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Spring & Summer

Make the most of Manitoba's sunny spring and summer.

The first sign of spring in Manitoba is when the prairie crocus – our provincial flower – pokes its head out from the last crust of snow to soak up the spring sun.

As the forests and fields come alive, Manitoba’s spring turns to summer, bringing the promise of perfect beach days , camping , and heading out on the water for a canoeing adventure . Long days of sunshine and average temperatures of +26°C make Manitoba the perfect place for your summer vacation.

Arden pays tribute to Manitoba’s provincial flower with its crocus roadside attraction.

Beaches & Boating

Embrace lake life in Manitoba.

Explore Manitoba’s waterways on a paddling adventure.

Tee off surrounded by beautiful scenery in Manitoba.

Featured Experiences

Thousands of kilometres of trails for adventures in every season.

See the northern lights up to 300 nights a year in Manitoba.

Camping in Manitoba

As soon as spring hits, it's time to break out the camping gear. With so many places to pitch your tent, all you have to do is look at a map, pick a region and enjoy the best Manitoba's campground have to offer.

Enjoy a round of golf or a backcountry hike--the range of outdoor experiences in Manitoba is as wide as our prairie skies.

Escape in Manitoba

Seeking the thrill of reeling in a trophy catch this summer? Get away from it all on a wilderness fishing adventure like no other.

Time for an escape? Look to Manitoba’s relaxing spas and wellness destinations. Soak away stress in a mineral pool at a resort spa, be surrounded by calm at a city oasis and recharge your batteries once you’re completely disconnected at a nature retreat.

Passes & Deals

Explore craft breweries, museums and...

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Manitoba

Things to do in manitoba, explore popular experiences, popular cities in manitoba.

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Subarctic Discovery: Churchill Polar Bears

Winnipeg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

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Manitoba Summer Bucket List

Updated July 9th, 2021

Hello summer! After six to eight months of cold weather in the winter, most Manitobans are craving some awesome summer activities (including me). Despite irregularities in summer plans due to COVID, make your summer memorable by checking out all the wonderful things Manitoba has to offer. Who can complete this whole list?

1. Drive-in movie at Stardust Movie Theatre in Morden 3020 Thornhill Street, Morden, Manitoba, Canada Open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night throughout the summer this is a great date night, family, or friend outing! Grab your blankets, bug spray, and snacks and get ready to snuggle in to watch a classic flick. Check out the website for new showtimes and movies up for August!

2. Strawberry Picking This is a short season so make sure you plan ahead and take advantage of these sweet treats. There are many places around Winnipeg to go to pick at such as M & E’s, Cormier’s Berry Patch, Boonstra Farms, and Prarie Berry to name a few. Get up early to go or book a spot because they fill up fast. Some places are only selling already picked strawberries, so check online or call before you go. Highly recommend making jam or strawberry daiquiris with all the delicious berries you picked afterward. (Opened June 30th, 2021)

3. Canoe through Caddy Lake Tunnels Grab your canoe and head out for a beautiful paddle through caves and tunnels. There are a number of campsites along the route with picnic tables and firepits you can stop at for lunch or to camp for the night.

4. Play a round of mini-golf at Grand Prix Have you ever mini-golfed in a pirate ship? Well, now you can! I LOVE mini-golf (but actually am terrible at it) so this fun themed course kept me entertained while I was sucking. Grand Prix also has a batting cage, driving range, bumper boats, and a water balloon war game. TBH the best part is they have jumbo freezies for purchase, maybe I live under a rock, but these were the best reward after a round of mini-golf in the hot sun.

5. Hike the Mantario Trail Challenging, but rewarding trail that gives you a great glimpse of different landscapes in the Whiteshell Provincial Park. Check out my full guide on hiking the Mantario Trail and the various lessons I learned so you don’t make the same mistakes (and there is a lot).

6. Have a round at the Beer Can The Beer Can is a trendy beer garden pop-up located outside the Granite Curling Club at 1 Granite Way. They are open 7 days a week from 11am- 10pm. Keep an eye on their Instagram to stay up to date when you can catch some live music.

7. Cherish a smokie dog at Skinners World-famous for their hot dogs, make the drive to Lockport to cherish one. There are two Skinners restaurants three minutes from each other. One on Highway 44 features a drive-thru if you want to grab it and go. If you prefer to sit and enjoy your time, opt for the larger Skinners beside the river. They have patio seating and a local market in the parking lot on Sundays during the summer.

8. Hike to Kwasitchewan Falls, the largest waterfall in Manitoba You won’t believe these types of waterfalls exist in Manitoba until you see them! Starting at Pisew Falls it is a 22km roundtrip hike to the falls. Pack light and stay overnight on the trail to give yourself a break to take it all in.

9. Float down Pinawa Channel Sit back and relax as you float down the Pinawa Channel on a single or group tube. Prefer to live in the fast lane? You can also canoe, kayak or rent a stand-up paddle board to take on the fast moving water.

10. Stop for a burger at Nite Hawk Cafe 27 West Hawk Lake Blvd  These burgers are WORTH the trip. Boasting 17 different burgers on their menu with the availability to make any vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free and toasted buns, these burgers will have your mouth watering thinking about the next time you can eat one.

11. Go backcountry camping Find a secluded spot along the river, lake, or in the bush and pitch your tents! You’ll find it much more relaxing and private than staying in a campground.

12. Stay in an OTENTik at Riding Mountain National Park No need to worry about bringing tents or a stove to cook with, this oTENTik has it all. A little cabin in the woods is the perfect summer vacay and alternative to tent camping if you feeling like a more glamorous outdoor vacation.

13. Grab a bite to eat at Half Moon Drive-In Get ready to be transported back to the 50’s. This restaurant looks super retro and includes all your fav diner foods such as hot dogs, burgers, fries, and of course milkshakes! Only the drive-in is open right now, but it is still worth the trip!

14. Admire the colorful water at Little Limestone Lake The beautiful bright blue water will have you thinking you are somewhere in the Bahamas instead of in Manitoba. Go for a swim, rent kayaks and enjoy this little piece of Manitoba treasure.

15. Relax on the beach at Grand Beach Remember your sunscreen and beach toys for this adventure. You can make it a day trip or camp overnight at the campground nearby. If you get snacky during the day, there are a few shops to buy food and ice cream at!

16. Sip on a cold bevy at the Common patio There is nothing quite like a cold drink on a hot day. The drink list at the Common is full of local breweries creations. The outdoor bar allows you to grab a drink and find a spot on the large patio area facing the river.

17. Have a picnic beside Tulabi Falls The perfect spot to sit to listen to the fast-moving water and enjoy your surroundings.

18. Car camping at one of our incredible provincial parks Car camping aka when you have to pay to book a campsite that has amenities. My friends use this phrase to describe NOT roughing it camping (backcountry). Manitoba has so many nice provincial and national parks to explore like Grand Beach, Birds Hill, Riding Mountain, Spruce Woods, and Grass River Provincial Park.

19. Go go-karting at Thunder Rapids Have a need for speed? Rip around the track on the Thunder Karts with 9 horsepower engines. If you prefer something a little slower, go for the Indy or Double Karts. However, I highly recommend the Thunder Karts as the other ones make you feel like you are on a very slow-moving theme park ride.

20. Take on the Spirit Sands and Devil Punch Bowl Hike (Spruce Woods Provincial Park) Lace-up your runners and head out early in the morning to tackle this hike. Start with the Spirit Sands loop as it has little shade and it is deadly midday when the sun reaches its peak. Then, head on to do the Devils Punch Bowl trail. Pack two water bottles as there is no potable water along the trail and prepare to have sand in your shoes before you’re finished!

21. Walk the suspension bridge at Wekusko Falls Located near Snow Lake, a stop at Wekusko Falls is a must on any northern Manitoba road trip. You can camp in the campground beside the falls and walk across the bridge to follow some walking trails. Stop in the middle of the bridge to look down and watch the water crash over itself as it drops off a huge ledge right below the bridge. Check out the full blog on the Northern MB Road Trip here!

22. Check out Fete Ice Cream Winnipeg’s newest homemade ice cream shop is adorable, delicious, and SWEET! Their homemade ice cream tastes exactly like the description. Maybe opt for a smaller size such as the bite-size if you can’t handle super sweet things anymore (I got the bite-size and still needed to lay down after to recover from the sugar coma). They also have dairy-free, and gluten-free ice cream so everyone can enjoy it! Don’t miss checking out their dog wall of fame and try to see how many Mavericks you can spot (I found three).

23. Admire the cliffs at Steep Rock, MB Large cliffs towering over the water, this is another place you won’t believe exists in Manitoba. The massive rock landforms are located on the shores of Lake Manitoba and are made up of limestone. Go and enjoy for the day or opt to stay in the campground overnight, either way, you can’t miss taking a trip to see these this summer.

24. Have a picnic at Assiniboine Park Assiniboine Park is the ideal picnic location. It has tons of space and places to walk around, a duck pond, beach volleyball courts, firepits, and spots to book to host a larger gathering and a new pop-up bar called the Cargo Bar. The best part is Sargent Sundae is just a bridge walk away to satisfy any ice cream cravings.

Interested in more to do in Manitoba? Check out our Ultimate Manitoba Road Trip!

Further Reading...

Three Day Canoe Trip to McGregor Falls

Ultimate Manitoba Road Trip

Cute Fall Date Ideas

Lil life adventures.

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101+ BEST Things to Do in Manitoba

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Compiled by the Road Trip Manitoba team

Last updated on March 14, 2024

It should come as no surprise that those of us at Road Trip Manitoba love this province with all our hearts. Why? Because there are just so many things to do in Manitoba! From the 100,000 lakes to the diverse culinary scene, the incredible museums and the challenging hiking trails, we could go on and on about just how much there is to do in this province. Trust us, it was difficult to cut it down to just this list, and we’re sure to keep adding to it! As it stands, we have over 120 things for you to choose from. So consider this your ultimate guide of things to do in Manitoba.

Land Acknowledgements

Road Trip Manitoba covers travel through Manitoba, which is made up of Treaty 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Territory, as well as communities that are signatories to Treaty 6 and Treaty 10. Manitoba is home to the original lands of the Anishinaabe, Anish-Ininiwak, Dakota, Dene, Ininiwak, and Nehethowuk peoples, as well as the homeland of the Métis peoples.

The Best Things to Do in Manitoba

We’ve divided the post up into directions to make it easier to find something to do in every corner of the province; you’ll find things to do in Winnipeg, and then east of Winnipeg, south of Winnipeg, west of Winnipeg, and north of Winnipeg. No matter which part of Manitoba you choose to explore, we’ve got you covered. But whatever you do –  don’t you dare say you’re bored .

Things to Do in Winnipeg

See inuit art at qaumajuq.

Home to the world’s largest collection of Inuit art in the world, Qaumajuq at the Winnipeg Art Gallery is a must-visit whenever you’re in the city and one of our top  things to do in Winnipeg . Found in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, there are over 185,000 square feet to explore. ( Love it? Then you can also check out these other Winnipeg art galleries !)

Visit the Louis Riel House

The Riel House National Historic Site is a fantastic place to learn about the daily life of the Métis in the late 1880s as well as Manitoba hero Louis Riel. It’s one of the most important attractions in Manitoba and one that can teach us a lot about the history of the province and the people who call it home.

Walk Around the St. Norbert Monastery

The Trappist Monastery Provincial Heritage Park is a hidden gem in Winnipeg. Take some time to visit the architectural ruins of this former monastery; it makes for a beautiful photo opportunity, and it’s the perfect place for a quiet walk or picnic.

Take in the Fringe Festival

Every summer, the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival takes place primarily in the Exchange District. A celebration of alternative theatre, there’s a multitude of plays to take in by local and international playwrights. But book early because the plays always sell out… It’s that popular!

Get Your French on at the Festival du Voyageur

One of the most popular festivals in Manitoba, the  Festival du Voyageur  is held over ten days every February in Winnipeg. Celebrating French Canadian and Métis cultures, the festival is a place to eat, drink, dance, learn, and enjoy the snowy neighbourhood of St. Boniface.

Enjoy the Art World with First Fridays

Do you love to discover all things artistic and/or cultural? Head to Winnipeg’s Exchange District for First Fridays . On the first Friday evening of every month, numerous Winnipeg art galleries, shops, and art-focused businesses are open to the public. Always lively and always fun, the monthly event is dedicated to a “greater understanding, appreciation, and promotion of the arts & the further development of a vital Exchange Area community.”

Explore the Culinary scene

Winnipeg has some of the best restaurants in Canada. Yeah, we said it. Go to Clementine for brunch or The Grove Pub for burgers or Miss Christine’s Kitchen for ackee and saltfish or Enoteca for pasta or Blufish for sushi or Feast Café Bistro for bannock pizza… should we keep going? There are endless  restaurants in Winnipeg  to try.

Walk “The Loop”

One of the best ways to see the city,  The Loop  is a curated walking tour in Winnipeg that allows you to explore downtown Winnipeg, the Exchange District, and Old St. Boniface. From the St. Boniface Cathedral to Esplanade Riel to Louis Riel’s Tombstone, there are over 60 places of interest to visit along the 9.5-kilometre loop.

Celebrate at the Pride Festival

Pride Winnipeg Festival is a ten-day summer event that celebrates the 2SLGBTQ+ community through events, rallies, parties, and a wonderful pride parade in downtown Winnipeg. Trust us, it’s a blast! Make sure to get out there and celebrate love.

Visit the Forks

The Forks is one of the top things to do in Manitoba and is known as a highlight of visiting the city. A meeting place for over 6,000 years due to its convenient location at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, today it’s an indoor market with a magnificent array of shops, restaurants, and so much more. Also, check out the Oodena Celebration Circle and the Ai WeiWei “Forever Bicycles” sculpture in the area.

Spend Time at Assiniboine Park

One of the loveliest and most popular parks in Manitoba, Assiniboine Park is a sprawling space for picnics, sports, cycling, walking, and more. With a great café (one of our top picks for  breakfast in Winnipeg ), the Leo Mol Sculpture Gallery, and the beautiful new Leaf – complete with outdoor gardens and innovative indoor horticultural attractions – there’s enough to keep you busy at Assiniboine Park for at least a day or two. Also, keep an eye out for events at the park.

Play at the Children’s Museum

One of our top picks for the  best museums in Winnipeg , the Children’s Museum is a very interactive, hands-on place for kids to laugh, learn, and play. Around for decades, you can expect lots of favourite exhibits alongside plenty of new ones in order to keep every single visit both interesting and fresh.

Go To a Winnipeg Jets Game

Go Jets go! The NHL’s Winnipeg Jets had a triumphant return to the city in 2011, and it’s quite an experience to actually attend a game. Enjoy the fanfare, the excitement, and of course, the hockey!

View the Sunset Goose Flights at FortWhyte Alive

One of the most unique things to do in Manitoba in the fall is to catch one of the  sunset goose flights  at FortWhyte Alive. Surrounded by the colourful trees on a crisp autumn evening, watch as thousands of geese land just as the sun sets beyond the horizon. It’s a beautiful sight to behold!

Sample the Local Breweries 

There’s an outstanding selection of  breweries in Winnipeg , and there are plenty of brewery tours you can try in the city. From rich stouts to hoppy IPAs, there’s a diverse and delicious beer scene in Manitoba’s capital; if you’re a fan of beer, you’ll absolutely love all of the breweries to explore.

Skate Down the Nestaweya River Trail in Winnipeg

Walk, bike, skate, snowshoe, or cross-country ski down the frozen river on the Nestaweya River Trail. Usually open from January until March, it’s an incredible way to see the city and take in some of the art and warming huts along the way. Combine it with a visit to the Forks for a perfect winter’s day out! There are thankfully lots of places for skating in Winnipeg .

Attend the Manito Ahbee Festival

One of our top  Indigenous experiences in Manitoba , the Manito Ahbee Festival is a celebration of Indigenous arts, culture, and music. Incredibly inspirational as well as educational, the festival takes place over a few days every spring in Winnipeg.

Get Cultural at Folklorama

Every summer during Folklorama, the city of Winnipeg is chock-full of events that allow people to learn and share their cultures. “Travel the world without a passport” as you experience the cuisine, clothing, dancing, music, and so much more of cultures from across the globe.

Walk Around the Winnipeg Zoo (Assiniboine Park Zoo)

Found in Assiniboine Park, the Winnipeg Zoo has over 80 acres to traverse. One of the best exhibits is Journey to Churchill , where you can see polar bears swim and play. Also watch for special events at the zoo throughout the year, including the fantastic Winnipeg Zoo Lights every winter.

Hang out at Hargrave Street Market

The excellent  Hargrave Street Market  in downtown Winnipeg is a relatively new addition to the city, and it’s been an instant hit. The stylish food hall has a terrific selection of local food vendors, including Yard Burger, Saburo Kitchen, Fools and Horses Coffee, Lake of the Woods Brew Company, and the ever-popular Gusto North. Make sure to check out the grocery as well, home to many local products.

Enjoy Beautiful Birds Hill Park

One of  Manitoba’s most beautiful provincial parks , Birds Hill Park is extremely popular due to its location near Winnipeg, its wonderful trails (over 100 kilometres of them, in fact), and its manmade lake/beach for swimming. Hike, bike, horseback ride, snowshoe, or cross-country ski your way around the park and don’t forget to check out the Winnipeg Folk Festival in the summer.

Learn About the Province’s History at the Manitoba Museum

With nine interpretive galleries to walk through, you can travel through millions of years as the history of Manitoba is highlighted in the Manitoba Museum. Highlights include the  Nonsuch , a full-size 17th-century ship, and the Urban Gallery, where you travel back in time to 1920s Winnipeg. Also at the Manitoba Museum is the Planetarium and the Science Museum, both terrific things to do with kids.

Go to a Winnipeg Blue Bombers Game

Holding the record for the most Grey Cup appearances and winning back-to-back Grey Cups in 2019 and 2021 (the CFL was cancelled for 2020), attending a Winnipeg Blue Bombers game on their home turf at the IG Field is quite a spectacle. Cheer alongside thousands of fans as this top football team is almost guaranteed to dazzle!

Try Your Luck in an Escape Room

There are plenty of excellent  escape rooms in Winnipeg , and they cater to all levels of skill and experience (there are even a few around the city for children!). Try to escape the fictional situation within the hour as you use your wits, logic, and a little luck. It’s a fantastic thing to do with a group of friends.

Stop by the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

One of the newest museums in Winnipeg, the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada has 14 galleries that include 22 aircraft and hundreds of other artifacts to view. Found at the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, it highlights the story of aviation in Manitoba and the rest of western and northern Canada. 

Catch a Winnipeg Goldeyes Game at Blue Cross Park

You’ll find Blue Cross Park (formerly Shaw Park), home of the Winnipeg Goldeyes baseball team, in downtown Winnipeg. Grab a hot dog, root for the home team, and enjoy a beautiful prairie evening while watching a great night of baseball.

Spend the Morning at Pineridge Hollow

Found near Birds Hill Park, Pineridge Hollow is an amazing spot for a meal that features the best of local ingredients, including Manitoba-grown fruit, vegetables, eggs, dairy, and so much more. With a petting farm, an excellent boutique, and a brand-new village with tons of shops, you can easily spend the morning here (or more).

Relax at Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature

Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature is the perfect way to relax and unwind (and is one of the top Winnipeg spas , of course). Open in every season – in fact, winter is our favourite time to go – enjoy a series of saunas, steam rooms, outdoor pools, and more in this Scandinavian-inspired spa. You can also enjoy massages and other treatments, and there’s a fantastic restaurant on-site, too.

Try a Goog, Schmoo Torte, Flapper Pie, Nips, or a Fat Boy

There are plenty of foods that are fairly unique to Manitoba and/or Winnipeg, and it sure is fun trying them all! Some of the most famous include a BDI Goog, Schmoo Torte, Flapper Pie, Salisbury House Nips, or a Dairi Wip Fat Boy. Just don’t forget the honey dill , of course. Click through to see the full list of unique foods in Manitoba .

Dine on the Ice at RAW: Almond

For a totally unique experience, enjoy the fine dining festival that is RAW: Almond . Held in Winnipeg’s coldest months every year, a temporary structure is built right on the ice of the city’s frozen rivers. There, you can enjoy a high-quality meal from some of the best chefs in the world. It’s not often that you hear about a pop-up restaurant built on ice, but we’re lucky to have the chance to try it out in Winnipeg!

Try to Find All of the West End Murals

With perhaps the largest collection of murals in the city, the West End is a perfect place to wander and try to find them all. The  West End Murals  highlight everything from Manitoba’s history to its civil rights to its landscape, and they are well worth a viewing.

Take in the Winnipeg Ballet

One of the most renowned ballet companies in the world, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is both the oldest ballet company in Canada and the longest-continuously operating ballet company in North America. Fans of dance and theatre will absolutely love a night out at the ballet here, as it truly is of the highest quality.

Spend Some Time at The Beer Can

In the warmer months, The Beer Can opens up on Granite Way alongside the Assiniboine River. Packed with picnic tables and benches, this family-friendly, dog-friendly outdoor hangout is a great place to enjoy some sun. With a terrific menu of local beer as well as a few food options, our recommendation is to go as early as possible… this place fills up quickly, especially on weekends!

Learn at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

The  Canadian Museum for Human Rights  is definitely worth a visit in Manitoba for both its stunning architecture and, most importantly, for its very powerful message of civil rights for all. Explore the many floors and alabaster ramps inside; you’ll need at least a few hours to take it all in.

Go Cross-Country Skiing at FortWhyte Alive

There are many fun places to go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in Winnipeg, but one of our top choices to do so is at FortWhyte Alive. With over six kilometres of trail to explore, there’s excellent wildlife viewing as well as plenty of forests and frozen lakes to take advantage of.

Get Inspired at the Winnipeg Folk Festival

The  Winnipeg Folk Festival , held in Birds Hill Park, is one of the most famous festivals in the province (if not in all of Western Canada). Winnipeg Folk Festival is a long-running festival that has seen its fair share of incredible acts over the years; whether you camp for the entirety of the festival or go for only a day, it is absolutely worth a visit.

Have fun at Tinkertown Amusements

A long-running amusement park found just east of Winnipeg, Tinkertown Amusements is fun for the whole family. With over 20 rides and attractions, this seasonal park is a great way to spend a day with the kiddos in the summertime.

Dine at Table for 1200 More

Every summer, join 1199 others for dinner. No, seriously! This pop-up experience is in a different outdoor location around the city every year, and you don’t find out where it is until the day of. Experience the thrill of eating at one of the world’s longest dining tables with  1200 More !

Say Hi to the Golden Boy

Standing on top of the Manitoba Legislative Building, the Golden Boy is a symbol of Winnipeg, and it’s worth a wander around the grounds to see the beautiful building and the Golden Boy himself. Want to learn even more? Take the  Hermetic Code Tour , one of the best tours in the city.

Things to Do East of Winnipeg

Canoe through the caddy lake tunnels.

Found in Whiteshell Provincial Park, the Caddy Lake Tunnels are manmade; the granite rock was blasted away for the railway system in the early 20th century. There’s an excellent canoe route to take through the tunnels beginning from Caddy Lake, and it can even be done as a day trip from Winnipeg.

Dance at the Fire and Water Music Festival 

Every August long weekend in Lac du Bonnet, the Fire and Water Music Festival showcases multiple acts, including musicians, visual artists, dancers, and more. It’s a great opportunity to discover acts that may have been previously unknown to you!

Hike the Pine Point Trail

It’s no secret that one of the most beloved provincial parks in Manitoba is Whiteshell Provincial Park; there’s simply so much to do there. One of the best hikes in the park is Pine Point, which includes incredible scenic views and a chance to see Pine Point Rapids. A moderate trail of about 7.7 kilometres, there’s also great birdwatching along the way. 

Stay on a Houseboat in the Whiteshell

Did you know that you can rent a houseboat in Whiteshell Provincial Park?  Voyageur Houseboats  allow you to stay up to seven nights on one of their boats, each of which can sleep up to four people. Your captain will moor you in a beautiful spot in the Whiteshell, and you’ll be provided with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to explore the area. Sleep under the stars, with the water lapping against the boat… what could be more peaceful?

Learn at the Mennonite Heritage Village

Make your way to Steinbach to visit the Mennonite Heritage Village, where you can learn all about the rich Mennonite history in Manitoba. View historic artifacts, see a fully functioning Dutch windmill, and taste traditional Mennonite food, among other fun activities. (While you’re there, also check out some great Steinbach restaurants !)

