Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada: Fun, Food & Adventure

Winnipeg, the heart of Canada’s Prairies, is a city full of surprises—vibrant arts, rich history, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're exploring world-class museums, kayaking along the Red River, or indulging in the city’s famous "Fat Boy" burgers, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Winnipeg.

• This Guide to Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada covers:
• Best time to visit (and when to avoid crowds)
• Transportation tips (getting around easily)
• Costs (budget-friendly and splurge-worthy options)
• Best hotels (where to stay for comfort & convenience)
• Top things to do in Winnipeg Canada (attractions, hidden gems & foodie spots)
• Best areas nearby (day trips worth taking)

Let’s dive in!

Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada

Table of contents

• Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada
• Best Time to Visit Winnipeg Canada: Seasonal Guide for Fun & Adventure
• Transportation in Winnipeg: How to Get There & Get Around for Maximum Fun
• Costs: Budgeting for Your Winnipeg Trip – How to Maximize Fun Without Breaking the Bank
• Best Hotels in Winnipeg Canada
• Top Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada
• Best Areas Nearby for Day Trips from Winnipeg: Explore Manitoba's Hidden Gems
• Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada: In Conclusion

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Best Time to Visit Winnipeg Canada: Seasonal Guide for Fun & Adventure

Planning your trip around the best time to visit Winnipeg Canada can make all the difference in your experience. Known for its extreme weather, Winnipeg offers unique things to do in Winnipeg Canada in every season—from sunny summer festivals to magical winter wonderlands. Here’s your complete seasonal guide to help you pick the perfect time for fun things to do in Winnipeg!

☀️ Summer (June – August): The Peak Season for Outdoor Fun

• Weather: Warm (20°C to 30°C / 68°F to 86°F), sunny, and occasionally humid.
• Why Visit? This is the best time for festivals, patios, and exploring Winnipeg’s outdoor attractions with minimal weather worries.

Top Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada in Summer:

• Explore The Forks Market – Food stalls, live music, and riverfront kayaking.
• Attend the Winnipeg Folk Festival – One of North America’s best folk music events.
• Walk Assiniboine Park & Zoo – See polar bears and lush gardens in full bloom.
• Kayak the Red River – Paddle past the city skyline (rentals at Urban Waves).
• Enjoy a Goldeyes Baseball Game – Cheap tickets, fireworks, and family fun.

Pros:

• Long daylight hours (sunset after 9:30 PM!).
• Most attractions and tours are open.
• Perfect for biking, hiking, and outdoor dining.

Cons:

• Busiest season—hotels book up fast.
• Mosquitoes can be fierce (bring bug spray!).

Best For: Festival lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families.

🍁 Fall (September – October): Crisp Air & Stunning Colors

• Weather: Cool (5°C to 15°C / 41°F to 59°F), crisp, and less humid.
• Why Visit? Fewer crowds, fall foliage, and cozy vibes—ideal for fun things to do in Winnipeg without the summer rush.

Top Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada in Fall:

• Stroll the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden – Golden leaves frame stunning art.
• Sip Coffee in the Exchange District – Hip cafés like Thom Bargen shine in sweater weather.
• Visit FortWhyte Alive – Bison sightings and prairie hikes.
• Check Out Nuit Blanche (October) – All-night arts festival.

Pros:

• Lower hotel prices.
• Gorgeous autumn scenery.
• Still mild enough for outdoor activities.

Cons:

• Some summer attractions close by October.
• Evenings get chilly.

Best For: Photographers, couples, and budget travelers.

❄️ Winter (November – March): A Snowy Wonderland

• Weather: Very cold (-10°C to -30°C / 14°F to -22°F), snowy, and windy.
• Why Visit? If you love winter magic, Winnipeg delivers with unique things to do in Winnipeg Canada you can’t experience in summer!

Top Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada in Winter:

• Skate at The Forks River Trail – The world’s longest naturally frozen skating path.
• Celebrate Festival du Voyageur (February) – Ice sculptures, poutine, and live music.
• Warm Up at Thermea Nordic Spa – Hot pools in a snowy forest.
• See the Northern Lights – Just outside the city on clear nights.

Pros:

• Magical winter experiences.
• Cheapest hotel rates (except during festivals).
• No crowds at museums.

Cons:

• Extreme cold—not for the faint-hearted!
• Some outdoor attractions close.

Best For: Winter sports fans, couples, and Northern Lights chasers.

