Architecturally Yours

The architectural splendour of Winnipeg has its roots in Winnipeg’s rapid expansion as a commercial centre in the late 19th century as entrepreneurs erected buildings giving the city an impression of security, wealth and stability.

Day 1
Winnipeg became the “Chicago of the North” as builders in the 1800s adopted the Romanesque architectural style popular following the construction of the Marshall Fields Store in Chicago.

The Exchange District is a 30-block area boasting some of North America’s best examples of turn-of-the-last-century architecture. Legends of power, corruption and heroism are related during The Exchange District walking tours which take visitors through the district that served as Winnipeg’s centre of finance and wholesale trade during the 1880s.

The Manitoba Legislative Building, completed in the 1920s, is a remarkable monument to Masonic architecture and ancient temple design. Heartland International Travel and Tours’ Hermetic Code Tour reveals Masonic mysteries and uncovers trails of occult clues concealed in the buildings architecture including hidden hieroglyphic inscriptions, numerological codes and Freemason symbols. Learn the secrets and mysteries of one of Canada’s most fascinating architectural structures.

Day 2
The Pavilion Building at Assiniboine Park was designed to imitate certain elements of early English architecture and thus, the building features a mock Tudor half-timbering, a bell tower and a roofline reminiscent of thatching. It opened in 1920 and today houses an art gallery and restaurant, and is located next to the English Garden and Leo Mol Sculpture Garden.

Ecologically-minded architects have combined resources with “green” advocates to create sustainable buildings throughout Winnipeg. The Exchange District Walking Tour showcases some of Canada’s most forward-thinking and “green” initiatives in city planning, alternative transportation, energy conservation and building construction.

While visiting The Forks, a major attraction and entertainment area, keep in mind the complex is reducing its carbon footprint to zero through consumption, supply and carbon offsets. You can also tour the Manitoba Hydro Building -recipient of the 2010 National Green Buildings Award - with its solar chimney and geothermal heating system.

Winnipeg’s downtown business district is a mix of old and new architecture and teems with dining and entertainment options. Cuisines from around the world are represented and served in fine dining rooms, casual eateries, ethnic spots and popular restaurant chains.