Visit the Bannock Point Petroforms

Found in Whiteshell Provincial Park, the Bannock Point Petroforms are ancient rocks and boulders arranged by Indigenous peoples over thousands of years. Breathe in the fresh air as you appreciate that you are standing on sacred ground. Want to learn more about the Petroforms? You can  take a tour of the area .

Spend a Day on the Hunt Lake Trail

One of the most well-known  Manitoba hiking trails  is the Hunt Lake Trail in Whiteshell Provincial Park. Rated as difficult due to its length (12.6 kilometres) and because of its rugged terrain, the trail follows the shore of West Hawk Lake. With stunning views of the provincial park and the lake, avid hikers should scramble – no pun intended – to cross this one off of their list.

View Rainbow Falls

People don’t often think of waterfalls when they think of Manitoba, but we definitely have some very pretty falls around the province. Stop by Rainbow Falls near White Lake for a photo op; the walk to the falls is short and is fairly easy even for smaller children. Pro tip: go after a few big rainstorms if you want to see the falls at their peak!

Go Tubing in Pinawa

Is there anything more fun in summer than tubing down the Pinawa Channel? Spend a couple of hours floating down the scenic water route in a single-rider tube or a multi-rider tube. No matter what, you’re sure to have tons of laughs.

Spend Some Time at West Hawk Lake

The deepest lake in Manitoba, West Hawk Lake was created by a meteor impact millions of years ago. Today, surrounded by granite cliffs, it’s one of the most popular  lakes in Manitoba . Camp, boat, wakeboard, swim, fish, water ski, scuba dive… the list of things to do at West Hawk Lake is endless, and there are many fantastic cabin rentals in the area. 

Hike the Mantario Trail

So named because it runs along the border with Ontario, the Mantario Trail is a challenging 60-kilometre (37-mile) hiking trail that many people take multiple days to complete. Enjoy camping, birdwatching, and all of the fun that backcountry hiking brings. Please note: backcountry hiking experience is definitely recommended before attempting the Mantario Trail.

Bask in the View of Tulabi Falls

One of the most famous waterfalls in Manitoba, Tulabi Falls in Nopiming Provincial Park is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous spots in the province. Enjoy the surrounding nature, stay in one of the yurts available to rent, or camp here for a few days to take full advantage of their beauty. In our opinion, it’s one of the best places to go  camping in Manitoba . 

Stand on the Longitudinal Centre of Canada 

Travel down the Trans Canada Highway near Lorette to catch a glimpse of the “Longitudinal Centre of Canada” sign. Even better, safely pull over and grab a photo of you standing on the centre line!

Vacation at Falcon Lake

Falcon Lake has one of the most popular  beaches in Manitoba and with so many amenities – think restaurants, shops, snack stands, play structures, picnic tables, a beach boardwalk, tennis courts, and so much more – it’s worth it to camp or rent a cabin here for a while. The lake is also extremely popular for boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, and more.

Visit Pinawa Dam

Pinawa Dam Provincial Park is a fantastic place to go to spend the day. Besides the photogenic views of the former dam and the rushing water, there’s also a chance to picnic, hike, and fish.

South of Winnipeg

Meet bruce the mosasaur in morden.

You’ll find the largest publicly displayed Mosasaur (affectionally named “Bruce”) at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre in Morden, Manitoba. Learn all about what Bruce’s life was like 80 million years ago, when Manitoba was actually covered in water!

Sip Some Dead Horse Cider

Make your way to Winkler to visit the  Dead Horse Cider  taproom and cidery. What a uniquely Manitoban experience, to sip on cider made from local apples while surrounded by gorgeous rolling prairies! It doesn’t hurt that the cider is delicious, of course.

Enjoy Stunning Pembina Valley

When you think of Manitoba, you most likely think of the prairies, but Pembina Valley is a gorgeous area of rolling hills. Visit the Pembina Valley Provincial Park for hiking; the best time of year to visit is autumn, when the leaves turn magnificent shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Go Glamping in a Dome 

Though there are a few glamping resorts in Manitoba, one of our top picks is  Moonlit Canopy  in Belmont. These luxury, eco-friendly domes offer amazing views of the surrounding nature, full bathrooms, kitchenettes, gas stoves, and outdoor barbecues and hot tubs. What could be more relaxing or more romantic?!

Have Fun at the Corn and Apple Festival (Morden)

The annual  Morden Corn and Apple Festival  takes place every summer in the Southern Manitoba city, and is described as a weekend of “fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family”. Listen to live music, eat your fill of free corn and apple juice, enjoy the rides, and so much more.

Navigate A Maze in Corn in St. Adolphe

One of our favourite things to do in Manitoba,  A Maze in Corn  in St. Adolphe has a massive corn maze to navigate every autumn. Also check out the petting zoo, the “haunted forest”, and the sunflower fields, or take a hay ride. It’s the perfect place to celebrate fall.

Enjoy the Beach at St. Malo

Drive approximately 70 kilometres south of Winnipeg to find St. Malo Provincial Park. Centred on a reservoir, there are two beaches for relaxing in the sand, swimming, canoeing, and more. It’s a lovely little escape from city life when you need it. 

Step Back in Time at the Stardust Drive-in 

Everybody loves a drive-in, don’t they? Spend an evening at the  Stardust Drive-In Theatre  in Morden, one of only two operating drive-ins in Manitoba. Check their website for movie times and showings, and don’t forget to buy popcorn!

Splash at the Water Park in Morden

Head to Colert Beach just outside of Morden to experience  Splish Splash Water Park , a huge water park playground that’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer’s day. Trust us, kids will want to return again and again.

Walk Through the World’s Largest Snow Maze

Did you know that the world’s largest snow maze is in Manitoba? Head to A Maze in Corn in St. Adolphe to navigate the snowy maze for yourself. There are also snow sculptures, a sled hill, a snow bar, and so much more to enjoy for a fun winter’s day.

Go Ziplining in Manitou

Head to Manitou (found near Winkler) to try zip-lining through the treetops. It’s guaranteed fun! Hy-Wire Zipline Adventures allows you to fly through the trees of Pembina Valley with Manitoba’s highest and longest zip lines. There’s also a bush maze, hiking trails, and mini golf.

Visit the International Peace Gardens in Boissevain

Found at the US border, the International Peace Gardens in Boissevain includes stunning gardens and sculptures of flowers, cacti, and more. There are guided tours to take of the botanical gardens as well as a café.

Go Winter Camping in Turtle Mountain Provincial Park

Manitobans don’t shy away from winter camping! One of the best places to camp in winter is in Turtle Mountain Provincial Park, which has incredible wildlife viewing (think moose, beaver, and deer, to name a few) and cross-country skiing. Also, check out the  Turtle Mountain Adventure Huts  if tenting is a bit too  intense  (pun intended) for you in winter.

Things to Do West of Winnipeg

See the bison at lake audy.

See the beautiful bison that adorn Manitoba’s flag in person at the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure in Riding Mountain National Park. The 40 plains bison roam through two sections within the enclosure – north and south sections depending on the season – so make sure you go to the right one in order to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures!

Go Skiing in Asessippi

Wait a second, there’s downhill skiing in Manitoba? That’s right! This prairie province has some great ski slopes after all. Visit the  Asessippi Ski Resort  to take advantage of the ski trails, sledding, skating, and so much more. And in summer, bring your mountain bike to get your adrenaline fix.

Take in the Past at the Inglis Grain Elevators

Head to the Inglis Grain Elevators National Historic Site in Inglis to see the last remaining row of standard country grain elevators in Manitoba. Relics of what this prairie province used to look like – there were once thousands of such grain elevators in prairie towns across Manitoba – today they’re a terrific photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on our past.

Enjoy Portage la Prairie’s Island Park

Island Park is one of the best  things to do in Portage la Prairie and is home to some of the city’s best events, and festivals, plus so much more. It’s also an amazing place to spend some time, whether you take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails, the picnic spots, the tennis courts, the public art, or all of the beautiful nature. There’s also Splash Island Waterpark to enjoy in the summer!

Spot the Arden Crocuses Monument 

Drive to the little village of Arden, not far from Neepawa, to see the Arden Crocuses Monument. A lovely photo op, it’s a sweet way to commemorate Manitoba’s official flower, the prairie crocus.

Traverse Manitoba’s Only Desert

You wouldn’t think there’s a desert in Manitoba, but indeed there is! Make your way to Spruce Woods Provincial Park to experience the wonder that is Spirit Sands. You’ll find sand dunes and cacti here, as well as the blue-green waters of Devil’s Punch Bowl. It’s unlike any other provincial park in Manitoba, and we highly recommend a visit. There’s also the excellent Kiche Manitou Campground for you to camp in while there. 

Sample Some Beer at Farmery Estate Brewery

One of the province’s coolest breweries is the  Farmery Estate Brewery  in the charming Western Manitoba town of Neepawa. You’re welcome to visit and take a free self-guided tour of the farm, where they grow over ten varieties of hops. Don’t forget to pick up a few beers to take home!

Take in Some History at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum

The vintage air hangar at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum in Brandon houses dozens of aircraft and other vehicles from WWII; it’s a must for anyone interested in WWII history or for those who’d like to learn. The museum showcases just how much of a role Manitoba played in helping win the war, especially when it came to aviation. 

Walk Across the Souris Swinging Bridge

A Manitoba Star Attraction (there are only 60 of them in the province), the Souris Swinging Bridge is well worth a visit. Measuring 184 metres (604 feet), it’s actually the longest swinging pedestrian bridge in all of Canada.

Explore Big Valley Park

Found near the town of Birnie, Big Valley Park is a hidden gem in Manitoba that not many people know about. An example of a glacial meltway from the last ice age, there’s a beautiful creek that runs through the area. You can also enjoy camping, picnics, hiking trails, tobogganing and skating in winter. The park also makes for an excellent addition to a trip to Riding Mountain National Park, as they’re only about a half-hour’s drive from one another.

Stay in a Yurt at Stephenfield Provincial Park

Found along the Boyne River, Stephenfield Provincial Park is a wonderful place to visit, especially if you’re travelling with kids. With swimming, fishing, and boating to enjoy on the reservoir, there are also lovely yurts to stay in (away from the main campsite). Although there are multiple provincial parks in Manitoba where you can rent yurts for your holiday, Stephenfield is one of our favourites. Bonus: There are dog-friendly yurts!

Go Golfing in Riding Mountain National Park

With over 130 golf courses in the province, it was hard to choose just one, but we’re partial to the  Clear Lake Golf Course  due to its picturesque views. Open for play since 1934, the course is open to golfers of all levels of experience, but be warned… as one of Manitoba’s most beautiful golf courses, you might have trouble finding others that measure up!

Learn at the Ukrainian Heritage Village in Dauphin

Selo Ukraina, or “Ukrainian Village,” is where you’ll find Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin. It’s also the site of the Ukrainian Heritage Village, home to a restored Ukrainian pioneer homestead with a school, church, two authentic homes, village hall, and more, making it a great chance to learn about the Ukrainian way of life on the prairies in the early 20th century.

Visit the Fort La Reine Museum in Portage la Prairie

With 25 historic buildings to explore, the Fort la Reine Museum in PLAP shows you what life was like in the prairies from 1738 until 1950. From the regional Indigenous cultures to the fur trappers to the domestic lives of early pioneers, there’s a lot to learn about at this top-rated museum. 

See the Unique Glass Bottle Houses of Treherne 

Head to Treherne to see the unique glass bottle structures built by Bob and Dora Cain in the 1980s. Using thousands of glass bottles collected over many years, they built a house, church, and wishing well. It’s worth a stop in the little community!

Explore the Hiking Trails in Riding Mountain National Park

It’s pretty difficult to narrow down the best  things to do in Riding Mountain National Park , but if you only have a couple of days in the park, we recommend checking out some of the trails. Open all year round – in winter, many people snowshoe or go cross-country skiing on the trails – they truly are some of the most beautiful hikes in the province. Don’t know where to start? Check out the Kinosao Lake Trail, Boreal Interpretive Trail, Gorge Creek Trail, Brule Trail, Moon Lake Trail, or the Arrowhead Trail.

Visit the Cement Cemetery in Rosser

Head to the Cement Cemetery in Rosser, just north of Winnipeg, for an unusual thing to do in Manitoba. Perfect for photography enthusiasts, the cement pillars were built in the 1960s and are of various heights, but here’s the cool (creepy?) part… nobody quite knows what they were built for!

See the Magic of the Blue Lakes

Some of the most stunning lakes in all of Manitoba are the Blue Lakes… and that’s saying a lot, considering there are over 100,000 lakes in the province! The East Blue and West Blue Lakes in Duck Mountain Provincial Park are gorgeous shades of turquoise, and there are excellent fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities around the lakes.

Learn About Manitoba’s History at the Manitoba Agricultural Museum

You’ll find a collection of vintage machinery, equipment, and buildings from Manitoba life in the 19th century at the Manitoba Agricultural Museum in Austin, Manitoba. With a vision to collect, preserve, interpret, and demonstrate how people once lived on the prairies, it’s a fascinating look into what life was like in days long past.

Find all of the Street Art Murals in Brandon

Whether you’re a budding photographer or would just like to spot a bit of art, the street art murals in downtown Brandon are very cool. You can easily walk between all of them, and it’s especially fun when you turn a corner and realize you’ve discovered yet another!

Go Ice Fishing on Lake Athapapuskow

Head to the northwest of Manitoba, near Flin Flon, to visit Lake Athapapuskow. It’s known as one of the province’s best lakes for trophy ice fishing, and people regularly catch Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Walleye here. There’s tons of great  fishing in Manitoba , and this is one of our top spots in winter.

Climb to the Top of Baldy Mountain

Visit Duck Mountain Provincial Park to hike the Baldy Mountain Trail, one of the province’s best hiking trails. At 832 metres above sea level, Baldy Mountain is the highest peak in Manitoba.

Drive on Magnet Hill in Swan Valley

Even if you know the secret of Magnet Hill in Swan Valley, it’s still an incredibly cool thing to do in Manitoba! When you get to the designated spot, stop your car, put it in neutral, take your foot off of the pedals, and… voila! You are magically drawn backward up the hill. You have to try it!

Enjoy the Brandon Riverbank Discovery Centre

Head to the Brandon Riverbank Discovery Centre for an oasis of nature ride inside Manitoba’s second-largest city. Explore the marshland, look for birds, walk along the trails, and stop in the Discovery Centre for more information about the area.

Say Hello to Flintabbatey Flonatin Statue in Flin Flon

It sounds made up, but we swear it’s true: the town of Flin Flon gets its name from a fictional character named Josiah Fintabbatey Flonatin. When you’re in Flin Flon, it only makes sense to stop by the statue of Josiah Flintabbatey Flonatin and say hello!

Stay in an oTENTik in Riding Mountain National Park

Named one of our most unique places to stay in Manitoba, an oTENTik is an interesting blend of a cabin and a tent and is perfect for those who don’t have their own camping equipment or would like to enjoy a bit more luxury on their outdoor holiday. And what better place to stay in one than in stunning Riding Mountain National Park? Also, check out the park’s Micro-Cube for another unusual accommodation option!

Rock out at Countryfest in Dauphin

Whether you choose to camp for the entire festival or just attend for a day, Dauphin’s  Countryfest  is Canada’s longest-running country music festival and is sure to be a great time. With excellent line-ups every summer, country music fans will get to see some of the best performances in the outdoors.

Snap a Selfie in Front of the World’s Largest Coca-Cola Can

Go see the world’s largest Coca-Cola can in Portage la Prairie because… why not? This fun photo opportunity is sure to make for a good laugh. And it also might make you thirsty! (If you’re hungry also, don’t miss our post on the best Portage la Prairie restaurants .)

Go Wildlife Viewing at Delta Marsh

One of the biggest marches in Manitoba at 18,000 hectares, Delta Marsh is home to fantastic wildlife viewing and birdwatching, as well as beautiful sunsets. With many viewing platforms with information posted throughout the marsh, you can learn about the area as well as get some wonderful vistas over the area. Also check out Delta Beach nearby, one of the nicest beaches on Lake Manitoba.

Go Swimming in Clear Lake

Perhaps one of Manitoba’s most popular outdoor swimming locations, Clear Lake is found in Riding Mountain National Park. With crystal clear waters (it isn’t named by accident!), sandy beaches, and excellent facilities nearby, it is definitely the place for one of the most enjoyable beach days in the province. Too busy for you? Check out nearby Moon Lake, Lake Audy, and Lake Katherine. 

Things to Do North of Winnipeg

See the polar bears.

Churchill, Manitoba is famously the polar bear capital of the world (and obviously the best spot to see polar bears in Canada ), and so a visit up north to see polar bears is often at the top of people’s list when it comes to things to do in Manitoba. The best time to see polar bears is in autumn, and what makes Churchill unique is that it is one of the only human settlements in the world that shares its land with wild polar bears. Though it can be a pricey endeavour, it is well worth the cost, as this is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visit the Beaches of 59

Being a prairie province, many people don’t think of Manitoba as having so many incredible beaches. But with so many lakes in the province, you know we have some great ones! The beaches of Highway 59 are those on the east side of Lake Winnipeg and include Lester Beach, Victoria Beach, Patricia Beach, and many more, including the most famous beach in Manitoba, Grand Beach (more on it below). Spend a few days exploring the area to see them all.

Watch Little Limestone Lake Change Colour

The world’s largest marl lake, Little Limestone Lake has a unique composition that means that, under certain conditions, the lake changes colour right before your eyes. A lake with water as turquoise as the Caribbean Sea… in Manitoba? Yep, that’s Little Limestone Lake for you!

Kayak with Beluga Whales

Many people head to Churchill to see the polar bears, but we think the beluga whales in summer are just as worthy of a trip north. Get the chance to see hundreds (if not thousands!) of belugas in June, July, and August as they make their way into the mouth of the Churchill River to breed. The best way to see them? Go kayaking alongside them! They’re wonderfully curious creatures, so don’t be surprised if they come right up to your kayak to say hello.

Camp in Wekusko Falls Provincial Park

With so many incredible  campgrounds in Manitoba  – there are dozens within provincial parks, not to mention all of the amazing backcountry campsites – it’s almost impossible to choose just one. But we love Wekusko Fall Campground for its remote location, its peace and serenity, and its unbelievable views of the surrounding nature. And of course, the Weskusko Falls are the star of the show!

Find the Giant Goose Statue in Lundar

Close to Lundar Beach on Lake Manitoba’s east side, you’ll find the Giant Goose Statue. Every Manitoban knows that Canadian geese are extremely popular in the province, so spotting this statue is a nice little tribute to the ubiquitous bird.

Walk to the Gull Harbour Lighthouse on Hecla Island

Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park is absolutely gorgeous and is a fabulous place for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, hiking, swimming, and so much more. Walk the easy trail to the Gull Harbour Lighthouse on Hecla Island to take in the iconic view. 

Get to Know Paint Lake

One of our favourite provincial parks in Manitoba, Paint Lake Provincial Park has tons of things to do. With countless islands dotting the lake, every adventure on the water brings something new. With just about every outdoor activity you can imagine – hiking, fishing, swimming, you name it – as well as the charming  Paint Lake Lodge  to relax in, it’s one of our most recommended spots on Road Trip Manitoba. 

Enjoy South Beach Casino and Resort

Drive northeast from Winnipeg to get to the South Beach Casino and Resort for gambling, gaming, dining, live music, and so much more! A convenient base for exploring the beaches of 59, the retro exterior of the resort and “stay and play” packages make for an enticing holiday.

Discover Icelandic Culture in Gimli

If you’ve been to Gimli, you know that there’s a strong Icelandic culture in the town due to its history of settlers from Iceland. When you’re there, then, try a traditional Vinaterta cake, visit the New Iceland Heritage Museum, see the Viking Statue, and try to catch the annual Icelandic Festival of Manitoba.

Photograph the World’s Largest Curling Rock in Arborg

Head to the small town of Arborg, on the west side of Lake Winnipeg, to see the world’s largest curling rock. Actually made of steel, not rock, the impressive structure weighs over 3,000 pounds! While you’re there, why not try some curling at the Arborg Curling Club?

Walk the Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail

One of our favourite things to do north of Winnipeg, the Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail is a boardwalk through the forests and wetlands. Both beautiful and educational, we also love that it is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, plus the signage is in English and Ojibway. 

Learn About History at the Prince of Wales Fort in Churchill

The Prince of Wales National Historic Site in Churchill is now a set of ruins, but at one point it was a log fort and then a stone fort. Owned and operated by the Hudson’s Bay Company, it’s interesting to walk around the ruins and imagine what life was like for those who lived and worked here.

See the Snake Pits in Narcisse

Every spring, the  snake dens of Narcisse  come alive with wriggling mating balls of red-sided garter snakes (now there’s a sentence we never thought we’d write). It’s perhaps one of the weirdest things on this list, but we promise you need to see it! In fact, it’s the largest known concentration of red-sided garter snakes in the whole world. 

Step Back in Time at Lower Fort Garry

Drive north of Winnipeg to St. Andrews, where you’ll find Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site. You can explore some of Canada’s oldest fur trade buildings and learn what life was like for the Hudson’s Bay Company trappers and traders who lived here in the 1850s. Keep an eye out for the employees, who are all in traditional clothing from the era!

Find Seclusion in Wapusk National Park

One of only two national parks in Manitoba, Wapusk National Park is difficult to get to but absolutely worth the time and money needed. One of the best polar bear denning areas in the world, you can see polar bear cubs here, as well as take in the secluded beauty of the north. We recommend visiting Wapusk with  Watchee Expeditions .

See the Northern Lights

Whether you choose to see the aurora borealis in Churchill, in Thompson, or wherever else you happen to be, you’re in for a real show. Manitoba is an excellent place to view the Northern Lights, especially in February and March, so be prepared to see the colours dance and swirl across the night sky. (We’ve got a whole article dedicated to tips on how to see the northern lights in Manitoba .)

Spot all of the SeaWalls Churchill Murals

One of the best  things to do in Churchill , the SeaWalls CHURCHILL Murals are a series of murals done by artists from around the world. A testament to the strength of the community, this outdoor art gallery of is a lovely way to explore the town. Can you  find them all ?

Learn at the Fort Dauphin Museum

The Fort Dauphin Museum looks at what life was like in the region from the prehistoric age until the 19th century. Through artifacts and traditional buildings, learn about the lives of Indigenous peoples on the land, as well as the fur trade, the history of Métis peoples, and the early pioneers who settled in the Dauphin area.

Spend the Day at Grand Beach

One of Manitoba’s most popular beaches, Grand Beach is perfect for a day trip from Winnipeg or as a longer holiday. It helps that there are plenty of  things to do at Grand Beach ! Known for its velvety soft sand, this Lake Winnipeg beach is a real winner.

Explore Oak Hammock Marsh

Only about 30 kilometres north of Winnipeg, Oak Hammock Marsh is one of Canada’s best birdwatching locations. With plenty of trails, it makes for a great day out in the outdoors. In winter, it’s also a wonderful place for snowshoeing; keep your eyes out for white-tail jackrabbits and snowshoe hares.

Go Fishing on a Fly-in Lake

There are plenty of fantastic fly-in lakes for fishing in Manitoba, including Gunisao Lake, God’s Lake, Big Sand Lake, and one of our favourites, Nejanilini Lake in Northern Manitoba. If you’re after trophy fish, a fly-in lake is the way to go. 

Shop at the Arnes Farmers Market

Arnes Farmers Market, just outside of Gimli, is a popular spot in the Interlake area on weekends. Open seasonally – usually from spring to autumn – you can expect to find local produce, crafts, antiques, soaps, jewellery, clothing, books, and so much more for sale.

Walk the Perimeter of Thompson

Often regarded as one of the best  things to do in Thompson , the Thompson Millennium Trail takes you around the city to see some of its most well-known spots. Walk or bike the trail, and keep your eye out for unique birds.

See the Giant Mosquito in Komarno

You know the joke, right? The mosquito is Manitoba’s official bird. OK, it’s not  that  bad in summer, but it’s still pretty cool to see the statue of the giant mosquito in Komarno, about 20 kilometres west of Winnipeg Beach. Komarno actually means mosquito in Ukrainian!

Pose by the Miss Piggy Plane Wreck in Churchill

Miss Piggy is the nickname for a freight plane that crashed near Churchill in 1979. Fortunately, nobody was injured in the crash, and today the plane is an interesting photo opportunity. It’s one of those unique and unusual things to do in Manitoba that makes us realize how much there really is to explore in the province!

