Tourism Winnipeg

One week itinerary--summer

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Day 1

Wake up to one of the city’s best breakfasts at one of three Stella’s Café and Bakery locations for their creative renditions of French toast, baked eggs and mixed berry jam (buy it to take home). For the perfect greasy spoon breakfast, head to The Nook Diner on Sherbrook. The Falafel Place & Deli on Corydon is a local favourite with an Israeli-inspired menu that offers blintzes and their famous falafel breakfast comprised of eggs served with falafel balls and tahini. For local and organic options try Fresh Café for fresh squeezed juices and innovative plates.

After that, head to The Forks, the city’s bustling nine-acre playground packed with dining, shopping and entertainment options. Browse specialty food shops like Fenton’s Wine Merchants for robust reds and crisp whites, the Almond Tree for salty treats and sweet goodies or Wittman Foods for honey and flax made right in Manitoba.

Head to Fergie’s Seafood Market for hunks of tender halibut coated in delicate, crispy batter or to Bindy’s Carribbean Delights for massive stuffed rotis. Finish off with a gooey Nutella and strawberry-stuffed crêpe from Caramel Crêpe.

For lunch, head just outside downtown and to the multi-cultural neighbourhood of the West End. Scoot over to Café Dario where the chef’s Colombian roots are infused into dishes made with local ingredients. With an ever-changing array of options, try a prix fixe, three-course feast of dishes like lobster ceviche, lamb lollipops coated in mole sauce and spicy pork tenderloin.

Work off your meal by browsing the area’s numerous ethnic and specialty food stores. Stop in at Morden’s Chocolates—a Winnipeg institution for more than 50 years and makers of the award-winning Russian Mint. Continue down Sargent Avenue and pop into El Izalco for authentic Latin groceries like freshly made tortillas, homemade chorizo and homemade tamales. Next it’s off to Dino’s Grocery Mart on Notre Dame for a plethora of groceries from India, Pakistan, Asia and the West Indies including exotic produce and huge vats of lentils and rice. Finish your shopping at De Luca’s where Italian baking, meats, cheeses and other goodies are on display. Take in a cooking class and impress your friends at your next dinner party.

In the evening, head to the trendy neighbourhood of Osborne Village to explore boho chic boutiques and taste-bud-dazzling dining options. Gourmands love Fude Inspired Cuisine and Wine Bar for their famous chocolate chicken and to-die-for chai cheesecake. Sushi lovers flock to Wasabi for their decadent volcano rolls, while foodies gather at Segovia for sensational Spanish-style tapas like delicate spiced scallops and velvety goat curry. If you’re in the mood for casual, head to Baked Expectations for juicy burgers, crispy fries and sky-high cakes all served in a cute and quirky 50s diner setting.

Finish off the night with a fine vintage at the sleek and chic Noir Wine Bar and Eatery, decorated in eye-catching black and white. Or head over to G Martinis for a vast array of creative concoctions including the 007, Red River and chocotini served with a Hershey’s Kiss.

Day 2

Morning awakens with a host of hearty breakfast options. Opt for eggs and the stunning view of the Red River from Sals on the Bridge at The Forks or the quirky atmosphere at Black Sheep Diner, popular with the city’s student crowd thanks to innovative fare like omelets with goat cheese and avocado as a side. 

Get into shopping mode at Prairie Ink Café located inside McNally Robinson Booksellers. Dine on French toast with caramelized bananas, chai lattes and silky daily quiche and then browse the shelves for loved classics, bestsellers and enlightening reads—don’t miss the whimsical kid’s section located inside the second story “tree house”. Before leaving the attached mall, check out October for sweet boutique fashions and Diva Lingerie for the ultimate in what goes on underneath. Then make sure he looks good too with slick threads from Morrison. 

