.js-required { display: none; }

18 Best Things To Do In Manitoba

Published May 9, 2025

8 min read

Discover the province of Manitoba, in the heart of Canada, where you'll find breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures. In this guide, we share some of the unique things to do in Manitoba, with something for everyone. Whether you enjoy the outdoors and seek adventure or love learning about history and culture, visitors are sure to be entertained at one of Canada's major cities. Manitoba also has amazing lakes, beaches, and festivals. Continue reading to learn more about activities and attractions in Manitoba.

Aerial view of Winnipeg city and the river below a blue sky

Kayaking with beluga whales, witnessing polar bears in the wild and uncovering the mysteries of Masonic symbols are the top things to do in Manitoba, Canada. Enjoy the beauty of the Northern Lights, dance at music festivals, and soak up the sun on the beaches.

Plan fun things to do during your Manitoba getaway with Canadian Train Vacation. They have a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Discover the great outdoors, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

You'll have the best Manitoba vacation with the help of their friendly and knowledgeable staff. Allow them to plan the itinerary and book your tickets for the ultimate Manitoba experience. Book now and discover what Manitoba has to offer!

1. Polar Bears of Churchill

Discover the gorgeous polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, where you may visit them in the wild. You can see these wonderful creatures while on a guided Tundra Buggy tour of the area, snapping pictures and being awed by their beauty.

Churchill is often called the "Polar Bear Capital of the World." For those who love the outdoors and are looking for a unique and memorable experience, it is a must-visit location. To view these famous animals in action, reserve your tour right away.

Close up photo of a polar bear walking in the snow

2. Stay in a Log Cabin

Falcon Trails Resort in Manitoba is a great destination. Its cozy log cabins in the middle of the wilderness make this resort the perfect place for romantic getaways or family outings. The resort attracts both tourists and residents, with yoga classes, art classes, and music festivals among the events it hosts.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing fans frequently travel to the resort for these winter sports. For an unforgettable trip, reserve your stay right away.

A wooden cabin in a snowy forest on a sunny day

# Travel Tip: Extend your trip
If you’re traveling across Canada, speak to one of our travel experts about adding an extra day or two in Winnipeg. This way, you can explore all that the city has to offer without feeling rushed.

Samantha Edwards
Travel Writer and Content Coordinator

3. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, there is a well-known museum called the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR). It advocates for human rights and also helps people understand the issues facing communities around the world.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. The entry fee is $18 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $14 for students, however admission is free on Sundays. Every year, thousands of people visit the CMHR and it's considered one of the top things to do in Manitoba in summer.

Circular bench in the middle of an exhibition hall with photos of faces on the wall

4. Go Kayaking with Beluga Whales

Try kayaking alongside beluga whales in Manitoba for a singular experience. Ypu'll need to fly to Churchill from Winnipeg International Airport or take a train, as there are no roads into Churchill.

The best time to go kayaking is from June to August, when beluga whales start to migrate. Kayaks, life vests, and trained guides are provided on tours that last two to three hours and prices start from $150 to $200 CAD per person. Some multi-day Churchill vacation packages also include kayaking experiences. Book in advance during peak season, as demand can be high for the unique things to do in Manitoba.

[ Read: Whale Watching Canada ]

Person in a yellow kayak on the water beside a beluga whale in Churchill

# Travel Tip: Learn about Churchill’s culture
When in Churchill, be sure to add Itsanitaq Museum to your itinerary. Open year-round, it’s a great place to learn about Pre-Dorset and Dorset peoples and see ancient Inuit carvings and artifacts.

Hannah Poaros-McDermott
Travel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator

5. The Forks National Historic Site

The Forks National Historic Site in Winnipeg is a must-visit when in Manitoba for history, culture, and outdoor enthusiasts. This famous location is near where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. It is open all year round, with longer hours in the summer. Although entry is free to the public, there is a fee to enter the Manitoba Children's Museum.

Explore the site during the day or take in the views at sunset. Don't miss the many events, festivals, and activities hosted all year. Get there by car, bus, bike, or on foot.

[ Read: What to do in Winnipeg ]

View of boats on the river by the Forks National Historic Site in Winnipeg

6. Capture the Splendour of the Aurora Borealis

A must-see in Manitoba is the Aurora Borealis, one of the most stunning sights in the entire world. Each year, hundreds of people flock to see the Aurora Borealis, a beautiful natural wonder of colourful light displays in the night sky. The ideal months to view the lights are January through March, though they might also be seen in the summer.

Look for the lights between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. for the best viewing. A guided tour can take you to the best spots. Some even take visitors out onto the tundra.

[ Explore: Northern Lights in Canada ]

Group of people view the aurora borealis next to an Inukshuk in Churchill

7. Grand Beach

Grand Beach, a fantastic beach in Manitoba, is just one and a half hour drive from Winnipeg. A provincial park pass or day pass is required to enter. Grand Beach is known for its famous board walk, white sand and grass-topped sand dunes.

Aside from the boardwalk with cafes and shops, water sports such as sailing are available at the beach. There are also some amazing self-guided walks you can do on the Spirit Rock Trail and Ancient Beach Trail. The park also features an outdoor ampitheatre.