Sleep on the Tundra

Want an incredibly unique way to see the tundra up close? Choose to sleep there! With the  Tundra Buggy Lodge , you can fall asleep and wake up with polar bears playing right outside your window. At night, get a front-row seat to the majestic Northern Lights. It’s a pricey excursion, but one that will create memories for a lifetime.

Wander Through the Itsanitaq Museum

Small but mighty, the Itsanitaq Museum in Churchill has a terrific collection of Inuit carvings, art, and artifacts to observe. It’s also a great place to pick up some souvenirs from your time in the northern community.

Eat Fish and Chips on Gimli Beach

You can’t visit Manitoba without eating some pickerel (walleye); one of the best places to do it is in Gimli! With a good selection of  restaurants in Gimli  to choose from, we recommend getting fish and chips from Kris’ and then eating on the lovely beach along Lake Winnipeg.

Visit Pisew Falls

Pisew Falls is approximately a 45-minute drive south of Thompson and is a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in nature. With magnificent falls as well as gorgeous forests to spend time in, it’s also the jumping-off point for one of Manitoba’s most challenging (but most rewarding) hikes, the 22-kilometre hike to Kwasitchewan Falls, Manitoba’s highest waterfalls. 

Looking for more Manitoba travel inspiration? Check out these posts:

• The best Manitoba Road Trips
• Have fun with these Road Trip Manitoba Bingo Cards
• Manitoba trivia
• Fun facts about Manitoba

Brenna Holeman (she/her) has adventured to over 100 countries but is incredibly proud to call Winnipeg home. Brenna spent 16 years travelling solo around the world, living in Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Osaka, Antigua, and London, England. Once a writer and editor for Expedia UK, she is a co-founder of Road Trip Manitoba and also runs This Battered Suitcase , one of the most trusted and respected travel blogs in the world.

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

38 BEST Things To Do in Manitoba

September 29, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 42 Comments

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Things to Do in Manitoba last updated: September 29th, 202 2

Smack dab in the middle of Canada and often overlooked, Manitoba is home to some of Canada’s top signature experiences, including beautiful landscapes and unique adventures. It’s home to Winnipeg, which is one of Canada’s biggest cities as well as some of Canada’s top lakes and beaches, festivals, and world-famous northern attractions.

Kayaking with beluga whales, spying on polar bears, learning about human rights, cracking the code of mystic messages and Masonic symbols, and admiring the Northern Lights are just some of the incredible opportunities in this central province.

We’ve been to Manitoba many times and even lived in Winnipeg for five months, giving us first-hand insight into this wonderful place. In this Manitoba travel guide, we aim to let you know about the top things to do in Manitoba, as well as how to get there, where to stay, and more!

Fun Facts about Manitoba

• Churchill is not only home to polar bears but is also home to the largest beluga whale migration in the world!
• The character of James Bond was inspired by a spy from Winnipeg! So was Winnie the Pooh!
• The Centre of Canada landmark is less than 30 minutes from Winnipeg!

For more cool facts, check out our guide to the most interesting facts about Canada .

Table of Contents

Getting to Manitoba 

Located right in the middle of Canada, Manitoba is quite convenient for those looking to visit. Known as the heart of Canada as well as a historic transportation hub, there are a variety of options for arriving. It is located east of Saskatchewan, west of Ontario, and north of both North Dakota and Minnesota.

Getting to Manitoba By Car 

Travelling by car is typically the best way to explore Canada. With such vast distances, it’s just an easier way to travel. The Trans-Canada Highway runs right through Manitoba, including the biggest city of Winnipeg. You’ll either enter from Ontario to the east, Saskatchewan to the west, or the USA to the south. The distance from Regina, Saskatchewan to Winnipeg is about six hours, whereas the distance from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Winnipeg is about eight hours.

Getting to Manitoba By Plane 

If you’re flying into Manitoba, then you’re likely going to be flying into their capital city of Winnipeg. There are several airlines with regular flights to and from the Winnipeg International Airport, with connecting flights to destinations throughout the world.

Getting to Manitoba By Bus

For those keen on travelling via bus, there are several bus lines and local companies that offer daily transportation to and from Winnipeg and dozens of Manitoba’s rural centres.

If you’re heading to Brandon, Brandon Air Shuttle provides daily shuttle services between Brandon and Winnipeg for pre-booked flights, while Dauphin Air does the same for service between Brandon and Dauphin with Dauphin Air Shuttle.

For northern Manitoba, you can travel with Maple, Mahinkan or Thompson Bus lines, and as the only bus line travelling outside of the province, you can travel with Kasper between Manitoba and Ontario.

We recommend using Busbud to search for and book bus tours within Canada .

Getting to Manitoba By Train

Via Rail Canada, Canada’s major rail passenger service, arrives and departs from Winnipeg and many of Manitoba’s smaller communities. There is also a 2-night train that goes from Winnipeg to Churchill if you’re looking for polar bears and beluga whales.

Getting Around Manitoba

Like most of Canada’s provinces, Manitoba is quite spread out and underpopulated. With the exception of Winnipeg, there is very little public transportation infrastructure and it is best to have your own vehicle. However, if you’re just looking to get from one city to the next, there is often some sort of shuttle service. There is also a train that connects Winnipeg to Churchill, as well as the options for flying.

Since Winnipeg is the only major city and the main place tourists visit, there are lots of normal city options, including bus and taxi. There is no metro in Winnipeg but there is the Splash Dash Water Taxi service, which takes you around the city via the river. A popular place to jump on is at the Forks.

Best Time to Visit Manitoba

Manitoba is known to have some of the most extreme weather in Canada, with very hot and humid summers and very cold winters. We lived in Winnipeg for the summer and we can confirm that it is indeed very humid and quite hot. This is due to all the surrounding lakes. Winnipeg is also home to some of the coldest winter temperatures in the country and in fact, Winnipeg is known as the coldest city in all of Canada.

With that being said, there are many things to do throughout the year. However, the summer is definitely the most popular time to visit, with many incredible outdoor festivals, boating, fishing, rafting, golfing, and so much more. In Churchill, this is also the time to witness thousands of beluga whales migrating through the Hudson Bay.

The shoulder season can also be a good time to visit Manitoba, especially in the fall when the temperatures are neither hot nor cold. The tourism season is slower and so prices will drop and there will be fewer crowds. In Churchill, this is also the time to see polar bears.

For the winter, although it can be cold, there are many incredible opportunities, such as snowmobiling, dog-sledding, ice fishing, and a variety of opportunities to see the Northern Lights!

Please note: If you visit in the winter, make sure you know how to dress for Canadian winters!

Road to 150 – Manitoba

Back in 2017, we did a 150-day road trip across Canada to showcase the best of each province, coast to coast to coast. This series, which has more than three million views on YouTube, features Manitoba as our 7th episode and includes snorkelling with beluga whales in Churchill, exploring the Museum of Human Rights, learning about Canada’s history with the Hudson Bay Company, and splashing around one of the many lakes near Winnipeg.

What To Do in Manitoba

Manitoba is a big province with lots of things to do and places to see. However, outside of the capital city of Winnipeg, the towns are small and the distances can be vast. To simplify it, we’ve broken down the areas into Winnipeg, north of Winnipeg, Western Manitoba, and Churchill.

What to Do in Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a vibrant multicultural city with loads of incredible festivals during the summer months. Here you’ll find beautiful museums, gorgeous legislative buildings, historical areas, and so much more. You can also take a short drive out to the centre of Canada, visit the Canadian Mint, or explore lots of outdoor attractions nearby.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Not only is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights the first museum dedicated to the evolution, celebration, and future of human rights. It’s also one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the country. It can be heartbreaking to learn about human rights violations that have happened in Canada and around the world but also a very important topic that everyone should learn about. You’ll also learn about the inspiring people who’ve fought for human rights and will leave the museum feeling inspired as well as getting one of the best views of the city.

A visit to Winnipeg just wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Forks. Located right next to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and saturated in 6,000+ years of history, the Forks is both a historic site and the #1 outdoor gathering space for locals and tourists alike. It’s the place where the Red and Assiniboine rivers meet and is located in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. At 54-acres in size, you’ll find all sorts of things to do, including a bustling central market, exceptional dining and accommodations, beautiful treelined paths overlooking the riverbank, a world-class skate park, a children’s play area and water park, and all the best things a Winnipeg winter has to offer, like skate rentals and access to one of the world’s longest skating rinks.

Assiniboine Park Zoo

Everyone loves polar bears and the Assiniboine Park Zoo is home to a polar bear that came from Churchill, Manitoba. It’s the main attraction of the zoo and everyone loves walking under the glass tunnel to see the polar bear swim all around them. However, there’s much more than polar bears. The zoo is also home to muskox, wolves, moose, and seals, as well as rare animals such as red pandas, snow leopards, and more than 200 other species.

Lower Fort Garry Historical Site

This national historic site is a former Hudson Bay Company trading post filled with some of Canada’s important history. As a “living museum”, costumed interpreters recreate life from the 1800s, including a general store, blacksmith, and various households. You’ll also find Canada’s oldest collection of stone fur trade buildings!

Tip: After visiting Lower Fort Garry Historical Site, continue heading north to Grand Beach and experience one of the best lake beaches in all of Canada!

Royal Canadian Mint

Not only does the Royal Canadian Mint produce money for Canada and other countries around the world, but it’s also situated inside one of Winnipeg’s most beautiful buildings with a reflective glass exterior that is quite remarkable at sunset. It’s a cool place to take a tour and learn about how money is made and you’ll also get the opportunity to hold a $600,000 gold bar, admire Olympic gold medals, and get a photo of your face inside a penny!

Winnipeg Art Gallery

Architecturally striking and centrally located in the heart of downtown, the WAG houses an internationally acclaimed collection of nearly 24,000 works of art featuring a great deal of Canadian pieces, including the world’s largest collection of contemporary Inuit art. Critically acclaimed touring shows are also brought in throughout the year, featuring everything from the Renaissance to Dadaism, to Ancient Greece and the best in contemporary photography.

The Manitoba Museum

If you’d like to learn about ancient creatures of the Cretaceous Period,  the cosmos, and the prairie plains all under one roof, you’ve come to the right place. The award-winning museum features immersive permanent galleries that adults and kids will like. Whether you catch a Planetarium show on one of the world’s most advanced projection systems or admire some of Canada’s most important historical artifacts and specimens, the Manitoba Museum is one for the bucket list.

Hermetic Code Tour at the Manitoba Legislative Building

For a whole summer, we lived near the legislative building and didn’t get tired of its beauty. However, admiring the outside is just one of the things to do. Even more remarkable is the Hermetic Code Tour , which takes visitors on a journey to decipher the hieroglyphics, Freemasonic symbols and numeric codes that are housed inside this grandiose interior of this ode to Olympus.

FortWhyte Alive

If you’re looking for beautiful wilderness within the city, there’s no better place than FortWhyte Alive, which is home to 640 acres of pristine prairie beauty. In the summer, you can go canoeing on one of the many lakes or simply admire the views while sipping a locally brewed beer on their restaurant patio. You may even spot some bison, North America’s largest animal. Even in the winter, it’s a great place to be, with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sliding on the Richardson Rrrun Toboggan slide, and more!

The Exchange District National Historic Site

By far the most beautiful part of downtown Winnipeg is the Exchange District, which is home to North America’s most extensive turn-of-the-20th-century buildings. It’s a great place to go for a stroll, step into some of the city’s trendiest and tastiest small plate restaurants and bistros, admire a number up-and-coming and established galleries, or go shopping in a variety of vintage and antique shops.

Birds Hill Provincial Park

Not very far from Winnipeg is Birds Hill Provincial Park, which is also the site of the world-famous Winnipeg Folk Fest. Featuring hills and ridges formed by ancient glaciers, this park is home to a lake, oak and aspen forests, native prairie wildflowers, deer, waterfowl and songbirds. There are also opportunities for hiking, walking, camping, swimming, having a picnic, fishing, and more! Interpretive programs are available on a year-round basis for groups of all ages and the Winnipeg Folk Fest takes place in July.

Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre

Although this attraction is 1.5 hours south of Winnipeg, it’s really in an area of its town. Home to the largest collection of marine reptile fossils in Canada, this is your opportunity to see some of the most amazing and ferocious toothed beasts to ever exist.

Thermëa Nordik Spa

This is truly paradise within the city. After 75 days on the road, this was like a dream. After an incredible 1-hour massage, we spent the entire day rotating between eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, dry saunas, hot pools, and relaxing in hammocks amongst the tall trees. There’s also a restaurant where we had a delicious lunch. I would literally travel to Winnipeg just to go to Thermëa. It’s that good.

For more, check out our detailed guide to the best things to do in Winnipeg !

What to Do North of Winnipeg 

Since Winnipeg is practically the only city in the province, it’s a great base for exploring further into the region as well. In fact, many awesome things to do can be found just north of Winnipeg.

Grand Beach Provincial Park

Beaches are likely not the first thing you think about when it comes to Manitoba, but it’s actually home to some of the top beaches in Canada. This is a popular place to swim, windsurf, hike, or relax in the sun, as it rests along the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg, Canada’s sixth-largest lake. You’ll also find the historic La Vérendrye Trail, which is home to powdery white sand beaches and grass-topped dunes that can reach as high as 30 feet!

The Park also features a campground, outdoor amphitheatre, picnic shelters, a restaurant, concession services, and wheelchair access to the beach.

Visit Gimli

Another popular feature of Lake Winnipeg is the charming town of Gimli . Canada is never short of small-town surprises and Gimli is no different. Gimli is actually a settlement created by Icelanders who came here to found “New Iceland” back in 1875. It’s now home to some charming restaurants and accommodation, as well as the wonderful New Iceland Heritage Museum, which is dedicated to preserving and presenting this fascinating chapter of Manitoba’s history.

Gimli is a welcoming harbour, an ideal spot for scenic drives or bicycle rides to the small towns, beaches, unique eateries and artists’ studios. Watch for pelicans, bald eagles, ducks and purple martins, which have their own downtown apartment tower.

Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre

Located just 20 minutes outside of Winnipeg on Highway 67, Oak Hammock Marsh is one of North America’s top birding hotspots. This wetland is home to 25 species of mammals, 300 species of birds, numerous amphibians, plus reptiles and fish. During the migration season, the number of waterfowl can exceed 100,000 daily!

Hecla Provincial Park

Yet another incredible feature of massive Lake Winnipeg is Hecla Provincial Park, which is home to lush forest, rugged shoreline, beautiful beaches, and lots of wildlife. In the park, you’ll find many hiking and cross-country ski trails, as well as a campground, vacation cabins, tennis courts, a championship 18-hole golf course, and so much more.

The park is also home to Hecla Village, which features a 1-km self-guided trail through the restored village, allowing you to trace the history of Icelandic settlement in the area. Restored buildings include a church, community hall, 1920s school, an Icelandic home and a village store still in operation. Guided walks by a park interpreter are available in summer.

Stonewall Quarry Park

Mostly popular with locals, Stonewall Quarry Park is a summer excursion, located 40 minutes north of Winnipeg. Giant limestone kilns form the focus of this unique park and it’s popular for its walking trails, picnic areas, white sand beach, and swimming in the man-made lake. However, it’s also home to a campground and the Quarry Park Heritage Art Centre, which is open daily.

Pisew Falls Provincial Park

If you’re like us and you love dramatic waterfalls, then perhaps an adventurous road trip up to Pisew Falls Provincial Park should be on your bucket list. Located almost as far as you can possibly drive north in Manitoba, this can easily be turned into an incredible adventure with lots of natural hot spots along the way. Extend the trip a little longer and go all the way up to Thompson!

What to Do East of Winnipeg

Winnipeg is also in the Eastern part of Manitoba, but there’s much more than Winnipeg.

Whiteshell Provincial Park

This spectacular park offers over 2,729 km² of lush forests and lakes. Park visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, quiet beaches, and water sports of all kinds. In fact, there are more than 200 lakes, all of which offer fishing for fish such as walleye, northern pike, perch, smallmouth bass, and lake trout. Whiteshell Provincial Park is also year-round, as winter explorers can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, winter hiking, skating, and snowmobiling.

What to Do in Western Manitoba

Western Manitoba, in terms of this article, is going to range from the border of Saskatchewan to the half-way point between the border and Winnipeg. There are no major cities but there’s a lot of beautiful nature and some small towns to be seen.

Riding Mountain National Park

There are only two national parks in Manitoba and Riding Mountain National Park is the most accessible. The other one is way up near Churchill. We’ve been here a number of times and truly love it. In fact, on one short drive, we saw a Moose and three bears!

Located approximately 100 km north of Brandon, Riding Mountain National Park has something to offer everyone. Not only is it a great place to spot wildlife and enjoy outdoor adventure, but it’s also home to the charming cottage town of Wasagaming, a picturesque town located along the shores of Clear Lake, which gets very busy during the summer as it’s home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a beach, golf course, boat rentals, and even a dinner cruise around the lake.

It’s also home to one of the very few remaining original park entrances that were built in the 1930s. So, whether you’re looking for a laid-back lake town or some outdoor adventure, this is a great place to visit.

The City of Brandon 

The only other “big” city in Manitoba is Brandon. With a population of less than 50,000, it’s dwarfed by Winnipeg, but still home to some cool things to do, such as visiting the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba, the Daly House Museum, and the Westman Reptile Gardens.

Fort la Reine Museum

Located right in between Winnipeg and Brandon, The Fort la Reine Museum is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Canadian Prairies, and of the City and Municipality of Portage la Prairie. The Fort la Reine Museum has over 25 buildings displaying thousands of individual artifacts including pre-European contact First Nation’s artifacts to more modern collections including historic fire trucks, an old print shop, a general store, the “West Prospect” school, churches, and historic homes.

Explore Dauphin

Just north of Riding Mountain National Park and tucked between Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipegosis, Dauphin is a hub for arts and culture, outdoor recreation, and specialty shopping. With three stages and an 11,000-seat amphitheater at the Selo Ukrainian festival site, the town also attracts North America’s premier country music acts each July during Countryfest.

It’s also home to the Fort Dauphin Museum, which takes you on a history tour throughout their village, including a trapper’s cabin, a trading post, a blacksmith’s shop, a pioneer log house, a schoolhouse, a church, and the main log building, which are all located inside palisade walls. In addition, the Parkland Archaeological Laboratory houses over 80,000 artifacts, and the Museum hosts the Fur Traders Rendezvous in September.

Spruce Woods Provincial Park

Looking for some unique outdoor adventure? Head to Spirit Sands, a desert-like area with sand dunes that tower 30 metres above the prairies, or visit Devil’s Punch Bowl, an eerie pond formed by underground streams. Spruce Woods Provincial Park is home to self-guided trails and horse-drawn covered wagon rides. You may even spot the unique northern prairie skink (Manitoba’s only lizard), a western hognose snake and/or two species of cacti.

Visit Boissevain

The little community of Boissevain is steeped in history and beauty. It’s home to four museums, a giant outdoor art gallery, Turtle Mountain Provincial Park, the International Peace Garden, and Tommy Turtle.

Turtle Mountain Provincial Park

Nestled within the rolling forested hills of the park is a variety of mountain biking trails, canoe routes, horse riding trails, self-guided hiking, and campgrounds. The Turtle’s Back Tower is accessible via a hiking trail and offers a panoramic view of the Turtle Mountains and surrounding farmlands. There are also lots of popular boating and fishing lakes for those wanting to get out on the water.

The International Peace Garden

Located right on the Canadian/American border, not far from Boissevain, is a park where visitors can roam freely within the garden from one country to the other. The Peace Garden is home to many flowers, as well as summer camps and camping. However, it is also dedicated to peace and has sites such as our Conservatory, Interpretive Centre, North American Game Warden Museum, and Peace Chapel.

The Garden is open year-round with the exception of the week between Christmas & New Year and it’s an exquisite example of landscaping,  featuring nearly 3,000 flowers.

Manitoba Agricultural Museum & Campground

Interested in farming? The Manitoba Agricultural Museum holds the largest collection of vintage farm machinery in Canada with more than 500 implements, many dating back to the Pioneer era of Manitoba. You’ll also find the Homesteaders’ Village, which represents village life in the late 19th century with an 1883 schoolhouse, a post office, typical log houses of the era, an elegant clapboard mansion, a general store, a railway station, and more! In July, you’ll also find the Manitoba Agricultural Museum’s annual festival – the Manitoba Threshermen’s Reunion and Stampede.

Asessippi Ski Area and Resort

Manitoba is certainly not a skiing hotspot, but it is home to the Asessippi Ski Area, which has 3 chair lifts, 26 downhill ski/snowboard runs, 2 terrain parks and a snow tubing park. It’s not Banff National Park , but it’s a great place to enjoy the winter in Manitoba!

What To Do in Churchill

Located in Canada’s deep north, Churchill is an unforgettable place for those interested in unique wildlife encounters and Inuit culture. After all, it’s both the polar bear capital of the world and the beluga whale capital of the world. It’s probably one of Canada’s most accessible northern communities, but it still takes some work or some money. There are two ways of getting to Churchill. You can fly (it takes about three hours from Winnipeg) or you can take the train, which takes about 40-hours coming from Winnipeg.

Snorkel or Kayak with Beluga whales

Although the rules have changed since we were there in 2017, we will never forget the experience of snorkelling in a dry suit with dozens of beluga whales, all of whom were just over an arms-length away, singing to us as we sang back to them. It was truly a magical moment. These days, snorkelling is no longer allowed but visitors can still dip their heads in the water from a floating dock towed by a boat, giving you a similar experience, albeit a bit different.

Regardless of whether you choose to admire them from the boat, a kayak, or the floating dock, this is a rare opportunity to witness the highest concentration of beluga whales in the world. This typically occurs from July to August.

For our experience, we went with Lazy Bear Expeditions .

Get Close to Polar Bears

Perhaps what Churchill is most famous for is the polar bears. After all, polar bears have been enchanting people for decades. Although quite fierce, even by “bear standards”, tours will bring you up close and personal, typically between September and October. The most popular tours are typically done in heavy-duty arctic buses, all of which have the windows barred off by metal pipes. This allows you to see them, and sometimes even feel their breath, without the risk of being eaten. We haven’t done this yet but it’s on the top of our bucket lists.

View the Northern Lights

Canada is known for its incredibly beautiful Northern Lights and Churchill is one of the best places in the country, and in the world, to see this wonderful natural phenomenon. We actually see them during our summer tour to see the beluga whales, but they’re even easier to see during the colder darker months of the fall and winter. They can be hard to time, but if you get the chance to see them dance amongst the sky, you’ll never forget!

Itsanitaq Museum

Another delight of visiting Churchill is stepping foot into the small but impressive Itsanitaq Museum. This museum has a collection of Inuit carvings and artifacts that are among the finest and oldest in the world dating from Pre-Dorset (1700 B.C.) through Dorset, Thule, and modern Inuit times. The gift shop specializes in northern books, Canadian Inuit art, unique postcards, art cards, stationery, and local wild berry preserves.

Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site

The British certainly left their mark on Canada, including all the way up in Churchill with the Prince of Wales Fort. This National Historic Site is visited only by tour (it takes a boat to get there) but is quite impressive to see, especially with the stories that come with it. Built more than 250 years ago, you’ll get a real sense of a fur trader’s life in the subarctic at this massive stone outpost.

Wapusk National Park

This national park, which is located in a remote subarctic region of Canada, is a whopping 11,475 square kilometres in size! It encompasses the transition between boreal forest and arctic tundra and even protects one of the largest polar bear maternity denning areas in the world! Wapusk is located within the range of the Western Hudson Bay population of polar bears, which numbers approximately 1000 bears. Nature lovers can hope to see arctic foxes, arctic hares, wolves, caribou, and wolverine as well as more than 200 bird species. This park is remote and only accessible with authorized commercial tour operators in Churchill.

Miss Piggy Plane Wreck

In terms of great spots for an “Instagram photo”, this is probably the best. Home to the remains of a plane crash, and now decorated in graffiti, this makes for one of those interesting, unique, and obscure tourist attractions. This is the wreck of a Curtiss C-46 “Commando” twin-prop cargo aircraft owned by Lamb Airways Ltd. Widely used by the US military during the Second World War, the plane crashed on November 1979 as it attempted to return to the Churchill airport shortly after takeoff. The plane landed in rough terrain and was badly damaged but no one died.

