12 Best Sightseeing Spots in Winnipeg You Gotta See to Believe
Each city has its own vibe, and Winnipeg totally nails it with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the iconic Forks to hidden riverfront trails, this city serves up views and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
That’s why we put together this guide to Winnipeg’s best sightseeing spots. These amazing places will wow, inspire, and maybe even surprise everyone, from first-time visitors to locals looking for fresh adventures.
So, without further ado, here are the top spots to soak in the best of the Peg!
The Forks
– Media credit: theforkswinnipeg
Website: https://www.theforks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theforkswinnipeg/
Address: 1 Forks Market Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 10 PM
Contact: [email protected]
Nestled at the meeting point of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, The Forks is hands down one of Winnipeg’s most iconic spots for sightseeing. With six mini-walking tours available, you can explore every nook and cranny of this riverside hub.
A must-see is the bustling Forks Market. Packed with local vendors, you’ll find everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce, quirky shops, and yummy eats.
If you’re bringing the kiddos, they’ll love the playground, while art lovers can snap pics of the public art installations scattered throughout. Visitors can also catch an outdoor concert or festival at the amphitheater.
For those who need to refuel, the Common Food Hall offers delicious bites and a beer and wine kiosk. On warm days, we love hanging out at Western Canada’s largest patio and enjoying local grub—a true slice of Winnipeg life.
| Pro Tip: For avid skateboarders, the Forks boasts Canada’s largest urban skate plaza and bowl complex. The spot’s so epic that even Tony Hawk made a stop here to film scenes for his movie! |
Manitoba Legislative Building
– Media credit: legassemblyofmb
Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/legislature
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legassemblyofmb/
Address: 450 Broadway
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (204) 945-5813
The Manitoba Legislative Building is an architectural masterpiece. We adore this grand structure, which is perched on a formal landscaped site between Broadway and the Assiniboine River.
Its north-facing placement on the grounds includes rolling lawns, gardens, trees, and monuments—no matter where you stand, you’d be getting postcard-perfect views.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by jaw-dropping craftsmanship. From domed ceilings and elegant arches to marble accents and walnut trim, every inch of this place whispers sophistication—even the members’ desks and moldings are works of art!
We particularly love the Pool of the Black Star, one of the building’s most unique features. Set in a circular space with marble surrounds, columns, and an open ceiling leading to the Rotunda, it’s a spot that feels almost otherworldly.
| Pro Tip: If you’re a book lover, don’t leave without visiting the double-height library. With mezzanine galleries, an elaborate coffered ceiling, and stunning detailing, it’s a cozy yet awe-inspiring space that will make any bibliophile’s heart skip a beat. |
FortWhyte Alive
– Media credit: fortwhytealive
Website: https://www.tourismwinnipeg.com/things-to-do/attractions/fortwhyte-alive
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fortwhytealive/
Address: 1961 McCreary Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 989-8355
FortWhyte Alive offers acres of outdoor paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Representing 20% of Winnipeg’s urban green space, it’s a must-visit sightseeing destination for anyone.
In the winter, bundle up for ice fishing on frozen lakes or enjoy the thrill of tobogganing down snowy hills. When the snow melts, summer takes over with numerous trails perfect for hiking and bird watching.
Be sure to check out FortWhyte Farms, an innovative farm that provides jobs for youth and grows food sustainably. And if you visit during the summer, swing by its Farmers’ Market for a taste of fresh, locally grown produce.
Plus, did you know that FortWhyte Alive is connected to the world’s longest recreational trail, the Trans Canada Trail? This means you can hike beyond the park’s boundaries if you’re up for a bigger challenge.
| Pro Tip: Want to kick off your FortWhyte adventure with a little extra feel-good bonus? Arrive on foot or by bike, and your admission is completely free! |
Union Station
– Media credit: danharperphoto
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Union%20Station%20(Winnipeg)/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/union-station-winnipeg/
Address: 123 Main Street, #146
Hours: Mon, Thu: 6 AM – 10 PM
Wed, Sun: 6 AM – 12:01 AM
Tue, Fri, Sat: 6 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (888) 842-7245
Union Station in downtown Winnipeg is one of Western Canada’s largest railway stations. This gorgeous structure has welcomed thousands of immigrants and was even designated a National Historic Site.
