

Churchill, Manitoba is located on Treaty 5 territory.

Brief History

Churchill has a history that dates back many centuries; Indigenous peoples established settlements and homes on the land we now call Manitoba thousands of years ago. Artifacts from Pre-Dorset, Dorset, and Inuit peoples have been found in the area, so it has been confirmed that people have been living in the Churchill region for many centuries.

Europeans first arrived in Churchill in the 17th century, and in 1717 the Hudson’s Bay Company built their first permanent settlement in the area. The fur trade became a popular industry in Churchill before quickly declining by the end of the 1700s.

Churchill then became a seaport, and with the completion of the Hudson Bay Railway in 1929, the focus of trading became grain.

Over the past few decades, however, Churchill has become famous as one of Manitoba’s biggest tourist attractions thanks to its abundance of polar bears (it’s the best spot to see polar bears in Canada ), beluga whales, and Northern Lights. The town with a permanent population of fewer than 1,000 people draws hundreds of thousands of tourists every single year.

Where is Churchill, Manitoba?

Churchill is found in Northern Manitoba on the Hudson Bay. As the crow flies, Winnipeg and Churchill are approximately 1,000 kilometres apart. There are no paved roads that lead to Churchill, so you’ll have to either fly there or take the train (more on that below).

As Manitoba is in Central Canada, you may have to connect to Winnipeg from Toronto or another Canadian city before travelling to Churchill (if you’re travelling from another province or country).

Churchill Weather

You guessed it… as an Arctic location, Churchill is very cold!

Churchill is very far north in Manitoba, and you’ll want to make sure to take the proper precautions in the winter months, i.e. dressing in lots of warm layers, checking the forecast for weather warnings, and so on. Even in the summer months, it is recommended to bring very warm clothing and to prepare for cold weather, including waterproof clothing, warm hats and mittens, and many layers.

In winter in Churchill, you can expect temperatures to range from a high of -15°C to a low of -24°C (although the windchill can make that feel much colder). If you’re photographing the Northern Lights at night, prepare for extremely cold conditions.

Spring in Churchill is quite cold as well, and you can expect anything from highs of 10°C to lows of -15°C.

The summer weather is warmer but can still bring cold and rain, with average highs around 18°C for June, July, and August. If you plan on any boat tours of the coast to see beluga whales in summer, make sure to bring lots of warm clothing.

Autumn (which is polar bear season) brings the same cooler temperatures as spring, but the average high will drop to -3°C by November.

In other words… plan for anything and everything, no matter when you visit Churchill! Always make sure to check the weather forecast for your visit to have a rough idea of the conditions.

And as Churchill is found in Northern Manitoba, it’s no surprise that you’ll find lots of snow there. While it’s extremely rare for it to snow in July or August, you can expect snow between September and June, and definitely from October until May. There are approximately 271 sunny days per year in Churchill, but summer brings an average of 8 rainy days per month.

Getting to Churchill, Manitoba

You’re in luck: we have a very detailed route guide on how to get from Winnipeg to Churchill ! If you’re coming from another province or country, you will most likely have to connect in Winnipeg before beginning your journey to Churchill.

The easiest and fastest route to Churchill is by plane. We recommend flying with Calm Air ; the most common route flown is Winnipeg to Churchill, which is a two-hour flight. You can also fly to Churchill from Thompson or Gillam, Manitoba.

One of the best ways to see a lot of Manitoba is to travel by train to Churchill. There are multiple stops along the way, but many people start the journey in Winnipeg; trains depart Winnipeg for Churchill every Tuesday and Sunday. While taking the train is usually cheaper than flying, be prepared to travel for at least 48 hours if you’re coming from Winnipeg. We recommend booking your train ticket to Churchill with Via Rail well in advance of your trip.

There is currently no possible way to drive to Churchill, as there are no paved roads that connect Churchill with the rest of the province. You can drive to Thompson or Gillam and then take the train or fly from either location.