🌷 Spring (April – May): Mud Season (Least Recommended)

• Weather: Unpredictable (0°C to 15°C / 32°F to 59°F), rainy, and muddy.
• Why Visit? Unless you love puddles, this is Winnipeg’s least appealing season—but still has a few hidden gems.

Top Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada in Spring:

• Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights – Great for rainy days.
• Catch Early Farmers’ Markets – St. Norbert Farmers’ Market opens in May.
• See Baby Animals at the Zoo – Spring is zoo birthing season!

Pros:

• Quietest time for museums.
• Early-bird hotel deals.

Cons:

• Many outdoor activities are closed.
• Melting snow = messy streets.

Best For: Budget travelers who don’t mind indoor activities.

Final Verdict: When’s the Best Time to Visit Winnipeg Canada?

Season	Best For	Worst For
Summer	Festivals, outdoor fun, families	Budget travelers, heat avoiders
Fall	Scenery, mild weather, couples	Beach lovers
Winter	Snow adventures, Northern Lights	Cold haters
Spring	Budget deals, museum lovers	Outdoor enthusiasts

Best Overall? June to August for the full Winnipeg experience.
For Budget Travelers? September or February (avoid major festivals).

Plan Your Trip Around These Fun Things to Do in Winnipeg!

No matter when you visit, Winnipeg offers unique things to do in Winnipeg Canada year-round. Pair your trip with these guides for more Canadian adventures:

• Kayaking in Canada – Best spots beyond Winnipeg.
• Canada Travel Budget Tips – Save money on your trip.
• 3 Days in Banff Itinerary – Another must-visit Canadian destination.

Transportation in Winnipeg: How to Get There & Get Around for Maximum Fun

Winnipeg might be in the heart of the Canadian Prairies, but it's surprisingly well-connected—and once you're here, getting around is a breeze. Whether you're flying in for fun things to do in Winnipeg or road-tripping across Manitoba, this guide covers all your transportation options for things to do in Winnipeg Canada efficiently and affordably.

🚗 Getting to Winnipeg Canada

By Air: Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG)

• Location: 20 min from downtown
• Why Fly?

• Direct flights from major Canadian cities (Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary) and some U.S. hubs (Minneapolis, Denver).
• Budget airlines like Flair and Swoop offer deals.

Airport Transport to Downtown:

• Taxi/Uber: ~30–30–40 (20 min to The Forks).
• Bus (#20): $3.20 (slower but budget-friendly).
• Car Rentals: All major agencies (Enterprise, Budget) available.

Pro Tip: If visiting in winter, pre-book a taxi—wait times can be long in -30°C!

By Train: VIA Rail’s Canadian Route

• Station: Winnipeg Union Station (downtown)
• Why Take the Train?

• Scenic cross-Canada journey (great if coming from Vancouver or Toronto).
• Historic station with cool architecture.

Downside: Much slower than flying (3+ days from Toronto!).

Best For: Rail enthusiasts or those wanting an adventure.

By Bus: Greyhound Alternatives

Since Greyhound’s 2021 exit, options include:

• Rider Express (Calgary–Winnipeg route).
• Mahikan Bus Lines (northern Manitoba routes).

Cheaper than flying, but long travel times.

By Car: Road-Tripping to Winnipeg

Best Routes:

• From Toronto: ~20 hours via Trans-Canada Hwy.
• From Calgary: ~13 hours.
• From Minneapolis (USA): ~7 hours.

Why Drive? Freedom to explore Manitoba day trips (Grand Beach, Riding Mountain National Park).

Pro Tip: Winter driving? Mandatory winter tires from Oct–April!

🚍 Getting Around Winnipeg: Public Transit, Bikes & More

Public Transit (Winnipeg Transit)

Bus Coverage:

• Covers most tourist areas (The Forks, Exchange District, Assiniboine Park).
• Fare: $3.20 cash (exact change) or Peggo Card for discounts.

Downsides:

• Not always punctual.
• Fewer routes at night/weekends.

Best For: Budget travelers staying downtown.

Taxis & Rideshares

Options:

• Uber/Lyft: Available and reliable.
• Duffy’s Taxi: Local company (good for pre-booking).

Best For: Late-night trips or -40°C days!

Biking (Summer Only!)

Why Bike?

• Winnipeg has over 460 km of bike paths, including:
  • The Forks to Assiniboine Park (scenic river route).
  • Bishop Grandin Greenway (long, car-free trail).

Rentals:

• White Pine Bicycle Co. (downtown).
• Woodcock Cycle Works (near The Forks).

Pro Tip: Use Winnipeg’s bike-share program (BIXI) for short trips.

