Winnipeg

Winnipeg is Manitoba's capital and largest city, and stands midway on the Trans-Canada Highway and railway. With 700,000 inhabitants, The Peg dominates the Canadian Prairies and is as diverse as the whole of Canada.

Winnipeg is a "gateway to the West", and can be visited for its architecture, museums, and its broad retail market. Among major attractions are the Canadian Royal Mint, St Boniface Cathedral, and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

The name Winnipeg is a transcription of the western Cree word wi-nipe-k meaning "muddy waters"; the general area was populated for thousands of years by First Nations. The confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, nowadays known as The Forks, was a crossroads of canoe routes travelled by Aboriginal peoples prior to European contact. Winnipeg started out at this spot in 1738 as Fort Rouge, a French outpost for the fur trade. After the Seven Years' War, under the Hudson's Bay Company it became Fort Gibraltar and later Fort Garry. Many trails converged on the fort and later became streets, which is evident when you see the city's somewhat haphazard road layout.

In 1869–70, Winnipeg was the site of the Red River Rebellion, a conflict between the local provisional government of Métis, led by Louis Riel, and newcomers from Eastern Canada. This rebellion led to Manitoba's entry into the Canadian Confederation as Canada's fifth province in 1870. On 8 November 1873, Winnipeg was incorporated as a city.

After the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway across Canada, Winnipeg became a major transportation hub and "Gateway to the West." The city experienced a boom during the early 20th century and for a while was Western Canada's major economic centre. Fortunately for the visitor, the economy slowed around the middle of the century, leaving intact a remarkable collection of period architecture, primarily in the city's downtown Exchange District.

Winnipeg is off the tourist trail for most visitors to Canada, but the visitor will experience an authentic and friendly Canadian Prairie city which leaves many pleasantly surprised.

Winnipeg is generally a very tolerant city and was the first large city in North America to elect an openly gay mayor. Winnipeg has several LGBT bars and a Pride festival every summer.

Winnipeg is a multicultural city. As of the 2011 census, visible minorities make up 21% of Winnipeg's population and Aboriginals 12%. Much of Winnipeg's population is of European descent, notably from Germany, Ukraine, France, Scandinavia and Poland. More than a hundred languages are spoken in Winnipeg. In fact, Winnipeg is home to Canada's largest French-speaking population west of Ontario and the Filipino language Tagalog is the second most prevalent mother tongue in Winnipeg. Nevertheless, 99% of the population speaks English fluently. The city celebrates its diversity with the Folklorama festival, the longest running multicultural event of its kind.

Winnipeg has a humid continental climate with extremes of hot and cold. The longest day of the year lasts for over 16 hours, and the shortest day of the year lasts for 8 hours.

Winnipeg is ranked as Canada's second sunniest city year-round and second for clearest skies year-round. Summers are typically warm and often humid, particularly in July, with frequent nighttime thunderstorms. On average, Winnipeg has 45 days a year where the humidex (combined effect of heat and humidity) reaches above 30 °C. Winnipeg is also known for its high mosquito population, particularly during early summer. Dusk and dawn are the most active time for mosquitoes. June, late August and September tend to provide the most pleasant environment for summer visitors.

Spring and fall tend to be rather contracted seasons, each averaging a little over six weeks. In general, the weather during these seasons is highly variable and rapidly changing. It is typical for the day to start off quite cold in the morning, but heat up considerably in the afternoon. It can be difficult to judge how to dress during this time, so layers are the best option.

Winnipeg has the coldest winter temperatures of any city in North America with a population of over 100,000. Winters in Winnipeg are usually dry, and can feel colder due to the often windy conditions. The winters are long and overnight minima average below -15°C with rare extremes going down to near -40°C, though there is still much to enjoy during these months. Be sure to pay attention to the windchill (combined effect of cold and wind) which can drop below -40 °C/F (exposed skin freezes in less than 10 minutes). Snow cover can be expected from mid-November to late March. The city turns on what is arguably Canada's best display of Christmas lights from late November until well into January.

• Tourism Winnipeg, 300–259 Portage Ave (Portage Ave at Garry St, downtown, +1 204-943-1970. Economic and tourist information.

Tourism Winnipeg, 300–259 Portage Ave (Portage Ave at Garry St, downtown, +1 204-943-1970. Economic and tourist information.

• Gallery Lacosse, 169 Lilac St (at Corydon Ave, +1 204-284-0726. Tu–F 11AM–6PM, Sa 11AM–5PM. Celebrating Manitoba art and its unique place in the Canadian creative landscape. Artists are showcased through their paintings, pottery, photos and jewellery.
• Graffiti Gallery, 109 Higgins Ave (in the Exchange District, +1 204-667-9960. Part of Graffiti Art Programming Inc, a not for profit youth art organization that uses art as a tool for community development, social change and individual growth.
• PLATFORM: Centre for Photographic and Digital Arts, 121–100 Arthur St (in the Artspace Building, +1 204-942-8183. Manitoba's only artist-run centre devoted exclusively to photographic and digital arts. The gallery exhibits local, national and international artists.
• Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art, 460 Portage Ave (between the Winnipeg Art Gallery and Portage Ave, +1 204-942-1043. W–Sa 12–9PM, Su 12–5PM. Manitoba's premier contemporary art gallery and the first Institute of Contemporary Art in Canada. Free.
• Urban Shaman Contemporary Aboriginal Art, 203–290 McDermot Ave (in the Exchange District, +1 204-942-2674. Features cutting-edge Aboriginal art in an ever-changing contemporary setting, while promoting the rich artistic legacy of Aboriginal communities.
• Winnipeg Art Gallery, 300 Memorial Blvd (across from the historic Hudson Bay department store on Portage Ave, +1 204-789-1760. Tu-Su 11AM–5PM except F 11AM–9PM. The Winnipeg Art Gallery is Western Canada's oldest gallery, and features Manitoban, Canadian, and international artists and a large collection of Inuit Art. With its striking architecture, it is an integral part of downtown Winnipeg. Adults $12, students/seniors $10, youth (ages 6–12) $6.

Gallery Lacosse, 169 Lilac St (at Corydon Ave, +1 204-284-0726. Tu–F 11AM–6PM, Sa 11AM–5PM. Celebrating Manitoba art and its unique place in the Canadian creative landscape. Artists are showcased through their paintings, pottery, photos and jewellery.

Graffiti Gallery, 109 Higgins Ave (in the Exchange District, +1 204-667-9960. Part of Graffiti Art Programming Inc, a not for profit youth art organization that uses art as a tool for community development, social change and individual growth.

PLATFORM: Centre for Photographic and Digital Arts, 121–100 Arthur St (in the Artspace Building, +1 204-942-8183. Manitoba's only artist-run centre devoted exclusively to photographic and digital arts. The gallery exhibits local, national and international artists.

Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art, 460 Portage Ave (between the Winnipeg Art Gallery and Portage Ave, +1 204-942-1043. W–Sa 12–9PM, Su 12–5PM. Manitoba's premier contemporary art gallery and the first Institute of Contemporary Art in Canada. Free.

Urban Shaman Contemporary Aboriginal Art, 203–290 McDermot Ave (in the Exchange District, +1 204-942-2674. Features cutting-edge Aboriginal art in an ever-changing contemporary setting, while promoting the rich artistic legacy of Aboriginal communities.

Winnipeg Art Gallery, 300 Memorial Blvd (across from the historic Hudson Bay department store on Portage Ave, +1 204-789-1760. Tu-Su 11AM–5PM except F 11AM–9PM. The Winnipeg Art Gallery is Western Canada's oldest gallery, and features Manitoban, Canadian, and international artists and a large collection of Inuit Art. With its striking architecture, it is an integral part of downtown Winnipeg. Adults $12, students/seniors $10, youth (ages 6–12) $6.

• Airforce Heritage Museum and Air Park, 186 Sharp Blvd (Along Air Force Way (Sharp Blvd), north of Ness Ave, to the south of Winnipeg airport (CYWG), +1 204-833-2500 ext 4180. Air park uncontrolled, museum by appointment only. Enjoy the largest air park in Canada, where many historic aircraft are mounted throughout a grassy park, many dramatically in action poses. The nearby museum, inside nearby Canadian Forces buildings, contains many outstanding exhibits of national significance. Free.
• Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way (At the Forks in Downtown Winnipeg, +1 204-289-2000. Hours vary by day and season - refer to website. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) is the first museum solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration and future of human rights. Their aim is to engage Canadians and our international visitors in an immersive, interactive experience that offers the inspiration and tools to make a difference in the lives of others. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is the first national museum to be built in nearly half a century, and the first outside the National Capital Region. Age: Under 7 - $0; 7 to 17 - $8; Adults $15; Seniors (65+) $12); Students $12; Family $42.
• Costume Museum of Canada, 301-250 McDermot Avenue, +1 204-989-0072. This museum gallery is closed to the public, but it organizes pop-up exhibits, travelling exhibitions, heritage fashion reviews, and educational programs.
• Dalnavert Museum, 61 Carlton St (downtown, +1 204-943-2835. W–F 11AM–4PM (Jul–Aug: 10AM–5PM), Sa 11AM–6PM, Su 12–4PM. The former home of Premier Sir Hugh John Macdonald, Dalnavert has been designated a National Historic Site.
• Fire Fighters Museum of Winnipeg, 56 Maple St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-942-4817. Sa Su 11AM–3PM. This beautifully maintained fire hall built in 1903 features stain glass windows and displays hand and horse-drawn, steam and early motorized fire apparatus, artifacts, photographs and records dating back to the 1880s.
• Manitoba Children's Museum, 45 Forks Market Rd (at The Forks, +1 204-924-4000. Summer (Jul & Aug): 9:30AM–6PM; winter: Su–Th 9:30AM–4:30PM, F Sa 9:30AM–6PM. The Manitoba Children’s Museum is home to several hands-on galleries, offering plenty of family fun. Be a TV anchor, visit the land of fairy tales or climb aboard a fully refurbished locomotive and passenger train car. In November and December, you can take a magical stroll through the Santa Village and perhaps even meet the man in the red suit himself. $6.25–7 (senior, adult and group discounts available).
• Manitoba Electrical Museum, 680 Harrow St, +1 204-360-7905. M–Th 1–4PM. A small but interesting museum, very kid friendly. Features electric street car, robot made of household electronics and consumer products through the ages. Free.
• Manitoba Museum, 190 Rupert Ave (downtown, +1 204-956-2830. Summer (mid May–early Sep): 10AM–5PM; winter: Tu–Fr 10AM–4PM, Sa Su 11AM–5PM. You can explore a vivid portrayal of Manitoba’s rich and colourful history through nine galleries that total approximately 68,000 square feet of exciting exploration (approximately 4 football fields). All regions of Manitoba are represented in the galleries, including the Grasslands, the Boreal Forest, the Arctic/Subarctic. There are also some recent additions to the Museum: the Hudson Bay Company Collections Gallery and the Parklands/Mixed Woods Gallery, which is the largest and most interactive of the galleries, and moving dinosaurs. Frequent shows in the Planetarium. $5–8 (senior, youth, family and bundle discounts available).
• Le musée de Saint-Boniface, 494 av Taché (in Old St. Boniface, +1 204-237-4500. Stand within the oldest building in Winnipeg and the largest oak structure in North America, depicting the lives of the French and Métis people.
• Western Canada Aviation Museum, 958 Ferry Rd (Hangar T-2, in southwest part of Winnipeg airport (CYWG), past Calm Air building, +1 204-786-5503. M–F 9:30AM–4:30PM, Sa 10:00AM–5:00PM, Su 10:00AM–5:00PM. Tales from the sky, great ideas and not so great ideas in flight, and an interactive area for kids. The collection features aircraft from Canadian and particularly useful in Canada. Adults $7.50, Seniors & students $5, Children $3.