As there are no paved roads that lead to Churchill, there are no direct bus routes to Churchill. You can take a bus to Thompson or Gillam and then take the train or fly from either location.

Practical Essentials

Thankfully, downtown Churchill is extremely walkable, and you’re never too far from many local restaurants or attractions when in town. It is extremely important to pay attention to the bear warnings, however, and stay far from restricted areas, even if you’re visiting outside of polar bear season.

Unfortunately, there isn’t any public transportation in Churchill, although there is a taxi service ( North Coast Taxi Service /Churchill Taxis, which you can reach by calling 204 675-2345). We recommend always calling ahead to book a taxi; it is rare to flag one down in the small town. Many hotels and tours also provide shuttle transportation to and from the airport and various attractions.

That being said, if you do have access to a car, Churchill and the surrounding area are incredibly easy to drive around. Most locations are within a few minutes’ drive from one another, and there is never any traffic. We do not recommend driving on your own to look for polar bears; always do that with an experienced guide (see more below).

If you’d like to rent a car or van while you’re in Churchill, Tamarack Rentals can help you out.

It is very easy to find parking around Churchill, and none of it is paid parking.

Polar Bear Warning

It should go without saying that polar bears are very dangerous animals, and it’s absolutely necessary to practice polar bear safety at all times when in Churchill. Polar bear attacks are extremely rare in Churchill, but that is because every precaution is taken to keep humans safe. It is recommended to always travel in a group, always stay near a vehicle or building, never walk at night after 10 pm, and avoid areas along the coastline with poor sightlines. We recommend joining guided tours for the safest way to explore Churchill and the surrounding area.

On the rare occasion that polar bears come close to the town of Churchill, they are dealt with swiftly and safely by trained professionals in order to minimize any harm to the bear or the community.

If you see a polar bear when you are in Churchill, do not attempt to approach it. Get inside a vehicle or a building as calmly as you can, and call 204 675-2327.

When to see the polar bears in Churchill

Autumn is polar bear season in Churchill, although you can often spot a few during the summer months as well. Mid-October until mid-November is the very best time to see the polar bears, as that’s when the Hudson Bay begins to freeze over and the bears can hunt for seals, bringing them out into the open. Special tours also take you to polar bear denning sites in February and March in order to see polar bear mothers with their cubs.

Fun fact: Polar bears don’t hibernate! They can hunt for seals all winter long, so there is no need for them to hibernate.

Tour Operators in Churchill, Manitoba

There are many tour companies in Churchill, all of which come highly recommended. Some are all-inclusive, meaning your tour includes airfare and accommodation. Many also provide transportation to and from the airport or around town.

Lazy Bear Expeditions

Lazy Bear Expeditions is one of the most popular tour companies in Churchill. Tours include the Ultimate Bears and Belugas Summer Adventure, the Ultimate Polar Bear Adventure, and the Bears and Aurora Arctic Adventure, all of which include airfare. The two-day Beluga Whale Dream Tour does not include airfare. There are also tour add-ons, including kayaking and AquaGliding.

Frontiers North Adventures

Frontiers North Adventures has perhaps the biggest variety of tours in Churchill available, and all offer a fantastic experience. Choose from tours that include polar bears, beluga whales, and/or the Northern Lights, some of which include airfare or train travel (check out this luxury 5-day option ). They also have the magnificent Tundra Buggy Lodge, a unique accommodation that allows you to stay overnight right on the tundra, as well as one-day tours to Churchill to see the polar bears from Winnipeg. It’s also possible to book summer and autumn day tours with Frontiers North Adventures, including the Tundra Buggy Adventure.

Wat’chee Expeditions

Indigenous-owned and operated, Wat’chee Expeditions is an incredibly respected tour company near Churchill. They are also one of the only tour companies that can take you to Wapusk National Park to see polar bear dens, therefore increasing your chances of seeing polar bear cubs. Their world-renowned lodge is famous among wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers, and provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Great White Bear Tours

Great White Bear Tours has a variety of tours that include polar bears, beluga whales, and/or the Northern Lights. Some of their tours include meetings with local mushers who know the land better than anyone. They also have the Tundra Lodge, allowing you to stay directly on the tundra for an amazing experience alongside the polar bears. Want to plan your own tour? They offer individual tours at a price per person, per day. Their tours do not include airfare.