Walking (Downtown & The Forks)

Best Walkable Areas:

• The Forks (markets, museums, riverwalk).
• Exchange District (historic streets, cafés, shops).
• Osborne Village (trendy bars & boutiques).

Best For: Sunny summer days when you want to explore slowly.

Car Rentals

Best Companies:

• Enterprise (downtown locations).
• Budget (airport pick-up).

Why Rent?

• Visit day trip spots (Gimli, Grand Beach).
• Winter trips (avoid waiting in the cold).

Parking Note: Downtown parking can be pricey (15–15–25/day).

Transportation Tips for Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada

1. Summer = Bike or Walk – Save money and enjoy the weather.
2. Winter = Uber/Taxi – Avoid freezing at bus stops.
3. Use Transit for Major Attractions – The Forks, zoo, and museums are bus-accessible.
4. Pre-Book Airport Transport in Winter – Taxis get busy in extreme cold.

Fun Things to Do in Winnipeg Accessible by Transit

• The Forks Market (Bus #16, #18).
• Canadian Museum for Human Rights (walk from downtown).
• Assiniboine Park & Zoo (Bus #21).
• Exchange District (short walk from Portage & Main).

No Car Needed!

Winnipeg’s transport options make it simple to experience all the best things to do in Winnipeg Canada. Pair your trip with these guides:

• Canada Travel Budget Tips
• 3 Days in Banff Itinerary

Costs: Budgeting for Your Winnipeg Trip – How to Maximize Fun Without Breaking the Bank

Planning a trip to Winnipeg and wondering how much to budget? Whether you're looking for cheap fun things to do in Winnipeg or planning a luxury getaway, this detailed cost breakdown will help you experience all the best things to do in Winnipeg Canada at any price point.

🏨 Accommodation Costs in Winnipeg

Type	Budget ($)	Mid-Range ($$)	Luxury ($$$)
Hostel	$30-50/night	-	-
Budget Hotel	$80-120/night	-	-
3-Star Hotel	-	$150-220/night	-
4-5 Star Hotel	-	-	$250-400/night

Best Budget Stays:

• UWinnipeg Downtown Hostel (downtown location)
• Best Western Plus Winnipeg Airport (great value, from $110)

Best Splurge Stays:

• Inn at the Forks (iconic riverside location, from $250)
• Fort Garry Hotel (historic luxury, from $300)

Pro Tip: Save 20-30% by booking winter stays (Nov-March, excluding Festival du Voyageur).

🍽️ Food & Drink Costs

Meal	Budget ($)	Mid-Range ($$)	Luxury ($$$)
Breakfast	$5-10	$12-18	$20+
Lunch	$8-15	$16-25	$30+
Dinner	$12-20	$25-40	$50+
Beer/Cocktail	$5-7	$8-12	$15+

Cheap Eats Worth Trying:

• Boon Burger (vegan burgers from $10)
• Dairi-Wip (famous Fat Boy burgers from $8)

Worth the Splurge:

• 529 Wellington (Winnipeg's best steakhouse, mains from $45)
• Passero (Italian fine dining, tasting menu $95)

Local Hack: Many downtown restaurants offer early-bird specials before 6pm.

🎟️ Attraction & Activity Costs

Activity	Cost (Adult)	Cost (Child)	Budget Tip
Canadian Museum for Human Rights	$18	Free (under 6)	Free admission Wed nights
Assiniboine Park Zoo	$24	$16	10% off online tickets
The Forks Market	Free	Free	Free events year-round
Winnipeg Jets Game	$60-300	$30-150	Check last-minute resale sites
Thermea Nordic Spa	$75	-	Go weekdays for $15 off

Free Things to Do in Winnipeg:

• Walk the Esplanade Riel Bridge
• Explore the Exchange District murals
• Visit the Manitoba Legislative Building

🚍 Transportation Costs

Option	Cost	Best For
Bus Single Ride	$3.20	Short downtown trips
Day Pass	$7.50	Multiple attractions
Uber (Airport to Downtown)	$30-40	Groups/luggage
Bike Rental (Day)	$25-35	Summer exploring
Weekly Car Rental	$300-500	Day trips outside city

Savings Tip: Get a Peggo Card for 11% discount on transit rides.

💰 Daily Budget Estimates

Travel Style	Accommodation	Food	Activities	Transport	Total/Day
Budget	$40	$25	$15	$10	$90
Mid-Range	$150	$50	$40	$25	$265
Luxury	$300	$100	$100	$50	$550

Family of 4 Estimate: Add 50-75% to mid-range budget.