Airforce Heritage Museum and Air Park, 186 Sharp Blvd (Along Air Force Way (Sharp Blvd), north of Ness Ave, to the south of Winnipeg airport (CYWG), +1 204-833-2500 ext 4180. Air park uncontrolled, museum by appointment only. Enjoy the largest air park in Canada, where many historic aircraft are mounted throughout a grassy park, many dramatically in action poses. The nearby museum, inside nearby Canadian Forces buildings, contains many outstanding exhibits of national significance. Free.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way (At the Forks in Downtown Winnipeg, +1 204-289-2000. Hours vary by day and season - refer to website. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) is the first museum solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration and future of human rights. Their aim is to engage Canadians and our international visitors in an immersive, interactive experience that offers the inspiration and tools to make a difference in the lives of others. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is the first national museum to be built in nearly half a century, and the first outside the National Capital Region. Age: Under 7 - $0; 7 to 17 - $8; Adults $15; Seniors (65+) $12); Students $12; Family $42.

Costume Museum of Canada, 301-250 McDermot Avenue, +1 204-989-0072. This museum gallery is closed to the public, but it organizes pop-up exhibits, travelling exhibitions, heritage fashion reviews, and educational programs.

Dalnavert Museum, 61 Carlton St (downtown, +1 204-943-2835. W–F 11AM–4PM (Jul–Aug: 10AM–5PM), Sa 11AM–6PM, Su 12–4PM. The former home of Premier Sir Hugh John Macdonald, Dalnavert has been designated a National Historic Site.

Fire Fighters Museum of Winnipeg, 56 Maple St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-942-4817. Sa Su 11AM–3PM. This beautifully maintained fire hall built in 1903 features stain glass windows and displays hand and horse-drawn, steam and early motorized fire apparatus, artifacts, photographs and records dating back to the 1880s.

Manitoba Children's Museum, 45 Forks Market Rd (at The Forks, +1 204-924-4000. Summer (Jul & Aug): 9:30AM–6PM; winter: Su–Th 9:30AM–4:30PM, F Sa 9:30AM–6PM. The Manitoba Children’s Museum is home to several hands-on galleries, offering plenty of family fun. Be a TV anchor, visit the land of fairy tales or climb aboard a fully refurbished locomotive and passenger train car. In November and December, you can take a magical stroll through the Santa Village and perhaps even meet the man in the red suit himself. $6.25–7 (senior, adult and group discounts available).

Manitoba Electrical Museum, 680 Harrow St, +1 204-360-7905. M–Th 1–4PM. A small but interesting museum, very kid friendly. Features electric street car, robot made of household electronics and consumer products through the ages. Free.

Manitoba Museum, 190 Rupert Ave (downtown, +1 204-956-2830. Summer (mid May–early Sep): 10AM–5PM; winter: Tu–Fr 10AM–4PM, Sa Su 11AM–5PM. You can explore a vivid portrayal of Manitoba’s rich and colourful history through nine galleries that total approximately 68,000 square feet of exciting exploration (approximately 4 football fields). All regions of Manitoba are represented in the galleries, including the Grasslands, the Boreal Forest, the Arctic/Subarctic. There are also some recent additions to the Museum: the Hudson Bay Company Collections Gallery and the Parklands/Mixed Woods Gallery, which is the largest and most interactive of the galleries, and moving dinosaurs. Frequent shows in the Planetarium. $5–8 (senior, youth, family and bundle discounts available).

Le musée de Saint-Boniface, 494 av Taché (in Old St. Boniface, +1 204-237-4500. Stand within the oldest building in Winnipeg and the largest oak structure in North America, depicting the lives of the French and Métis people.

Western Canada Aviation Museum, 958 Ferry Rd (Hangar T-2, in southwest part of Winnipeg airport (CYWG), past Calm Air building, +1 204-786-5503. M–F 9:30AM–4:30PM, Sa 10:00AM–5:00PM, Su 10:00AM–5:00PM. Tales from the sky, great ideas and not so great ideas in flight, and an interactive area for kids. The collection features aircraft from Canadian and particularly useful in Canada. Adults $7.50, Seniors & students $5, Children $3.

• Assiniboine Park, 2355 Corydon Ave (in Tuxedo. If you are looking for a great summer outing at the park with a frisbee, this is the place to go. There is a zoo and all of its amenities on site for those wanting an attraction. Explore over 153 ha (378 acres) along the Assiniboine River. The Zoo, Conservatory, English Garden, Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, Tudor-style pavilion, and a fine example of a French formal garden are a few of the features found in the park. Picnic areas and cycling and walking trails are popular with visitors. In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, tobogganing and skating on the Duck Pond. All public areas are wheelchair accessible. The main entrance is on Corydon Ave one mile west of Kenaston Blvd. The park may also be accessed from Portage Ave via a footbridge over the Assiniboine River.
• Located within Assiniboine Park:
  • Assiniboine Park Conservatory.
  • Assiniboine Park Zoo.
  • Leo Mol Sculpture Garden.
  • Lyric Theatre.
  • The Pavilion Gallery Museum.
  • Winnie the Bear statue.
• FortWhyte Alive, 1961 McCreary Rd (in Tuxedo, +1 204-989-8355. M–F 9AM–5PM, Sa Su 10AM–5PM, extended summer and fall. 640-acre nature centre showcasing a 30-head bison prairie herd, 5 lakes, 7 km of trails, bird feeding stations, tipi encampment and more.
• Harbour View Recreation Complex, 1867 Springfield Rd (in Transcona, 2.5 km east of Hwy 59, +1 204-222-2751. Enjoy a day of play with a nine-hole par 27 golf course, mini golf, driving range, lawn bowling, tennis, horseshoes, shuffleboard, sand volleyball and paddleboats. During the winter, enjoy ice skating on the lake, tobogganing, cross-country skiing and broomball. Professional golf and cross-country ski instruction and rental equipment are available.
• Kildonan Park, 2015 Main St (in West Kildonan, 311. North on Main, this park is a favourite, especially Sunday night "Cruise Nights". You will find many interesting new and vintage cars cruising through the park and meeting up with friends. As most parks, they also have BBQ/Picnic designated areas, a pool, play structures, and some interesting landscaping.
• King's Park, King's Drive and Kilkenny Drive (in Fort Garry, south of University of Manitoba, 311. Bordering on the Red River, King’s Park has many pathways (gravel and paved) 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 park area.

  * Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth. A free, outdoor garden labyrinth commemorating the world renowned author. A showcase for gardening and landscaping and the largest contemporary labyrinth in Canada.

• St. Vital Park, on River Rd, north of Bishop Grandin Blvd, +1 204-986-7623. Situated on the Red River, this park is the perfect place for family get-togethers and recreational sports. In winter, the duck pond becomes a skating rink.

Assiniboine Park, 2355 Corydon Ave (in Tuxedo. If you are looking for a great summer outing at the park with a frisbee, this is the place to go. There is a zoo and all of its amenities on site for those wanting an attraction. Explore over 153 ha (378 acres) along the Assiniboine River. The Zoo, Conservatory, English Garden, Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, Tudor-style pavilion, and a fine example of a French formal garden are a few of the features found in the park. Picnic areas and cycling and walking trails are popular with visitors. In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, tobogganing and skating on the Duck Pond. All public areas are wheelchair accessible. The main entrance is on Corydon Ave one mile west of Kenaston Blvd. The park may also be accessed from Portage Ave via a footbridge over the Assiniboine River.

Located within Assiniboine Park:

• Assiniboine Park Conservatory.
• Assiniboine Park Zoo.
• Leo Mol Sculpture Garden.
• Lyric Theatre.
• The Pavilion Gallery Museum.
• Winnie the Bear statue.

FortWhyte Alive, 1961 McCreary Rd (in Tuxedo, +1 204-989-8355. M–F 9AM–5PM, Sa Su 10AM–5PM, extended summer and fall. 640-acre nature centre showcasing a 30-head bison prairie herd, 5 lakes, 7 km of trails, bird feeding stations, tipi encampment and more.

Harbour View Recreation Complex, 1867 Springfield Rd (in Transcona, 2.5 km east of Hwy 59, +1 204-222-2751. Enjoy a day of play with a nine-hole par 27 golf course, mini golf, driving range, lawn bowling, tennis, horseshoes, shuffleboard, sand volleyball and paddleboats. During the winter, enjoy ice skating on the lake, tobogganing, cross-country skiing and broomball. Professional golf and cross-country ski instruction and rental equipment are available.