It’s a Beaux-Arts masterpiece, boasting a grand entrance and soaring ceilings. Be sure to visit during daylight hours when natural light streams into the grand hall.
For history buffs, guided tours offer a deeper dive into the station’s fascinating past and architectural details. Keep an eye on the schedule—you might even catch a special event or exhibit during your visit.
As a bonus, you can grab a quick coffee, pick up a souvenir, or enjoy a light meal at the station as well—perfect activities after a day of sightseeing.
| Pro Tip: Union Station’s parking is a bit tight, so plan ahead. If you’re driving, use the north parking lot but make sure to park in spots marked with pink parking numbers; all other spaces are reserved, so double-check to avoid a ticket! |
Winnipeg Art Gallery
– Media credit: wag_ca
Website: https://www.wag.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wag_ca/
Address: 300 Memorial Blvd
Hours: Wed – Sun: 11 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (204) 786-6641
The Winnipeg Art Gallery or WAG-Qaumajuq is a must-visit for art lovers. As one of Canada’s leading art museums, it’s home to the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art.
We recommend starting your visit on the first floor, which is always free! You can relax, enjoy a bite at Katita Cafe, shop for unique gifts at ShopWAG, and marvel at nearly 5,000 artworks on display in the Main Hall and the Visible Vault.
For fans of Canadian art, the museum boasts a rich collection of modern works. You’ll discover pieces by iconic groups like the Winnipeg Gallery and School of Art, Painters Eleven, and the Regina Five.
The WAG-Qaumajuq also has an impressive international collection featuring works by renowned artists like Marc Chagall, Eugène Boudin, Sol LeWitt, and Henry Moore.
| Pro Tip: You don’t have to look far for food with a view! Katita Cafe serves tasty bites and drinks, and you can enjoy them in three scenic spots: the main floor of the gallery, the outdoor patio on St. Mary Avenue, or the stunning Rooftop Sculpture Garden. |
Winnipeg’s Exchange District
– Media credit: the_muddy_waters
Website: https://www.tourismwinnipeg.com/plan-your-trip/neighbourhoods/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exchange-district-winnipeg-manitoba/
Address: Winnipeg
Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact: 311
Winnipeg’s Exchange District has beautifully preserved architecture and cobblestone streets that make it feel like you’ve stepped into another era.
If architecture is your thing, don’t miss out on a guided walking tour. These tours highlight the stunning early 20th-century warehouses, financial institutions, and even some of Canada’s first terracotta skyscrapers.
Art enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, too. The District is home to a variety of galleries, including the artist-run Martha Street Studio, the Cre8ery, and Gurevich Fine Art, which showcases incredible works by Diana Thorneycroft and Buffy Sainte-Marie.
Feeling hungry? Pop on over to Clementine’s, the go-to spot for an inventive, from-scratch breakfast that’s served all day—yum!
| Pro Tip: We just love heading to The Cube, a funky open-air stage in the heart of the district. It offers free performances during the Winnipeg International Jazz Festival and the Winnipeg Fringe Festival. |
Assiniboine Park
– Media credit: assiniboine_park
Website: https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assiniboine_park/
Address: 55 Pavilion Crescent
Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 927-6000
Assiniboine Park is one of Winnipeg’s largest and most beloved green spaces. Its beautiful tree-lined pathways and many attractions are why locals and visitors alike flock to this urban oasis.
Kids (and kids at heart!) will adore the Nature Playground, a whimsical space filled with unique features like branch-covered tunnels, pancake swings, and a long slide.
When it’s time for a break, head to the Assiniboine Park Café for all-day breakfast favorites, as well as hearty lunch options like fresh sandwiches, burgers, and salads. And if the weather’s nice, snag a seat on their seasonal patio for a meal with a view.