5 Ways to Save Money on Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada

1. Visit in Shoulder Seasons (April-May or Sept-Oct) for hotel deals
2. Buy Combo Tickets for zoo + museum packages
3. Eat Lunch Specials instead of dinner at nicer restaurants
4. Use Public Transit to avoid parking fees ($20+/day downtown)
5. Check Tourism Winnipeg for seasonal coupons and passes

Sample Budget for 3 Days in Winnipeg

Budget Traveler ($300 total)

• Hostel: $120
• Meals: $75 (grocery + cheap eats)
• Activities: $60 (zoo + museum)
• Transport: $45 (bus + 1 Uber)

Mid-Range Traveler ($800 total)

• Hotel: $450
• Meals: $200
• Activities: $100 (spa + Jets tickets)
• Transport: $50

From free walking tours to luxury spa days, Winnipeg offers incredible things to do in Winnipeg Canada for every wallet size. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip without surprises!

More Canada Budget Tips:

• Canada Travel Budget Guide
• 3 Days in Banff Itinerary

Best Hotels in Winnipeg Canada

💰 Budget-Friendly

• Inn at the Forks – Great location, cozy rooms.
• Alt Hotel Winnipeg – Modern, near the airport.

💎 Mid-Range

• Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown – Luxury at a fair price.
• Lakeview Signature, Trademark Collection by Wyndham – Boutique charm in the Exchange District.

✨ Splurge-Worthy

• Fort Garry Hotel – Historic, grand, and iconic.
• Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites – Best for early flights.

Top Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada

1. Explore The Forks National Historic Site

Why Go? Winnipeg’s #1 attraction—markets, museums, and riverfront trails.
Must-Do:

• Browse The Forks Market (local food & crafts).
• Walk the Esplanade Riel Bridge.
• Rent a bike or kayak (summer) or skate (winter).

2. Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Why Go? A stunning architectural marvel with powerful exhibits.
Tip: Book timed tickets online to skip lines.

3. Wander the Exchange District

Why Go? Cobblestone streets, cool cafés, and vintage shops.
Don’t Miss: King’s Head Pub (Winnipeg’s oldest bar).

4. See Polar Bears at Assiniboine Park Zoo

Why Go? Home to Journey to Churchill, Canada’s best Arctic exhibit.
Best For: Families and animal lovers.

5. Kayak the Red River

Why Go? A unique way to see the city skyline.
Rentals: Wilderness Supply or Urban Waves.
(Love kayaking? Check out our guide to the **best kayaking spots in Canada!)

6. Catch a Jets Game at Canada Life Centre

Why Go? Winnipeg’s NHL team brings insane energy!
Tip: Buy tickets early—games sell out.

7. Eat a "Fat Boy" Burger

Where? VJ’s Drive Inn or Dairi-Wip.
What Is It? A Winnipeg classic—double patty, chili, and slaw.

8. Tour the Royal Canadian Mint

Why Go? See how coins are made (and hold a $1M gold bar!).

9. Relax at Thermea Nordic Spa

Why Go? Hot pools, saunas, and massages in a forest setting.
Best For: A romantic or solo recharge.

10. Day Trip to Gimli (Little Iceland on the Lake)

Why Go? Beaches, Viking history, and Icelandic Festival (August).
Drive Time: 1 hour north.

(Planning more Canada trips? Here’s a 3-day Banff itinerary or **things to do in Drumheller!)

Best Areas Nearby for Day Trips from Winnipeg: Explore Manitoba's Hidden Gems

Winnipeg is packed with incredible things to do in Winnipeg Canada, but some of Manitoba’s best experiences are just a short drive away. Whether you're craving outdoor adventures, charming small towns, or unique cultural experiences, these top day trips from Winnipeg offer unforgettable fun things to do in Winnipeg and beyond.

1. Gimli – Manitoba’s "Little Iceland" (1 Hour Drive)

📍 Distance: 90 km north of Winnipeg
Why Go? This quirky lakeside town blends Viking history with beach vibes.

Top Things to Do in Gimli:

• Walk the Harbourfront: Colorful fishing boats and the iconic Viking Statue.
• Swim at Gimli Beach: Sandy shores on Lake Winnipeg (warmer than you’d expect!).
• Try Icelandic Pastries: Gimli Bakery makes the best vinarterta (layered prune cake).
• Visit in August: The Icelandic Festival (Islendingadagurinn) features parades and axe-throwing!

Best For: Families, history buffs, and beach lovers.