Kildonan Park, 2015 Main St (in West Kildonan, 311. North on Main, this park is a favourite, especially Sunday night "Cruise Nights". You will find many interesting new and vintage cars cruising through the park and meeting up with friends. As most parks, they also have BBQ/Picnic designated areas, a pool, play structures, and some interesting landscaping.

King's Park, King's Drive and Kilkenny Drive (in Fort Garry, south of University of Manitoba, 311. Bordering on the Red River, King’s Park has many pathways (gravel and paved) 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 park area.

* Carol Shields Memorial Labyrinth. A free, outdoor garden labyrinth commemorating the world renowned author. A showcase for gardening and landscaping and the largest contemporary labyrinth in Canada.

St. Vital Park, on River Rd, north of Bishop Grandin Blvd, +1 204-986-7623. Situated on the Red River, this park is the perfect place for family get-togethers and recreational sports. In winter, the duck pond becomes a skating rink.

• Esplanade Riel. Connecting The Forks to St. Boniface, this bridge has become one of the most photographed sights in Winnipeg.
• The Forks, +1 204-942-6302. A tourist attraction on the Red River. The Forks Market offers fresh and specialty foods plus more than 50 unique shops housed in an eclectic and historic building that was originally a horse stable. The market has an excellent food court with various ethnic food options. Head to the hayloft for handicrafts and one-of-a-kind items including clothing, artisan-inspired gifts, jewellery and toys. In the winter you can rent ice skates and go skating down the Red River. In the summer, there are special events and outdoor entertainment almost daily, some fantastic patios and outdoor bars.
• Fort Gibraltar, 866 St. Joseph St (in St. Boniface, +1 204-237-7692. Living history museum, educational guided tours about the fur trade era and costumed interpreters reliving life in 1815. During February, it is at the heart of the Festival du Voyageur.
• Manitoba Legislative Building, 450 Broadway, +1 204-945-5813. Visit Manitoba’s beloved Golden Boy, who is perched atop the Provincial Legislative building. The Golden Boy, a magnificently gilded 5.25 m (17.2 ft) figure sculpted by Charles Gardet of Paris and cast in 1918 at the Barbidienne foundry in France, is probably Manitoba's best-known symbol. Embodying the spirit of enterprise and eternal youth, he is poised atop the dome of the building. He faces the north, with its mineral resources, fish, forest, furs, hydroelectric power and seaport, where his province's future lies. The foundry was partially destroyed by bombs during the First World War, but the Golden Boy emerged unharmed. Go inside the building to see the exquisite grand staircase and rotunda. Guided tours available.
• The Royal Canadian Mint, 520 Lagimodiere Blvd (at the junction of Highways 1 and 59, +1 204-983-6429. The Royal Canadian Mint’s facility in Winnipeg, designed by local architect Etienne Gaboury, produces billions of coins each year. This is where all Canadian circulation coins are made, as well as those for 60+ governments all around the world. A fascinating guided tour includes the viewing of a 5-minute video in the theatre area followed by a 40-minute walking tour overlooking the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility where the precise art, craft, and science of coin-making is revealed. Open year-round, the on-site Boutique offers beautiful collector coins, an exclusive line of Royal Canadian Mint clothing, and an exciting collection of souvenirs and gift ideas. The adjacent interactive coin museum involves the visitor in unique learning activities including the ability to make your own souvenir coin and the opportunity to lift and hold a 99.99% pure gold bar worth over $200,000.
• St. Boniface Cathedral, 190 av de la Cathédrale, +1 204-233-7304. Tours during Jul & Aug: W–F 2PM & 7PM; Sa Su 2PM, 4PM & 7PM. The original cathedral, built in 1908, was destroyed by fire in 1968. The remaining walls were incorporated into the design of the new church, creating a dramatic facade facing west across the Red River towards downtown Winnipeg: the clouds wheeling behind the hollow rosary window frame are like a Tyrell art installation. The cathedral is a beautiful testament to Winnipeg's history.

Esplanade Riel. Connecting The Forks to St. Boniface, this bridge has become one of the most photographed sights in Winnipeg.

The Forks, +1 204-942-6302. A tourist attraction on the Red River. The Forks Market offers fresh and specialty foods plus more than 50 unique shops housed in an eclectic and historic building that was originally a horse stable. The market has an excellent food court with various ethnic food options. Head to the hayloft for handicrafts and one-of-a-kind items including clothing, artisan-inspired gifts, jewellery and toys. In the winter you can rent ice skates and go skating down the Red River. In the summer, there are special events and outdoor entertainment almost daily, some fantastic patios and outdoor bars.

Fort Gibraltar, 866 St. Joseph St (in St. Boniface, +1 204-237-7692. Living history museum, educational guided tours about the fur trade era and costumed interpreters reliving life in 1815. During February, it is at the heart of the Festival du Voyageur.

Manitoba Legislative Building, 450 Broadway, +1 204-945-5813. Visit Manitoba’s beloved Golden Boy, who is perched atop the Provincial Legislative building. The Golden Boy, a magnificently gilded 5.25 m (17.2 ft) figure sculpted by Charles Gardet of Paris and cast in 1918 at the Barbidienne foundry in France, is probably Manitoba's best-known symbol. Embodying the spirit of enterprise and eternal youth, he is poised atop the dome of the building. He faces the north, with its mineral resources, fish, forest, furs, hydroelectric power and seaport, where his province's future lies. The foundry was partially destroyed by bombs during the First World War, but the Golden Boy emerged unharmed. Go inside the building to see the exquisite grand staircase and rotunda. Guided tours available.

The Royal Canadian Mint, 520 Lagimodiere Blvd (at the junction of Highways 1 and 59, +1 204-983-6429. The Royal Canadian Mint’s facility in Winnipeg, designed by local architect Etienne Gaboury, produces billions of coins each year. This is where all Canadian circulation coins are made, as well as those for 60+ governments all around the world. A fascinating guided tour includes the viewing of a 5-minute video in the theatre area followed by a 40-minute walking tour overlooking the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility where the precise art, craft, and science of coin-making is revealed. Open year-round, the on-site Boutique offers beautiful collector coins, an exclusive line of Royal Canadian Mint clothing, and an exciting collection of souvenirs and gift ideas. The adjacent interactive coin museum involves the visitor in unique learning activities including the ability to make your own souvenir coin and the opportunity to lift and hold a 99.99% pure gold bar worth over $200,000.

St. Boniface Cathedral, 190 av de la Cathédrale, +1 204-233-7304. Tours during Jul & Aug: W–F 2PM & 7PM; Sa Su 2PM, 4PM & 7PM. The original cathedral, built in 1908, was destroyed by fire in 1968. The remaining walls were incorporated into the design of the new church, creating a dramatic facade facing west across the Red River towards downtown Winnipeg: the clouds wheeling behind the hollow rosary window frame are like a Tyrell art installation. The cathedral is a beautiful testament to Winnipeg's history.

• Fun Mountain Water Slide Park, 804 Murdock Rd (off Hwy 1 East, +1 204-255-3910. Enjoy water slides, bumper boat rentals and tropical theme mini golf.
• The Golf Dome, 1205 Wilkes Ave (off Sterling Lyon Pkwy via Lorimer Blvd. Summer: 9AM–10PM, winter: 8AM–10PM. Three-tier driving range, 18-hole mini golf, three virtual golf simulators.
• Grand Prix Amusements, Hwy 1 East (Fermor Ave) (4 km east of the Mint, +1 204-254-3644. Go-kart racing on three challenging tracks with over 75 go-karts for ages four to adult. 18-hole pirate theme mini golf, bumper boats, bumper cars, batting cages and arcades.
• Paddlewheel River Boats, +1 204-942-4500. May–Oct. Take a scenic river cruise aboard the Paddlewheel Queen or Paddlewheel Princess river boats. Dine, dance or just enjoy the evening on Winnipeg’s beautiful rivers.
• Speedworld Indoor Kart Track, 575 Berry St (in St. James, +1 204-774-5278. Noon to midnight. 40km/h–50km/h real European style racing karts on a ¼ km indoor track with AMB timing system.
• Springhill Winter Sports Park, Hwy 59 N (just north of Winnipeg, +1 204-224-3051. Dec–Apr: Tu–F 6:30–9:30PM, Sa Su 9AM–4PM. Includes 10 ski runs, a quad chairlift and a tow rope. The terrain park offers something for all levels. Certified instructors and rentals available.
• Thunder Rapids Fun Park, 5058 Portage Ave (4 km west of Assiniboia Downs, +1 204-885-7223. Summer: M–Sa 10AM–10PM; spring and fall: 10AM–dusk; Su open at noon. Five different types of go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages, video games, jungle gym, picnic/BBQ areas, 18-hole mini golf.
• Tinkertown Family Fun Park, Hwy 1 East at Murdock Rd, +1 204-257-8095. May–Sep. Outdoor amusement park with over 20 rides and attractions for kids.
• U-Puttz Black Light Miniature Golf, 423 McPhillips St (in the North End, +1 204-582-2166. Uniquely themed 18-hole miniature golf course.

• John Blumberg Golf Course, 4540 Portage Ave.
• Kildonan Park Golf Course, 2021 Main St.
• River Oaks Golf Course.
• Shooters Family Golf Centre, 2731 Main St.
• Tuxedo Golf Club, 400 Shaftesbury Blvd.
• Windsor Park Golf Course, 10 Des Meurons St.

John Blumberg Golf Course, 4540 Portage Ave.

Kildonan Park Golf Course, 2021 Main St.

River Oaks Golf Course.

Shooters Family Golf Centre, 2731 Main St.

Tuxedo Golf Club, 400 Shaftesbury Blvd.

Windsor Park Golf Course, 10 Des Meurons St.

Fun Mountain Water Slide Park, 804 Murdock Rd (off Hwy 1 East, +1 204-255-3910. Enjoy water slides, bumper boat rentals and tropical theme mini golf.