Things to Do in Thompson

Although Thompson is virtually in the middle of nowhere, it is on the way to Churchill if you’re going by train. It sounds like an interesting place, so if you make it there, here are some things to do.

Spirit Way 

This award-winning walking and biking pathway highlights 16 remarkable points of interest including Canada’s largest mural of a Robert Bateman wolf painting, the start of Canada’s largest rockface sculpture, an aviation tribute, scenic vistas, and more.

Manitoba Star Attraction Mining Museum

The Manitoba Star Attraction Mining Museum has a collection of mining artifacts complete with mining equipment such as drills, mucking machines, old mine rescue equipment and old maps. See a replica of a raise and drift, a painting of a cross-section of a mine, and clothes the miners wore. Guided tours are offered late June to September long weekend.

Exploring Manitoba and Beyond

As you can see, Manitoba is an exciting province to explore. Whether you’re looking for the city delights of Winnipeg, the incredible wildlife adventures of Churchill or some of North America’s top lakes and beaches, Manitoba has something for everyone.

If there’s something we missed, please let us know in the comments.

For more on things to do in Canada, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Winnipeg
• Things to Do in Saskatchewan
• Things to Do in Ontario
• Things to Do in Regina

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

March 27, 2021 at 6:40 pm

I love Manitoba. Can you please send the travel guide? Thanks

March 29, 2021 at 10:30 am

We haven’t created a physical travel guide at this point. Our main guide would be this article, and also our top things to do in Winnipeg article.

April 1, 2021 at 11:37 am

I can’t wait to travel and see more of Manitoba this summer.

April 2, 2021 at 1:25 am

let’s go

April 2, 2021 at 11:36 pm

Great article!

April 4, 2021 at 7:18 am

My home province has so much to offer. I cannot wait for our first staycation this year!!

April 4, 2021 at 11:58 pm

What about pisew falls!

April 5, 2021 at 12:35 pm

Oh cool! Never heard of it. Will look it up now

April 5, 2021 at 9:25 pm

Cool. Awesome Manitoba.

April 8, 2021 at 8:55 am

Great article, with great information and places to see, thank you.

April 12, 2021 at 9:01 am

I am looking forward to checking some of these places! Lots of hidden gems.

May 10, 2021 at 7:31 am

Looking to explore some of Manitoba. Some great ideas here.

April 19, 2021 at 9:43 am

Thanks for sharing all there is here in Manitoba, some I have never even heard of and look forward to checking out.

April 19, 2021 at 4:24 pm

My favourite place so far in all of Manitoba is Wasagaming in Clear Lake National Park!

April 20, 2021 at 8:35 am

Perhaps while reading I missed it but I didn’t see any reference to the Souris Suspension Bridge. On a trip out West one year we took an unplanned visit to the area and thoroughly enjoyed it. Worth the stop.

April 20, 2021 at 8:59 am

Oh cool! We’ve never heard of it but happy to include it. We gotta get back to Manitoba soon

April 20, 2021 at 9:09 am

Best site for getting comprehensive info regarding what to see in Manitoba. Thanks for sharing.

May 7, 2021 at 4:52 pm

One of these days we’ll get to Manitoba to see family who love there.

May 13, 2021 at 3:59 pm

So many ‘Must Dos’ in my very own province. Thanks for the chance to win!

May 26, 2021 at 3:11 pm

Reading this article, makes me realize I need to spend more time exploring my own province 🙂 Thx for the chance to win

May 29, 2021 at 4:52 am

Great article. Churchill is on our list to do yet. Manitoba is a wonderful place to live 🙂

June 9, 2021 at 5:52 pm

Love how you capture and highlight the great adventures to be taken right in our own back yard.

June 11, 2021 at 12:30 pm

happy to see that Snow Lake made the cut!! there is also a great provincial campground outside of Snow Lake with some awesome fishing!

June 19, 2021 at 5:44 am

Thanks for the ideas of things to do! It’s hard to stay entertained during the pandemic.

February 5, 2022 at 9:25 pm

So much to do and see in Manitoba – who would have guessed?! Thanks for highlighting!

February 6, 2022 at 12:42 pm

So many people complain about winter in MB because of the cold! Personally I find that you can dress for almost any temperature it there is not a strong wind. I just spent my 10-day vacation doing winter activities I love in different areas of the province! Cross country skiing in Sandilands and Hecla Island, skating the river trail at The Forks, and snowshoeing in Riding Mountain National Park. There is beauty in every season in this beautiful province!

February 6, 2022 at 1:07 pm

totally! Manitoba is very underated. Thanks for sharing!

March 11, 2022 at 11:48 am

Wasagaming, Clear Lake in Riding Mountain is one of our favorite places to visit.

March 16, 2022 at 6:37 pm

Nothing beats the Keystone province!!

March 19, 2022 at 5:31 am

I love Manitoba and I go every summer!

May 4, 2022 at 11:00 pm

Churchill definitely on my to do list

May 5, 2022 at 6:31 am

The centre of Canada is right close to where I live. Manitoba is an amazing holiday destination.

May 6, 2022 at 11:54 am

so many things to do in manitoba

May 8, 2022 at 7:59 pm

May 16, 2022 at 7:42 am

Thanks for the great info. Will need to check out some of these places.

May 22, 2022 at 8:29 am

RMNP…..lots to see and do.

May 28, 2022 at 7:44 pm

Manitoba and Canada has such a rich history and so many fascinating places to explore and discover. Excellent for families as well as solo travel. I’m hoping to explore more of the places in Mb that I have forgotten about previously.

May 31, 2022 at 4:43 pm

Ugh I would love to go to church hill!!!!!

September 1, 2022 at 9:14 am

Lots of great things here. Thanks!

September 5, 2022 at 8:44 am

Friendly reminder, traveling can be dangerous if you’re not paying close attention to your environment.

September 5, 2022 at 8:43 pm

Love to go to Churchill. MB!! 🙂

[…] all over the world and this is easily one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. When we snorkeled with a family of Beluga whales they came so close we could almost touch […]

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Summer Top 50 | Tourism Winnipeg

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Summer Top 50

New exhibit makes musical connections

Beyond the Beat; Music of Resistance and Change – a new exhibition at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights – shares the backstory on how musicians and fans have used music to change the world! Interact with dynamic audio/video installations; explore historic moments, legendary instruments, stage outfits and more.

Visit website

A Truly Canadian Experience

Take a guided tour to uncover how the Royal Canadian Mint can produce up to 15 million coins per day. Shop at the boutique where you will find remarkable collector coins, unique souvenirs and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Celebrate the Casinos of Winnipeg Birthday Bash!

Join us at Club Regent Casino on June 14 and McPhillips Station Casino on June 21 and enter for your chance to win a 2024 Mitsubishi RVR per casino! Scan your club card to win big prizes, enjoy point multipliers, the “Pick A Present” game and amazing entertainment - the Casinos of Winnipeg has something for everyone! Presented by Waverly Mitsubishi. 18+ Enjoy Responsibly.

Winnipeg Attractions Pass

Purchase the Winnipeg Attractions Pass and get sweet savings on some of the city’s top attractions, all while keeping admissions in one convenient location on your phone. 

Feel the mist on your face from Canada’s tallest indoor waterfall as you pass underneath towering palms and plants within  The Leaf , an impressive horticultural attraction featuring Mediterranean and Tropical biomes, a butterfly garden, colourful outdoor gardens, and Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar.

See the world's largest collection of contemporary Inuit art at  WAG-Qaumajuq , downtown’s awe-inspiring cultural centre that’s been met with rave-reviews from so many notable arts and design publications.

Embark on a journey of discovery at  the Manitoba Museum , where adventures include hopping aboard the signature 17th-century Nonsuch ship and being whisked across the galaxy in the Planetarium. 

Witness how music can be a powerful force for social and political change at “Beyond the Beat,” the blockbuster new exhibition at  the Canadian Museum for Human Rights that was opened by Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello.

Return to nature at  FortWhyte Alive  , where hiking, trail biking, birding, bison-watching and canoeing are just a few options within its aspen forests and small lakes.

Imaginations take flight at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada where you can climb aboard aircrafts, learn about the region’s history of flight, and do some serious plane-spotting from the observation deck.

Look up to see polar bears make a splash right over your head at  Assiniboine Park Zoo , home to more than 150 species from around the globe along with 19 giant animatronic bugs as part of Xtreme BUGS this summer.

Root for the home team when the  Winnipeg Blue Bombers  try to solidify their Grey Cup dynasty at Princess Auto Stadium.

Dance in your bare feet in the grass or sway in the shade to the sweet sounds of the  Winnipeg Folk Festival  (July 11-14), where headliners include Band of Horses, Orville Peck, Mt. Joy, Noah Cyrus, and Killer Mike.

Slip into thermal pools, unwind in heated hammocks and savour delectable farm-to-table cuisine at  Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature , Winnipeg's exquisite Scandinavian outdoor spa.

Go globetrotting without leaving the city during  Folklorama   (August 4 – 17) the world’s largest and longest-running multicultural festival where countries and cultures host pavilions brimming with food, arts and entertainment from the homeland.

Cheer on the boys of summer at Blue Cross Park as the  Winnipeg Goldeyes  slug it out in the American Association.

Ride coasters that are part of the world’s largest traveling carnival, eat whacky food, see the cutest animals and catch headline acts during the  Red River Ex , June 14 to 23.

Stroll through the gardens and around the Witch’s Hut at  Kildonan Park ,  a massive greenspace featuring charming little bridges over streams, majestic old elms and oaks, plenty of picnic areas and the charming pondside restaurant Prairie’s Edge.

Savour dishes from across the globe, learn about the neighbourhood's colourful history and see fanciful facades with the West End Biz, who offer  Mural,   Architecture  and  Culinary Tours  all summer long.

Let the kids loose at  Tinkertown Amusement Park, where over 20 exhilarating rides await, including all the must-haves: bumper cars, miniature roller coasters, a half-mile train ride, ferris wheel and so much more.

Sing along and be part of the magic at  Rainbow Stage — Canada's largest open-air theatre company. This summer's lineup features Winnipeg original  Ma-Buhay (June 27 - July 14) and  Marry Poppins  (August 15 - September 1).

Laugh, cry and perhaps be a little puzzled by the non-stop entertainment of the  Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival  — North America's second-largest Fringe Festival (July 17 - 28).

Sit back on the grass and enjoy the sweet sounds of the Summer Entertainment Series at  Assiniboine Park . This year's free lineup includes Movies in the Park and Ballet in the Park on the Lyric Stage, and live jazz in the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden.

Learn more about North America's largest collection of turn-of-the-20th century buildings that are now home to trendy restaurants, cafes, galleries and shops on an  Exchange District walking tour .

Bust a gut to some of the biggest names in standup on the Lyric Stage during the  Great Outdoors Comedy Festival  (July 19 – 21) at Assiniboine Park.

Treat your children to a weekend of zany circus acts, comedic daredevils, pure artistry, and so much fun during the  Winnipeg International Children’s Festival (Kidsfest)  when it takes over The Forks from June 6 - 9.

Ignite your kids' imagination and foster fun at the  Children's Museum  where interactive exhibits encourage science, engineering, storytelling, and creativity.

Uncover the unique architecture, atmosphere and joie de vivre of Franco-Manitobans on an  Old Saint-Boniface walking tour .

Bask in the Bard under open skies at  Shakespeare in the Ruins,  where this summer’s lineup includes  A Midsummer Night’s Dream (June 6 – July 6) and Iago Speaks (June 4 – July 7).

Feel your adrenaline rush from the thunder of hooves during live horse racing at Winnipeg's historic  Assiniboia Downs.

Find locally made goods, freshly harvested produce and delicious culinary delights at  Le Marche St. Norbert Farmers' Market,  open every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer.

Take a tour that’s always on the money at the  Royal Canadian Mint , a fascinating facility that creates millions of coins for countries around the globe.

Gear up and explore the streets, rivers, and trails easily with rentals of all sorts from  Kendrick's Outdoor Adventures or  Type Eh Bikes.

Lose yourself in the beauty of the prairies at  A Maze in Corn with its Instagrammable Sunflower Expo and legendary Corn Maze, both of which open in August.

Cheer for the  Sea Bears as they make a splash on the court at Canada Life Centre during CEBL pro basketball.

Rent a bicycle built for two from Bee 2 Gether Bike Rentals, which has kiosks with a variety of fun bicycles at Assiniboine Park, The Forks and Birds Hill Park.

Float along Winnipeg's historic rivers with the  Splash Dash or  Winnipeg Waterways boat tours as knowledgeable (and often witty) captains bring the city’s history to life.

“Groove together” during the always toe-tapping  TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival (June 14 to 22), which will utilize six venues throughout downtown.

Race on the go-kart track, aim for glory on the mini-golf greens and make a splash with bumper boats at  Thunder Rapids  and  Grand Prix Amusements

Sip from unique selections at  The Common, The Forks’ indoor/outdoor bar serving 20 craft beers and wines by the glass.

Cruise past and visit the city’s top sites while learning so many fun things during the  Heart of the Nation Tour  with the Winnipeg Trolley Company

Make noise for  Valour FC  from the stands at Princess Auto Stadium as the team look to make a run through the Canadian Premier League.

We all scream for ice cream, especially when it’s house-made flavours from  Dug and Betty’s ,  Chaeban Ice Cream ,  Fête Ice Cream & Coffee  ,  Rollesque Roll Up Ice Cream ,  The Supreme Ice Cream Shoppe ,  9 Below Ice Cream Bar ,  Sargent Sundae and the iconic  Bridge Drive In (BDI).

Take in sweeping views of the countryside during a charming heritage train ride on the  Prairie Dog Central Railway.

Immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of Downtown Winnipeg on one of the Winnipeg BIZ’s Signature Tours including the popular  Chinatown & Dim Sum Tour!

View stunning works of art at Exchange District art galleries like  cre8ery ,  Graffiti Gallery ,  Mayberry Fine Art ,  Platform: Centre for Photographic and Digital Arts ,  Urban ShamanContemporary Aboriginal Art and  Warehouse Artworks .

Let the kids burn off some steam at  Kid City , Fun Park Amusement Centre and  Hide N Seek .

Enter the oldest stone gate in Winnipeg then view illuminating scenes from the region’s history at  Upper Fort Garry Provincial Park  during its nightly light shows.

Get swept up in the symphony of wetland sounds at  Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre. Explore this birder’s paradise in canoe, along trails, or by donning chest waders to get up close in the reeds.

See the dirt fly at  Victory Lanes Speedway as cars of various classes race around the oval track.

Shop ‘til you drop at  Outlet Collection Winnipeg,  home to over 100 renowned fashion brands including Saks OFF 5TH, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, Kate Spade Outlet, Under Armour, Nike, and many more

Hit up those hops and kick back with a Kölsch as you visit Winnipeg's 20-plus  craft breweries and taprooms.

Tee off at Winnipeg's diverse golf courses, offering options from PGA Canada tour-level links to relaxed nine-hole courses.

Test your luck at the Casinos of Winnipeg, including the railway-inspired  McPhillips Station Casino and the  Club Regent Event Centre , home to top-notch comedy, rock, and country performances.

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The 28 BEST Things to Do in Manitoba [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 8, 2024

The heart of Canada is filled with diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, rich cultures and inspiring traditions. For a truly memorable adventure on your travels across the Great White North, don’t miss these incredible things to do in Manitoba!

The west has the grandeur of the Rockies and the east boasts historic cities, but it’s Manitoba in the heart of the Canadian Prairies that is home to the nation’s most sought-after wildlife experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

With rich boreal forests, arctic tundra, and countless lakes, rivers, marshes, and waterfalls, travellers can spend weeks traversing the majestic wilderness, constantly being left in awe by the province that’s been heralded as ‘Glorious and Free’.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to sky-dive, whitewater raft, and kayak with beluga whales, or a tourist looking to gain insight into the local culture through festivals, museums, and pow wows, Manitoba is a destination that really has it all.

The central province is particularly intriguing for animal lovers. The diverse landscape and protected wilderness areas make Manitoba a top-tier location for wildlife spotting.

Your days will be filled on the search for bison, polar bears, caribou, moose, whales, birds, snakes, and more.

READ MORE: Add additional activities to your epic bucket list with our expert guide to the best things to do in Canada !

Highly knowledgeable local guides and immersive eco-lodges will help you achieve the wildlife-filled adventure of your dreams, all while providing a fascinating insight into the Indigenous culture and history of this spectacular region.

Whether you’re cruising through on a Manitoba road trip , on a mission to the Polar Bear Capital of the World, or just find yourself in the bustling and vibrant city of Winnipeg, you’re sure to fall in love with the landscape, wildlife, and culture of the province.

Table of Contents

1) Hang Out with the Polar Bears

2) stay in a log cabin at falcon lake, 3) go kayaking with beluga whales, 4) wander the exhibits at the canadian museum for human rights, 5) spend a weekend in portage la prairie, 6) capture the splendour of the aurora borealis, 7) search for bison in riding mountain national park, 8) learn about the caribou migration at schmok lake, 9) take part in a pow wow at the manito ahbee festival, 10) canoe one of the canadian heritage rivers, 11) go fishing at gangler’s north seal river lodge, 12) explore the caddy lake tunnels, 13) ziplining with hy-wire zipline adventures, 14) hiking in manitoba’s fantastic provincial parks, 15) go on a horse riding adventure, 16) spend the night in a remote eco-lodge, 17) hike the spirit sands and devil’s punch bowl trail, 18) go hang gliding above manitoba’s stunning landscapes, 19) rug up and tackle manitoba’s incredible winter activities, 20) wander around the forks national historic site, 21) learn to windsurf or kiteboard on lake winnipeg, 22) go whitewater kayaking, 23) explore the wetlands at oak hammock marsh, 24) relax at thermea by nordik spa-nature, 25) go to an awesome and unique festival , 26) visit the narcisse snake dens, 27) cross the province by train, 28) check out the canadian fossil discovery centre, the best things to do in manitoba – activities, attractions and experiences.

From seeing wild animals up close, to witnessing the northern lights, to kayaking, hang gliding, ice fishing, and more, here are some of the most unforgettable things to do in Manitoba, Canada.

The majestic polar bear is one of the world’s largest apex predators, living in the most remote and frigid regions of the globe.

Many people go to great lengths to see the white bear in the furthest reaches of the planet, but did you know that it is entirely possible to get up close and personal with polar bears while travelling through Manitoba?

Churchill, a small town in northern Manitoba that is accessed by rail or plane, is best known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, thanks to the high population and abundance of research and studies that are conducted on the mammals here.

During the summer months, polar bears migrate to the area near Hudson Bay, the huge water expanse where Churchill is located, as this is typically the first place that sea ice begins to form when winter sets in, allowing them to begin their seasonal hunts.

In the winter while many of the bears hunt for seals, pregnant females retreat to their dens to give birth, emerging again in the springtime with cubs in tow – a scene that truly is one of the most sensational wildlife experiences in Canada .

There are a number of ways to see the polar bears in Churchill, with the famous Tundra Buggies operated by Frontiers North Adventures being one of the most popular and easily accessible.

For a more in-depth adventure, get in touch with the award-winning pioneers Churchill Wild , who organise exhilarating walking tours without the barriers of a tundra buggy at their remote, fly-in wilderness lodges.

This can be booked as part of world-class packages with Churchill Wild that are guaranteed to have you coming back again and again.

So whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just a traveller keen to see these massive white carnivores in real life, seeing polar bears in Churchill is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Manitoba.

Bordered by towering pine forests, holiday cabins, and hiking trails, Falcon Lake is a gorgeous place to spend a weekend in Manitoba.

Falcon Lake is situated in southeastern Manitoba near the border with Ontario. It is right next to the Trans Canada Highway and is part of Whiteshell Provincial Park, so it’s a convenient stop on a road trip through Canada.

The best way to experience the charm and beauty of the area is to stay in a cozy log cabin. There are lots of amazing options, with Falcon Trails Resort being one of the best.

After you check in to your traditional and luxurious lakeside cabin, spend your weekend hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing in front of the fire.

Detailed directions are available on their website !

The abundance of wild animals in Churchill is really one of the best Manitoba attractions! This tiny town is also considered the world capital for beluga whales, in addition to polar bears.

Thousands of beluga whales migrate to the waters of the Hudson Bay during the summer months. These sea mammals are quite curious and love to interact with humans, so the best way to see them is by getting out on the water.

While you can try to spot them from the shore, or from the comfort of a Zodiac, we personally recommend booking a kayaking tour in Churchill so you can glide through the water alongside adorable beluga whales.

Sea North Tours is a reputable local company partnered with Travel Manitoba that offers subarctic safaris and wildlife tours.

This company is passionate about the conservation of animals, and with over 30 years of experience, they are certain to help you see lots of belugas.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a must-see if you’re visiting Winnipeg , the capital of Manitoba.

Canada is a country celebrated with rich Indigenous cultures, and this museum reflects on the history and treatment of these Indigenous Peoples.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is dedicated to telling stories and showcasing art, architecture, and exhibitions about the human experience and the development of human rights over time.

Set in a unique and modern glass building with eye-catching architecture and poignant, interactive content over ten permanent galleries, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a reminder of the darkness of days past and a beacon of hope towards a brighter and more just future.

In fact, it is the only museum in the world dedicated to the topic of global human rights issues.

Located at The Forks in Winnipeg, you can combine this museum with a visit to other cultural icons and landmarks in the city.

Check out the Royal Canadian Mint coin-making facility, or Qaumajuq, the newly opened Inuit Art Centre at the Winnipeg Art Gallery.

Also consider visiting the Manitoba Museum, which has nine permanent galleries full of history, science, art, and more.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day away from Winnipeg, Portage La Prairie is a charming city to visit. It is only an hour west of Winnipeg and has lots of fun attractions for a small town.

The town was founded by fur traders as they travelled by canoe from the Assiniboine River to Lake Manitoba.

Nowadays, it is a friendly Canadian town with nice accommodation, campgrounds, recreation areas, and a seasonal museum.

Be sure to check out the Fort La Reine Museum, which features a well-preserved historical village, and Island Park, which has biking trails and an indoor wave pool.

Witnessing the Northern Lights is easily one of the best things to do in Manitoba, and all of Canada.

If you’re going to travel that far north, you really can’t leave without hoping to see one of nature’s most spectacular shows.

Churchill is one of the country’s best locations for viewing the Northern Lights, particularly from January to March.

You have a good chance of seeing the shimmering green lights just by exploring on your own. But to be safe, you can book a guided tour with a local expert.

While staying in Churchill, chat to your accommodation hosts and the local tourism offices for recommendations on seeing the Northern Lights.

Some operators to check out are Nanuk Operations , Nat Hab and Frontiers North Adventures .

Located in southern Manitoba on Clear Lake, Riding Mountain National Park is one of the best places to see bison in the entire country.

It is pretty rare to see bison in the wild these days. They were aggressively hunted by humans over the last couple of centuries, so sadly their numbers have dropped.

But the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure in Riding Mountain National Park has allowed a new generation of plains bison to thrive in a protected environment. You can drive through the enclosure in the hopes of seeing some of these huge, furry creatures.

Riding Mountain National Park is also a great location for camping, mountain biking, hiking, and cross country skiing in winter.

For one of the most unique and remote wildlife experiences you may ever have, venture to the remote Schmok Lake to catch a glimpse of polar bears, black bears, wolves, and if you’re lucky, caribou!

In the north of Manitoba by the border with Nunavut, herds of caribou migrate across the Arctic in large numbers, and a fortunate few who are in the right place at the right time may have the chance to see the elusive spectacle.

Due to the isolation and harsh conditions that are found up here, the only way to see the caribou is to join a guided tour departing from Winnipeg through Churchill, staying at the Seal River Heritage Lodge.

You may also see other different species such as bears, foxes, moose, and other animals. If you’re looking to venture outside the tourist trail and go deep into Northern Manitoba to see nature taking its course.

One of the most memorable things to do in Manitoba is experiencing and learning about the Indigenous culture.

You can learn about First Nations culture from books or museums, but taking part in a pow wow is the best way to immerse yourself right into it.

A pow wow is a social gathering where First Nations people can celebrate their music, art, and traditions. The annual Manito Ahbee Festival in Winnipeg welcomes any guest who wants to learn more about First Nations culture and community.

This is an amazing opportunity to sing, dance, create, and learn about First Nations history and lifestyle. Just be sure to honour the traditions and respect the local’s rules.