Now it’s time for brand hunting at Winnipeg’s largest shopping mall, Polo Park Shopping Centre, where you’ll indulge at more than 200 hip spots like Sephora, Lululemon, BCBG, Forever 21, Lush, Mexx and Club Monaco.
Pack your shopping bags full on Academy Road, where six blocks of independently-owned boutiques await your arrival. Those with discerning tastes head to Cornelia Bean for specialty coffee and teas, Nine Boutique for trendy maternity wear, Eyelet Dove for sumptuous lingerie, Lake Life for casual clothes and gifts, Moulé for of-the-moment fashion and Tiber River Naturals for soothing bath and body care. By now, you’re feeling peckish. Head to the French Way Bakery for Parisian-inspired fare, then pop over to nearby G.J. Andrews and shop for gourmet foods and wine. 

Next it’s off to Osborne Village, a shopping paradise for trendsetters. Browse for flirty dresses at Frockstar and indie designer threads at Out of the Blue, Paramix, Hush/Shout and American Apparel. Pick up things that sparkle at David Rice Jewelry and Silver Lotus, as well cute and quirky gifts at Desart and Osborne Antiques Mart. For killer heels, head to Rooster and satisfy your inner kitchen goddess at the Happy Cooker. 

By now, it’s time to eat and Osborne Village offers plenty of options. Kick back with a heaping plate of nachos and a cerveza at Carlos and Murphy’s or try your hand at exotic Ethiopian fare at Massawa. If easy and handheld is what you seek, then look no further than Kawaii Crepe for sweet and savoury concoctions sure to delight tastebuds. 

Day 3

Slap on some SPF 60 and start your morning with a hike along the paths of Assiniboine Forest, one of Canada’s largest urban nature parks. The looped, one kilometer paved Sagimay Nature Trail takes you through trees and meadow and past six kilometers of woodchip trails to the Eve Werier Memorial Pond.

Cross Corydon into Assiniboine Park, one of Winnipeg’s oldest attractions visited by millions of people every year. Dine al fresco on picnic tables amongst the lush green trees or step into Star Grill for an eclectic menu of entrees and desserts.

After lunch, bask in the exotic horticultural collection at the Assiniboine Park Conservatory. Then, head off to Assiniboine Park Zoo for close encounters with animals from all over the world. The zoo features more than 400 species in both indoor and outdoor exhibits and specializes in cold climate species from northern latitudes and mountain ranges. See the exotic animals featured in the ever-changing animal collection.

Coming in 2013, the zoo’s new Journey to Churchill exhibit will see those world-famous polar bears come south into the city. Exhibit highlights include the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre where orphaned and abandoned polar will be rehabilitated, as well as academic research, opportunities for underwater and above-ground polar bear viewing, the Aurora Borealis Theatre & Interpretive Centre and Tundra Grill.

While you’re at the zoo, pose for a photo with the bear that made Winnie the Pooh famous. The statue commemorates Winnie the bear (named after Winnipeg) and her owner Captain Harry Coleburn. Grab a bite at the zoo’s Animal Tracks Café before heading out.

A must-visit spot in the park is the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. It combines artistic beauty with a natural setting and offers a quiet retreat to view and enjoy the magnificent works of master sculptor, Dr. Leo Mol. Enjoy the tranquility of the garden with its spectacular year-round open water feature and vine-covered arbour, as well as the Leo Mol Schoolhouse Studio and gift shop.

Next, pop into the Pavilion Gallery Museum, which features the largest collections of works by three renowned Manitoba artists—the contemporary works of Ivan Eyre; the historical works of Clarence Tillenius; and the watercolours and woodcuts of Walter J. Phillips. The rotation gallery features exhibitions by Manitoba’s premier and emerging artists.

If you’ve got little ones in your party, take them for fun and excitement at the Nature and Adventure Playground. Filled with wonder, kids can explore tree forts, bird nest swings, willow tree tunnels, hedges, mazes, sculptures, a children’s garden resembling the classic board game snakes and ladders and so much more.

For a perfect end to the night, throw down a blanket and enjoy free entertainment at the outdoor Lyric Theatre. Throughout the summer, the stage features performances for every taste and age, including the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s, “Ballet in the Park”, as well as the symphony, the opera and numerous jazz performances.