The Golf Dome, 1205 Wilkes Ave (off Sterling Lyon Pkwy via Lorimer Blvd. Summer: 9AM–10PM, winter: 8AM–10PM. Three-tier driving range, 18-hole mini golf, three virtual golf simulators.

Grand Prix Amusements, Hwy 1 East (Fermor Ave) (4 km east of the Mint, +1 204-254-3644. Go-kart racing on three challenging tracks with over 75 go-karts for ages four to adult. 18-hole pirate theme mini golf, bumper boats, bumper cars, batting cages and arcades.

Paddlewheel River Boats, +1 204-942-4500. May–Oct. Take a scenic river cruise aboard the Paddlewheel Queen or Paddlewheel Princess river boats. Dine, dance or just enjoy the evening on Winnipeg’s beautiful rivers.

Speedworld Indoor Kart Track, 575 Berry St (in St. James, +1 204-774-5278. Noon to midnight. 40km/h–50km/h real European style racing karts on a ¼ km indoor track with AMB timing system.

Springhill Winter Sports Park, Hwy 59 N (just north of Winnipeg, +1 204-224-3051. Dec–Apr: Tu–F 6:30–9:30PM, Sa Su 9AM–4PM. Includes 10 ski runs, a quad chairlift and a tow rope. The terrain park offers something for all levels. Certified instructors and rentals available.

Thunder Rapids Fun Park, 5058 Portage Ave (4 km west of Assiniboia Downs, +1 204-885-7223. Summer: M–Sa 10AM–10PM; spring and fall: 10AM–dusk; Su open at noon. Five different types of go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages, video games, jungle gym, picnic/BBQ areas, 18-hole mini golf.

Tinkertown Family Fun Park, Hwy 1 East at Murdock Rd, +1 204-257-8095. May–Sep. Outdoor amusement park with over 20 rides and attractions for kids.

U-Puttz Black Light Miniature Golf, 423 McPhillips St (in the North End, +1 204-582-2166. Uniquely themed 18-hole miniature golf course.

• Assiniboia Downs Racetrack, 3975 Portage Ave (just west of the Perimeter Hwy, +1 204-885-3330. May–Sep. Featuring live thoroughbred racing. Year-round simulcast wagering on races from around the globe.
• Team Canada Volleyball, +1 204-474-7084. Come out and cheer on Team Canada! Team Canada Women’s Volleyball regularly hosts elite international competitions in Winnipeg and Manitoba.
• Winnipeg Blue Bombers, IG Field, 315 Chancellor Matheson Rd (at the University of Manitoba. Jun–Nov. Football (Canadian Football League): The Blue Bombers have a long history of support in the city. The Bombers have made it to the league finals 21 times since 1937. They last won the Grey Cup in 1990; in 2007, they lost the final to Saskatchewan, their friendly rivals. In 2006, Winnipeg hosted the Grey Cup. Tickets range from $20–75.
• Winnipeg Goldeyes, Shaw Park, 1 Portage Ave E (north of The Forks. May–Sep. Baseball (American Association): Since returning to Winnipeg in 1994, the team has frequently finished first in their division and won championships in 1994 and 2012. Shaw Park, constructed in 1999, is considered one of the nicest minor league baseball parks in North America. Tickets range from $5–25.
• Winnipeg Jets, Bell MTS Place, Portage Ave & Donald St (downtown. Oct–mid Apr, Stanley Cup playoffs run into Jun. Hockey (National Hockey League): In 2011, Winnipeg once again became home to an NHL team after a Winnipeg-based group purchased the Atlanta Thrashers. The team resurrected the Jets name that had been used by two other Winnipeg-based hockey teams, most notably the city's former NHL franchise. The Jets play at Bell MTS Place, built in 2004 and a first-class venue for hockey games and concerts, though small by NHL standards. Season-ticket packages sold out less than a week after being placed on sale. Single-game tickets are available, but are very hard to come by; 13,000 of the arena's 15,000 seats were dedicated to season tickets.
• Manitoba Moose, 300 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3C 5S4 (downtown, between Hargrave St and Donald St. Season runs between October and April - may extend into May and June for playoffs. Hockey (American Hockey League). The Manitoba Moose are the professional farm team of the Winnipeg Jets, and play at least 38 regular season games at Bell MTS Place. The AHL is professional and developmental league where NHL draft picks, prospects, and ex-NHL veterans regularly play. Compared to the NHL, AHL hockey is more affordable and tickets are more readily available. AHL games are generally more family friendly as a result. The level of hockey is generally lower than the NHL, but many AHL players end up moving up to the NHL league eventually. The Manitoba Moose play at the same arena as the Winnipeg Jets. Ticket prices vary between $20 and $45.
• Valour FC, IG Field, 315 Chancellor Matheson Rd. Soccer team in the Canadian Premier League, which made its debut in 2019. Owned by the Blue Bombers, Valour also plays at IG Field.

Assiniboia Downs Racetrack, 3975 Portage Ave (just west of the Perimeter Hwy, +1 204-885-3330. May–Sep. Featuring live thoroughbred racing. Year-round simulcast wagering on races from around the globe.

Team Canada Volleyball, +1 204-474-7084. Come out and cheer on Team Canada! Team Canada Women’s Volleyball regularly hosts elite international competitions in Winnipeg and Manitoba.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers, IG Field, 315 Chancellor Matheson Rd (at the University of Manitoba. Jun–Nov. Football (Canadian Football League): The Blue Bombers have a long history of support in the city. The Bombers have made it to the league finals 21 times since 1937. They last won the Grey Cup in 1990; in 2007, they lost the final to Saskatchewan, their friendly rivals. In 2006, Winnipeg hosted the Grey Cup. Tickets range from $20–75.

Winnipeg Goldeyes, Shaw Park, 1 Portage Ave E (north of The Forks. May–Sep. Baseball (American Association): Since returning to Winnipeg in 1994, the team has frequently finished first in their division and won championships in 1994 and 2012. Shaw Park, constructed in 1999, is considered one of the nicest minor league baseball parks in North America. Tickets range from $5–25.

Winnipeg Jets, Bell MTS Place, Portage Ave & Donald St (downtown. Oct–mid Apr, Stanley Cup playoffs run into Jun. Hockey (National Hockey League): In 2011, Winnipeg once again became home to an NHL team after a Winnipeg-based group purchased the [[Atlanta]] Thrashers. The team resurrected the Jets name that had been used by two other Winnipeg-based hockey teams, most notably the city's former NHL franchise. The Jets play at Bell MTS Place, built in 2004 and a first-class venue for hockey games and concerts, though small by NHL standards. Season-ticket packages sold out less than a week after being placed on sale. Single-game tickets are available, but are very hard to come by; 13,000 of the arena's 15,000 seats were dedicated to season tickets.

Manitoba Moose, 300 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3C 5S4 (downtown, between Hargrave St and Donald St. Season runs between October and April - may extend into May and June for playoffs. Hockey (American Hockey League). The Manitoba Moose are the professional farm team of the Winnipeg Jets, and play at least 38 regular season games at Bell MTS Place. The AHL is professional and developmental league where NHL draft picks, prospects, and ex-NHL veterans regularly play. Compared to the NHL, AHL hockey is more affordable and tickets are more readily available. AHL games are generally more family friendly as a result. The level of hockey is generally lower than the NHL, but many AHL players end up moving up to the NHL league eventually. The Manitoba Moose play at the same arena as the Winnipeg Jets. Ticket prices vary between $20 and $45.

Valour FC, IG Field, 315 Chancellor Matheson Rd. Soccer team in the Canadian Premier League, which made its debut in 2019. Owned by the Blue Bombers, Valour also plays at IG Field.

• Club Regent Casino, 1425 Regent Ave W, +1 204-957-2700. M–Sa 10AM–3AM, Su noon–3AM, closed on selected holidays. Large tropical-themed casino.
• McPhillips Station Casino, 484 McPhillips St. M–Sa 10AM–3AM, Su noon–3AM, closed on selected holidays. Large railway-themed casino.

Club Regent Casino, 1425 Regent Ave W, +1 204-957-2700. M–Sa 10AM–3AM, Su noon–3AM, closed on selected holidays. Large tropical-themed casino.

McPhillips Station Casino, 484 McPhillips St. M–Sa 10AM–3AM, Su noon–3AM, closed on selected holidays. Large railway-themed casino.

• Cinematheque, 100 Arthur St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-925-3457. Intimate art film theatre devoted to screening the very best in Canadian, independent, foreign and alternative film.

Cinematheque, 100 Arthur St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-925-3457. Intimate art film theatre devoted to screening the very best in Canadian, independent, foreign and alternative film.

• Black Hole Theatre Company, 210 Dysart Rd (University College, University of Manitoba, +1 204-474-6880. Oct–Apr. The Company performs works by established and emerging playwrights.
• Le Cercle Molière, 825 rue Saint-Joseph (in Old St. Boniface, +1 204-233-8053. French-language theatre company. $30 (student, young adult, subscription, and other discounts available).
• Manitoba Theatre for Young People, 2 Forks Market Rd (at The Forks, +1 204-942-8898. Oct–May. A full season of professional theatre for young people, age 3 to teen, and their families. $14–18 (student, senior, group discounts available).
• Prairie Theatre Exchange, 3rd floor, 393 Portage Ave (third floor, Portage Place Shopping Centre, Downtown, +1 204-942-5483. Winnipeg's second-largest live theatre offers an incredibly intimate experience with all seats less than 10 metres from the stage. $35-47 (student, senior, group discounts available).
• Rainbow Stage, 2021 Main St (in Kildonan Park, +1 204-989-0888. Summer performances take place at Rainbow Stage in Kildonan Park, Canada's longest running outdoor theatre. $35-60 (student, senior, group discounts available).
• Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, 174 Market Ave (East Exchange District, +1 204-942-6537. Oct–May. Winnipeg's premier theatre group, MTC shows original works, Broadway hits, and everything in between. The MTC Mainstage focuses on broad-appeal musicals and plays, while the smaller (though still modern) MTC Warehouse is used for quirkier or more challenging fare. MTC also holds a Master Playwright Festival in January and February and the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival in July at venues throughout the city. $20–85 (student, senior, subscription discounts available).
• Shakespeare in the Ruins. Shakespeare plays performed in a variety of settings, mostly outdoors.
• Theatre in the Cemetery, 190 ave de la Cathédrale (St. Boniface Cathedral Cemetery. July-August. Enjoy a unique and entertaining theatrical performance that takes you through the St. Boniface Cathedral's cemetery, one of the oldest in the city. Hear stories from French, Métis and Manitoban history while visiting gravesites of fascinating historic characters such as Louis Riel, founder of the province. Shows available in both English and French. $7.
• Winnipeg Jewish Theatre, 123 Doncaster St (Asper Jewish Community Campus, +1 204-477-7478. Oct–May. $35.