Visit the official website for Manito Ahbee to learn more about this magnificent First Nations festival!

Adventurous travellers in Canada should definitely add a canoe trip to their bucket list.

Whether you want to embark on a multiday canoe trip of the northern Seal River, or just dedicate a few hours to paddling along the Assiniboine River near Winnipeg, there is no shortage of canoeing opportunities.

Manitoba has 4 heritage rivers, each with their own unique history. In addition to the Assiniboine River and the Seal River, paddling the Hayes River on a wilderness canoe trip provides the only way to access the York Factory, a former fur trade depot of the Hudson Bay Company.

Another option is the Bloodvein River, part of an area known as the Pimachiowin Aki, a UNESCO world cultural and natural world heritage site.

Canoeing along one of these rivers allows you to surround yourself with nature and potentially see some wildlife in a relaxed setting.

For world-class fishing in Canada, head to Gangler’s North Seal River Lodge.

This fishing lodge on Egenolf Lake is known for its remote and untouched waters, and a fishing trip up here will put you far away from any other resorts or commercial fishing areas.

Fishing fanatics venture up to Gangler’s North Seal River Lodge in search of Lake Trout, Northern Pike, Walleye, and Arctic Greyling. Not only will you most likely achieve your fishing goals, but you’ll get to spend some time away from civilisation.

This spot is so remote that there is no public transport, so you’ll have to book an all-inclusive package that includes flights from Winnipeg through the lodge itself.

But the journey is worth it, as the Gangler’s North Seal River Lodge is small and cozy, allowing you to really enjoy the serenity of northern Manitoba while you fish.

Located in Whiteshell Provincial Park, Caddy Lake is a beautiful spot to visit. This long, skinny body of water is wedged in between West Hawk Lake and South Cross Lake, but it’s not the lakes themselves that attract travellers to the area.

There are super cool man-made tunnels that connect Caddy Lake to its neighbouring lakes, and you can canoe or kayak through them.

When railroads were built in Canada in the early twentieth century, the workers had to blast through the granite to build the railways, and to allow the water to flow freely between lakes.

The result is 2 magical tunnels on the lake, located about 5 kilometres apart.

There are a few different camping and lodging options on Caddy Lak e, many of which offer their own canoe or kayak rentals.

For an adrenaline-filled day in southern Manitoba, why not go ziplining over a dense forest?

Soaring over the treetops is one of the most exciting ways to see a landscape, and it’s more affordable than skydiving or hang-gliding.

Hy-Wire Zipline Adventures is a family-owned business near Manitou. Their ziplines are located over the Pembina Valley, and they are the highest and longest ziplines in the province. Call or visit their website to book your spot.

Take it from us – if you’re travelling through the central parts of Canada, exploring the provincial parks is one of the best things to do in Manitoba.

Whiteshell Provincial Park is Manitoba’s largest park, and is well worth spending a few days here.

There are so many stunning lakes and rivers found within the park, you can easily combine hiking with canoeing, camping, and fishing. If you’re visiting in winter, this park also has amazing cross country ski trails.

Hecla Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Winnipeg offers a more nautical landscape, complete with lighthouses, cycling trails, islands, and the popular Grassy Narrows Marsh walking trail.

Pisew Falls Provincial Park is home to majestic waterfalls and rivers, located in Northern Manitoba outside the city of Thompson, an 8-hour drive from Winnipeg.

Birds Hill Provincial Park is easily accessible from Winnipeg from those who are short on time or money. The latter even hosts the annual Winnipeg Folk Festival.

As you can see, there is a wide variety of provincial parks in Manitoba to satisfy any type of traveller!

Lovers of animals and nature are sure to love galloping through the fields on top of a mighty stallion. Combining quality time with animals and a journey through the forest makes for a heavenly day in Manitoba.

Horse riding is a very popular activity in the area, so you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting a tour company.

Falcon Beach Ranch in Whiteshell Provincial Park is a top-rated operator that offers lots of fun, family-friendly outdoor activities. Their tours cater to any age and any riding level, and their prices are incredibly affordable.

You’ll get to ride horses through the diverse landscape of the Whiteshell boreal forest, enjoying exercise and sightseeing all in one go.

This is a fun alternative to just hiking on your own two feet, so book in early and make the most of your Manitoba holiday!

One of the best ways to treat yourself while travelling through Manitoba is booking an in-depth, all-inclusive stay at a remote eco-lodge.

Venture to a secluded spot amidst the vast wilderness and experience some real Canadian hospitality, but be sure to reserve ahead as these kinds of accommodations are as exclusive as you can get.

There are lots of amazing, cozy luxury lodges around Canada , and if you managed to stay in them all it’d be a lifetime well spent.

If you find yourself curious about Churchill, polar bears, beluga whales and the Northern Lights, look into the wildlife tours out of Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge .

This lodge creates a safe, protected space near Hudson Bay. You can relax in comfort, and then embark on a guided wildlife safari or a photography tour.

This is one of the best ways to guarantee your sightings of wildlife in the epitome of eco-luxury.

Spruce Woods Provincial Park is one of the most popular places to go hiking in Manitoba.

The scenery here is so varied and unique that it doesn’t even look like typical Canada.

Expect sand dunes, cacti and snakes in addition to forests, prairies, and lakes.

Spirit Sands and Devil’s Punch Bowl Hiking Trail is the top activity in the park. The entire loop is 10km long and you’ll get to climb the towering sand dunes of Spirit Sands and admire the turquoise waters of the lake known as Devil’s Punch Bowl.

The trail is well-marked and there are drinking water and toilet facilities. Most travellers recommend doing the hike in autumn, as the summer can get extremely hot in Spruce Woods Provincial Park.  

One of the most adventurous things to do in Manitoba is hang gliding. Hang gliding is bucket-list material for many people, and there are few places more stunning to fly over than the rich prairies of Canada.

Manitoba Hang Gliders is an established company with experienced and knowledgeable pilots, giving intrepid travellers an opportunity to view the colourful patchwork quilt of the fields of the Canadian Prairies in summer.

They take the time to prep you before your first ride to ensure you feel comfortable. They even offer pilot lessons and rides for people of all experience levels.

Visit the Manitoba Hang Gliders website for a full list of rides, lessons, and prices.

Manitoba truly is a year-round destination, and despite the cold temperatures that come in the winter months, not even the mercury dropping below zero can stop people from getting outside and enjoying the province’s remarkable terrain.

On Hecla Island, 2 hours north of Winnipeg, you can rent ‘ SnoBears ‘, well-insulated and propane heated buggies to travel safely and comfortably around Lake Winnipeg to try your hand at ice fishing, under the tuition of your expert local guide.

Prairie Gal Fishing offers ice fishing gear and shack rentals and lessons out of Winnipeg. Roselle’s guided trips are highly recommended.

If you’re in Winnipeg, you can rent a fat bike to explore the ice skating trails on both rivers at The Forks, which also allows you to visit the Warming Huts pop up art displays.

Outside of Winnipeg there is Guinness World Record-holding ‘world’s largest snow maze’ in St. Adolphe, guaranteeing fun for the whole family.

If downhill skiing is more your style, the family-owned and local favourite Falcon Ridge Ski Resort can be found in the woods of Whiteshell Provincial Park.

As you can see, winter in Manitoba is an incredible time to travel to the province, so pack your thermal boots, wrap up in a heavy jacket and don’t forget your sense of adventure!

The Forks National Historic Site is the heart and soul of Winnipeg. Located at the meeting point of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, the Forks acts as a conglomeration of art, history, entertainment, and culture.

There is a market, an inn, a theatre, a kids’ playground, and multiple green spaces with orchards, gardens, and other historic landmarks. You can also find your typical shops, restaurants, and breweries.

It is also home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the Manitoba Children’s Museum.

Not only is the Forks National Historic Site a treasure in the modern world, but it has been used as a cultural meeting point for thousands of years.

It operated as a trading place for Indigenous people for over 6,000 years and has since been used as a centre for trade, commerce, and communication for immigrants and pioneers of many cultures.

While visiting Winnipeg, a trip to this interesting and multicultural space definitely deserves a place on your itinerary.

Visit the Forks National Historic Site website for updated information on all the attractions.

Water sport lovers may congregate near the coastlines of Canada, but the land-locked lakes should not be overlooked.

Lake Winnipeg is Manitoba’s biggest lake, making it a popular spot for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. So don’t think you can’t surf while exploring Manitoba and the rest of central Canada!

Windsurfing and kitesurfing are both pretty advanced sports, but with the right teachers and equipment, you can learn the basics and have an epic time doing it.

After an exciting day on the water, you can relax on the popular Grand Beach on the eastern coast of Lake Winnipeg.

For more information about windsurfing or kiteboarding lessons, check out Winnipeg Windsurfing and Boost Kiteboarding , a family owned, Winnipeg-based business that offers guided lessons.

Another exciting water sport to try while exploring Manitoba is whitewater kayaking.

Even though Manitoba is a prairie province of Canada, it’s not entirely flat and calm all the time. There are some bodies of water with intense rapids for those who want to take their kayaking to the next level.

Pinawa is not far from Whiteshell Provincial Park, and it’s a much smaller and quieter location than Winnipeg.

Looking to rent your own gear such as tubes, kayaks and SUPs? Check out Float & Paddle or Pinawa Unplugged Eco Tours .

If you’re planning on staying close to the capital city, Lake Winnipeg is also fun for stand up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking, with Prairies Sea Kayak Adventures offering great tours.

Wilderness Supply is the stop in Winnipeg for all your watercraft rentals.

To observe one of Manitoba’s most delicate ecosystems, visit Oak Hammock Marsh. This thriving wetland is a great place to explore nature, find peace, and disconnect from the hustle of daily life.

The Wetland Discovery Center is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the marsh. It is located outside the town of Stonewall, about 20km north of Winnipeg.

Here you can educate yourself about the flora and fauna of Oak Hammock Marsh before setting off into the wilderness.

The discovery center also offers canoe tours, snowshoeing tours, bird-watching tours, guided walks, and has a cool gift shop and theater to entertain families.

Of all the fun things to do in Manitoba, this one will probably appeal to everyone. Who doesn’t want to treat themselves to a relaxing spa day full of massages, thermal baths, and holistic body treatments?

Located 15 minutes outside of Winnipeg, Nordik Spa Nature is the perfect place to unwind after sightseeing and exploring. The spa also offers a restaurant if you want to go all out.

If you’re looking to travel Manitoba and gain an insight into the local culture, consider attending a local festival.

There is a powerful Indigenous presence in Canada, so there is no shortage of opportunities to learn about the Indigenous Peoples and their traditions.

The annual Festival du Voyageur in Winnipeg is one of the province’s most popular winter celebrations. It is held in Winnipeg’s French Quarter, called St. Boniface, every February and lasts for 10 days.

Located on the homeland of the Métis nation, the festival celebrates the French -Canadian and fur trade influence in Manitoba through food, art, music, and family-friendly games and activities.

Another fun cultural festival is the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba , held every August in Gimli. This is one of North America’s oldest ethnic festivals, and it celebrates all things Icelandic.

In the 19th century, volcanic eruptions in Iceland destroyed many people’s homes, so lots of Icelandic people immigrated to Canada. This festival is a way of preserving their heritage in their new home.

Even if you’re not in town for the annual festival, you can visit the New Icelandic Heritage Museum in Gimli year-round to learn more.

This is one of the most interesting Manitoba attractions, and it certainly isn’t for everyone. But if you love seeing wild animals and you’re not afraid of snakes, definitely check out the Narcisse Snake Dens.

There are 4 safely monitored snake dens in Narcisse where you can see huge numbers of red-sided garter snakes taking their yearly course.

Every spring, thousands of snakes leave their dens to breed. Every fall, the snakes return to their dens for winter. The best months for viewing the snakes are mid-May, and mid-September.

Narcisse is located a 1.5-hour drive away from Winnipeg. This official Manitoba Government website has detailed information about driving directions, contact information, and snake behaviour.

If Winnipeg and Churchill are both on your bucket list, consider traveling between the two by train.

It is much quicker to fly from Winnipeg to Churchill, but crossing the province by train is one of the best things to do in Manitoba.

This train journey is the only nonstop land connection between the two tourist hotspots. The journey takes 2 days and 2 nights, covering over 1600 km of breathtaking scenery.

If you have the time to spare, and you want to see more of the landscape, a long train journey is an incredible way to do so.

Via Rail Canada offers a direct train journey from Winnipeg to Churchill, and being a 2-day journey it is worth considering a sleeper cabin. Their website can also help you book tours in Churchill.

READ MORE: Why not tick off another one of Canada’s great rail journeys by jumping onboard Rocky Mountaineer !

Those interested in science and natural history should definitely check out the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre .

Located in the town of Morden, this interactive and family-friendly educational space has Canada’s largest collection of marine reptile fossils.

This Canadian museum is a fun place to bring kids, and it’s only a 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Winnipeg.

DISCLAIMER: This article was created in partnership with our friends at Destination Canada and Travel Manitoba. All thoughts, opinions and hours spent daydreaming about our next big trip to Canada’s heartland is, as always, our own.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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15 Things To Do In Manitoba To Experience The Heart Of Canada

There is more to Manitoba travel than you know. These mind-blowing things to do in Manitoba will have you booking a trip to the heart of Canada

Deep in the heart of Canada sits the province of Manitoba. This sprawling province is often forgotten by those exploring the wonders of Canada. But those who take the time to explore the center of Canada will discover all of the incredible things to do in Manitoba. From the beaches of Lake Winnipeg, the roaming polar bears of Churchill , the sprawling parks, and culture-rich towns, travel in Manitoba offers a series of unforgettable experiences. 

While many visitors to Manitoba spend their time exploring things to do in Winnipeg and Churchill, there are many more Manitoba attractions if you explore beyond those borders. There is more to discover in Manitoba than the vast prairies and farmland. And once you’ve explored some of these amazing Manitoba things to do, you’ll never look at this province the same way again.

Where To Find The Best Things To Do In Manitoba

Table of Contents

Whether you’re exploring the province with your family, as a couple, or solo, you won’t be left wanting for things to do in Manitoba. I was out exploring what to do in Manitoba for kids, and what I found was a province that has slipped under the radar for far too long. When I flew to Manitoba I didn’t have high expectations. Sure Churchill was on my bucket list. But I wasn’t prepared for Winnipeg to become one of my all-time favorite Canadian cities. 

When my son and  I drove out of town to explore the parks I prepared him for a boring drive. “Things in Manitoba are flat and full of farms,” I said. Boy was I wrong. We came across fields of sunflowers, magical sunsets, raced trains down the Trans-Canada Highway, jumped through waterfalls, and even came face to face with Bison. It turns out there are a lot of things to do in Manitoba. And almost all of those things are awesome. So if you’re looking for what to do in Manitoba, here is a list of some of my favorites.

Explore The Winnipeg Forks

If the province of Manitoba has a soul, it’s located the confluence of the Red River and Assiniboine River in the Winnipeg Forks. This former railyard is now a thriving market and food destination. Home to the Forks Market and the Winnipeg Riverwalk, the Forks wraps up 6,000 years of history into a thriving scene that has become one of the hottest destinations in Winnipeg.

Visitors to the Forks in Winnipeg can also take in the Manitoba Children’s Museum. And to get a unique view of the city you can do a riverboat tour. This is a great way to learn about the rich history of Winnipeg and Manitoba. Next, enjoy a drink on the riverside patio or eat inside the antiquey Forks Market to make your visit complete. There is no doubt that The Forks is one of the best places to visit in Manitoba. Make your visit to the Forks complete with a stay at Inn at the Forks , right in the core of the action.

Go Kayaking With Beluga Whales

One of the most amazing Manitoba things to do is experience the ridiculous number of wildlife experiences in the province. For this, there is no better place to get in touch with nature than up in Churchill Manitoba on the edge of Hudson Bay. Here, in the mouth of the Churchill River, you can go kayaking with Beluga whales . These playful white whales love when you sing to them. If you are lucky, they may even start a little game of tag.

Beluga tours are run by both Frontiers North and Sea North Tours in Churchill.  You can choose to experience it via a boat tour, RIB boat, kayak, or even on a stand-up paddleboard Beluga tour. You may even get the chance to see Polar Bears walking along the shores when you do.

You can check out our complete guide to visiting Churchill Manitoba here .

Meet The Bison At Riding Mountain National Park

Speaking of incredible Manitoba wildlife experiences, the sprawling Riding Mountain National Park gives visitors the chance for an up-close and personal view of one of Canada’s great beasts. On top of spectacular scenery and hiking trails, you can drive through the Plains Bison preserve.

Riding Mountain has loads of other amazing activities as well. You can hike to the highest point in Manitoba. Also, Riding Mountain is one of the best places in Manitoba to watch the sunset. And whether you’re camping or staying in one of the Riding  Mountain lodges, you’ll have an incredible Manitoba experience. Make sure to pack a pair of binoculars so you can see where on the Riding Mountain plains these beasts are hanging out.

You can read all about our time at Riding Mountain National Park here .

Take In The History Of Pinawa Dam Provincial Park

Pinawa Dam Provincial Park is one of the hidden gems of Manitoba. This small park on the eastern edge of the province is home to the remains of one of Manitoba’s oldest hydro-electric dams. The classic, almost Romanesque architecture of Pinawa Dam gives it an otherworldly feel. But the dam isn’t all Pinawa has to offer. It’s a popular destination for boaters to pull up the Pinawa channel for a picnic. And the trails surrounding the channel make for a spectacular place to explore. You may even come across white water canoe and kayakers braving the rapids near the dam. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy lunch on the far side of the dam. It’s wonderful, especially when the flowers are in bloom.

Go On A Polar Bear Safari

Polar Bears are synonymous with the best things to do in Manitoba. And if you visit Churchill between late-summer and mid-fall, you’re going to see them lounging out on the rocks by Polar Bear Alley. The great white bears of the north come in droves to the shores of Hudson Bay to wait for the sea-ice to form. Bears are so common here that they had to set up a polar bear jail to deal with the pesky beasts that would wander too close to town. It’s no surprise that this has made it on to our list of the best wildlife experiences in Canada .

Some of the best ways to see Polar Bears in Churchill are by joining a Tundra Buggy adventure with Frontiers North  or staying overnight in one of the magnificent eco-lodges. But book early. With all of the National Geographic and BBC filmmakers coming up here, this small town can book up mighty fast.

Witness The Northern Lights

The northern lights make for one of the greatest natural light shows on Earth. I’ve been lucky enough to witness them in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories , Finland, and Norway. Another big draw for those looking for things to do in Manitoba is aurora viewing in Churchill . This city sits just south of the Arctic Circle. This makes it a prime destination for seeing the Northern Lights in Canada. By late summer, the Aurora is pretty common in this small town. So, pack up the tripod and camera and let’s get shooting.

Experience Icelandic History In Gimli

Just an hour north of Winnipeg on the shores of Lake Winnipeg sits a little piece of Iceland. Manitoba has a special connection to this North Atlantic country. Early in the century, huge numbers of Icelandic refugees made the trek to Manitoba to escape famine. Many of these newcomers made their home on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. They settled in communities that, to this day, continue many of those Icelandic traditions. After our family travel in Iceland , it was amazing to see these customs carry on in towns like Heckla and Gimli Manitoba . Those searching for what to do in Manitoba shouldn’t skip the Icelandic Festival that happens in Gimli every summer. Make your stay complete with a night or two at the Lakeview Gimli Resort .

Stroll The Gardens Of The Assiniboine Park And Zoo

Manitoba was voted among the top regions to visit in 2019 by the Lonely Planet. Much of this acclaim comes from incredible experiences like The Forks and the Assiniboine Park and Zoo in Winnipeg. The Assiniboine Zoo has one of the most expansive Polar Bear enclosures in the world. You can even walk through an underwater tunnel beneath their swimming area while these magnificent animals swim around you.

The surrounding Assiniboine Park has ponds, gardens, and beautiful walking paths. Make sure to look for the Winnie the Pooh sculpture. You can learn about how this wonderful character has connections with White River, Ontario, Winnipeg, and London, England.

Walk Through History At The Museum For Human Rights

The Museum for Human Rights is the only museum of its kind in the World. This powerful Winnipeg experience takes visitors through some of the most important revolutions and human rights movements from the history of our planet. Not only are the exhibits themselves moving, but the architecture of the Human Rights museum alone makes this a destination worth exploring.

The Human Rights Museum should be on everyone’s list of things to do in Manitoba. Check out their website to learn about the revolving series of special exhibits at the museum as well.

Learn About The Canadian Pioneers At Lower Fort Gary Historic Site

The Manitoba fur trade is at the core of what built Manitoba, and much of Canada into the country that it is today. One of the best things to do in Manitoba is to learn about this rich history is to visit the Lower Fort Gary Historic Site. Lower Fort Garry is about 3o minutes from downtown Winnipeg, but it’s about 200 years back-in-time. This Parks Canada historic site features locals in period costumes sharing stories from the life within the Hudson Bay Companies trading posts.

Canoe Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre

A visit to Oak Hammock Marsh is a must for nature-loving families and couples in Winnipeg. Oak Hammock, which is about 15 minutes west of Lower Fort Garry, is a beautiful piece of land that is teeming with hundreds of species of birdlife. Immerse yourself in their educational programs, or rent a canoe and explore the wetlands to see how many different kinds of birds you can find.

Build A Sandcastle At Grand Beach

Manitoba has some amazing beaches. This shouldn’t be a surprise considering that they have two of the world’s largest lakes. Grand Beach is on the southeast shores of Lake Winnipeg. This popular Manitoba beach features swaths of white sand backed by stunning sand dunes. You can pull up your own piece of sand during the summer. But if you visit in early August, you can time your Grand Beach experience with the Grand Beach Sandcastle competition. Don’t forget to bring a beach towel and some sand toys!

Swim In A Crater Lake At Whiteshell Provincial Park

One of the most beautiful parks in Manitoba is on the eastern border with Ontario. Whiteshell Provincial Park is filled with lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and boreal forests. You can even walk among the magical petroforms.  These indigenous rock forms have been created over centuries and represent a sacred place for the local indigenous communities.

One of the coolest features of the park is West Hawk Lake. This amazing lake at the southern tip of Whiteshell was created by a meteor impact. This led to the unique shape and structure of this lake. It’s now one of the most popular nature escapes in Manitoba. You can read more about our experiences at Whiteshell Provincial Park here . You can make your visit to Whiteshell Provincial Park with a stay at nearby Falcon Lake Resort .

Take A Photo At The Center Of Canada

It doesn’t get much more Central Canada than Winnipeg. But, if you make the drive about 30-minutes east from the city you can stand right at the longitudinal center of the country. This kitschy and fun tourist spot is a blast for that Instagram photo worthy of a drive across Canada. With gorgeous fields of Manitoba agriculture as a backdrop, this spot screams Canadian prairies. To help you out on your road trip there are washrooms available here too. To access it you need to be on the Northern side of the Trans-Canada highway and exit onto the service road that runs along the highway.

Climb The Massive Sand Dunes Of Spruce Woods Provincial Park

Spruce Woods Provincial Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Manitoba, especially for lovers of hiking and the outdoors. This small but mighty provincial park features massive sand dunes formed by glacial deposits. There are many species of plants and animals in Spruce Woods that can’t be found anywhere else in Manitoba. For those visiting Manitoba in winter, many of the trails are groomed into cross country ski trails.

Exploring What To Do In Manitoba For Kids

If you’re traveling to Manitoba with kids, you’ll be so happy to know that every single one of these amazing Manitoba activities can be experienced with children. Exploring Manitoba for kids is amazing. The spectacular Children’s museum in The Forks of Winnipeg is just a start. There are fantastic food experiences, excellent outdoor parks, and even one of Canada’s biggest skateboard parks .

And then there are the outdoor experiences. From the beaches of Lake Winnipeg to the wilds of Churchill, Manitoba is family-friendly. We found that nearly every destination had special activities set aside specifically to make exploring Manitoba for kids amazing. So if you’re considering making the journey, don’t hesitate. You might just fall in love with Manitoba as much as we did.

When Is The Best Time To Experience Things To Do In Manitoba?

The old statements about Manitoba being a destination where you can choose between bugs and cold is starting to get shaken off. In reality, Manitoba is a year-round destination. If you’re visiting Churchill, your experiences will vary drastically by the season. You can check out our guide to Churchill here . As for southern Manitoba, it’s a booming destination in the summertime. But winters in Manitoba have a lot to offer as well.