Discover Churchill Tours

Discover Churchill Tours are fantastic for day tours as well as multi-day tours. Whether you want to see the polar bears, Northern Lights, or belugas, there’s a tour for you. They also offer incredible photography tours, and are one of the only tour operators that takes you to Wapusk National Park to look for bear cubs (in February and March). They also have excellent town and area tours as well as Ithaka Shipwreck hikes in the low tide.

Churchill Wild

One of the pricier tour operators on this list, there’s a good reason for that high price tag: Churchill Wild has an incredible selection of ecolodges that allow you to spend a few days in the remote wilderness, far from the tourist crowds of the town of Churchill. Head out on a polar bear safari in order to see the very best of the tundra and its amazing wildlife.

Iceberg Inn

The Iceberg Inn offers polar bear and beluga whale tours, as well as some all-inclusive deals that include the tours, meals, accommodation, and transportation. Respected for their knowledge and for their friendliness, Iceberg Inn is one of the smaller tour operators in Churchill, making them perfect for those looking for a more intimate experience.

Wapusk Adventures

Wapusk Adventures is Indigenous-owned and operated. Run by Dave Daley, a respected dog musher in Canada, tours offered include dog sledding and cultural talks, Northern Lights viewing, snowshoe walks, e-bike tours, and more. You can also custom-build your own tour of Churchill with Wapusk Adventures.

Sea North Tours

Sea North Tours is dedicated to beluga whale conservation and education. Take one of their day tours in order to learn more about the whales and the surrounding land; tours include whale watching on Zodiac boats, a walk around Fort Prince of Wales, floe ice tours, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. If you plan ahead, you can even book two tours in one day, as most last for two to three hours.

Is it possible to visit Churchill independently or do you have to be on a tour?

It is entirely possible to visit Churchill, Manitoba independently… however, it is not recommended that you try to see polar bears unless you have a professional guide with you.

If you’d like to visit Churchill independently or on a budget, you can certainly fly or take the train there on your own. The cheapest way to get to Churchill is by driving to Thompson or Gillam first before flying or taking the train there, or by taking the train the entire way (there are no paved roads that lead to Churchill).

Once in Churchill, there are a few places to stay (see below). Without a tour, you can see the town’s attractions, see the Northern Lights at night, and see beluga whales from the shoreline in summer. It’s also possible to join half-day or day tours when in Churchill, but we recommend booking these far in advance.

No matter what season you visit Churchill, tours and hotels book up very quickly. If you plan on going to Churchill without a tour company, we recommend booking everything months in advance of your trip.

Where to Stay in Churchill, Manitoba

You have a few options for where to stay in Churchill, and if you book a tour that includes accommodation, you won’t have to worry about where to stay. We also have an entire guide on places to stay in Churchill, Manitoba.

For such a small town, there are a great variety of Churchill hotels to stay in. Here are a few of our choices for hotels in Churchill, Manitoba.

Lazy Bear Lodge

Lazy Bear Lodge is an excellent choice for a hotel in Churchill whether you’re on one of their all-inclusive tours or not. With our favourite restaurant in Churchill as well as clean, cozy rooms, Lazy Bear Lodge is also home to some of the best expeditions in the area. A solid choice for both a group tour and an independent trip when it comes to Churchill hotels.

Head to the Tundra Inn for a family-run hotel that promises excellent service and comfortable rooms. With 31 rooms available, they’re popular for business travellers, tourists, and everyone in between. Also check out the Tundra Pub across the street for dinner and entertainment.

Bed and Breakfasts

Looking for an even more intimate experience? Check out one of these Churchill bed and breakfasts.

