Discover the Best of Winnipeg: Top 10 Tourist Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss (2024)

Winnipeg is a vibrant and bustling city in the heart of Canada. Winnipeg is known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, drawing approximately 3.5 million annual visitors. This quaint little city is brimming with attractions and activities that always leave travelers in amazement and entertained. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, an art, an adventure junkie, or a foodie, this city in Manitoba will never disappoint.

Travelers in Canada often overlook Winnipeg, but it deserves equal attention. It isn’t just another known town but a hub of numerous world-renowned tourists, be it museums, galleries, parks, or historic sites. The tourist attractions in Winnipeg are just waiting to be explored, and whether you are a first-timer or a repeating guest, you must check them out. Besides its known tourist spots, Winnipeg is also known for its thriving music and arts scenes, making it a hub for entertainment.

Discover the Best of Winnipeg: Top 10 Tourist Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Join us to take a closer look at the top tourist attractions in Winnipeg. Make sure you stick to the end to get the most out of it.

1. The Forks

The Forks is a vibrant and bustling area in Winnipeg’s center at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It is, in fact, the most popular tourist attraction to visit in Winnipeg, whether you are a local or a tourist. This must-visit destination was once a meeting place where people of the Indigenous community gathered and exchanged ideas for over 6,000 years. The Forks has been an important site for both Winnipeg’s history and development.

Keeping its history apart, The Forks is presently a thriving hub of activity attracting visitors of different age groups. The area offers everyone a wide range of opportunities, be it dining, shopping, or live entertainment. What interest people here the most is a bustling marketplace that sells everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Forks also boast a range of restaurants and cafes offering some of the best cuisines in Winnipeg. Besides that, visitors here can also enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, skating, and nature trails. The rich history, beautiful scenery, and endless opportunities make Forks a popular place to check out in Winnipeg.

2. Assiniboine Park and Zoo

Assiniboine Park and Zoo is another must-visit tourist attraction in Winnipeg City. This huge natural space is popular amongst visitors of all age groups, and it is not hard to see why. The landmark attracts families and solo travelers alike and remains attractive year-round. The zoo has more than 200 species and a range of exhibits presenting them. However, the highlight here is the Polar Bear exhibit, also known as Journey to Churchill. It is where visitors can see arctic animals such as muskoxen, Arctic foxes, and even beluga whales. The other popular sections include Animals of Asia, Grasslands and Boreal Forest, and Kinsmen Discovery Centre.

Beyond the zoo, Assiniboine Park also features some mesmerizing gardens, including the English Garden and Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. It is also home to a stunning Conservatory, a facility you cannot miss. The park also offers visitors to enjoy a range of outdoor activities, be it hiking, cycling, or boating. Or, enjoy the picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities, making the best out of your day. Assiniboine Park and Zoo is a true gem of Winnipeg and, thus, certainly a must-visit.

3. Canadian Museum for Human Rights

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is an impressive and thought-provoking museum nestled in Winnipeg. Individuals who are keen on Human rights must not risk visiting this place. It is, in fact, the first museum solely dedicated to the history and understanding of human rights Worldwide. The stunning architecture will impress you at first sight as you step inside. Further, moving forward, the incredibly informative exhibits and thought-provoking displays will keep you captivated for the entire time. Individuals with an interest in history, human rights, and social justice issues can spend hours here.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights allows guests to learn about human rights issues through multiple interactive and multimedia exhibits. Some of the popular exhibits here include Indigenous rights, the Holocaust and residential schools, and LGBTQ rights. In addition to that, the museum also offers an in-depth look at the struggles of people fighting for their rights. Every single gallery and exhibit here is organized thematically, ensuring visitors explore topics at their own pace and in their own way. Overall, visiting the Canadian Museum for Human Rights offers a unique and important learning experience.

4. Manitoba Museum

Another popular tourist landmark in Winnipeg is the Manitoba Museum, a must-visit and for all good reasons. The museum has been quite a draw amongst locals and visitors, offering a wide range of exhibits and galleries. Everything here is about Manitoba’s history, culture, and natural environment, and the presentation makes observing them worth it. Exhibits in the museum focus on topics like the rich Indigenous cultures that have shaped Manitoba to the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the land. The idea behind forming this facility was to inform and educate individuals about the past, present, and future of Manitoba.

Manitoba Museum though is all entertaining, but its most notable exhibit is the Mammoth and Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age, the award-winning one. This exhibit showcases real fossils and life-sized models and is quite interesting to observe. Besides that, the museum also offers immersive exhibits on Manitoba’s fur trade, its diverse wildlife, and other industrial innovations. Museum visitors can also participate in hands-on activities like playing traditional Indigenous games or building a Red River cart.

