Manitoba offers the best of both worlds; big city sophistication and a plethora of natural wonders. Whether you’re heading to the prairies on vacation or visiting the beaches, try any one of these attractions and you’ll be guaranteed fun in this beautiful province. Check out the following cities and attractions to help get you started.
Winnipeg
Winnipeg is the capital city of Manitoba, and is the gateway to the Western prairies and is a cultural hotspot for ballet, opera, and theater.
Attractions in Winnipeg
The Forks National Historic Site: This nine-acre picturesque riverside depicts a 6,000-year history through exhibits, sculptures, and year-round walking trails. If you’re visiting in the summer be sure to check out the riverside amphitheater for performances and events.
Thermëa by Nordic Spa: Allow yourself to de-stress in the thermal pools while indulging your senses in Finnish saunas, body treatments, and massage therapy.
deer + almond: Located in the Exchange District in downtown Winnipeg, this restaurant serves homestyle cooking in a warm and relaxed environment. After a night of fine dining, finish off your relaxing evening at one of the many hotels nearby.
Brandon
Located in Southwest Manitoba, Brandon is known as the Wheat City due to its agricultural and farming heritage.
Attractions in Brandon
Global Market: Located in downtown Brandon, this market features local crafters, artists, and food by local chefs. They have a variety of cultural celebrations and community events and is the home of Brandon’s only night market.
Cruise Night: Running annually from May–September, check out the vintage, collectible and custom vehicles. While you’re there, grab a bite to eat from one of the local food trucks.
Portage la Prairie
Located in the Central Plains region in Manitoba, Portage la Prairie is one of the largest commercial centers.
Attractions in Portage la Prairie
Fort Reine Museum: Take a journey to the past and discover the 28 unique heritage sites of early frontier settlers and follow along on their journey to learn the history of the Canadian fur trade.
St. Ambroise Provincial Park Beach: Known best for its white sandy beaches, this is the go-to spot for swimming, camping, hiking, and fishing.
Island Park: Home to the winter festival of lights, explore the paved trails in the park or walk, bike, jog or hike along the banks of Crescent Lake.
Thompson
Known as a mining town, this is the perfect base for exploring Manitoba’s scenic north.
Attractions in Thompson
Heritage North Museum: Built in 1989, this museum allows you to explore northern history behind the nickel mining experience in Thompson. On your visit, check out a caribou hide tipi, Aboriginal artifacts, ancient fossils, and mining exhibits.
Adventurer’s North Dining Room: Known as Thompson’s best fine dining experience, dine on sumptuous hand-cut steaks, lobster, and jumbo shrimp with a fine glass of red wine.
There are so many hidden gems within Manitoba. If going to Western Canada is on your bucket list, visiting Manitoba is well worth the effort.