Day 4

Experience the great outdoors at FortWhyte Alive or Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre. Spend a half or full day at each, depending on the length of your stay.

FortWhyte Alive is Winnipeg’s award-winning, 640-acre urban nature oasis showcasing a herd of 30 prairie bison, 5 lakes, 7 kilometers of trails, Prairie Dog Town, Family Tree House, bird feeding stations, Pioneer Sod House, Tipi Encampment, floating boardwalks, Aquarium of the Prairies, Bison Safari Adventure, Nature Gift Shop, and Buffalo Stone Café. Experience outdoor activities all year long including, fishing, canoeing, hiking, wildlife watching and other summer specific programming.

Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre has been voted the world’s “Best Environmental Experience.” Under the guidance of friendly interpreters, you can take in the splendour of 300 species of birds and wildlife, trek the nature trails, take a guided tour of the marsh, go canoeing, view wildlife, watch a film in the multimedia theatre, enjoy a meal in the café and check out the interactive exhibits.

Parks to visit within Winnipeg:

• Kildonan Park offers some of the oldest and largest trees in Manitoba. Stroll through a formal garden and Hansel & Gretel’s “Witch Hut” and stay for a stage performance at Canada’s longest-running outdoor theatre, Rainbow Stage. An Olympic-sized swimming pool and plenty of picnic tables and barbeque pits are available in the summer for bonding with family and friends.

• Bordering on the Red River, King’s Park has numerous gravel and paved pathways to enjoy, some of which lead to marshland. In the centre of the park, you will find the beautiful Pagoda Gardens. The park also has a soccer field, two baseball diamonds and an off-leash dog area.

• Canoe, fish, hike and bike in the summer in La Barriere Park or enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Nature tours available by calling 204.832.0167.

• At Little Mountain Park, enjoy hiking trails, a limestone quarry and numerous picnic sites. Offers guided nature tours by reservation (204.832.0167), as well as a large off-leash dog area.

• Situated on the Red River, St. Vital Park is the perfect place for family get-togethers and recreational sports. The duck pond is a favorite spot for patrons.

Day 5

It’s time to cast your line into the Red River and pull up the catch of the day. City Cats offers half and full day excursions through Winnipeg’s river system, as rock n’ roll fisherman Todd Longley uses his expertise to help you land a monster walleye or catfish. Having appeared on numerous television programs, Todd’s passion and dedication ensures a fishing experience you’ll never forget.

In the afternoon, get on the Perimeter and make your way to St. Norbert, home to the city’s most popular farmers’ market. Head out for a Routes on the Red tour. This nature walks offer a do-it-yourself option for exploring and discovering the city. Traipse through St. Norbert and discover how this tiny settlement blossomed into a full-scale Catholic parish and then into the bustling suburb it is today. Be sure to stop in at the Trappist Monastery and St. Norbert Arts Centre and discover how Trappist monks lived past and present.

Day 6

Your day starts with breakfast at the Tallest Poppy, located inside the former Occidental Hotel, a Winnipeg landmark. Built in 1886, the hotel has stood watch through much of the city’s history, changing hands numerous times and earning itself a notorious reputation along the way. Now home to this hip spot popular with local foodies, they serve up wholesome food make with local ingredients.

After breakfast, it’s time to head to the nearby Manitoba Museum, where the province’s history comes to life. Stroll the streets of Winnipeg as they were in the 1920s or hop aboard the life-sized replica of the Nonsuch ketch. Make your way through the Hudson’s Bay gallery and discover our fur trading roots and finish your visit with a stop at Churchill’s shore line 450 million years ago.

Continue your day at The Forks—a gathering place for more than 6,000 years where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. Explore the site and plaques scattered throughout that relate the history of this significant spot. Visit the Oodena Celebration Circle, Balance of Spirit Within and the Peace Meeting Site for a reflection on the city’s aboriginal roots.