Black Hole Theatre Company, 210 Dysart Rd (University College, University of Manitoba, +1 204-474-6880. Oct–Apr. The Company performs works by established and emerging playwrights.

Le Cercle Molière, 825 rue Saint-Joseph (in Old St. Boniface, +1 204-233-8053. French-language theatre company. $30 (student, young adult, subscription, and other discounts available).

Manitoba Theatre for Young People, 2 Forks Market Rd (at The Forks, +1 204-942-8898. Oct–May. A full season of professional theatre for young people, age 3 to teen, and their families. $14–18 (student, senior, group discounts available).

Prairie Theatre Exchange, 3rd floor, 393 Portage Ave (third floor, Portage Place Shopping Centre, Downtown, +1 204-942-5483. Winnipeg's second-largest live theatre offers an incredibly intimate experience with all seats less than 10 metres from the stage. $35-47 (student, senior, group discounts available).

Rainbow Stage, 2021 Main St (in Kildonan Park, +1 204-989-0888. Summer performances take place at Rainbow Stage in Kildonan Park, Canada's longest running outdoor theatre. $35-60 (student, senior, group discounts available).

Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, 174 Market Ave (East Exchange District, +1 204-942-6537. Oct–May. Winnipeg's premier theatre group, MTC shows original works, Broadway hits, and everything in between. The MTC Mainstage focuses on broad-appeal musicals and plays, while the smaller (though still modern) MTC Warehouse is used for quirkier or more challenging fare. MTC also holds a Master Playwright Festival in January and February and the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival in July at venues throughout the city. $20–85 (student, senior, subscription discounts available).

Shakespeare in the Ruins. Shakespeare plays performed in a variety of settings, mostly outdoors.

Theatre in the Cemetery, 190 ave de la Cathédrale (St. Boniface Cathedral Cemetery. July-August. Enjoy a unique and entertaining theatrical performance that takes you through the St. Boniface Cathedral's cemetery, one of the oldest in the city. Hear stories from French, Métis and Manitoban history while visiting gravesites of fascinating historic characters such as Louis Riel, founder of the province. Shows available in both English and French. $7.

Winnipeg Jewish Theatre, 123 Doncaster St (Asper Jewish Community Campus, +1 204-477-7478. Oct–May. $35.

• Little Opera Company, 200 av de la Cathédrale (Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface, +1 204-452-1017. An intimate alternative to grand opera with chamber opera that is sung in English.
• Manitoba Opera, 555 Main St (Centennial Concert Hall, +1 204-253-2787. Acclaimed artists from around the world join the finest Canadian singers, the Manitoba Opera Chorus, and the Winnipeg Sympony Orchestra.
• Royal Winnipeg Ballet, 380 Graham Ave (downtown, +1 204-956-0183. Known worldwide for its technical excellence and its eclectic repertoire. Strongly rooted in classical ballet, the RWB’s repertoire is diverse, ranging from the classics to innovative contemporary ballet. $12–15 (senior, student, subscription discounts available).
• Winnipeg's Contemporary Dancers, 2nd floor, 211 Bannatyne Ave (Crocus Building, in the Exchange District, +1 204-452-0229. Each season WCD creates and presents new work from within the Company and also introduces Winnipeg audiences to some of the best choreography and dance from the rest of Canada.

Little Opera Company, 200 av de la Cathédrale (Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface, +1 204-452-1017. An intimate alternative to grand opera with chamber opera that is sung in English.

Manitoba Opera, 555 Main St (Centennial Concert Hall, +1 204-253-2787. Acclaimed artists from around the world join the finest Canadian singers, the Manitoba Opera Chorus, and the Winnipeg Sympony Orchestra.

Royal Winnipeg Ballet, 380 Graham Ave (downtown, +1 204-956-0183. Known worldwide for its technical excellence and its eclectic repertoire. Strongly rooted in classical ballet, the RWB’s repertoire is diverse, ranging from the classics to innovative contemporary ballet. $12–15 (senior, student, subscription discounts available).

Winnipeg's Contemporary Dancers, 2nd floor, 211 Bannatyne Ave (Crocus Building, in the Exchange District, +1 204-452-0229. Each season WCD creates and presents new work from within the Company and also introduces Winnipeg audiences to some of the best choreography and dance from the rest of Canada.

• Manitoba Chamber Orchestra, 745 Westminster Ave (northwest corner of Maryland St & Westminster Ave, +1 204-783-7377. Nine concerts in the acoustically superb Westminster United Church.
• Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, 300 Memorial Blvd (Winnipeg Art Gallery, +1 204-632-5299. Showcases superb local artists and features appearances by exciting national and international guest artists.
• Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, 555 Main St (Centennial Concert Hall, +1 204-949-3999. Performs more than 80 concerts belonging to four major series: Masterworks, Musically Speaking, Pops, Sundays with the Family; and a variety of feature performances. Also hosts the WSO New Music Festival in late January and early February.

Manitoba Chamber Orchestra, 745 Westminster Ave (northwest corner of Maryland St & Westminster Ave, +1 204-783-7377. Nine concerts in the acoustically superb Westminster United Church.

Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, 300 Memorial Blvd (Winnipeg Art Gallery, +1 204-632-5299. Showcases superb local artists and features appearances by exciting national and international guest artists.

Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, 555 Main St (Centennial Concert Hall, +1 204-949-3999. Performs more than 80 concerts belonging to four major series: Masterworks, Musically Speaking, Pops, Sundays with the Family; and a variety of feature performances. Also hosts the WSO New Music Festival in late January and early February.

The city is home to several events.

• Le Festival du Voyageur, St. Boniface. Western Canada's largest winter festival. For 10 days in February, this fur-trade-themed celebration lights up Saint Boniface, Winnipeg's French Quarter.
• Folklorama, venues throughout the city (guides available, +1 204-982-6210. beginning of Aug. The largest and longest running multicultural event of its kind in the world. Cultural pavilions are spread out at various locations throughout the city for two weeks in August, with a wonderful variety of music, dancing and food showcasing the city's amazing ethnic diversity.
• ManyFest. Sep. Taking place on a closed-off Broadway over the course of a weekend, ManyFest (as you could guess) is a combination of many festivals into one: cycling events, a farmer's market, a dance party, a running race, and more. Free.
• Pride Winnipeg Festival. beginning of Jun. Pride in Winnipeg has been celebrated annually since 1987 and has evolved from a one-day event into a 10-day festival filled with pride, confidence, fun, colour, music, laughter, optimism and activism. Winnipeg Pride is the Pride of the Prairies—the largest celebration of LGBTTQ culture between Toronto and Vancouver.
• Red River Exhibition, Exhibition Park, Assiniboia Downs (Portage Ave west past Perimeter Hwy. Late Jun. The largest annual fair in Manitoba.
• TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival, venues throughout the city, +1 204-989-4656. Late Jun to early Jul. With performers in multiple venues around town. $15.
• Winnipeg Comedy Festival, venues throughout the city. April. Stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy from local, national, and international comics.
• Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, Old Market Square (Exchange District, +1 204-942-6537. Jul. North America's second largest Fringe Festival, offering over 150 different indoor plays and free outdoor entertainment. $5–10, passes available.

Le Festival du Voyageur, St. Boniface. Western Canada's largest winter festival. For 10 days in February, this fur-trade-themed celebration lights up Saint Boniface, Winnipeg's French Quarter.

Folklorama, venues throughout the city (guides available, +1 204-982-6210. beginning of Aug. The largest and longest running multicultural event of its kind in the world. Cultural pavilions are spread out at various locations throughout the city for two weeks in August, with a wonderful variety of music, dancing and food showcasing the city's amazing ethnic diversity.

ManyFest. Sep. Taking place on a closed-off Broadway over the course of a weekend, ManyFest (as you could guess) is a combination of many festivals into one: cycling events, a farmer's market, a dance party, a running race, and more. Free.

Pride Winnipeg Festival. beginning of Jun. Pride in Winnipeg has been celebrated annually since 1987 and has evolved from a one-day event into a 10-day festival filled with pride, confidence, fun, colour, music, laughter, optimism and activism. Winnipeg Pride is the Pride of the Prairies—the largest celebration of LGBTTQ culture between Toronto and Vancouver.

Red River Exhibition, Exhibition Park, Assiniboia Downs (Portage Ave west past Perimeter Hwy. Late Jun. The largest annual fair in Manitoba.

TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival, venues throughout the city, +1 204-989-4656. Late Jun to early Jul. With performers in multiple venues around town. $15.

Winnipeg Comedy Festival, venues throughout the city. April. Stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy from local, national, and international comics.

Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, Old Market Square (Exchange District, +1 204-942-6537. Jul. North America's second largest Fringe Festival, offering over 150 different indoor plays and free outdoor entertainment. $5–10, passes available.

Provincial Sales Tax (PST) in Manitoba is 7% and Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) in Canada is 5%. Prices generally do not include tax, so expect your purchases to cost an additional 12%.

It is customary in Winnipeg that all prices are set by a price tag and it is uncommon for retailers to bargain.

It is common for smaller shops to close at 6PM, while large stores and malls will close around 9PM on weekdays. Weekends have reduced shopping hours, especially Sundays. Stores are only allowed to open at 9AM on Sundays and must close by 6PM, with certain exceptions (such as convenience stores). There are a few large chain stores that are open 24 hours or until midnight, such as Walmart, Shopper's Drug Mart and Superstore.