Bluesky Bed and Sled

Owned by world-renowned musher Gerald Azure and his wife Jenafor, the Bluesky Bed and Sled is a favourite among tourists. With four rooms to choose from, the homemade breakfasts are divine and the service extraordinary. Join Gerald as you learn about dog sledding and even get out on a sled on the tundra yourself.

Polar Bear B&B

With three guest rooms (each with two single beds) and two shared bathrooms, the Polar Bear B&B is a good budget option in Churchill. Please note that all rooms are on the second floor so require climbing stairs.

Home Rentals

There are a few places to stay using Airbnb in Churchill . While there are private rooms, shared rooms, and entire homes available for rent, our choice is this entire home for rent . Please note that even shared rooms are quite pricey in Churchill.

Specialty Lodging

There are some amazing options when it comes to specialty lodging in Churchill. If you’re looking to splurge on a stay that allows you to be up close and personal with polar bears even as you sleep, check out one of the lodges below. These lodges are found far from Churchill itself, so you’re also in a prime position to view the northern lights at night.

Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge by Churchill Wild

Churchill Wild has three luxury wilderness eco-lodges to choose from, and the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge near Churchill is, in our opinion, one of the most unique accommodations in the world. It’s incredibly remote, giving you the best vantage point for wildlife viewing in Canada’s north. Other highlights of the lodge include walking tours, photography tours, wellness retreats, and more. Make sure to check out their Seal River Heritage Lodge and Dymond Lake Ecolodge, too!

Great White Bear Tundra Lodge

Operated by the Great White Bear Tours company, this tundra lodge on wheels gives you a chance to spend as much time as possible with Churchill’s polar bears. Each guest has a private cabin with a sleeping berth, while viewing platforms take your experience to the next level.

Due to the danger of polar bears, there is no camping allowed in Churchill, Manitoba.

Things to Do in Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill has a ton of tourist attractions to add to your sightseeing itinerary. You can easily fill a week or more sightseeing in the town and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favourite things to do in Churchill!

See the Polar Bears

Perhaps the most famous reason to visit Churchill is to see polar bears … it is the polar bear capital of the world, of course! The best time to see polar bears in Churchill is in October and November, when the bears are waiting for the Hudson Bay to freeze. That being said, you can also see polar bears in July, August, and September, though usually in smaller numbers (they’ll also be harder to find). You can also see polar bear mothers and their cubs on specialty tours in February and March. Remember, you can’t see polar bears independently; you’ll have to go on a tour to see them, both for your safety and for theirs!

See the Beluga Whales

There are many ways to see the beluga whales in summer in Churchill, whether by watching them from the shoreline or getting out on the water to get a closer look. Over 60,000 beluga whales migrate to the area every summer, and about 3,000 of them make their way to the mouth of the Churchill River. The best time to see beluga whales in Churchill is from mid-June to mid-August.

Go Kayaking on the Churchill River

One of the best ways to see beluga whales is to go kayaking on Churchill River during the summer months. Suitable for beginners, the beluga whales are just as curious about us as we are about them, so don’t be surprised if they come right up to you!

Take a Boat Tour

Take a tour of the Churchill River and Hudson Bay in order to see beluga whales and, if you’re lucky, polar bears walking along the shoreline of the bay. Boat tours are only available for a few months of the year, as most of the time the water is frozen!

Check out Churchill’s Murals

The SeaWalls CHURCHILL murals are a testament to the value and strength of the community of Churchill. Find these incredible murals all over town as well as outside of it; each one is unique, and artists were brought in from all over the world to complete them.

Look for the Northern Lights

It’s entirely possible to see aurora borealis year-round in Churchill, although you’ll have the best luck in February and March, when the skies are clearest. There are tons of tour companies that take you to see the northern lights, including companies that host photography tours. Churchill is definitely one of the best spots in Manitoba to see the Northern Lights !