If you’re feeling peckish, head into The Forks Market and sample a variety of ethnic options from baba-made perogies to stuffed rotis to crispy samosas. Browse the market’s eclectic shops and pick up unique, handmade gifts and treasures. 

In the afternoon, head to St. Boniface and Le Musee de Saint-Boniface Museum. Built for the Grey Nuns who arrived in the Red River Colony in 1844, the structure is an outstanding example of Red River frame construction. It offers an impressive collection of artifacts that reveal the lives and culture of the Francophone and Métis communities of Manitoba, including a special exhibit about Louis Riel, the “father” of Manitoba.

While you’re there, don’t miss the St. Boniface Cathedral’s stunning façade and attached cemetery that is the eternal resting place of Riel.

For a snack, head into one of St. Boniface’s charming spots like Le Garage Café for one of the best poutines in the city or Chez Sophie where you can snack on authentic Franco Manitoban fare like tourtiere.

Then, make your way to Fort Gibraltar, originally a North West Company fur trade post where the history of Manitoba comes to life. If you’re here in February, don’t miss Festival du Voyageur where the fur trade is brought to life with food, music, demonstrations, winter activities and stunning carved snow sculptures.

In the evening, head over to the Manitoba Legislature and take in the Hermetic Code tour, where you will learn about the Masonic and occult symbols and principles that were built into the building’s unique architecture.

Finish of the day in the Exchange District where stunning historic architecture greets you at every turn. Take in a walking tour and learn about the area’s fascinating history as the centre of Winnipeg’s grain trade in the 1920s. Packed full of boutiques and galleries, it’s the perfect place for a stroll. Pop into one of numerous restaurants like Peasant Cookery for rustic French classics, Mondragon for delicious vegan fare or Tre Visi for elegant Italian dining.

Day 7

Start out heading north towards Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site where you can begin the day with a hearty breakfast of eggs, bacon and pancakes at the Riverview Cafe. Don’t miss the potato and wild rice version for a real taste of Manitoba.

Once you’ve filled up, it’s time to explore this 19th century fort—the oldest stone fur trading fort still intact in North America. Costumed interpreters bring the Red River Valley in the 1850s to life as you meet the Governor of the Hudson’s Bay Company, barter with the company clerk, sit in a tipi and listen to the whispers of ancient legends, and touch the coarse fur of a bison hide at the oldest stone fur trading post in North America.

When you’re done, head to the south point of Red River Road and head north along one of the most scenic drives in the province, bordered by the Red River on one side and majestic homes on the other. This eleven kilometer stretch also offers a variety of historic spots not to be missed.

Along the way stop at Scott House, named for William Scott, its first owner, who was one of the many Orkney labourers and boatmen who came to work for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Then continue past Twin Oaks, a private finishing school built in 1858, notable for its typical Red River architecture and status as the first girls’ school in western Canada.

Then make a stop at St. Andrews Rectory National Historic Site, featuring displays and information about life during early settlement. Then stop at the Captain Kennedy House where the Maple Grove Tea Room resides. Enjoy the lush gardens that surround the building and then tuck in for flaky scones, creative sandwiches and refreshing salads.

As you head to Lockport, be sure to hop out of the car at get a look at the St. Andrews lock and dam. In Lockport, be sure to stop in at Skinners for one of their city-famous hotdogs. Continue north to the town of Selkirk where you can take in a visit to the Marine Museum of Manitoba, where the story of marine life and its development on the Red River and Lake Winnipeg are told.

Finish off your day with dinner at the Maple Tree Restaurant. Run by Colombian-born Chef Dario, this quaint spot serves up local fare infused with Latin-inspired flavour. The prix fixe, five-course menu is a steal at just $35.

Day 8

Head to Winnipeg’s stunning VIA Rail Station designed by the same architects that built Grand Central Station in New York City. Winnipeg is the gateway to Churchill and here, you can hop aboard a train and make your way north to visit with beluga whales and polar bears.