People relaxing on a white sandy beach in Manitoba

8. Gimli & the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba

An annual festival of Icelandic culture is held in Manitoba and is also referred to as Gimli. The event spans a few days in early August and includes musicals, sports events, culinary delights, works of art, and works by Icelandic performers.

Due to its proximity to Winnipeg and ease of access by car, bus, or flight, it receives a lot of visitors from across the world. Enjoy yourself and explore a new place while learning about Iceland's rich cultural legacy at the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba.

People in viking costumes walking down a street as part of the Icelandic Festival in Gimli

9. Climb the Sand Dunes at Spruce Woods Provincial Park

Spruce Woods Provincial Park in Manitoba, Canada, is a haven for those who love the outdoors. The park's most popular feature includes a desert-like area called the Spirit Sands. Here you'll find cacti, wild reptiles and The Devil's Punch Bowl, a unique crater-shaped lake. In the area are also 30 metre high sand dunes - these gorgeous sand dunes make this the ideal spot for activities like sandboarding, hiking, and camping. You can stroll along the park's paths and take in the scenery all summer.

A couple walk along sand dunes on a summer day in Spruce Woods Provincial Park

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.

Explore our brochures

10. Festival du Voyageur, Winnipeg

Winnipeg hosts the 10-day Festival du Voyageur winter celebration to commemorate the history and culture of the fur trading era. Although admission is free and there are many free activities, some special activities do require a fee.

At the festival - which takes place in mid-February - you can admire ice sculptures, listen to lively music, attend concerts and enjoy French Canadian cuisine. It's one of the best things to do in Manitoba for those interested in Canadian history and culture and to experience Winnipeg's unique winter atmosphere.

Crowd watches an evening show outdoors at the Festival du Voyageur

11. Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site

For history and culture lovers in the area of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site is a must-see. It presents a rare window into Canadian history and is a well-preserved illustration of the fur trading post built by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 19th century. Vehicles, roads, aircraft, and public transportation may all get you to the location with ease.

It is open daily and offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and plenty of historical activities. Visitors can get the most out of the fort by visiting during the day.

Person in costume standing in front of wooden wagons at a historical village

12. Visit The Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint's location in Winnipeg is responsible for producing coins for Canada and other countries. It offers a chance to see coin production, learn about the history of the mint, hold an Olympic medal, and see rare coins.

The Mint is located off the Trans Canada Highway and can be reached by car or public transit. We recommend taking a guided tour led by one of the knowledgeable guides. It's a great way to see the production floor and learn about the technology used to produce coins. The best time to visit is early in the morning or during the weekdays due to its popularity. Admission is $12 CAD for adults and $8 CAD for children.

Pink and purple sunset sky reflecting in a lake and the Royal Canadian Mint

13. Narcisse Snake Dens

The greatest population of Red-sided Garter Snakes in the world can be found at the Narcisse Snake Dens. It is a rare natural phenomenon close to Narcisse, Manitoba, Canada. Thousands of snakes come out of their dens each spring to breed and enjoy the sun. The Dens are open to the public and can be reached by car through Highway 17.

You can take guided tours or explore the trails on your own. It is best to visit during the day when the snakes are most active.

The Dens are become increasingly popular and have been featured in a lot of books and movies. Don't forget to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, and carry bug repellant.

Lots of red-sided garter snakes on the ground

14. Pinawa Dam Provincial Park

In Manitoba, Pinawa Dam Provincial Park is a well-liked holiday spot. The park provides outdoor pursuits like boating, fishing, hiking, and picnics. The park houses the storied Pinawa Dam, the first hydro-electric generting station in Manitoba. You can also walk on the Pinawa Suspension Bridge or explore attractions like the Heritage Sundial.

The stunning environment, fun activities, and peaceful surroundings draw thousands of visitors each year. The park is close to Winnipeg and is 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours by bus.

View of trees along the Winnipeg River and old concrete ruins of the Pinawa Dam

15. Hecla Island

Hecla Island is a well-known holiday spot in Manitoba, Canada, renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It offers a variety of activities such as bird watching, golfing, fishing, boating, hiking, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. You can also visit Gull Harbour Lighthouse, a historical landmark located on the northern side of the island.

There are a variety of accommodations on Hecla Island. The local resort has cozy rooms and cottages, as well as a restaurant, a lounge, a spa, and a fitness centre. Hecla Island is a must-see destination for those looking for a one-of-a-kind and memorable Manitoba experience.

Info board in front of a white heritage building on Hecla Island

16. Canadian Fossil Discovery Center

In Morden, Manitoba, there is a distinctive attraction called the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre. History and science fans are sure to love this place for its huge collection of marine reptile fossils from the Cretaceous Period - Their collection of marine reptile fossils is the largest in Canada! The centre is easily reachable from the Trans-Canada Highway.

The opening hours change from summer to winter. You can visit it any day of the year, seven days a week. It is advisable to schedule your visit in advance.

Close up of a large marine reptile fossil in the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre museum

17. Mennonite Village in Steinbach

Another unique destination in Manitoba is the Mennonite Village, located in Steinbach. It serves as a one-of-a-kind cultural showcase for the Mennonite way of life. The spot is accessible by car or bus in just over an hour.