• Downtown Winnipeg Farmer's Market, Edmonton St & Graham Ave (Manitoba Hydro Place Plaza, +1 204-958-4626. Jul–early Sep: 11:30AM–5:30PM. Similar to the St. Norbert Farmer's Market (many of the same vendors). Started in 2013.
• St. Norbert Farmer's Market, 3514 Pembina Hwy (in St. Norbert, south of the Perimeter. Jun–Sep: Sa 8AM–3PM, W 11AM–4PM; Oct Sa 8AM–3PM. Fresh fruits and vegetables, breads and cookies, crafts including: wooden toys, leather purses, outdoor furniture, creative metal works and fine jewellery. Everything is made in Manitoba.
• Ten Thousand Villages, 134 Plaza Dr (near the intersection of Pembina Hwy & Bishop Grandin Blvd, +1 204-261-0566. M–Sa 10AM–5:30PM. A fair-trade store run by the Mennonite Central Committee. The store offers various hand-made gifts and crafts created by artisans from around the world. All merchandise is bought from the artisans at a fair price to help provide income for struggling families in the developing world.

Downtown Winnipeg Farmer's Market, Edmonton St & Graham Ave (Manitoba Hydro Place Plaza, +1 204-958-4626. Jul–early Sep: 11:30AM–5:30PM. Similar to the St. Norbert Farmer's Market (many of the same vendors). Started in 2013.

St. Norbert Farmer's Market, 3514 Pembina Hwy (in St. Norbert, south of the Perimeter. Jun–Sep: Sa 8AM–3PM, W 11AM–4PM; Oct Sa 8AM–3PM. Fresh fruits and vegetables, breads and cookies, crafts including: wooden toys, leather purses, outdoor furniture, creative metal works and fine jewellery. Everything is made in Manitoba.

Ten Thousand Villages, 134 Plaza Dr (near the intersection of Pembina Hwy & Bishop Grandin Blvd, +1 204-261-0566. M–Sa 10AM–5:30PM. A fair-trade store run by the Mennonite Central Committee. The store offers various hand-made gifts and crafts created by artisans from around the world. All merchandise is bought from the artisans at a fair price to help provide income for struggling families in the developing world.

• Garden City Shopping Centre, 2305 McPhillips St (in Garden City, +1 204-338-7076. A single level mall that has a lot of different stores, Canadian Tire and Winners.
• Grant Park Shopping Centre, 1120 Grant Ave (in River Heights, +1 204-475-8556. A vibrant, urban centre of nearly 400,000 square feet and over 70 shops and services.
• Kildonan Place Shopping Centre, 1555 Regent Ave W (in Transcona, +1 204-661-6116. With over 100 stores and services, Kildonan Place is northeast Winnipeg’s largest shopping centre.
• Polo Park Shopping Centre, 1485 Portage Ave (in St. James, +1 204-784-2500. Centrally located, Polo Park offers over 200 stores and services including restaurants, cinemas, bowling and the city’s largest selection of retailers.
• St. Vital Centre, Bishop Grandin Blvd & St. Marys Rd (in St. Vital, +1 204-257-5646. Over 160 unique stores and services. This family-friendly destination features a great selection of casual dining options, a kids' play area and Kids Club.

Garden City Shopping Centre, 2305 McPhillips St (in Garden City, +1 204-338-7076. A single level mall that has a lot of different stores, Canadian Tire and Winners.

Grant Park Shopping Centre, 1120 Grant Ave (in River Heights, +1 204-475-8556. A vibrant, urban centre of nearly 400,000 square feet and over 70 shops and services.

Kildonan Place Shopping Centre, 1555 Regent Ave W (in Transcona, +1 204-661-6116. With over 100 stores and services, Kildonan Place is northeast Winnipeg’s largest shopping centre.

Polo Park Shopping Centre, 1485 Portage Ave (in St. James, +1 204-784-2500. Centrally located, Polo Park offers over 200 stores and services including restaurants, cinemas, bowling and the city’s largest selection of retailers.

St. Vital Centre, Bishop Grandin Blvd & St. Marys Rd (in St. Vital, +1 204-257-5646. Over 160 unique stores and services. This family-friendly destination features a great selection of casual dining options, a kids' play area and Kids Club.

• Academy Rd. Academy Rd offers the finest shops and services catering to the discriminating shopper, with designer-original fashions, toy and gift shops, bakeries, a specialty grocery store, coffee houses and restaurants, gourmet catered fare, a chocolatier, a gourmet food and wine store and more.
• Corydon Ave. You’ll find a mix of fashion boutiques, restaurants, curio and antique shops, jewellery, furniture, gift stores, a book and plant store, upscale second-hand boutiques and more.
• Downtown. Filled with shops both large and small. The Skywalk connects the large centres, protecting you in the winter. Most shops close around 6PM.

  * Cityplace, 333 St. Mary Ave.

  * Portage Place Shopping Centre, 393 Portage Ave, +1 204-925-4630. Portage Place is the hub of downtown Winnipeg with over 100 services, restaurants and shops.

  * Winnipeg Square, 360 Main St. Winnipeg’s largest underground mall offers over 45 shops, services and restaurants.

• The Exchange District. Antiques, book stores, gift shops, clothing and furniture boutiques make this neighbourhood a unique shopping destination.
• The Forks Market. Featuring Aboriginal and ethnic crafts, fresh food and more.
• Osborne St. Merchants offer a variety of goods from coffee to cookware, books to home furnishings, giftware to gold, music to pottery. Contemporary fashions suited to every style are offered in many fine stores.

Academy Rd. Academy Rd offers the finest shops and services catering to the discriminating shopper, with designer-original fashions, toy and gift shops, bakeries, a specialty grocery store, coffee houses and restaurants, gourmet catered fare, a chocolatier, a gourmet food and wine store and more.

Corydon Ave. You’ll find a mix of fashion boutiques, restaurants, curio and antique shops, jewellery, furniture, gift stores, a book and plant store, upscale second-hand boutiques and more.

Downtown. Filled with shops both large and small. The Skywalk connects the large centres, protecting you in the winter. Most shops close around 6PM.

* Cityplace, 333 St. Mary Ave.

* Portage Place Shopping Centre, 393 Portage Ave, +1 204-925-4630. Portage Place is the hub of downtown Winnipeg with over 100 services, restaurants and shops.

* Winnipeg Square, 360 Main St. Winnipeg’s largest underground mall offers over 45 shops, services and restaurants.

The Exchange District. Antiques, book stores, gift shops, clothing and furniture boutiques make this neighbourhood a unique shopping destination.

The Forks Market. Featuring Aboriginal and ethnic crafts, fresh food and more.

Osborne St. Merchants offer a variety of goods from coffee to cookware, books to home furnishings, giftware to gold, music to pottery. Contemporary fashions suited to every style are offered in many fine stores.

Winnipeg residents love food. There is an amazing array of restaurants catering to every taste and budget. Tipping is customary in Winnipeg and is not included in the price of the food. Some restaurants may automatically add a gratuity charge for large groups. Tips typically range from 10–20%

Local cuisine includes:

• Winnipeg goldeye, a smoked fish available at most grocery stores and fish markets.
• Winnipeg-style rye bread, best bought unsliced directly from the bakery.
• Winnipeg-style cream cheese is a good accompaniment for Gunn's bagels.
• Fresh pickerel filets and cheeks.
• Russian mints
• Manitoba maple syrup
• Kubasa or kielbasa, a ready-to-eat Eastern European pork garlic sausage smoked daily.
• Mennonite farmer's sausage (for frying or barbecuing).
• Chili Burgers
• Tourtière, a French-Canadian meat pie.
• French-Canadian desserts like sucre à la crême (similar to fudge) and tarte à sucre (like pecan pie, minus pecans).
• Aboriginal foods like elk, bison, and bannock.

• Affinity Vegetarian Garden, 100–208 Edmonton St (downtown, +1 204-943-0251. M–F 11:30AM–2PM, 5PM–9:30PM, Sa 5PM–9:30PM, Su closed. Chinese and vegetarian, including vegetarian imitations of shrimp and fish. entrees $8.75-11.50.
• Burrito Del Rio Taqueria, 433 River Ave (in Osborne Village, +1 204-415-5600. Mexican.
• Falafel Place, 1101 Corydon Ave (in River Heights, +1 204-489-5811. Lebanese/brunch. Perfect for hangovers.
• KG Saigon, 840 Sargent Ave (in the West End, +1 204-783-3482. Amazing Vietnamese food.
• The North Star Drive-In, 531 McGregor St (in the North End, +1 204-589-4003. Across the street from Alycia's, and has excellent burgers in town. If you try this family-run drive in, expect very friendly staff and delicious burgers, hot dogs, fries, etc. North Star also always has a fresh dogbowl of water if you happen to bring your pet along.
• Salisbury House, 21 locations throughout the city. Started during the Dirty Thirties, the company still succeeded due to good food at decent prices. Salisbury refers to hamburgers as "nips", and French fried potatoes as "chips". Many expatriates returning to the city find it a necessity to have at least one Sals' "nip".
• Shawarma Time, 616 Ellice Ave (in the West End, +1 204-774-2109. Middle Eastern.
• VJ's Drive Inn, 170 Main St (across from Union Station, downtown, +1 204-943-2655. Greasy spoon. Burgers, fries and shakes. One of the best in town.

Affinity Vegetarian Garden, 100–208 Edmonton St (downtown, +1 204-943-0251. M–F 11:30AM–2PM, 5PM–9:30PM, Sa 5PM–9:30PM, Su closed. Chinese and vegetarian, including vegetarian imitations of shrimp and fish. entrees $8.75-11.50.

Burrito Del Rio Taqueria, 433 River Ave (in Osborne Village, +1 204-415-5600. Mexican.

Falafel Place, 1101 Corydon Ave (in River Heights, +1 204-489-5811. Lebanese/brunch. Perfect for hangovers.

KG Saigon, 840 Sargent Ave (in the West End, +1 204-783-3482. Amazing Vietnamese food.

The North Star Drive-In, 531 McGregor St (in the North End, +1 204-589-4003. Across the street from Alycia's, and has excellent burgers in town. If you try this family-run drive in, expect very friendly staff and delicious burgers, hot dogs, fries, etc. North Star also always has a fresh dogbowl of water if you happen to bring your pet along.