Pro Tip: Stop at Kris’s Fish & Chips for fresh walleye.

2. Riding Mountain National Park (3 Hours Drive)

Distance: 300 km northwest of Winnipeg
Why Go? A wilderness escape with hiking, wildlife, and stunning lakes.

Top Things to Do in Riding Mountain:

• Hike the Bald Hill Trail: Epic prairie-meets-forest views.
• Spot Bison at Lake Audy: A free-roaming herd roams near the road.
• Kayak Clear Lake: Rentals at Wasagaming Townsite.
• Visit in Winter: Cross-country ski or snowshoe the trails.

Best For: Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Alternative: Prefer mountains? Check out these easy Banff hikes.

3. Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site (30 Minutes Drive)

Distance: 32 km north of Winnipeg
Why Go? Step into the 1800s at Canada’s best-preserved fur-trade fort.

Top Things to Do at Lower Fort Garry:

• Try Blacksmithing: Hands-on workshops (summer only).
• Explore the Stone Fort: Used by the Hudson’s Bay Company.
• Special Events: Historical reenactments and "Haunted Fort" nights.

Best For: History lovers and families with kids.

Pro Tip: Pair with a visit to Fort Whyte Alive for a full day of history and nature.

4. Grand Beach (1.5 Hours Drive)

Distance: 100 km northeast of Winnipeg
Why Go? Home to one of Canada’s best freshwater beaches.

Top Things to Do at Grand Beach:

• Climb the Sand Dunes: Towering 12-meter dunes to slide down.
• Swim in Lake Winnipeg: Crystal-clear, shallow waters.
• Walk the Boardwalk: Quaint shops and ice cream stands.

Best For: Beach bums and photographers (sunset is magical!).

When to Go: July-August for warm water.

5. Morden (1.5 Hours Drive) – Fossil Capital of Canada

Distance: 120 km southwest of Winnipeg
Why Go? Dig into prehistoric Manitoba at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre.

Top Things to Do in Morden:

• See "Bruce" the Mosasaur: The world’s largest publicly displayed sea reptile fossil.
• Hike Pembina Valley: Waterfalls and scenic lookouts.
• Pick Fruit at Barbs’ Berry Patch (summer).

Best For: Dinosaur fans and hikers.

Similar Vibe: Love fossils? Don’t miss things to do in Drumheller.

6. Whiteshell Provincial Park (1.5 Hours Drive)

Distance: 130 km east of Winnipeg
Why Go? Lakes, waterfalls, and the Canadian Shield’s rugged beauty.

Top Things to Do in Whiteshell:

• Hunt for Petroglyphs: Ancient Indigenous rock carvings at Bannock Point.
• Paddle the Caddy Lake Tunnels: Canoe through rock passages.
• Visit Falcon Lake: Resort town with beaches and golf.

Best For: Canoeists and rock hounds.

Gear Tip: Rent kayaks at Falcon Lakeshore Resort.

7. Steinbach (1 Hour Drive) – Mennonite Heritage

Distance: 60 km southeast of Winnipeg
Why Go? A taste of Manitoba’s Mennonite culture and farm-fresh food.

Top Things to Do in Steinbach:

• Mennonite Heritage Village: Live demos of butter-churning and blacksmithing.
• Farmers’ Market: Saturdays in summer (try the sausages!).
• Deer Run Golf Course: Ranked among Canada’s best.

Best For: Foodies and culture seekers.

Must-Eat: Kielke (Mennonite dumplings) at The Cottage Bakery.

Day Trip Planning Tips

• Rent a Car: Most spots lack public transit.
• Pack Swim Gear: Even non-beach trips often include lakes.
• Check Hours: Some sites (like Lower Fort Garry) close off-season.
• Avoid Sundays: Many rural businesses are closed.

From Viking villages to ancient fossil beds, these day trips prove Manitoba is full of surprises. Mix 2-3 into your Winnipeg itinerary for the ultimate fun things to do in Winnipeg and beyond!

More Canadian Adventures:

• Banff and Jasper 7-Day Itinerary
• Toronto 3-Day Itinerary

Things to Do in Winnipeg Canada: In Conclusion

From iconic museums and polar bear encounters to kayaking urban rivers and devouring legendary burgers, Winnipeg is packed with fun things to do year-round. Whether you're here for a weekend or a week, this city will surprise you with its charm.

More Canada Travel Guides:

• Toronto 3-Day Itinerary
• Ottawa with Kids
• Canada Travel Budget Tips

Have you been to Winnipeg? What’s your favorite thing to do? Share in the comments!

---