More than 40,000 people visit it every year, making it a popular site. You can tour the village, explore exhibits and galleries, or grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant. It is best to visit the village in the morning or late in the day. For a relaxed experience, visit the spot during the off-peak season.

A windmill, red barn and old farm machinery on a field at the Mennonite Heritage Village

18. Manitoba Legislative Building

For lovers of history and architecture, the magnificent Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg is a must-see. It offers free guided tours of the legislative chamber, great staircase, rotunda and grounds. No entrance fee is required. Check the website for the most up-to-date hours.

Grand staircase and two bison sculptures inside the Manitoba Legislative Building

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to stay in Manitoba?

Manitoba has something for everyone, whether you want a luxurious stay in the city or a cozy cabin in the great outdoors. Here are some of the best hotels in Manitoba to stay at:

The Fairmont Winnipeg: The height of comfort and style can be found at this opulent hotel. It lies in the centre of Winnipeg. It is for the guests who wish to take in the finest of the city. It is the ideal option thanks to its spacious accommodations, excellent amenities, and convenient location.

The Inn at the Forks: This chic hotel offers a nice blend of contemporary style and old-world charm. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine.

Cottages at Clear Lake: The perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life is this charming resort. On the Clear Lake beaches in Riding Mountain National Park. You have access to its cozy cabins, gorgeous surroundings, and outdoor fun.

Lakeview Gimli Resort: This classic beachfront resort is located on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. It offers a serene escape for those looking for a relaxing getaway. With its on-site restaurant, fitness center, and indoor and outdoor pools, it's a great choice for families and couples.

How to reach Manitoba by Train?

Manitoba is easily accessible by train. VIA Rail, the national rail service in Canada, runs two major train routes through Manitoba. Get to see the beauty of Manitoba from the comfort of a train journey. The trip from Toronto to Winnipeg takes 32 hours, while the trip from Vancouver to Winnipeg takes 65 hours.

Once you arrive in Winnipeg, you can connect to other forms of transportation. Enhance your journey with Canadian Train Vacations, offering all-inclusive packages with sleeper-class accommodation, delicious meals, and exciting off-train excursions.

What is the best time to visit Manitoba?

Planning a trip to Manitoba? The best time to visit this central Canadian province depends on your interests and travel style. If you're looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is the perfect time to go, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Enjoy everything from kayaking and swimming to hiking and camping.

There are some cool things to do in Winnipeg, Manitoba in the winter, like skiing and snowboarding. So, the best time to travel is during the winter, from December to March. The province transforms into a winter wonderland. You can try a variety of sports, such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

October and November are the best months to see polar bears. You may also see the Northern Lights. The skies are darkest and clearest from January through March, making this the best time to see the aurora borealis.

What is Manitoba best known for?

The best-known features of Manitoba are its natural scenery, culture, and northern climate. The Red River Settlement, the Forks of the Assiniboine, and the Red Rivers are just a few of the historical sites that can be found there.

Is Manitoba worth visiting?

Manitoba is home to national parks, thriving cities, and many cultural sites. Canoeing, camping, fishing, and hiking are just a few of the outdoor activities the province is famous for.

Why is Winnipeg famous?

Winnipeg is home to some of the best museums, galleries, and arts venues in the country. It's also known for its music, art, and nightlife.

What do people in Manitoba do for fun?

Manitobans enjoy a wide range of activities. There are also art galleries, museums, and music venues.

About the author: Louise Weiss is Director of Legendary Hospitality with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for more than 25 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in North Vancouver and has spent time... Read more

Discover More

About Canadian trains

Trips by interest

Explore regions

Useful Links

Train Trip Finder Where to go in Canada Journeys Across Canada Canadian Rockies and West Coast Eastern Canada and The Maritimes Canadian North and Arctic Summer Train Trips Winter Train Trips Fall Color Train Trips Tours for Seniors Road Trips and Self Drives Family Adventures Vacations for Active Seniors History and Culture Trips Wildlife Viewing Trips

Explore Canada

The Canadian Train Train Across Canada Canadian Sleeper Train Luxury Trains Across Canada VIA Rail Vacations Rocky Mountaineer Train Tours Canadian Rockies Train Tours Train Tours for Seniors Canadian Pacific Railway Best Train Trips in Canada National Park Train Tours Train Tours from Vancouver Canadian Snow Train Alaska Cruise and Train Tours Canadian East Coast Train Tours Canadian West Coast Train Tours

Popular Train Trips

Vancouver to Toronto Train Journey Across Canada by Train Complete Canadian Rockies by Train Canadian Cross-Country Journey Classic Eastern Canada by Train Trans Canada Rainforest Route Canadian Rockies Voyage by Train Canada Coast to Coast by Train Rockies Winter Wonderland by Train Discover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies by Train Montreal and Quebec City Getaway by Train Canadian Cross-Country Journey in Winter Lords of the Wilderness Bear Viewing Trans Canada by Train in Winter Essential Rockies with Alaska Cruise

Canadian Train Vacations

| |

HomeTrue North Blog