Tourism Winnipeg

French Quarter

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Half Day

The soaring spire of the Esplanade Riel welcomes you into St. Boniface, the city’s French Quarter. Start off your day at Sals on the Bridge at The Forks. This location of the popular chain offers stunning views of the Red River and the city from its perch atop the bridge. Dig in for a classic breakfast of sausage, eggs, bacon and buttery rye toast.

Cross the rest of the way over and visit the Le Musee de St. Boniface Museum, the oldest building in Winnipeg built in 1846, where the personal items of well-known Canadians and culture of Manitoba is explored. Then stroll to the shore of the Red River and the stunning façade of St. Boniface Cathedral and the cemetery that is the eternal home of Louis Riel.

You can also go on a walking tour of Old St. Boniface where you’ll delve into the roots of this historic area and learn more about the magnificent St. Boniface Cathedral and the fire that nearly destroyed it all. 

After that, grab a coffee at one of several cafes on Provencher Boulevard and wander the unique shops of the area. Be sure to pop into Bijou—a locally-owned jewellery store that sells stunning pieces made with coloured stones.

Full Day

Visit St. Boniface City Hall located on Provencher Boulevard and gaze upon its imposing clock tower and then head over to Maison Gabrielle Roy. The Franco-Canadian author’s childhood home was often featured in her works and the building has been fully restored using her book’s descriptions.

Get some fresh air and unwind at Lagimodiere Gaboury Historic Park which borders the Seine and Red Rivers. The park is known for the Lagimodiere Gaboury History Gate that commemorates renowned voyageurs Marie-Anne Gaboury and Jean-Baptiste Lagimodiere.

Discover the history of the Red River valley and its settlers at Fort Gibraltor. This historic site was originally built in 1809 by The North West Company and played a central role in Canada’s fur trade.

By now, you must be feeling peckish, and there are no shortage of options in St. Boniface. Check out Le Garage Café for French-inspired cuisine like chicken liver pate, mussels in St. James Pale Ale sauce and scallop-stuffed salmon. The café also offers one of the best poutines in the city, made with crispy shoestring fries. Stay late for live music and drink specials.

For authentic French cuisine try out Chez Sophie for tartiflette made with tangy trappist cheese, French style-pizza made with white sauce and salade noire topped with shaved dark chocolate. For the most elegant in fine dining, sit down at Step’n Out, where an ever-changing menu of inspired cuisine awaits. Savour pumpkin filled ravioli, tender lamb chops and decadent Bernard Callebaut chocolate cake inside a cozy, eclectic dining room oozing charm.