Check out the Polar Bear Jail

Polar bears that are considered dangerous or troublesome in Churchill sometimes find themselves in “polar bear jail”. They’re kept here until they can be safely relocated, sometimes even by helicopter. Plan a short visit here to see the building – it has a beautiful mural on the side – as well as a polar bear trap.

Visit the Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site

The Prince of Wales Fort is a National Historic Site that is found across the Churchill River from the town. A bastion fort that began as a log fort in 1717 but soon turned into a massive stone structure, it was captured in 1782 by the French but returned to the Hudson’s Bay Company the following year. Today, it’s possible to walk around the ruins and imagine what life was like for those living there.

Wander Around the Itsanitaq Museum

The Itsanitaq Museum is a small but important museum found in Churchill, and is one of our top picks for Indigenous experiences in Manitoba . It has an incredible selection of Inuit carvings and artifacts and also has many fantastic local souvenirs for sale. Open year-round (though never on Sundays or holidays), the hours change depending on the season, so always check ahead before visiting.

See the Ithaca Shipwreck

Found 12 miles east of Churchill near Bird Cove, the Ithaca Shipwreck took place in 1960 when the ship was run into the gravel bank during a storm. At low tide, it is possible to walk out to the shipwreck (only with a professional guide, do not attempt this on your own).

Visit Miss Piggy

Miss Piggy is the nickname for a freight plane that crashed near Churchill in 1979. Thankfully, there were no fatalities, and the plane was left where it landed. Today, it is covered in graffiti and has become a popular photo opportunity.

Go Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is an integral part of Churchill’s history. Learn about the importance of dog sledding within the Indigenous community by booking a tour with Wapusk Adventures.

Try AquaGliding

AquaGliding is an activity you can try through Lazy Bear Expeditions. Lie on a floating mat tethered to a zodiac boat and put your face in the water for the ultimate beluga whale experience… if you’re lucky they’ll swim right up to you to say hello!

Get a Stamp in Your Passport

For those who love collecting stamps in their passports, head to the Churchill post office to get a special Churchill stamp! It’s the cheapest souvenir around.

Take to the Sky

For the ultimate sightseeing expedition, try a helicopter tour over Churchill and the surrounding area. Get a unique perspective on the landscape and try to spot as many polar bears as you can.

Festivals and Events in Churchill

Aurora winterfest.

Volunteer-run, Aurora Winterfest regularly hosts events in Churchill, and has a festival every year that includes ice carving, hockey, entertainment, games, food, and more. Check the Aurora Winterfest Facebook page for regular updates about what’s happening in Churchill.

Where to Eat in Churchill

There’s a nice selection of restaurants in Churchill , and you always know you’ll be supporting a local business when you eat in town. Here are a couple of our favourite places to eat:

Location: 23 Franklin Street, across from the Tundra Inn

This cozy hang-out is home to the famous Borealis Burger and consistently serves up home-cooked meals with a regional Arctic twist. Head here for hearty meals, a game of pool, and a lively atmosphere.

Lazy Bear Cafe

Location: 313 Kelsey Blvd, inside Lazy Bear Lodge

Lazy Bear Cafe is known for its excellent service, innovative menu, and warm atmosphere (we love the stone fireplace). Try some of the braised elk, Arctic char, or Manitoba bison.

Dan’s Diner

Looking for a truly unique dining experience in Churchill? For a few select evenings every February and March, Dan’s Diner operates as a pop-up on Churchill’s tundra so that you can dine underneath the Northern Lights. It’s the kind of meal you’ll never forget!

In the Area

Wapusk national park.

One of only two national parks in Manitoba (the other is Riding Mountain National Park ), Wapusk National Park is extremely remote and extremely beautiful. As the largest polar bear denning site in the world, it’s a popular spot to view baby polar bears in February and March. There are no roads into the park, so you must arrange aircraft transportation with a licensed tour operator; we recommend Wat’chee Expeditions.