Salisbury House, 21 locations throughout the city. Started during the Dirty Thirties, the company still succeeded due to good food at decent prices. Salisbury refers to hamburgers as "nips", and French fried potatoes as "chips". Many expatriates returning to the city find it a necessity to have at least one Sals' "nip".

Shawarma Time, 616 Ellice Ave (in the West End, +1 204-774-2109. Middle Eastern.

VJ's Drive Inn, 170 Main St (across from Union Station, downtown, +1 204-943-2655. Greasy spoon. Burgers, fries and shakes. One of the best in town.

• Baked Expectations, 161 Osborne St (in Osborne Village, +1 204-452-5176. Popular bakery and restaurant, famous for its desserts.
• Bridge Drive-In, 766 Jubilee Ave (in Riverview, +1 204-475-6850. Ice cream.
• InFerno's Bistro, 312 rue des Meurons (in St. Boniface, +1 204-262-7400. M–Th 11AM–10PM, F Sa 11AM–11PM. French.
• Magic Thailand, 842 Logan Ave, +1 204-774-0839. Authentic Thai. Don't be put off by the area or the decor.
• Stella's Cafe & Bakery, 7 locations throughout the city. Breakfast/brunch, soup, sandwiches and other entrees. Also offers gluten-free and vegan alternatives.
• Sun Fortune Restaurant, 15–2077 Pembina Hwy (near the University of Manitoba, +1 204-269-6868. Authentic Chinese. North Americanized Chinese dishes are also available. If you know Cantonese or know someone who can speak it, there are unconfirmed rumours of a secret Cantonese-only menu.
• Nuburger (formerly Unburger), 472 Stradbrook Ave (in Osborne Village, +1 204-888-1001. M–Sa 11AM–10PM, Su noon–9PM. Healthy gourmet burgers including creations such as "Blueberry Yum Yum" (beef burger with blueberry BBQ sauce), "Shanghai" (chicken burger with a spicy asian twist) and "Bella" (grilled portabella veggie burger). Buns baked daily.

Baked Expectations, 161 Osborne St (in Osborne Village, +1 204-452-5176. Popular bakery and restaurant, famous for its desserts.

Bridge Drive-In, 766 Jubilee Ave (in Riverview, +1 204-475-6850. Ice cream.

InFerno's Bistro, 312 rue des Meurons (in St. Boniface, +1 204-262-7400. M–Th 11AM–10PM, F Sa 11AM–11PM. French.

Magic Thailand, 842 Logan Ave, +1 204-774-0839. Authentic Thai. Don't be put off by the area or the decor.

Stella's Cafe & Bakery, 7 locations throughout the city. Breakfast/brunch, soup, sandwiches and other entrees. Also offers gluten-free and vegan alternatives.

Sun Fortune Restaurant, 15–2077 Pembina Hwy (near the University of Manitoba, +1 204-269-6868. Authentic Chinese. North Americanized Chinese dishes are also available. If you know Cantonese or know someone who can speak it, there are unconfirmed rumours of a secret Cantonese-only menu.

Nuburger (formerly Unburger), 472 Stradbrook Ave (in Osborne Village, +1 204-888-1001. M–Sa 11AM–10PM, Su noon–9PM. Healthy gourmet burgers including creations such as "Blueberry Yum Yum" (beef burger with blueberry BBQ sauce), "Shanghai" (chicken burger with a spicy asian twist) and "Bella" (grilled portabella veggie burger). Buns baked daily.

• Bonfire Bistro, 1433 Corydon Ave, +1 204-487-4440. M–Th 11:30AM–2:30PM 5–10PM, F Sa 11:30AM–2:30PM 4:30–10:30PM, Su 4:30–9:30PM. Italian including wood-fired pizza, pasta, and entrees prepared from local ingredients wherever possible. Does not accept reservations, will not allow groups more than 6.
• Cafe Dario, 1390 Erin St, +1 204-783-2813. Lunch: M–F 11:30AM–2PM; dinner: Sa Su 5PM–on. Latin American. Gluten free alternatives available. Reservations recommended. Prix fixe 5 course meal $39.
• Carnaval Brazilian BBQ, 270 Waterfront Dr (in the Exchange District, +1 204-505-0945. Rotisserie-style Brazilian BBQ. All-you-can-eat meat-on-a-stick.
• 529 Wellington, 529 Wellington Cres, +1 204-487-8325. One of the best steakhouses in the city.
• Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, 189 Carlton St (downtown, +1 204-925-7400. Japanese sushi and steakhouse. The chefs prepare the meal in front of you with great showmanship. You must come as a group or you will be placed with strangers as the tables seat 8+. The menu consists of set dinners that can be expensive, but the food is delicious and the show is very entertaining.
• Saperavi, 709 Corydon Ave, +1 204-416-3996. One of the few restaurants in Winnipeg serving Georgian cuisine.
• Segovia Tapas Bar and Restaurant, 484 Stradbrook Ave, +1 204-477-6500. M W Th Su 5–11PM, F Sa 5PM–midnight. Spanish tapas. You may need to make a reservation a few days in advance!

Bonfire Bistro, 1433 Corydon Ave, +1 204-487-4440. M–Th 11:30AM–2:30PM 5–10PM, F Sa 11:30AM–2:30PM 4:30–10:30PM, Su 4:30–9:30PM. Italian including wood-fired pizza, pasta, and entrees prepared from local ingredients wherever possible. Does not accept reservations, will not allow groups more than 6.

Cafe Dario, 1390 Erin St, +1 204-783-2813. Lunch: M–F 11:30AM–2PM; dinner: Sa Su 5PM–on. Latin American. Gluten free alternatives available. Reservations recommended. Prix fixe 5 course meal $39.

Carnaval Brazilian BBQ, 270 Waterfront Dr (in the Exchange District, +1 204-505-0945. Rotisserie-style Brazilian BBQ. All-you-can-eat meat-on-a-stick.

529 Wellington, 529 Wellington Cres, +1 204-487-8325. One of the best steakhouses in the city.

Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, 189 Carlton St (downtown, +1 204-925-7400. Japanese sushi and steakhouse. The chefs prepare the meal in front of you with great showmanship. You must come as a group or you will be placed with strangers as the tables seat 8+. The menu consists of set dinners that can be expensive, but the food is delicious and the show is very entertaining.

Saperavi, 709 Corydon Ave, +1 204-416-3996. One of the few restaurants in Winnipeg serving Georgian cuisine.

Segovia Tapas Bar and Restaurant, 484 Stradbrook Ave, +1 204-477-6500. M W Th Su 5–11PM, F Sa 5PM–midnight. Spanish tapas. You may need to make a reservation a few days in advance!

Winnipeg goldeye, a smoked fish available at most grocery stores and fish markets.

Winnipeg-style rye bread, best bought unsliced directly from the bakery.

Winnipeg-style cream cheese is a good accompaniment for Gunn's bagels.

Fresh pickerel filets and cheeks.

Russian mints

Manitoba maple syrup

Kubasa or kielbasa, a ready-to-eat Eastern European pork garlic sausage smoked daily.

Mennonite farmer's sausage (for frying or barbecuing).

Chili Burgers

Tourtière, a French-Canadian meat pie.

French-Canadian desserts like sucre à la crême (similar to fudge) and tarte à sucre (like pecan pie, minus pecans).

Aboriginal foods like elk, bison, and bannock.

The sale of alcohol is regulated by the Government of Manitoba through the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission (MLCC, or the "LC"). All alcohol is sold through the MLCC's Liquor Marts. Beer and wine can be sold through beer vendors or wine markets. Any establishment selling alcohol must be licensed and follow MLCC rules, such as minimum drink prices and last call at 2AM.

The legal drinking age in Manitoba is 18. Alcohol can only be consumed in residences or licensed establishments, not in public. The legal blood alcohol contact (BAC) limit for driving is 0.05. Taxis are common at popular night spots. Buses run infrequently at night and stop running before 2AM.

Winnipeg is home to four local breweries:

• Fort Garry Brewing. Manitoba's oldest microbrewery est. 1930. Tours available.
• Half Pints Brewing. Free brewing tours on Saturdays
• Farmery Estate Brewery. Brewed in Ontario. All ingredients are locally grown, the only estate brewery in North America.
• Trans Canada Brewing Co.. A restaurant and brewery

Parking will be difficult in the popular areas, especially Saturday nights.

• Corydon Ave. Packed patios during the summer, the place for late night eats and drinks all year round.
• Osborne Village. Home of the underground scene and late night food and drinks.
• Exchange District. The main dance clubs in Winnipeg can be found in the Exchange District.

Corydon Ave. Packed patios during the summer, the place for late night eats and drinks all year round.

Osborne Village. Home of the underground scene and late night food and drinks.

Exchange District. The main dance clubs in Winnipeg can be found in the Exchange District.

• Bar Italia, 737 Corydon Ave, +1 204-452-1929. Billiard tables, a packed patio and attracts a hip, twenty-something crowd. 18+.
• High and Lonesome Club, 234 Main St (downtown, +1 204-957-0982. W–F 11:30AM–2:30PM and 5:30–8:30PM, Sa 5:30–8:30PM. Folk, roots, country, blues. 18+.
• Pembina Draught Bar, 1011 Pembina Hwy, +1 204-453-3724. Younger crowd, large selection of cheap beer by the pitcher, decent music, pool, foosball, and free darts. 18+.
• The Windsor Hotel, 187 Garry St (downtown, +1 204-942-7528. The best live blues in town. 18+.
• The Zoo Night Club, 160 Osborne St (in Osborne Village, +1 204-452-9824. Often punk-rock, cheap beer, pool and sometimes strippers. 18+.

Bar Italia, 737 Corydon Ave, +1 204-452-1929. Billiard tables, a packed patio and attracts a hip, twenty-something crowd. 18+.

High and Lonesome Club, 234 Main St (downtown, +1 204-957-0982. W–F 11:30AM–2:30PM and 5:30–8:30PM, Sa 5:30–8:30PM. Folk, roots, country, blues. 18+.