For example, Winnipeg has one of the world’s longest ice-skating surfaces. Even nudging out the legendary Rideau River in Ottawa from time-to-time. Many of the Manitoba parks open up trails to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You can even take part in Western Canada’s largest winter festival, Le Festival du Voyageurs. You can read more about that here .

DISCLOSURE: Some of these activities were made possible with the support of Travel Manitoba . All opinions remain our own. This post may contain compensated links. Any purchases made may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information please read our disclaimer . Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

You May Also Like To Read:

Jennifer Brommer

Tuesday 10th of December 2019

Exploring some different parts of Canada is definitely on our bucket list! These are all very exciting things to consider! Thanks!

Kevin Wagar

There's a lot of Canada to explore! I'm happy to hear that I sparked some idea. Manitoba is waiting for you.

Kathryn Dickson

Monday 9th of December 2019

Winnipeg has always held a special place in my heart from the time I worked there. It's too bad I never got to venture out beyond the city as it looks like I missed out huge on what Manitoba has to offer!

Ryan K Biddulph

The beluga whale kayaking is something else. Amazing being so close to such gorgeous creatures.

It's unforgettable Ryan! I can't say enough about our experiences in Churchill while exploring Manitoba.

Julie Thorne

Ok, you had me at beluga whales!! I love them! Ok and the northern lights. Where can I sign up?? Saving for my bucket list!

The Belugas are one of my all-time favorite things to do in Manitoba! We loved it so much that we went and saw them three different times!

Privacy Overview

18 Best Things To Do In Manitoba

Discover the province of Manitoba, in the heart of Canada, where you'll find breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures. There are many unique things to do in Manitoba and something for everyone. Whether you enjoy the outdoors and seek adventure, visitors are sure to be entertained at one of Canada's major cities. Manitoba also has the best lakes, beaches, and festivals.

Kayaking with beluga whales, witnessing polar bears in the wild and uncovering the mysteries of Masonic symbols are the top things to do in Manitoba, Canada. Enjoy the beauty of the Northern Lights, dance at music festivals, and soak up the sun on the beaches.

Plan fun things to do in the Manitoba getaway with Canadian Train Vacation . They have a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Discover the great outdoors, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

You'll have the best Manitoba vacation with the help of their friendly and knowledgeable staff. Allow them to plan the itinerary and book your tickets for the ultimate Manitoba experience. Book now and discover what Manitoba has to offer!

1. Polar Bears of Churchill

Discover the gorgeous polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, where you may visit them in the wild. You can see these wonderful creatures while on a guided tour of the area, snapping pictures and being awed by their beauty.

Churchill is often called the " Polar Bear Capital of the World ." For those who love the outdoors and are looking for a unique and memorable experience, it is a must-visit location. To view these famous animals in action, reserve your tour right away.

2. Stay in a Log Cabin

Falcon Trails Resort in Manitoba is a great destination. Its cosy log cabins in the middle of the wilderness make this resort the perfect place for romantic getaways or family outings. The resort attracts both tourists and residents, with more than 40,000 annual visits. Yoga classes, art classes, and music festivals are among the events it also hosts.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing fans frequently travel to the resort for these winter sports. For an unforgettable trip, reserve your stay right away.

3. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, there is a well-known museum called the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR). It advocates for human rights and also helps people understand the issues facing communities around the world.

The museum is open every day of the week. On Fridays and Saturdays, visitors can take in the building lit up at night. The entry fee is $20 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $16 for students. Every year, thousands of people visit the CMHR. It is considered one of the top things to do in Manitoba in summer.

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

4. Go Kayaking with Beluga Whales

Try kayaking alongside beluga whales in Manitoba for a singular experience. Fly to Churchill from Winnipeg International Airport or take a train. There are no roads into Churchill.

The best time to go kayaking is from June to August. It is when beluga whales start to migrate. Kayaks, life vests, and trained guides are provided on tours that last two to three hours and prices start from $150 to $200 CAD per person. Some multi-day Churchill vacation packages also include kayaking experiences. Book in advance during peak season, as demand can be high for the unique things to do in Manitoba.

5. The Forks National Historic Site

The Forks National Historic Site in Winnipeg is a must-visit thing to see in Manitoba for history, culture, and outdoor enthusiasts. This famous location is near where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. It is open all year round, with longer hours in the summer. Although entry is free to the public, there are admission fees for the Forks Market and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

Explore the site during the day or take in the views at sunset. Don't miss the many events, festivals, and activities hosted all year. Get there by car, bus, bike, or on foot.

6. Capture the Splendour of the Aurora Borealis 

A must-see in Manitoba is the Aurora Borealis. It is one of the most stunning sights in the entire world. Each year, hundreds of people flock to see the Aurora Borealis, a beautiful natural wonder. The ideal months to view the lights are December through March, though they might also be seen in the summer.

Look for the lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. for the best viewing. A guided tour can take you to the best spots. Some even take visitors out onto the tundra.

7. Grand Beach 

Grand Beach, a fantastic beach resort in Manitoba, is just one and a half hour drive from Winnipeg. Every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. it is open. Each guest must pay an entrance fee of $7 CAD. Sun, sand, lake activities, a boardwalk with cafes and shops, and water sports such as boat rentals and beach volleyball are available at the beach. Between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. is the best time to visit.

8. Gimli & the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba 

An annual festival of Icelandic culture is held in Manitoba and is also referred to as Gimli. The event spans a few days in early August and includes musicals, culinary delights, works of art, and works by Icelandic performers.

Due to its proximity to Winnipeg and ease of access by car, bus, or flight, it receives a lot of visitors from across the world. Enjoy yourself and explore a new place while learning about Iceland's rich cultural legacy at the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba.

9. Climb the Sand Dunes at Spruce Woods Provincial Park

Spruce Woods Provincial Park in Manitoba, Canada, is a haven for those who love the outdoors. The park's most popular features include the sand dunes. Due to the gorgeous sand dunes, it is the ideal spot for sandboarding, hiking, and camping. You can stroll along the park's paths and take in the scenery all summer.

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10. festival du voyageur, winnipeg .

Winnipeg hosts the 10-day Festival du Voyageur winter celebration to commemorate the history and culture of the fur trading era. Admission is free, though some special activities do require a fee.

The festival takes place in mid-February. It is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends. It is one of the best things to do in Manitoba for those interested in Canadian history and culture and to experience Winnipeg's unique winter atmosphere.

11. Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site 

For history and culture lovers in the area of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site is a must-see. It presents a rare window into Canadian history and is a well-preserved illustration of the fur trading post built by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 19th century. Vehicles, roads, aircraft, and public transportation may all get you to the location with ease.

It is open daily and offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and plenty of historical activities. Visitors can get the most out of the fort by visiting during the day.

12. Visit The Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint's location in Winnepeg is responsible for producing coins for Canada and other countries. It offers a chance to see coin production, learn about the history of the mint, hold an Olympic medal, and see rare coins.

The Mint is located off the Trans Canada Highway and can be reached by car or public transit. You can take a guided tour. It is best to visit early in the morning or during the weekdays due to its popularity. Admission is $12 CAD for adults and $8 CAD for children.

13. Narcisse Snake Dens

The greatest population of Red-sided Garter Snakes in the world can be found at the Narcisse Snake Dens. It is a rare natural phenomenon close to Narcisse, Manitoba, Canada. Thousands of snakes come out of their dens each spring to breed and enjoy the sun. The Dens are open to the public and can be reached by car through Highway 17.

You can take guided tours or explore the trails on your own. It is best to visit during the day when the snakes are most active.

The Dens are become increasingly popular and have been featured in a lot of books and movies. Don't forget to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, and carry bug repellant.

14. Pinawa Dam Provincial Park 

In Manitoba, Pinawa Dam Provincial Park is a well-liked holiday spot. The park provides outdoor pursuits like boating, fishing, hiking, and picnics. The park, which houses the storied Pinawa Dam, is close to Winnipeg. It is 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours by bus.

The stunning environment, fun activities, and peaceful surroundings draw thousands of visitors each year.

15. Hecla Island

Hecla Island is a well-known holiday spot in Manitoba, Canada, renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It offers a variety of activities such as bird watching, fishing, boating, hiking, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.

The local resort has cozy rooms and cottages, as well as a restaurant, a lounge, a spa, and a fitness centre. Hnausa Heritage Park and the historic Mennonite village of Hnausa are also worth a visit. Hecla Island is a must-see destination for those looking for a one-of-a-kind and memorable Manitoba experience.

16. Canadian Fossil Discovery Center

In Morden, Manitoba, there is a distinctive attraction called the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre. History and science fans are sure to love this place for its huge collection of marine reptile fossils from the Cretaceous Period. The centre provides a free shuttle service from the Morden Visitor Information Centre and is easily reachable from the Trans-Canada Highway.

The opening hours change from summer to winter. You can visit it any day of the year, seven days a week. It is advisable to schedule your visit in advance.

17. Mennonite Village in Steinbach

Another unique destination at Steinbach, Manitoba is the Mennonite Village. It serves as a one-of-a-kind cultural showcase for the Mennonite way of life. The spot is conveniently close to the Winnipeg International Airport and is accessible by car or bus in 30 minutes.

More than 50,000 people visit it every year, making it a popular site. It is best to visit the village in the morning or late in the day. For a relaxed experience, visit the spot during the off-peak season.

18. Manitoba Legislative Building

For lovers of history and architecture, the magnificent Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg is a must-see. It offers free guided tours of the legislative chamber, great staircase, rotunda and grounds. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm for visitors to explore. No entrance fee is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to stay in manitoba.

Manitoba has something for everyone, whether you want a luxurious stay in the city or a cozy cabin in the great outdoors. Here are some of the best hotels in Manitoba to stay at:

The Fairmont Winnipeg : The height of comfort and style can be found at this opulent hotel. It lies in the centre of Winnipeg. it is for the guests who wish to take in the finest of the city. It is the ideal option thanks to its roomy accommodations, first-rate amenities, and convenient location.

The Inn at the Forks : This chic hotel offers a nice blend of contemporary style and old-world charm. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine.

Clear Lake Resort : The perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life is this charming hotel. On the Clear Lake beaches in Riding Mountain National Park. You have access to its cozy cabins, gorgeous surroundings, and outdoor fun.

The Grand Beach Resort : This classic beachfront resort is located on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. It offers a serene escape for those looking for a relaxing getaway. With its on-site restaurant, fitness center, and indoor pool, it's a great choice for families and couples.

How to reach Manitoba by Train?

Manitoba is easily accessible by train. VIA Rail, the national rail service in Canada, runs two major train routes through Manitoba. Get to see the beauty of Manitoba from the comfort of a train journey. The trip from Toronto to Winnipeg takes 32 hours, while the trip from Vancouver to Winnipeg takes 65 hours.

Once you arrive in Winnipeg, you can connect to other forms of transportation. Enhance your journey with Canadian Train Vacations, offering all-inclusive packages with sleeper-class accommodation, delicious meals, and exciting off-train excursions.

What is the best time to visit Manitoba?

Planning a trip to Manitoba? The best time to visit this central Canadian province depends on your interests and travel style. If you're looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is the perfect time to go, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Enjoy everything from kayaking and swimming to hiking and camping.

There are some cool things to do in Winnipeg, Manitoba in the winter, like skiing and snowboarding. So, the best time to travel is during the winter, from December to March. The province transforms into a winter wonderland. You can try a variety of sports, such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

October and November are the best months to see polar bears. You may also see the Northern Lights. The skies are darkest and clearest from January through March, making this the best time to see the aurora borealis.

What is Manitoba best known for?

The best-known features of Manitoba are its natural scenery, culture, and northern climate. The Red River Settlement, the Forks of the Assiniboine, and the Red Rivers are just a few of the historical sites that can be found there.

Is Manitoba worth visiting?

Manitoba is home to national parks, thriving cities, and many cultural sites. Canoeing, camping, fishing, and hiking are just a few of the outdoor activities the province is famous for.

Why is Winnipeg famous?

Winnipeg is home to some of the best museums, galleries, and arts venues in the country. It's also known for its music, art, and nightlife.

What do people in Manitoba do for fun?

Manitobans enjoy a wide range of activities. There are also art galleries, museums, and music venues.

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18 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Winnipeg

Written by Michael Law and Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law grew up in Winnipeg. He and his wife, author Lana Law, lived in the city for many years and return every year.

Winnipeg is known internationally as the home of the Winnipeg Jets , the city's NHL team, but nationally it is also appreciated for its outstanding arts and cultural scene. Locals, known informally as "Peggers," enjoy a very active cultural life, with everything from drama and ballet to concerts and opera on offer. More recently, the city has gained recognition for the addition of its newest major attraction, the impressive Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Equidistant from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Winnipeg is the heart of central Canada . The city's extreme climate of hot summers and cold winters means the range of things to do in Winnipeg varies by season. But there is always plenty to enjoy here.

For ideas on where to start your visit, see our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Winnipeg.

See also: Where to Stay in Winnipeg

1. The Forks

2. canadian museum for human rights, 3. the manitoba museum, 4. assiniboine park and zoo, 5. legislative building, 6. experience the festival du voyageur, 7. winnipeg art gallery, 8. the exchange district national historic site, 9. fort whyte alive, 10. royal canadian mint, 11. corydon avenue, 12. st. boniface cathedral, 13. manitoba children's museum, 14. manitoba centennial centre, 15. riel house national historic site, 16. kildonan park, 17. prairie dog central railway, 18. living prairie museum & interpretive centre, where to stay in winnipeg for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in winnipeg, best time to visit winnipeg.

Highlights : Restaurants, unique shops, and a fresh food market housed in a historical building

A year-round destination for locals and tourists, The Forks is the place to visit in summer or winter, with indoor and outdoor activities. The Forks is a shopping and entertainment district set in a number of historic buildings and located where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers join.

The main building is The Forks Market , where the highlight is the food vendors who cook up all kinds of tasty dishes. Grab a fresh baked pastry or loaf of bread at Tall Grass Prairie, pick up an expertly cooked steak at Simon's Steak, sample a variety of ethnic foods, or treat yourself to a frozen dessert or cup of coffee. Fruit and vegetable sellers set up in the main hall in season and stores are found on two levels. You can also walk up the lookout tower to get a bird's-eye view over the river and the city.

Right next door is the Johnston Terminal Building , another historic building and a great place for shopping, especially if you're looking for unique items. Stop in at Manitobah Mukluks for Indigenous-inspired products or head to Distant Caravans to discover exotic clothing and designs. This is just a sample of the types of stores you'll find here.

The lower level of the Johnston Terminal Building is a huge Antique Mall .

In summer, people come to The Forks to enjoy indoor and outdoor dining or play on the river. The Riverwalk is a pleasant walking trail along the riverfront, which will take you over to another of Winnipeg's key attractions, the Legislative Building . One of the most popular things to do in winter is to skate at The Forks ice-skating rink or on the frozen river.

The site was once a railway repair facility, and over the years, the various buildings have been meticulously restored to house a mix of interesting shops, restaurants, and museums.

Highlights : Eleven galleries showcasing human rights history housed in an architecturally stunning building

This recent addition to Winnipeg's cultural scene, The Museum of Human Rights , has become the city's state-of-the-art architectural landmark. The museum is known both for its spectacular building design and its unique concept of presenting human rights stories.

You enter the museum on the ground floor and ascend over six levels, visiting 11 galleries along the way. It has proved controversial in many ways but is no doubt an important Canadian cultural institution. In addition to the galleries, there is also the Israel Asper Tower of Hope, which provides wonderful views out over the city.

Address: 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : Fossils, a 17th-century sailing ship, a planetarium, and interactive exhibits

The Manitoba Museum is primarily devoted to the human and natural history of the province. The nine permanent galleries showcase the best of what the province has to offer, and the highly interactive Science Gallery and Planetarium introduces the vastness of the night sky on its domed screen.

Highlights of the museum include a 95-million-year-old Pliosaur fossil, a display that recreates the northern lights, and a recreated Hudson Bay fur trading post.

One of the most famous exhibits is the Nonsuch, a 17th-century replica ketch sailing ship. You can climb on board and explore all areas of the ship to see the hardships of the brave souls that crossed the Atlantic way back when. The museum is located downtown, not far from the Exchange District.

Address: 190 Rupert Ave, Winnipeg

Highlights : One of Canada's best zoos, a mini steam train, and the Leo Mol Sculpture Gardens

Assiniboine Park is Winnipeg's oldest park, encompassing 445 hectares of grassy lawns, mature trees, cultural facilities, and an English garden.

The Assiniboine Park Zoo is located within its grounds and is home to a wide variety of animals, flora, and fauna. Special emphasis is given to creatures of the northern latitudes, including a significant number of polar bears, though there are also some exotic species such as the Siberian tigers and red kangaroos.

Another attraction in the park is the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden . Here, you'll find an extensive collection of his brass pieces created using the lost-wax method of sculpture. His beautiful works of art are arranged in a magnificent colorful garden complete with water features and mature trees.

Located in the same area is the Leo Mol Gallery, a restored schoolhouse where the artist created many of his works. The interior of the building has additional pieces along with a display showing how the lost-wax method works.

If you are traveling with youngsters, a fun thing to do in Assiniboine Park is ride the 4-8-2 miniature steam train . The train runs along a narrow gauge track and leaves from an area just west of the Pavilion building. The train runs daily throughout the summer and on weekends in September and October. The fee to ride is very modest.

Looking for a bit of nature? To the south, a large nature reserve adjoins the park, where deer and other animal sightings are common.

Address: 55 Pavilion Crescent, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : A spectacular early 20th-century building, the Golden Boy statute, and lush gardens

Built of local Tyndall stone and Italian marble, the magnificent Neoclassical Legislative Building in Winnipeg was completed in 1919. Unique features of the building include hidden hieroglyphics, Freemason symbols, and secret numerical codes. Tours are offered weekly and are led by an architectural historian.

The lavish grounds feature statues, monuments, and manicured gardens. Surmounting the 72-meter dome is a statue known as the Golden Boy, a four-meter-high bronze weighing five tons and plated with 23.5-carat gold. A torch in his right hand and a sheaf of wheat on his left arm symbolize Manitoba's enduring agricultural prosperity.

Address: 450 Broadway, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : Live music, dancing, celebrations, French Canadian food, and wacky contests

Festival du Voyageur is Winnipeg's most popular winter festival. Taking place in February, this event celebrates the traditions of the French Voyageurs — the fur traders of early Canada. The festival includes entertainment and events for children and adults, with activities in French and English.

Large tents are set up outdoors at Voyageur Park and other sites in the city, where you can find live music, food, dancing, and more. Make sure you don't miss the stunning ice and snow sculptures, one of the highlights of the festival. Another festival tradition is the beard-growing contest. Participants have 10 weeks prior to the festival to grow their best beard in four categories.

Highlights : An artwork collection of 25,000 pieces, an exceptional collection of Inuit Art

Housed in a very modern building shaped like the bow of a ship, the Winnipeg Art Gallery possesses 25,000 pieces spread across collections of classic and contemporary art by Canadian, American, European, and Inuit artists.

New in 2021, the former Inuit Art Gallery has been renamed and is now known as Quamajuq. In this brand-new architecturally stunning 40,000-square-foot building are over 14,000 pieces of Inuit Art. The craftsmanship of the Inuit is on display throughout the gallery, but the most impressive area is the three-story-high Visible Vault showcasing 7,500 pieces.

The Winnipeg Art Gallery is Western Canada's oldest art gallery and frequently hosts events and a wide range of artists, from poets to jazz musicians. Be sure to check out the very unique triangular rooftop sculpture garden for views over the city. The gallery is located downtown and is not far from The Forks.

Address: 300 Memorial Blvd, Winnipeg

Highlights : Trendy restaurants, shops, and galleries housed in turn-of-the-century buildings

Turn-of-the-century Victorian and Edwardian commercial architecture define Winnipeg's Exchange District, its name a reflection of the many financial institutions that sprung up in Winnipeg between the 1880s and 1920s.

More recently, the Exchange District has seen a revival, with old warehouses, banks, and business premises being converted into fashion boutiques, up-market shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Old Market Square is the unofficial heart of the area and the site of various events and festivals in the summer months.

The Exchange District is also a focus for the city's cultural life, with an impressive selection of venues including the Pantages Playhouse Theatre, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, and Manitoba Centennial Centre .

Highlights : Bison, prairie dogs, lakes for paddling, and an interpretive center

Spread over 259 hectares, Fort Whyte Alive is known for its five lakes, grassy parkland, and bog boardwalks. The interpretive center is home to an aquarium and nature exhibits, including burrowing owls. Outdoors, visitors can watch the bison herd, visit the bird-feeding stations, see the sod house, or watch the antics of the prairie dogs at the prairie dog town.

Fort Whyte Alive has seven kilometers of walking and cycling trails, and sailing and paddling courses are taught in the summer on the small lakes. In the winter, a giant ice-skating rink, toboggan run, and cross-country ski trails are available for those keen to get outside and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Address: 1961 McCreary Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlight : A rare chance to see how money is made

The Royal Canadian Mint produces coins not just for Canada, but for a number of other countries as well. In fact, over 55 billion coins have been produced here. You can follow the whole minting process in the recently renovated tour area. Interactive displays show how coins are manufactured from start to finish.

The on-site museum does an excellent job of showing visitors the ancient history of how coins and currency first started. The ultra-modern, triangular-shaped building also contains a tropical garden and fountain. Reservations for the 45-minute tours are recommended.

Highlights : Restaurants, some with sunny patios, offering cuisines from around the world

This bustling tree-lined street is where locals come to unwind, catch up on the latest trends, and enjoy some downtime. Small, trendy shops with the latest unique fashions will pique your interest.

Restaurants, many of them with outdoor patios in summer, offer a wide range of cuisines. Also of note is the street art — eight large metal figures on display each summer represent the countries of Spain, Greece, Argentina, Japan, Ukraine, Italy, France, and Scotland.

Concerts also take place most Friday and Saturday nights and feature a diverse selection of musicians. The main area is Along Corydon Avenue from Daly Street to Harrow Street, and parking can be a bit challenging.

Highlights : A unique mix of historical and modern architecture

St. Boniface Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in western Canada, founded in 1818. The building was considered Manitoba's best example of French Romanesque architecture, but it has been rebuilt on several occasions due to fire — though the modern cathedral incorporates the historic façade.

Set in a pleasant park, the cemetery is Western Canada's oldest Catholic burial ground. It has many old gravestones of the first settlers and key figures from days long past, including the grave of Louis Riel.

The nearby St. Boniface Museum , the oldest building in Winnipeg, was constructed in 1846 for the Grey Nuns and was the first convent, hospital, girls' school, and orphanage in the Canadian West. After restoration in 1967, it became a museum documenting the history of Manitoba's French minority.

Address: 180 Cathédrale Ave, Saint-Boniface, Manitoba

Highlights : Twelve interesting and interactive galleries that kids love, plus traveling exhibits

The Manitoba Children's Museum is housed in a state-of-the-art facility located at The Forks. Inside this unique building, you'll find 12 interactive permanent galleries, which will appeal to children of all ages.

The galleries range from the Milk Machine, featuring a giant cow cube you can actually go inside, to the Engine House, where kids will find a multitude of gears and levers to pull. Also of interest is the Lasagna Lookout, where your kids are allowed to play with their food.

In addition to the permanent galleries, the museum also hosts traveling exhibits and has special events around key dates like Halloween and Christmas.

Address: 45 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : The city's cultural heart, home to classical music, opera, and ballet performances

If you are looking for things to do in the evening in Winnipeg, particularly during the winter months, have a look at what's happening at the Manitoba Centennial Centre . Consisting of the Centennial Concert Hall, the Manitoba Museum, and the Manitoba Theatre Centre, this is the home venue for the city's premier arts organizations, including the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and Manitoba Opera . Around the building, attractive fountains and sculptures embellish lovely terraced gardens.

Address: 555 Main Street, Winnipeg

Highlight : A restored Red River-frame home from the late 19th century

Riel House belonged to Louis Riel's family and has been restored to reflect the social, economic, and cultural realities of life for the Lagimodière and Riel families in 1886. Louis Riel was the leader of the Metis and the founder of Manitoba.

He led several rebellions in 1869 and 1884. He was executed in 1885, and his body lay in state at Riel House for two days. The house, in the Red River-frame style, is typical of early settler homes in the Manitoba region. Riel's descendants lived in this house until 1969.

Riel House is open seasonally in the summer, June, July, and August only.