It feels a bit ridiculous to say that Thompson is “in the area” of Churchill, as they’re 400 kilometres apart. But if you’re driving part of the way to Churchill or taking the train, you may pass through the small city on your way. Thankfully, there are lots of fun things to do in Thompson , so we recommend spending a day or two exploring if you have the time!

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Rural manitoba community offering properties for low, low price of $10 getting plenty of takers, ’we have to try’: ottawa, manitoba commit $40m to search landfill for slain women, jets get right to work on resetting penalty kill after ‘unacceptable’ performance, showing their stuff: historic winnipeg hotel hosts football's future at cfl combine.

Manitoba couple Kadriana and Colton Lott win Canadian mixed doubles curling championship

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After previously settling for silver medals on two occasions, Manitoba’s Kadriana and Colton Lott finally became Canadian mixed doubles curling champions on Friday.

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Manitoba couple kadriana and colton lott win canadian mixed doubles curling championship back to video.

“Third time’s a charm,” Colton said not long after the couple celebrated a magic moment.

The Lotts, a married couple from Winnipeg Beach, defeated Laura Walker and Kirk Muyres 7-5 in the final at the Aitkens Centre and Capital Winter Club in Fredericton, N.B.

Team Lott won a measurement in the eighth and final end to steal one point and clinch the victory. Had the measurement gone the other way, the game would have gone to an extra end, tied 6-6.

The Lotts went undefeated in taking the gold medal for the first time. They settled for silver in 2018 and 2021, losing finals to Walker/Muyres and Kerri Einarson/Brad Gushue, and took home bronze medals in 2019.

They have been one of the best mixed doubles teams in the country for years, and now have a Canadian title to prove it.

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“We know the feeling of losing that game and to finally win it is just an unbelievable feeling,” Colton said. “It’s relief and happiness. With how much we put into it this week, we’re just super ecstatic and we can’t wait to represent Canada.”

Team Lott will do just that at the world mixed doubles curling championship in Osterund, Sweden, April 20-27. Canada has never won a gold medal at the world championships, which started in 2008.

As meaningful as it is for both Colton and Kadriana, the athletes, to have done this, it’s something even more special because they did it together, as a team, in one of the few sports that has a discipline in which husbands and wives can compete together.

“It’s a wonderful feeling,” Kadriana said through tears. “I can’t even tell you how much it means to have won this, with Colton, finally, and just had the chance to take this all in.

“To play together and travel together and do the sport you love, it’s hard to come by.”

The Lotts went 7-0 in the round-robin and were seeded first for the playoffs, meaning they got a bye to the quarterfinals.

They beat Nancy Martin/Steve Laycock 11-3 in the quarter-final, took down Jocelyn Peterman/Brett Gallant 8-4 in the semifinal and then topped Walker and Muyres, a team that focuses exclusively on mixed doubles curling.

“In my mind, we were very dominant,” Colton said. “We played the game to our strength and just really tried to put pressure on the other team to make harder shots than we had to.”

Colton Lott also plays second for the Matt Dunstone team out of Manitoba and won a silver medal at the Brier in 2023.

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WINNIPEG — Families of two slain First Nations women received word Friday that the federal and Manitoba governments are putting up $20 million each to help search a landfill for the women’s remains.

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’We have to try’: Ottawa, Manitoba commit $40M to search landfill for slain women Back to video

“I’m very grateful for these commitments going forward … and I pray that one day we will see justice,” said Cambria Harris, whose mother Morgan Harris is one of four women allegedly killed by the same man.

The total $40 million is to go toward a search of the privately owned Prairie Green landfill north of Winnipeg, where the remains of Harris and Marcedes Myran are believed to have been taken almost two years ago.

Police in 2022 rejected the idea of a search, in part because of the potential danger from toxic substances and the sheer volume of material at the landfill.

The families of Harris and Myran took their fight for a search to Parliament Hill and the steps of Manitoba’s legislature.

Manitoba’s former Progressive Conservative government agreed a search would be too risky. The Tories also took out advertisements during October’s provincial election campaign touting their decision to “stand firm” against calls for a search.