Pembina Draught Bar, 1011 Pembina Hwy, +1 204-453-3724. Younger crowd, large selection of cheap beer by the pitcher, decent music, pool, foosball, and free darts. 18+.

The Windsor Hotel, 187 Garry St (downtown, +1 204-942-7528. The best live blues in town. 18+.

The Zoo Night Club, 160 Osborne St (in Osborne Village, +1 204-452-9824. Often punk-rock, cheap beer, pool and sometimes strippers. 18+.

• King's Head Pub, 120 King St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-957-7710. M–F 11:30AM–2AM, Sa Su 2PM–2AM. A British-style pub with great British and Indian food, it's also a great place to go for a large selection of beers on tap. Occasional live music upstairs.
• Shannon's Irish Pub, 175 Carlton St (east side of the Winnipeg Convention Centre, +1 204-943-2302. Irish-themed pub. Live music every night. Large selection of beer on tap and whisky.
• Toad in the Hole Pub, 112 Osborne St (in Osborne Village, +1 204-284-7201. M–F 11:30AM–2AM, Sa 11AM–2AM, Su 11AM–midnight. Great place to go for beer, some darts, pool or a nice meal. Reasonably priced. New Whiskey Bar features 160 whiskies from around the world. Live music in the basement (The Cavern).

King's Head Pub, 120 King St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-957-7710. M–F 11:30AM–2AM, Sa Su 2PM–2AM. A British-style pub with great British and Indian food, it's also a great place to go for a large selection of beers on tap. Occasional live music upstairs.

Shannon's Irish Pub, 175 Carlton St (east side of the Winnipeg Convention Centre, +1 204-943-2302. Irish-themed pub. Live music every night. Large selection of beer on tap and whisky.

Toad in the Hole Pub, 112 Osborne St (in Osborne Village, +1 204-284-7201. M–F 11:30AM–2AM, Sa 11AM–2AM, Su 11AM–midnight. Great place to go for beer, some darts, pool or a nice meal. Reasonably priced. New Whiskey Bar features 160 whiskies from around the world. Live music in the basement (The Cavern).

Most clubs and bars will insist on seeing identification for every patron, partly for security purposes.

• Area, 1792 Pembina Hwy (near the University of Manitoba, +1 204-269-6955. F Sa 8PM–2AM. Younger crowd, university students. 18+.
• Opera Ultralounge, 441 Main St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-955-5088. F-Su 10PM–2AM. Two levels, four bars, and opulent VIP area and service. Cover $10.
• Palomino Club, 1133 Portage Ave (near Polo Park, +1 204-772-0454. M Th Sa 7PM–2AM, Tu 7PM–midnight, F 4PM–2AM. Pop, hip-hop, country, karaoke. Older women. 18+.
• Republic, 291 Bannatyne (in the Exchange District, +1 204-510-9200. The nightclub features two rooms of classic design, a state of the art sound system, three fully functional bars and a luxurious, yet comfortable and intimate setting. $10 cover.
• Tijuana Yacht Club, 1405 St. Matthews Ave (near Polo Park, +1 204-775-8791. Th–Sa 9PM–2AM. Younger crowd. 18+.
• Palomino, 436 Main St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-944-7539. Night club.

Area, 1792 Pembina Hwy (near the University of Manitoba, +1 204-269-6955. F Sa 8PM–2AM. Younger crowd, university students. 18+.

Opera Ultralounge, 441 Main St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-955-5088. F-Su 10PM–2AM. Two levels, four bars, and opulent VIP area and service. Cover $10.

Palomino Club, 1133 Portage Ave (near Polo Park, +1 204-772-0454. M Th Sa 7PM–2AM, Tu 7PM–midnight, F 4PM–2AM. Pop, hip-hop, country, karaoke. Older women. 18+.

Republic, 291 Bannatyne (in the Exchange District, +1 204-510-9200. The nightclub features two rooms of classic design, a state of the art sound system, three fully functional bars and a luxurious, yet comfortable and intimate setting. $10 cover.

Tijuana Yacht Club, 1405 St. Matthews Ave (near Polo Park, +1 204-775-8791. Th–Sa 9PM–2AM. Younger crowd. 18+.

Palomino, 436 Main St (in the Exchange District, +1 204-944-7539. Night club.

• Club 200, 190 Garry St (downtown. M–Sa 4PM–2AM, Su 6PM–midnight. LGBT, events, prizes, dining. 18+.

Club 200, 190 Garry St (downtown. M–Sa 4PM–2AM, Su 6PM–midnight. LGBT, events, prizes, dining. 18+.

Fort Garry Brewing. Manitoba's oldest microbrewery est. 1930. Tours available.

Half Pints Brewing. Free brewing tours on Saturdays

Farmery Estate Brewery. Brewed in Ontario. All ingredients are locally grown, the only estate brewery in North America.

Trans Canada Brewing Co.. A restaurant and brewery

Winnipeg has a moderately high crime rate by Canadian standards, but low violent crime by American or global standards. Much crime is gang or alcohol related and rarely involves tourists who exercise the same degree of caution they would in any other urban center. Areas where higher degree of caution is advised at night include areas north of City Hall on Main St and the area surrounding Central Park.

Panhandlers are less numerous in Winnipeg compared to cities like Vancouver and Victoria, BC and they are very seldom aggressive, however displays of obvious wealth such as jewelery and expensive digital cameras should be kept to a minimum. It is best to kindly refuse panhandlers and keep walking.

Winnipeg has a history of substantial auto theft and "smash and grab" problem, though the problem has been reduced in recent years. As in any city, common sense should prevail. Never leave a vehicle unlocked and under no circumstances should any object be left in the car interior where it can be seen, no matter what the value (includes CDs, gloves, clothing, tools, etc). Keep all items in the trunk. Most importantly, never leave any coins, no matter what the amount in your ashtray or console. An individual with drugs or alcohol dependency will not hesitate to smash a car window even for less than $1.

If you rent a vehicle, ensure with your rental agency that it is equipped with an immobilizer. If you drive your own vehicle here, Manitoba Public Insurance offers a most-at-risk vehicle assessment. While this is aimed at those intending to register vehicles in Manitoba, tourists may use this to consider if their vehicle is at an elevated risk for theft. Out of province tourists may also consult with their automobile insurance agent.

• Austria Austria, +1 204-833-0100.
• Belgium Belgium, +1 204-253-5389.
• Denmark Denmark, +1 204-233-8541.
• Finland Finland, +1 204-837-6466.
• France France, +1 204-256-2996.
• Germany Germany, +1 204-475-3088.
• Guatemala Guatemala, +1 204-222-3293.
• Iceland Iceland, 100–1 Wellington Cres, +1 204-284-1535. M–F 9AM–4PM. Assists Icelandic nationals and firms as needed.
• United States United States, 860–201 Portage Ave, +1 204-940-1800. Only emergency services provided to Americans; all other matters addressed at Calgary consulate.

Austria Austria, +1 204-833-0100.

Belgium Belgium, +1 204-253-5389.

Denmark Denmark, +1 204-233-8541.

Finland Finland, +1 204-837-6466.

France France, +1 204-256-2996.

Germany Germany, +1 204-475-3088.

Guatemala Guatemala, +1 204-222-3293.

Iceland Iceland, 100–1 Wellington Cres, +1 204-284-1535. M–F 9AM–4PM. Assists Icelandic nationals and firms as needed.

United States United States, 860–201 Portage Ave, +1 204-940-1800. Only emergency services provided to Americans; all other matters addressed at Calgary consulate.

Featuring hills and ridges formed by ancient glaciers, this 35km² park 24km northeast of Winnipeg on Hwy 59 has a lake, oak and aspen forests, native prairie wildflowers, deer, waterfowl and songbirds. Facilities include camping, swimming, picnic sites, a riding stable, a restaurant, a beach concession and a convenience store. There are 30 km of trails for walking and cross-country skiing and 7.2 km of paved bicycle and roller blading trails. Every July the park hosts the Winnipeg Folk Festival.

• Winnipeg Folk Festival, Birds Hill Provincial Park (20min north on Hwy 59, +1 204-231-0096. Jul. One of North America's premier outdoor music festivals. Features music performances, a folk school, programs for young performers and young visual artists, over 100 artisans, children’s programming, a visual art exhibition, and a food village that encourages the use of local, organic and fair trade ingredients. Day pass: $69.75, full pass: $214.75, full camping pass: $252.75 (discounts for youth, children and early bird available).

Winnipeg Folk Festival, Birds Hill Provincial Park (20min north on Hwy 59, +1 204-231-0096. Jul. One of North America's premier outdoor music festivals. Features music performances, a folk school, programs for young performers and young visual artists, over 100 artisans, children’s programming, a visual art exhibition, and a food village that encourages the use of local, organic and fair trade ingredients. Day pass: $69.75, full pass: $214.75, full camping pass: $252.75 (discounts for youth, children and early bird available).

Winnipeg is a great starting point to begin exploring the province of Manitoba. Manitoba has many recreational opportunities, including canoeing, fishing, cycling, and cross-country skiing.

• Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site of Canada, 15 min north of Winnipeg
• Oak Hammock Marsh, 20min north of Winnipeg
• Flights and trains to Churchill, a favourite Manitoba oceanfront spot for polar bears, are available from Winnipeg. There is no road.
• The Gimli Icelandic Festival (Islendingadagurinn) in Gimli (Manitoba) (1 hr north on Hwy 8, first weekend of August) is the second oldest continuous ethnic festival in North America. It includes contests and a parade.
• Grand Beach Provincial Park (100km northeast on Hwy 59) is famous for its beautiful white sand fresh water beaches.
• Whiteshell Provincial Park (90 minutes east of Winnipeg via Highway 1 or Highway 44, or VIA Rail Service to Brereton Lake) offers great camping, hiking, and boating.
• The Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach (1 hr southeast of Winnipeg) is representative of Mennonite villages found throughout Southern Manitoba at the turn of the century, recounting the pioneer stories of Russian Mennonites and their migration to Canada. The north side illustrates early settlement buildings while the south side shows the gradual shift to various business enterprises.