Address: 330 River Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlights : A massive outdoor pool, theater performances in the summer, recreation trails

Some of the province's most ancient trees grow in the delightful Kildonan Park, along with splendid flower gardens and a Hänsel and Gretel Witch's Hut. The park is spread over 99 acres and has 2.7 kilometers of recreation trails, much of it running along the Red River.

This is an ideal spot for bird-watchers. Kildonan Park is also home to Canada's longest-running open-air theater, Rainbow Stage . Other tourist attractions include an outdoor swimming pool and golf course.

Address: 2015 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Highlight : A ride through the prairies on a restored steam locomotive train

The Prairie Dog Central is a fully restored, steam-powered locomotive offering trips from Winnipeg to Grosse Isle. The train consists of vintage coaches, which carry visitors on this 60- to 75-minute journey, including a stopover before returning to Winnipeg. Various themed excursions are offered including train robberies, Halloween events, and more.

Highlights : Displays showcasing the history of the prairies plus an outdoor interpretive walk

The Living Prairie Museum lands preserve one of the few remaining vestiges of tall grass prairie land. It harbors 150 species of native grasses and wildflowers and has an excellent interpretive center. A second-story platform allows visitors to gaze out at the preserved prairie — a now greatly diminished ecosystem that once covered one million square kilometers throughout North America.

The museum grounds cover 16.3 hectares, and a self-guided trail winds its way throughout the area. Grab a pamphlet and stop along the way at the numbered posts to learn more about the flora and fauna surrounding you.

Address: 2795 Ness Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba

The best area for tourists to stay in Winnipeg is right downtown, close to many of the city's top attractions. These include The Forks, the Legislative Building, the Exchange District, and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, all of which are located in the city center. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations.

Luxury Hotels:

• The Fairmont Hotel occupies a prime location at the junction of Portage & Main Streets, in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. From here, you can easily access the underground mall and walk to The Forks and the Exchange District, as well as several museums.
• For a completely different experience, try Mariaggi's Theme Suite Hotel & Spa . The uniquely designed rooms follow various themes, and the Caribbean and India rooms even have waterfalls. This hotel also offers easy access to the dining and entertainment of the Exchange District.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Located right at The Forks, the Inn at the Forks has one of the best locations for visitors, especially in summer. This boutique hotel offers contemporary décor and sleek blown-glass vanities, along with the convenience of the on-site Riverstone Spa.
• For a historical experience, be sure to check out the Fort Garry Hotel dating from 1913. Rooms are a bit small due to the design style at the time, but the hotel offers the grandeur and sophistication of the era. The Fort Garry is conveniently located across the street from The Forks.
• Enjoying a prime riverfront location, the boutique Mere Hotel is another quality mid-range option, just steps from the vibrant Exchange District.

Budget Hotels:

• A good-value option, not far from the city center is the Humphry Inn & Suites .
• If your main destination is the Winnipeg Mint, or you are just looking for good value, the Super 8 by Wyndham Winnipeg East is a great option.
• The Holiday Inn & Suites Winnipeg Downtown is a bit farther out from the heart of the city but is ideal for those interested in visiting the Winnipeg Art Gallery, located a short stroll away.

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Winnipeg is in the summer. The months of July and August are the best , with guaranteed warm weather and sunny days. The city and parks are green and lush. Also at this time, the city is alive with festivals and events, including Folklorama and the Red River Exhibition.

June is also a good time to visit, with warm temperatures and exceptionally long days. The sun doesn't set until nearly 10pm. September is also good — you'll get the added bonus of seeing the leaves change color as the month progresses.

May is okay; the last two weeks see the trees and flowers bloom and the trees burst forth with their leaves. October sees the occasional burst of warm weather, but the days get shorter quickly, and the nights are cold.

Winter in Winnipeg is brutally cold. Most years it starts in November and doesn't end until late April.

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Manitoba: Although this province is often overlooked by travelers exploring Canada, Manitoba offers some experiences you simply won't find in other parts of the country. Before you begin your trip, be sure to see our article on the top attractions in Manitoba . In summer, some of the most popular destinations are the lakes in Manitoba , where you can fish, lounge on a beach, or set up for a night or two at a campground . The parks are another hot spot, where you can enjoy many of these same activities.

Canada: Where should Manitoba fit into your trip to Canada? For ideas on where to go and what to see from, as Canadians like to say, coast to coast to coast, have a look at our article on top Canada itineraries .

More on Canada

The top 10 attractions in Manitoba

Things to do

Museums, mysteries, and the Mint: jump right into the cultural experiences that define the capital city of this prairie province.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

One of the most eye-catching buildings in Canada is Winnipeg's  Canadian Museum for Human Rights External Link Title . The shining structure of curved steel and glass is really something to behold on its own, but it also houses a powerful collection of 10 core galleries housing exhibits that compel you to think about the human experience and your own place in it. This is the only museum in the world devoted solely to human rights awareness and education, and during your visit you'll come to learn about Indigenous perspectives on rights, the Holocaust and other genocides, how to break the silence and inspire change, and more, all through a uniquely Canadian lens.

The Forks National Historic Site

How many attractions can claim to have been a major meeting place for over 6,000 years? For thousands of years, Aboriginal Peoples met at what is now  The Forks National Historic Site External Link Title  on the banks of Winnipeg's two major rivers, the Red and Assiniboine. Today, the Forks is a nine-acre hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment that is popular among locals and visitors alike. Take a tour to learn the rich history of the site, through the sculptures, stone pictographs, and other displays that tell its story. Grab a seat in the riverside amphitheatre and enjoy a free concert, ice skate the frozen river or paddle down it in a canoe--depending on the season-- and then treat yourself to a meal at the market. There's so much going on, you'll have to see it for yourself!

The Manitoba Museum

The Manitoba Museum External Link Title  is the largest museum in Winnipeg, and its scope is as big as its collection. Nine permanent galleries showcase everything from a recreation of early bison hunts, to a full-size replica 17th century ship built in England in 1970 to commemorate the 300 th anniversary of the Hudson's Bay Company. The planetarium shows off the current night sky, giving you a panoramic view you won't forget. Regular touring exhibits also ensure a fresh, unique experience each time you visit. If you enjoy a good learning experience, a walk through the Manitoba Museum will help you sharpen your game in history, astronomy, science, and culture. Not too shabby for one afternoon.

The Manitoba Legislative Building

If you enjoyed the Da Vinci Code or National Treasure, you're probably going to want to make a pit stop at the Manitoba Legislative Building. The building has all the qualities of a beautiful government building, from a grand staircase to impressive statues (in this case, of twin bison), and all the classic trappings. But hidden throughout this building are hieroglyphics, masonic symbols, numeric codes and secrets that will leave you stumped. Occult links, sphinxes, ancient temples and more will be discussed and explained on a  Hermetic Code Tour External Link Title  of the building.

FortWhyte Alive

FortWhyte Alive External Link Title  is a 640-acre urban wilderness oasis located in the heart of Manitoba's capital city. The park has all the trappings of an outdoor hub: activities galore (fishing, paddling, snowshoeing, ice skating, skiing, and tobogganing), a variety of wildlife (bison, whitetail deer, reptiles, muskrats, and over 160 bird species), but with cultural and historical exhibits, a farm, restaurant, and much more. Enjoy walking and cycling over four miles of forest trails, canoe and fish on sheltered lakes, get up close and personal with Canada's biggest beasts on a bison safari, or create your own adventure to enjoy.

Winnipeg Art Gallery

Over 27,000 pieces make up the collection of the  Winnipeg Art Gallery External Link Title  (WAG), the oldest civic gallery in the country dating back to 1912. These works span just about all eras and forms, from Ancient Greek statues to Renaissance paintings and modern photography displays. The gallery also features some of the most significant Canadian art, and includes the world's largest collection of contemporary Inuit art. The WAG's collection has been displayed to critical acclaim everywhere from New York to Tokyo, but it never looks as good as it does at home. So stop by the gallery, get lunch at the restaurant overlooking the building's rooftop sculpture garden, and then let your eyes loose on this fantastic collection of art.

The Royal Canadian Mint

What's the deal with Manitoba and beautiful buildings?  The Royal Canadian Mint External Link Title  is, appropriately, an absolute architectural gem. The building sits alongside the water, its glass exterior shooting up from the ground like a big, reflective pyramid. Once you pry your eyes away from the exterior, a tour of the Mint will have you holding a $600,000 gold bar and checking out gold medals from the Vancouver Olympic Games that were made on site. Every single coin in Canada, representing billions every year, is made at this facility, as are coins for over 70 other countries. See how they do it, and walk away feeling like you got your money's worth.

Therm?a by Nordik Spa-Nature

You've kept busy on your trip to Manitoba, hopping from attraction to attraction, and taking advantage of all the cultural and outdoor experiences. Now, it's time to relax, which means paying a visit to  Therm?a by Nordik Spa-Nature External Link Title . This Scandinavian-style spa is the perfect place to unwind and de-stress. Go for a long soak in the thermal pools, sweat it out in the Finnish saunas, and treat yourself to a massage. Then enjoy some fine dining, because you've earned a good meal after all that relaxing, right?

Assiniboine Park Zoo

Tigers and leopards and bears, oh my!  The Assiniboine Park Zoo External Link Title  hosts all three of those animals, in addition to about 1,500 of their friends, in an 80-acre park that's yours to explore. Only minutes from downtown Winnipeg, the zoo will take you from continent to continent through the wide variety of species housed there. Reptiles, birds, fish, mammals... if you can think of it, they probably have it. A real highlight of the zoo is the Journey to Churchill experience. Watch polar bears swim and play above your head in the Sea Ice Passage underwater viewing tunnels. Explore the different landscapes of Churchill from the boreal forest to its tundra and see the animals who make the barren land their home: from caribou and muskoxen, to Arctic fox and wolves.

The Exchange District

Winnipeg's 20-block  Exchange District External Link Title  is a time capsule of around 150 incredibly preserved heritage buildings from the turn-of-the-century. This National Historic Site dates back to the 1880s when Winnipeg was booming, and the terra cotta and cut stone buildings used to contain banks and warehouses. Today, those same buildings are home to art galleries, boutiques, design, and architecture firms, studios, and plenty of restaurants. Take a walking tour and immerse yourself in the district's foodie culture, or take your pick from the 51 restaurants and cafes found in the area. Visit the Old Market Square for the Winnipeg Fringe Festival, the Soca Reggae Festival, and a number of other events or stop by the Centennial Concert Hall for an orchestral performance.

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Explore the True North: Six picturesque Canadian spots to consider visiting this summer

Canada has plenty to offer curious travellers, from charming towns to jaw-dropping mountain views, and summer is the perfect time to explore these picturesque places.

If you’re more of the outdoorsy type, there’s an island in BC with beaches and turquoise waters that give off Hawaiian tropical vibes, and there’s a town in Alberta with a magnificent backdrop of mountains.

There are also lots of quaint small towns that are big on personality and hospitality. Whatever you choose, travelling is certainly a great way to learn more about this beautiful country.

Hornby Island, BC

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hornby Island (@hornbyisland)

When you think of BC, you don’t exactly think about tropical, summery vibes , but that’s exactly what this island offers.

Surrounded by the Salish Sea, Hornby Island is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, which are ideal for those who want to slow down and unwind. You can relax on the sandy beaches or explore the fun trails dotted around the island for hiking or biking. Overall, the summer community here is truly thriving.

Canmore, Alberta

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Yiming Chen (@armadillo)

It’s hard to beat the majestic, jaw-dropping panoramics of the Rockies, making Canmore the perfect place for those Instagrammable summer views. The town, home to around 16,000 people, offers fantastic summer views.

Plan a hike or grab a pizza by the slice at Bella Crusta . If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, stop at Project A or The Tin Box for some unique finds.

Elora, Ontario

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Elora & Fergus Tourism (@elorafergus)

If you’re looking for small-town charm, you’ll find plenty of it in Elora. There’s a reason why it was one of Travel + Leisure ‘s picks for the best small towns in Canada.

This vibrant town features 19th-century buildings, plenty of shops and restaurants, and several activities, such as unwinding at the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa or hiking along the Victoria Park Trail.

Maple Creek, Saskatchewan

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Maple Creek, SK (@maplecreeksask)

Step back in time in Maple Creek, which, according to its tourism website, used to be a place where “cowboys rose with the sun and whiskey traders brewed their own mix, a place where the Indigenous Peoples moved with the buffalo.”

There’s the Grotto Gardens Family Fun Farm for kids and Rafter R. Brewing for the grown-ups. History buffs can also take an hour-long guided tour where you can learn about the community’s Old Cowtown Heritage District.

Souris, Manitoba

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Augustlohan (@augustlohan)

Souris is known for its Swinging Bridge and museums like the Souris Railway Museum.

While there, check out the Souris Agate Pits, which boasts deposits of semi-precious gems. Geologists have been mystified by artifacts in the area, such as fossils, mammoths, and the teeth of Equuleus, ice-age horses.

Baie-Saint-Paul

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ville de Baie-Saint-Paul (@villedebaiesaintpaul)

When it comes to quaint towns, Quebec has plenty to choose from, but Baie-Saint-Paul certainly stands out for its art scene. Walk along the streets, and you’ll encounter street performers and acrobats that will dazzle and amaze.

Pop into one of the city’s many art galleries or stop for a sweet treat at Boulangerie Laurentide Inc . Fun fact: it’s the birthplace of the famous entertainment company Cirque du Soleil.

If you’re a newcomer to Canada, you can also visit Parks Canada sites for free. Check out this handy-dandy guide to do so.

Do you have any recommendations for Canadians looking to explore beautiful domestic destinations? Please leave them in the comments below.

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• A step-by-step newcomer’s guide to exploring Parks Canada sites for free

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Warmer summers could mean new plants growing in Manitoba, says horticulturalist

Number of frost-free days expected to grow by around 30 by 2050.

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Manitoba's potential for longer and warmer growing seasons, coupled with wild weather changes, could change how people approach gardening in the province, experts say.

While it's hard to predict whether the province will start to see a longer or earlier growing season, plant types and growing patterns are changing in tandem with the climate, says Sajjad Rao,a horticulture research instructor at Brandon's Assiniboine Community College.

"We're shifting," he said, and the time to start adapting is now.

"The changes coming from the climate is compelling us to do that, because then we have to come to a resilient agriculture, or a resilient horticulture."

Most of southern Manitoba is designated a cold-climate Zone 3 plant hardiness zone — but there are spots where Zone 4 plants, which thrive in warmer environments, can now be grown, Rao said.

Globally, last summer  was one of the hottest on record . This past December, January and February were the warmest on record in Canada in 2024 .

• See how our weather compares to historical trends with CBC's interactive climate dashboard

Manitoba has also seen swings from drought to flooding in recent years.  In 2022, several climate experts told CBC that may be a sign of things to come — and a reminder that people need to be prepared for more extreme weather in the future.

In Brandon, gardeners are trying to adapt to these changes in weather and climate. 

While spring planting typically still starts around the May long weekend, gardeners are changing how they maintain plants in the summer. That includes steps like increasing mulch usage, said Brian Fowell, a co-ordinator with Brandon's Hummingbird Community Garden.

"During the summer we do get hotter, which … make[s] such a difference with our water we have here," he said.

"But if you water, put some mulch down, you can keep that water — because if not, everything wilts out in the heat."

Other changes include trying to grow new types of vegetables, along with long-time staples like carrots and squashes, he said.

Gradual gardening changes

Changes to Manitoba's climate are gradual, but they start to add up, Rao said.

He cited frost-free days in Brandon as an example — typically, the area gets about 105, and at most about 117 in a year. But by 2050, that number is expected to grow by at least 30 days, based on data and research, Rao said.

That means there will be a longer and warmer growing season, which could lead to planting different crops, Rao said. 

• Why climate change on the farm means a big bill for Canadian taxpayers

Some planting changes are already starting to happen, with some tropical plants like sweet potatoes and okra, which prefer the heat, being introduced to Manitoba as the climate warms, Rao said.

The Green Spot owner Bernie Whetter says his Brandon greenhouse hasn't seen drastic changes in the plants people want — but Zone 4 plants are starting to pop up.

Brandon is designated Zone 3, which generally requires "pretty hardy stock" when it comes to perennials or nursery stock, Whetter said. 

However, growers are finding some Zone 4 plants may be able fit into the Manitoba climate, because there has been incremental warming each year, he said.

"We are able to stretch those zones a little bit," said Whetter. "It's always changing. It's a slow but gradual change."

Growing gardens

Melanie Hellyer, a co-ordinator with Hummingbird Community Garden, says the garden growing season there hasn't had a real change since the community garden started in 2007.

They typically hold off on planting until the May long weekend to prevent frost damage and harvest everything by the start of October. 

Rao cautions nothing can be predicted with total certainty when it comes to weather and climate. That means gardeners, farmers and horticulturalists need to start making decisions and strategically planning to manage the impacts of climate change on their plants.

• Ripe for the picking: how people are growing fruit that's not so common in Sask.
• Beware the buds of March: Why early tulips and cherry blossoms are a growing concern

Technology is also changing with the climate, he said. Breeders and plant scientists are working with technology, including artificial intelligence, to gather as much information as possible to understand the impacts of climate change, Rao said. 

"We can get some real sense that it is shifting.… heat waves are unpredictable, droughts and floods are very unpredictable," Rao said.

"We need to move in a way so we can face those challenges in a better way and ... have a solution for them."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brandon Reporter

Chelsea Kemp is a multimedia journalist with CBC Manitoba. She is based in CBC's bureau in Brandon, covering stories focused on rural Manitoba. Share your story ideas, tips and feedback with [email protected].

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Seize the Summer! 10 Incredible Trips Our Editors Are Taking.

Outside editors know the best places to go on vacation. Let our summer plans be your inspiration.

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We are ready for summer. We’ve got our lightweight tents and Tevas out, spend our free time examining trail maps, and have been outdoors soaking up the longer days in preparation for all sorts of adventures. Where are we going this summer? Some of us have plans to escape to tropical Caribbean ports and the high peaks of South America, while others are simply road-tripping one county or one state over for a long weekend escape.

Haven’t nailed down the specifics of your summer vacation yet? It doesn’t have to be spendy, and you can go with friends, family, or solo. Just pick a place that will offer a sense of wonder, a disconnect from your routine, preferably in nature, which has been shown to improve everything from our psyches to our relationships and even heal heartbreak . Here are the trips we’ve booked.

Northern New Mexico

When the heat hits the country with full force in July, my husband and I will head from our home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, up north to cooler climes near Taos. We’re eager to stay at Hotel Luna Mystica , which isn’t a hotel at all but a grouping of vintage Airstreams all decorated differently. We’ve rented Castor, built in 1972, our best friends have rented the adjacent Pollux, from 1967, and we’ll share a deck. Each trailer has a queen bed, a full kitchen, a bathroom, and views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. The hiking around Taos is incredible, too, with trails in nearly every direction.

From Luna Mystica, you can walk to the Taos Mesa Brewery’s mothership location, which has a stage and live music many summer nights. Early in the mornings we’ll drive the quick 13 miles to the Black Rock Hot Springs on the Rio Grande; my husband will fly-fish from the wide banks while I soak and enjoy the July traffic through the canyon: dragonflies, swallows, kayakers, hawks, and bright-yellow butterflies.

One day we want to tour the nearby Earthships , self-sufficient off-grid homes that look like futuristic dwellings. I’m fascinated by their modern sustainability efforts but also love their incorporation of beautiful, unique design elements—walls made of used tires and earth or accents of recycled glass bottles that glimmer colorfully in the sun. — Tasha Zemke , Outside managing editor

Ten Sleep Canyon, Wyoming

At some point over the winter, I decided I sucked at climbing. As I dragged my feet out of the gym, devoid of stoke and prepared to suck again the next day, I had no idea how to cure my melodramatic self-diagnosis. But that changed two months ago when I started climbing with the ShayrdAir , a mentor program in the Denver area led by big-wall athlete Jordan Cannon . A dozen of my peers and I have attended clinics, trainings, lectures, and meet-ups to define and achieve our climbing goals, and it all culminates in a final trip in June to Ten Sleep, Wyoming.

Why Ten Sleep? This tiny cowboy town in the north-central reaches of the state happens to be the base camp of a massive limestone canyon 15 miles away with more than a thousand sport routes for climbers of every skill level. One of last year’s mentees called it “Shelf Road on steroids”—a reference to a popular Front Range climbing mecca—and noted how the population of the local campground, when filled with climbers, seems bigger than the actual town itself. — Holly Humphries , National Park Trips digital content producer

Saint Lucia

My fiancé and I are taking our honeymoon this summer on the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, best known for two mountains called the Pitons—Gros Piton and Petit Piton. While we’re eager to lounge on the white-sand beaches, snorkel, eat jerk chicken and breadfruit, and enjoy a mud bath at Sulphur Springs, in the dormant Soufrière volcano, we’re most looking forward to guided hikes. I’m especially excited to tackle the Gros Piton Trail (see Gaia GPS map below), which is three miles round-trip, with a little more than 1,800 feet of elevation gain.

We’ve been told this is challenging, but the view from the top of the island and the sea is said to be spectacular. Plus, I plan to set my alarm for an early-morning run just as the sun rises over the sea. — Mallory Arnold , Run associate editor

Machu Picchu, Peru

I’m an editor at Backpacker , and the biggest hiking goal of my life has always been Machu Picchu . I first learned about the ruins in Peru in my middle school history class, and the combination of hiking and Indigenous history intrigued me. A trip to South America seemed like a long shot, but I kept dreaming. Flash forward to the end of May: my college friends and I are going international on our annual reunion trekking trip. We’ll fly into Cuzco and spend two days acclimatizing to the altitude—a little more than 11,000 feet—while touring the city before hitting the Inca Trail with Llama Path , a sustainable-tourism company.

For four days we’ll hike between 7,218 and 13,780 feet before ending at the famous Inca site. With porters carrying our belongings and chefs cooking our meals, this is going to be a lot more glamorous than my usual excursions to the backcountry. I can’t wait. But there’s a more personal reason why this trip is particularly meaningful to me: I recently learned that a suspicious mole was actually stage-one melanoma and was sidelined for weeks in between procedures. I can’t imagine a better place to celebrate being cancer-free. — Emma Veidt , Backpacker associate editor

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

My theme for the summer is: Stay local, but get far, far away. From our home in Boulder, Colorado , my wife and I can drive to Rocky Mountain National Park in less than two hours, and we’ve exploited that proximity to visit many of the park’s peaks, lakes, and trails. Not surprisingly, popular spots are often packed with other nature lovers. So this year we’re taking advantage of a little-used type of wilderness permit to escape the crowds. We’ve reserved long weekends in four of Rocky’s 23 cross-country zones , remote areas without developed trails or campsites, where we’ll likely see more elk and moose than people.

Hidden in some of the park’s most rugged terrain, typically at elevations of 9,000 to 11,000 feet, these zones require expert navigation skills and total self-reliance. Expect rangers at the backcountry desk to quiz you on bear safety, Leave No Trace ethics, orienteering know-how, and prior wilderness experience before issuing your permit, and expect challenging bushwhacking through dense forest. But the reward is worth the effort: the crisp, star-filled nights, high-country wildflowers, and Alaska-worthy solitude will make you feel much farther from civilization than you actually are.

Fair warning: the park provides scant information about the zones, and trip reports are few and far between. Your best bet is to download the Gaia GPS app and subscribe to the Premium edition so you can access detailed topo maps for offline use (there’s typically no cell reception in these zones). Study the terrain closely before you go, and don’t expect to cover more than one mile per hour. — Jonathan Dorn , Outside, Inc., chief entertainment officer

• Switzerland

When I realized I’d be spending my 30th birthday in Europe, I only had two nonnegotiables: Alpine hiking and cheese. Switzerland, specifically the Lauterbrunnen Valley, perfectly fit that bill. My husband and I are planning to spend four nights in the central Jungfrau region: one in a village hotel at each end of the valley, and two at the remote Berghotel Obersteinberg , an off-grid hut that’s only accessible by foot through forests and wildflower-filled pastures. (See Gaia GPS map to the hut below.) Reservations can only be made by phone, a charming and slightly confusing experience that secured us a bed in a private room, breakfast, and dinner for two days for about $106 per person per night.

We’ll fill our days ascending the area’s many trails in the shadow of imposing peaks, past some of the valley’s 72 waterfalls, and our evenings eating hearty meals, including Obersteinberg’s homemade cheese. I’m crossing my fingers that raclette is served–my favorite Swiss dish, it consists of melted cheese scraped over potatoes–but if not, I’ll indulge back in town with a celebratory pot of fondue.