5. Saint-Boniface Cathedral

An impressive landmark, the Saint-Boniface Cathedral sits in the heart of the French Quarter and is a must-visit in Winnipeg. Its grand architecture and stunning stained-glass windows draw architecture enthusiasts from all across the city and beyond. Saint-Boniface Cathedral is basically the birthplace of Winnipeg and is also the home of the Catholic community of Manitoba. From history, architecture, and religious perspectives, it is worth exploring. A visit here allows people to learn about the cathedral’s past and how it played an important role in shaping Manitoba. The cathedral offers guided tours focusing on architecture, artwork, and the history of the place.

In addition, there’s also a museum inside featuring artifacts and exhibits about French and Métis heritage. Besides its historical significance, Saint-Boniface Cathedral is a beautiful and peaceful to spend time. A few hours here reflect immense tranquility in the midst of a bustling city.

6. Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint is a fascinating tourist attraction in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This national institution is basically the facility that produces all the circulating coins, bullion coins, and medals of Canada. It holds high national value and is one of the fascinating places to visit when in Winnipeg. The Mint allows visitors to learn about the history of Canadian currency and how the minting process work. Visitors can take a guided tour and go through the various stages of coin production. As you will process, you will learn everything, including design, engraving of the dies, and striking and packaging of the coins.

A visit to the Canadian Mint also allows the enthusiast to see the state-of-the-art technology that produces coins. Visitors will also come across an impressive collection of rare coins and medals. Or, purchase from a variety of unique souvenirs, including limited edition coins and exclusive jewelry. In short, the Royal Canadian Mint is a worthy tourist attraction, be it for educational or entertainment purposes. This curious piece of the landmark will keep you captivated for a long.

7. Exchange District

The Exchange District in Winnipeg is a vibrant neighborhood that is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage. This historic district is home to some of the city’s most beautiful architecture, with over 150 heritage buildings that date back to the early 20th century. The Exchange District in Winnipeg is an excellent destination for people interested in history, art, and culture. This neighborhood in Winnipeg houses a range of art galleries, theaters, and museums. It is even home to popular landmarks, including the Manitoba Museum and the Winnipeg Art Gallery. A visit here allows individuals to learn about the fascinating history of Winnipeg as they explore the unique architecture and streetscape.

The Exchange District is quite popular for its dining, entertainment, and shopping offerings. As you visit here, you can enjoy a range of culinary delights, especially the local taste of Winnipeg. Visitors can check out upscale restaurants to trendy cafes and bars, enjoying the best of the city. Besides that, it is also home to many boutique shops offering everything from fashion to handmade crafts.

8. Manitoba Legislative Building

The Manitoba Legislative Building is a magnificent architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of Winnipeg. It isn’t just a popular tourist attraction but also a seat of the provincial government. The legislative building was established in 1919 and since then has been a point of interest. The structure boasts a unique and intricate design combining neoclassical and beaux-arts architecture. Its exteriors are adorned with sculptures, statues, and carvings, all of which exhibit the history, culture, and industry of Manitoba.

Visitors to the Manitoba Legislative Building can enjoy a guided tour of its interior. As you will step inside, you will realize that its interiors are as just as impressive as the exterior. The grand staircase, a rotunda, a stunning marble chamber, and every single feature here hold the utmost importance and interest. Taking guided tours is an excellent way to learn about the history and significance of the building. Visitors can also learn about the inner workings of the provincial government.

9. FortWhyte Alive

FortWhyte Alive is a must-see destination in Winnipeg, and you cannot simply miss it. Visiting this place allows individuals to have an unforgettable experience in nature. This 640-acre wildlife refuge and nature center aims to preserve and protect the natural environment. It, in addition, educates visitors about sustainable living. As a tourist attraction, FortWhyte Alive is a great opportunity to get close to the local flora and fauna along with the area’s history.

A visit to this landmark allows individuals to enjoy a range of activities like canoeing, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. In addition, visitors can also explore the interpretive center and learn about the local ecology, sustainable living, and the history of FortWhyte. There’s also a bison herd that visitors can observe on guided tours. With a range of opportunities, this landmark makes an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

10. Leo Mol Sculpture Garden

Last but not least is the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden in Assiniboine Park. This unique attraction in Winnipeg is worth visiting for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The beautiful garden space is home to a stunning collection of bronze sculptures, all of which are the artwork of Leo Mol, the renowned Ukrainian-Canadian artist. There are more than 300 pieces on display, and admiring their intricate details and stunning craftsmanship easily takes a few hours.

Leo Mol Sculpture Garden is a peaceful oasis that offers a tranquil escape city’s fast pacing life. Besides observing the sculptures, visitors can stroll through the paths surrounded by lush greenery. It is also an ideal spot for picnics, as you can find many benches and tables throughout the garden. Overall, the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden is a unique and beautiful attraction to check out. It is a great place to spend a few hours while you choose to rejuvenate and refresh.