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Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, who led the New Democrats to victory in the election and promised a search of the landfill, previously said he was confident a search could start this year. He has since stepped back from providing a timeline.

“We’re glad to be able to move forward with the funds necessary to search every cubic metre of the relevant space,” Kinew said in a statement Friday.

“While we don’t know if the search will be successful, we have to try.”

The federal government remains “committed as we work with all partners towards an approach that will bring closure and healing for the families and community members,” the office of Gary Anandasangaree, federal minister of Crown-Indigenous relations, said in an email.

Harris said the funding commitments are a step forward.

“It’s about showing our Indigenous women, our Indigenous people, that we’re worth it, we’re valued, we’re loved and we’re more than worth searching for,” she said.

The leader of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs called the announcement a “bittersweet” moment, as the organization and families spent months producing two reports outlining how a search can be conducted safely.

“I hope and pray it doesn’t take long to find our loved ones,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick.

The area of the landfill believed to contain the women’s remains has not been in use since police advised the owners of the homicide investigation.

The first report on the feasibility of a search estimated it would cost between $84 million and $184 million and take up to three years.

The second, more comprehensive report said it could be $90 million if completed within a year. It also said a search could pose a major health hazard because the landfill contains asbestos.

Asbestos can cause cancer if ingested, and the report said bags containing the substance could break during an excavation allowing it to become airborne. The report laid out precautions, including having full protective gear with respirators for workers and keeping the area wet to prevent asbestos from getting into the air.

Merrick said she doesn’t know what a search will look like but hopes the governments will fund whatever efforts may be needed.

“We don’t want to go back and back again to ask that this work be complete,” she said.

Jeremy Skibicki is charged with first-degree murder in the deaths of Harris, Myran and two other women: Rebecca Contois, whose partial remains were found in a different landfill, and an unidentified woman Indigenous leaders have named Buffalo Woman, whose remains have not been found.

His six-week trial is scheduled to start in April.

In addition to the search funding, the Manitoba and federal governments have offered money for mental health supports for the families during the trial and the landfill search.

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Manitoba Road Trips

When your heart needs to roam.

Step outside the expected, take a new path and discover the people, places and perspectives that make a trip worth taking. Because at the end of the road, your next big adventure is waiting. Whether you prefer to visit a museum to learn about culture and history or to hike across the serene landscapes of Manitoba’s wilderness, there’s a road trip to get you there. You may even discover a new destination you never expected to find. Plan your perfect road trip today.

When your heart needs to roam, Canada’s Heart is Calling.

Manitoba road trips: Beachy Keen

Lake Winnipeg is massive. At 425 km long and up to 109 km wide, it is, in fact, the fifth largest lake in Canada.

Manitoba road trips: Whispers of the Whiteshell

Breathe in the outdoors in our beautiful Whiteshell Provincial Park. This slice of the Canadian shield is rich in sunsets, boreal forest and ancient granite rock.

Manitoba road trips: Big skies, big blooms

Get to know Manitoba's southwestern corner with this exciting road trip centred on Turtle Mountain Provincial Park.

Manitoba Road Trips: Under the Prairie Sun

From pretty valley views and cool prehistoric finds to modern eateries and contemporary gardens, this road trip through the Pembina Valley and gateway communities showcases all sorts of sun and fun waiting to be explored.

Manitoba road trips: Wild west wanderings

Explore Manitoba's second largest city, Brandon, where you instantly feel at home and are welcomed like an old friend. Then soak in the splendour of the land with a series of day trips to museums, attractions and parks throughout the rolling hills and...

Make your Manitoba adventure go further. Browse our packages & deals to find savings on your trip!

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Passes & Deals

Explore craft breweries, museums and more throughout the province—all with our mobile savings passports. Download our free check-in pass to uncover hidden gems during your trip to Churchill.

Manitoba Explorer App

Visit 100 locations across Manitoba to collect achievement badges and pins!

Explore craft breweries, museums and...

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