We’re traveling to Switzerland by car but will leave it parked in Interlaken to take advantage of the valley’s excellent public transportation (think: trains, trams, and gondolas), as many of the hamlets are otherwise inaccessible. — Mikaela Ruland , National Park Trips editor in chief

Victoria, British Columbia

Last year my husband and I became rooftop-tent converts in Iceland. I’ve pitched and slept in backpacking tents my whole life, and I never thought I’d be into a roof rig until our European rental experience went right. We realized it can take us two minutes, instead of twenty, to set up or break down camp. Plus, memory foam is so much comfier than the ground, and our gear stays a helluva lot more organized inside the vehicle.

So we scored an open-box deal on a Roofnest , and this summer we’re taking it for a spin from New Mexico up through the Pacific Northwest to Canada. We’ll hit campsites near Olympic National Park along the way, before ferrying to Victoria, British Columbia, to hang out at an oceanside apartment along a 70-mile bike path for six weeks. We’re stoked to beat the heat, enjoy the nearness of open water, and work from a place that’s new to us both where we can trail-run through the backcountry.

On our way home, we’ll swing through Banff, in Alberta, then Glacier National Park , in Montana—two bucket-list areas I’ve been dying to check out. The best part? My husband is the king of finding last-minute camping reservations , so I barely had to lift a finger to map it all out. — Patty Hodapp , Outside Online interim digital director

Paris and Annecy, France

I’m heading to Paris for the Summer Games! I’ve been a huge fan of the Olympics for as long as I can remember, and about a year ago I haphazardly put my name on an email list for the ticket lottery. I didn’t put much thought into the idea of actually attending, until I beat out thousands of other eager fans (a process that saw me awake at 3 A.M., repeatedly refreshing my browser) to secure two tickets to men’s rowing in late July.

This will be my third time to the French capital, so after the event concludes and I’ve gotten my fill of Olympic pride, I plan to head southeast to Annecy, a town on the French-Swiss border, for a long weekend in the fresh Alpine air. I’ll brave the frigid temperatures of Lake Annecy, stroll Jardins de ’Europe, and of course do some hiking. Routes to the Citadel of Lake Annecy and the Parmelan Plateau have already caught my eye, but like most things, there’s something to be said for going in with half a plan and figuring out the rest later. — Jamie Aranoff , Ski digital editor

British Columbia’s West Coast Trail

Ever since writer Scott Yorko pitched me this story on the deadly history of Canada’s West Coast Trail (see Gaia GPS map below) a number of years ago, I’ve wanted to see the area’s storied shipwrecks, beaches, and wildlife for myself. Yorko wrote not only of the dramatic rescue attempts that led to this 48-mile path’s construction along British Columbia’s rugged coast but also of sandy campsites, verdant rainforest walks, tide pools brimming with sea life, and a floating crab shack that caters to hungry hikers.

In June, I’ll finally experience the trail for myself. I’m prepared for slow miles through boot-sucking mud, rickety wooden ladders, cable cars, and changing tides. With any luck, my partner and I will spot sea lions, whales, and otters; bears, cougars, and wolves are also known to wander the shore. The salty air and marine views should be a welcome departure from the alpine hikes I usually gravitate toward in the summer, and I couldn’t be more excited. — Zoe Gates , Backpacker senior editor

The Andes, Chile

In 2013, I spent five months living in southern Chile. But that was before I was a skier. In the intervening decade, I’ve spent 100 days on snow almost every year. I rarely travel away from my home in the eastern Sierra to ski these days, but my ultimate dream trip is a ski trip to Chile and Argentina. This is the year that becomes a reality. In August, when the austral winter is in full swing, my fiancée and I will fly from Los Angeles to Santiago and enjoy the change of scenery while sipping pisco sours, sightseeing at the Pablo Neruda museum, and checking out the mountaintop zoo. The following day we’ll take a bus to Portillo , a resort nestled among the Andes that’s famous for runs that empty out at Laguna del Inca, for three days on the slopes, and after that , we’ll travel southeast to Las Leñas, in Argentina, for a final two days of skiing above wine country. I never much cared for summer anyway. —Jake Stern, Outside Online digital editor

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• 7 Coolest Towns in Montana for a Summer Vacation in 2024

Montana is a charming state for year-round vacations, especially as it is home to amazing attractions like Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . These prime attractions draw people to the state across all seasons, especially in summer, and somewhere around them are lovable small towns with so much to offer. While they serve as base camps for the state’s top attractions, these towns are also loaded with points of interest that will make a summer vacation exciting. From the enchanting West Yellowstone to the charming Whitefish, here are the seven coolest towns in Montana to visit for a spectacular summer vacation.

Ennis is a small town of just over 1,000 people perfect for thrilling summer retreats. Once here, water sports lovers and fishing enthusiasts have a handful of options to explore both within and outside the town. Ennis Lake is a fantastic option to ward off the heat on a sunny day, while visitors can also kayak and boat on the water. The Madison River also runs through the town for fishing adventures, while Beaverhead and Big Hole rivers are nearby for more water adventures. Ennis is also surrounded by mountains such as Madison and Gravelly Ranges, where mountain climbers, bikers, and hikers can have a field day exploring areas several feet above sea level. Back in town, visitors can stop by Tavern 287 or Pic-A-Nic Basket for a delicious lunch.

Red Lodge is a scenic town within the Beartooth Mountains, with Rock Creek flowing on its eastern border. The town sets the perfect landscape for a summer vacation with nature as hikers can hit the many trails on the Beartooth Mountains to satiate outdoor longings. Some of the best trails in the mountain area include the 7.4-mile Basin Lake Trail, with an alpine lake and meadows as visual delights, and the 4.6-mile Glacier Lake Trail that leads to Glacier Lake. For fishing lovers, Rock Creek or Wild Bill Lake in nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest are prime destinations for great catches. More fishing and water activities are surplus at Stillwater River west of the town and Yellowstone River . Blend the experience with a wildlife tour at the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, home to animals such as black bears, hawks, owls, and mountain lions. For a dose of history, stop by the Carbon County Historical Museum to learn about the county's iconic past through various educational programs, exhibits, and artifacts.

Polson is a charming town on the southern shore of Flathead Lake that makes for a cool summer vacation. The town’s lake is naturally the highlight attraction as it offers boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Next, visitors can enjoy more adventures at Sacajawea and Salish Point Parks, which are adjacent to each other and feature a reserved swimming area, a fishing pier, a boating dock, a sidewalk, and picnic areas. When it's time to relax, head to Riverside Park by the lake's shores to hold picnics on landscaped lawns, build sand castles with the soft sand, or even swing with a rope into the waters when the weather gets hotter. Before leaving town, be sure to go check out some local artworks at Sandpiper Gallery and then head to The Cove Deli and Pizza or Finely Point Grill for some delicious meals.

Hamilton is a quaint town in the heart of Bitterroot Valley that promises an unforgettable summer vacation. This town is home to the Bitterroot River, where visitors can enjoy fly-fishing while admiring the gorgeous scenery. Lake Como Recreational Area is another interesting destination in town where one can swim, boat, fish, kayak, canoe, watch the sunset, hold picnics, camp, and hike. Talking about hikes, the nearby Bitterroot National Forest, framed by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, offers some of the best hiking trails in Montana. More activities offered in the forest include - mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and boating. After the thrilling outdoor adventures, visitors are invited to take a trip to the past at the Ravalli County Museum, where the history of Bitterroot Valley is preserved and interpreted for all.

West Yellowstone

The charming town of West Yellowstone in Gallatin County has all the draw cards to keep summer visitors longer than planned. Firstly, it is one of the closest towns to the famous Yellowstone National Park, home to wonders like the Old Faithful Geyser and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. In addition, the town is home to scenic water bodies like the Gallatin River (great for whitewater rafting) and Hebgen Lake, which is great for stillwater fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddling. For a mix of history and recreation, visit Earthquake Lake, which was formed by a massive landslide that barricaded the Madison River. Visitors can admire the lake, hold picnics on its banks, or learn more about its history at the Visitors Center. For more history, visitors are invited to browse through documents and interactive displays about the region’s history at Yellowstone Historic Center. Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts can come up close with live wolves and grizzly bears at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

Whitefish is a summer vacation melting pot in Flathead County, filled with adventures and recreational activities for everyone. For just a sneak peek, the town's Whitefish Lake is one of its core attractions, featuring a seductive seven-mile beach on its shores with a swimming area. The lake and beach provide a haven for sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, boating, and fishing. Campers can spend the nights at the Whitefish Lake State Park, with unlimited access to the enchanting lake. The nearby Flathead Lake is an excellent alternative, as it is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, featuring crystal clear waters that will mesmerize every visitor. Step into its glistening waters for boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddling experiences, or kayak to Wild Horse Island to see wild horses. Elsewhere, hikers can explore the over 40-mile Whitefish Trail to savor views of the town's natural surroundings and then head to the Whitefish Theatre Company to enjoy prime entertainment.

Helena is the state capital and one of the most scenic and ideal destinations to enjoy a summer vacation in America. While here, visitors can head to the Montana State Capitol to wonder at its historical elegance and remarkable architecture. Next, enjoy some adventures at Mount Helena City Park, featuring miles of trails, like the 1906 Trail that leads to the mountain's summit for panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. For even more adventures, visitors are welcome to the Spring Meadow Lake State Park to enjoy swimming, fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking. For something different, delve into the region’s history at the Montana Historical Society and appreciate artworks at the Holter Museum. For families with children, head to the Great Northern Carousel to enjoy thrilling rides.

Montana is lavish with many small beautiful towns where summer vacations are always exciting. These towns feature stunning natural beauty with their towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery. Step into these small-town paradises this summer for a satisfying vacation. In these towns, there’s something for everybody from adventurers to laid-back visitors, and even history buffs.

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Wildfires are burning across western Canada. What to know

If you get Global News from Instagram or Facebook - that will be changing. Find out how you can still connect with us .

Wildfires have prompted evacuation orders and alerts in western Canada just days after officials warned of “significant risk” from the natural hazard this summer.

A fire near Fort McMurray, Alta., has grown to 1,000 hectares Saturday, from around 200 hectares on Friday, and is listed as out-of-control.

The Alberta government said the wildfire danger is “extreme” and has issued an evacuation alert for Fort McMurray and Saprae Creek. Residents should be prepared to evacuate on short notice and keep essential items like medications, important documents and emergency kits ready to go.

A notice issued late Friday said strong winds were expected Saturday, and the wildfire was surveilled overnight by helicopters. The fire was about 25 kilometres southwest of Fort McMurray as of Friday evening.

An evacuation order was also issued for Grand Prarie County No. 1 on Friday evening due to a wildfire burning about four kilometres east of Teepee Creek that is moving away from the community. Evacuees were told to travel north and register at the Pomeroy Hotel and Conference Centre and to bring pets, important documents, medication, medical devices, food and water for at least seven days.

In British Columbia, the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality issued an evacuation order for the town of Fort Nelson as a wildfire poses a threat to human life. Evacuees are being told to head to the Fort St. John reception centre.

The Parker Lake wildfire is now nearly 1,700 hectares in size as of Saturday.

The BC Wildfire Service said the blaze discovered Friday afternoon was burning about 12 kilometres from the Highway 77 junction. By evening, the fire had grown to 800 hectares and was listed as “out of control” and “exhibiting extreme fire behaviour.”

Local conditions were challenging suppression efforts, according to the wildfire service. The fire is suspected to be human-caused. Ground crews and air support are battling the fire, including nine helicopters with buckets.

Fort Nelson Mayor Rob Fraser told Global News on Saturday that the town is “full of smoke.”

“Most people have left the community,” he said. “It’s pretty quiet here.”

He said the fire started when high winds knocked over a tree onto a power line northwest of the town. By the time fire crews arrived, the fire was several acres, he said, fuelled by the 70 km/h winds that blew the fire up to about 80 hectares in just a couple of hours.

“We felt the need to move the community as quickly as possible because this fire was growing so rapidly,” Fraser said.

He said the weather conditions are now favourable for tackling the fire.

Smoke has made its way to other populated areas, with Edmonton posting an air quality index of 10, or “high risk.”

The Northwest Territories was reporting six active wildfires as of Saturday, with more than 1,500 hectares affected. The largest fire, which is about 1,500 hectares, is some 70 kilometres from the community of Jean Marie River and is growing quickly.

The fire has reportedly knocked out 911 service for a large portion of the north.

Government officials warned of potential damage due to warm temperatures and drought. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday said during a trip to B.C. that Canada needs to be more prepared and coordinated for wildfires this year.

“We know from the forecasts that in western and northern Canada … it is likely to be a very bad forest fire season,” he said. “People are worried what the summer might bring.”

Officials said the situation could worsen quickly given that much of Canada is still facing drought conditions that have persisted for the last 12 months.

“We are still under the effects of significant drought,” Julienne Morissette, director of wildland fire research at Natural Resources Canada, said during a press conference. “And as temperatures warm, things can dry very quickly.”

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The wildfire forecast for May said that both Saskatchewan and Alberta are at high or extreme fire severity for the month. Eastern B.C., central/northern Prairies, southern Northwest Territories, eastern Ontario and western Quebec are all expected to experience above-normal fire activity this month.

In June, the area of heightened monitoring expands to Northwest Territories, Yukon and B.C. Although a much broader area of high or extreme severity is anticipated in June, western Canada will still be a hot spot.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is forecasting a “high probability of above-normal temperatures through May to July.”

Drought conditions are expected in high-risk regions in May, including in the northern Prairies and Interior B.C.

Last year, Canadian wildfires burned 18.5 million hectares of land, making it the worst wildfire season ever recorded, surpassing the previous record of 7.6 million hectares scorched in 1989.

— with files from Reuters and Global News’ Caley Gibson, Simon Little, Josh Azizi, Uday Rana and Amy Judd

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A Snob's Guide to Summer Travel With Kids

We know your standards for the ultimate family vacation are high. Lucky for you, ours are too.

The Educational Trip

It sounds boring, until you tell them they're going to see giraffes in their natural habitat—and will get to brag about it to all their friends.

*Perfect for: little kids

Unlike the vast Serengeti, the Maasai Mara is small enough that you are practically guaranteed to snap all the top sightings in a few nights’ stay. Unpack into an interconnected tented suite specially configured for families at Angama Mara , then learn the art of keeping quiet as animals parade below in the Great Rift Valley. Days can begin with a hot air balloon ride or a game drive through the savannah to spy the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and end with parents at a sundowner and the littles in the Beading Studio. Maasai naturalists take everyone out on walking safaris, where they teach about medicinal plants on the escarpment and explain the relationship between the Maasai people and the wildlife that surrounds them. Come in July during the Great Migration, the largest land-based movement of animals (in this case, wildebeest and zebra) on the planet. Your kids will never see The Lion King with the same eyes again.

*Perfect for: big kids

Fly from the country’s capital of Lima to the Sacred Valley’s capital of Cusco, where you can ride on Paso horses through the Andean valley’s lush pathways. Dine at a working farm, called Hacienda Huayoccari , which has been run by the same family for 100 years, then spend the night at Belmond Palacio Nazarenas , the 17 th -century monastery-turned-hotel. Lazy tweens can take the luxe Hiram Bingham train all the way up to nearly 8,000 feet, or test their strength by disembarking at Km 104 and hiking up to enter Machu Picchu through the Gate of the Sun, just as the Incas did. Marvel at the citadel built into the steep slopes of the Andes, to this day their techniques and origin unknown. Then sleep above the clouds at Sanctuary Lodge , the Belmond property up there, and enter the 15 th -century UNESCO World Heritage Site before the crowds, with mostly only llamas in your company. Back in Cusco, tour the baroque churches and stay warm with hot chicha drinks, made from local corn. Can’t be bothered to book this all yourself? Blue Parallel can orchestrate the whole shebang, from flights to park permits.

The Adventure Trip

Adrenaline-pumping thrills to test their boundaries and spike their dopamine (in a good way).

Tossed into the North Atlantic just one degree below the Arctic Circle, this volcanic island of just 387,000 inhabitants feels like the best of far-flung New Zealand and the most exciting of snow-swept British Columbia. It’s also Scotland, Norway, Yellowstone, and Alaska, and all just a five-hour flight from the East Coast. The capital has been experiencing volcanic activity lately, so you may have to skip the best red-eye cure: A dip in the Blue Lagoon , a natural geothermal hot spring set conveniently between Reykjavik’s two airports and open at 8am. Either way, hop a flight to Akureyri, the second-most populous city in the country, and prepare to be awed by the vast mountain landscape of Deplar Farm . The grass-roofed wooden structure belies the luxury you’ll find within, including meals of local lamb and just-caught salmon prepared by Michelin-trained chefs. Included in every stay in summer is surfing, whale watching, fat-tire bike riding, hiking glaciers, lake fishing, and a peek at the single geothermal borehole that gives power to all 2700 residents of the Fljót Valley. Headed back toward the international airport, take the kids on a drive around the Golden Circle, a 190-mile loop of road that connects the geyser that literally gave all others their name (yes, it’s called Geysir) with Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of the Mid-Atlantic Rift (in which you can snorkel in dry suits), and the stunningly beautiful, 100-foot-tall Gullfoss waterfall.

You couldn’t possibly hit all the high-octane attractions in Costa Rica — the howler monkeys barking from the treetops of Tortuguero National Park, white-water rafting down the Pacuare River, zip-lining or horseback riding near the Arenal volcano, tapir- and ocelot-spotting on the Osa Peninsula—but if you pick two destinations in this bicoastal isthmus country, you’ll sneak a lot in. Park yourself first on the Osa Peninsula’s Cielo Lodge , a six-suite eco-lodge spread across 380 acres where guides will take you hiking through the rainforest to rushing waterfalls ripe for the jumping, get you catching waves on the second-longest left-hand break in the world, and frog-walking by moonlight. Then head up to Nayara Gardens , where the newly built Arenal Casitas come with private walled gardens and plunge pools surrounded by rain forest. From there, it’s an easy trek to go horseback riding at Arenal, ziplining in the cloud forest, and testing fate on an inflatable that takes you down class IV rapids. No kid comes home from Costa Rica without scheming a plan to return.

*Perfect for: all ages

Haters will hate, but there’s honestly no better way to tour the highlights of the largest state in the union than via cruise. To see it all, sign up for one of Oceania ’s Seattle-to-Seattle routes, each of which comes with an Alaska Explorer Youth Program that lets kids ages 5-12 head out with high-energy counselors and learn a little more about the 49 th state. But kids of all ages will start and end in Seattle, then cruise to ports like Ketchikan (ziplining!), Juneau (Mendenhall Glacier canoeing!), Sitka (sea kayaking and wave running!), and Victoria, British Columbia (bike tours!), but you can expand on this excursion by adding a pre- or post-cruise stay in Denali National Park, all stress-free and orchestrated by Oceania and including a four-hour scenic train ride into the interior and a hike to Denali’s Primrose Ridge with a naturalist who will explore the 10,000-years-long history of this Native American landscape. This is Alaska done right, trust us.

The Beach Trip

Heading out on a beach holiday doesn’t have to mean dumping the children in camp and working your way through the latest Plum Sykes novel.

West coasters have a straight shot to the Big Island, which offers about as far-flung a culture as you can find without needing to update your passport. There are tons to do outdoors—from surfing to exploring Volcanoes National Park to hiking through a lava tube—that will introduce your kids to the outer limits of Mother Nature’s wild imagination. The challenge will be picking a home base. There’s Mauna Kea Beach Hotel , which was originally built in 1965 by Laurance S. Rockefeller, and is the property that really put this destination on the map. Set on the Kohala Coast, the resort offers activities like lawn games and lei-making, an authentic luau with hula dancers, plus direct access to white-sand Kauna'oa Bay, where you can swim with the manta rays. Alternatively, snag a suite at the grand Mauna Lani , now part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, set in the middle of King Kamehameha’s royal fish ponds. Whichever you choose, carve out some time to learn to surf in Kona, visit a black sand beach like Punaluʻu, indulge in some shave ice at Ululani's , and just soak in all that untouched beauty. Now that's aloha.

It may be one of the most visited islands of Spain, but Americans typically never make it to this Balearic Island (though that’s changing with United Airlines’ new direct flights to Palma de Mallorca from JFK). There are plenty of family-friendly hotels on the sparkling beaches, but come summer they will likely be flooded with tourists. So instead book one of the new Garden Suites at Castell Son Claret , a 19th-century castle-turned-hotel with just 43 rooms, all set on 326 acres. Awaken to unimpeded views of the UNESCO-protected Tramuntana mountain range and a soundtrack of the braying sheep who will be neighbors for your stay. The Moorish architecture and glam jet-set design (not to mention the restaurant, Sa Clastra , run by native son Jordí Canto) will dazzle parents, while the pool (and those sheep) will keep the kids busy. Because the retreat is located in the middle of the island, it's an easy trek to one of the 20 hiking routes that wind through the terraced hills of the Tramuntanas (don't skip the adorable town of Valldemossa, ideal for that holiday card photo!), or down to beloved beaches like sandy Palmanova and the hidden cove of Cala Portals Vells. Don't miss that 13 th -century cathedral in Palma, or the chance to indulge in chef Santi Taura's prix fixe menu at Dins (we suggest hiring a sitter for this one).

This tiny islet in the Caribbean was first colonized by the Huguenots, and it still retains a très sophisticated French vibe. Little kids will love the gentle white-sand beaches, but this is a place for dining and shopping, too, so families with tweens and older are the best audience for this refined destination. Pack the D'Ascoli caftans and Vilebrequin trunks and book a villa through Le Barth Villa Rental , which gives you access to all the facilities—including the new kids club and the spa—at Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa . (Our pick: the 10-bedroom Villa Unik , designed by Philippe Starck.) Or go traditional and stay at the casual-chic Le Sereno , whose beachfront villas overlook the pristine Grand Cul de Sac sands. Book ahead for classic dining spots like the upscale Bonito and Hotel Eden Rock ’s Jean-Georges restaurant, but don’t skip local favorites either, like the laid-back Ti' Corail . Indulge in life’s simple pleasures, like perusing the fresh produce at Marché or the Gustavia fish market. Then splurge on mother-daughter outfits at Clic and swimsuits at Delfina for your journey to Anse du Gouverneur beach. The shells (and the memories) are gratis.

The Nature Trip

Two foolproof ways to inspire genuine awe in even the most jaded tween.

SWITZERLAND

Words can barely capture the magic of summertime in the Swiss Alps. There’s the chocolate and cheese, of course, but the infinite shades of green that blanket the mountains and pines, the jagged edges of the mountains that scrape the sky, and the intimate connection to the environment that locals have (and happily share) will turn even the most jaded outdoors adventurer into a Swissophile. Experience it all at Tschuggen Grand Hotel , an exceedingly modern retreat on the edges of the mountains that’s accessed by a private train only a child could dream up. (Seriously.) Summer is a season for biking and hiking, and even small limbs can make the trek to the Bergkirchli, a church from 1492, or make the sunrise climb to spot bears and birds. Imagine long, leisurely days that begin with a frigid mountain-lake swim and end with a delicious hot tub and—for Mom and Dad—a muscle-melting massage at the 54,000-square-foot Bergoase Spa, set beneath glass-and-steel “sails” that twinkle in the mountain light. A south-facing Junior Suite with a sun loggia is the ultimate spot for that much-deserved cup of hot cocoa.

Horseback riding, fly fishing, archery, oh my! Montana’s state tagline is “Get Lost,” and it’s possible to actually lose yourself in one of the nation's largest—and least populated—states, but it can be hard to narrow down precisely how. So park yourself for a week at the Resort at Paws Up , just outside the town of Greenough, and you’ll gain access to 37,000 acres and all the amenities of a traditional dude ranch, but at a seriously luxe level. Choose a kitted out two-bedroom glamping tent on the banks of the Blackfoot River or one of the mountain homes, and have the concierge orchestrate the Wild West week of your dreams, with activities ranging from survival training and pony rides for little kids to cattle herding and chuck wagon dinners for the older ones. Confident kids can also pave their own path on an ATV adventure or take aim at the shooting range, or just learn the patience it takes to catch trout with an expert. Don’t be surprised if your city rats long to be country mice once they’ve trotted on a trail in the shadow of those spectacular Bitterroot Mountains. This just may become the start of an annual tradition.

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