Don’t miss the Pavilion, where outdoor programming brings the park to life, from live performances to community events. Check the park’s website before your visit to see what’s on the schedule!
| Pro Tip: Assiniboine Park Zoo is a must-see, home to over 200 animal species showcased in naturalistic exhibits. Save or print a zoo guide before your visit so you can easily navigate all the amazing exhibits. |
Kildonan Park
– Media credit: gpodolec
Website: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parks/kildonan.stm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kildonan-park/
Address: 2015 Main St
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: +1 877-311-4974
Kildonan Park is a go-to destination in Winnipeg. Spanning over 200 acres, the park boasts beautifully manicured gardens, winding paths, and tranquil ponds.
For families, the park offers two awesome play areas designed with kids in mind—one for tiny tots and another for elementary-age adventurers.
One of its most unique attractions is the whimsical witch’s hut, a replica straight out of Hansel and Gretel. It’s a quirky spot for photos and a little bit of fairy-tale magic.
Also, nature lovers can wander along paths that weave through lush greenery and alongside the serene Assiniboine River. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, like birds and squirrels!
| Pro Tip: Rainbow Stage’s summer performances are a treat for all ages, so plan ahead to snag tickets for a magical evening under the stars. |
The Manitoba Museum
– Media credit: manitobamuseum
Website: http://www.manitobamuseum.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manitobamuseum/
Address: 190 Rupert Ave
Hours: (204) 988-0576
Contact: Wed – Sun: 10 AM – 4 PM
The Manitoba Museum is the province’s largest not-for-profit heritage and science center, offering an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Nature and geology enthusiasts (like us!) will be thrilled to see the oldest rock in the world, discovered on an island in the Northwest Territories, 300 km north of Yellowknife.
For space lovers, the Planetarium is a must-see—it hosts mesmerizing shows that recreate the night sky, alongside astronomy programs. They even have special children’s shows, so it’s a great spot for families to explore the universe together.
Don’t forget to stop by the Science Gallery. It offers hands-on exhibits that let you test your engineering skills, build remote-controlled race cars, and learn about sustainability efforts like saving Lake Winnipeg.
| Pro Tip: Ask any Winnipegger about The Manitoba Museum, and they’ll likely rave about the NonSuch. This iconic replica of the ship that sailed between England and Hudson’s Bay in 1668-1669 is proudly displayed here, so don’t miss it! |
The Winnipeg Railway Museum
– Media credit: wpgrailmuseum
Website: https://wpgrailwaymuseum.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wpgrailmuseum/
Address: 123 Main St
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (204) 942-4632
Located within the historic Union Station, The Winnipeg Railway Museum is a must-visit. Operated by passionate volunteers from the Midwestern Rail Association Inc., this non-profit charity brings Canada’s rich railway heritage to life.
The museum’s crown jewel is the Countess of Dufferin, a magnificent steam locomotive built in 1872 and named after the wife of Canada’s Governor General.
The museum also spans two 750-foot-long tracks packed with actual trains and maintenance equipment. The platforms, meanwhile, are filled with fascinating displays, including artifacts, railway-related vehicles, and even fire trucks.
One of the museum’s coolest ongoing projects is a large HO-scale model railway. We just love watching the intricate details come to life as the project unfolds is a treat for visitors of all ages.
| Pro Tip: Don’t skip the gift shop, which has over 400 pre-owned HO train cars, locomotives, and building kits, perfect for model train enthusiasts. You’ll also find a variety of railway-themed souvenirs and memorabilia to remember your visit by. |
The Royal Canadian Mint
– Media credit: canadianmint
Website: https://www.mint.ca/en/visit-the-mint/winnipeg-mint
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianmint/
Address: 520 Lagimodiere Blvd
Hours: Tue – Sat: 9 AM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (204) 984-1144
As one of only two mints in Canada, Winnipeg’s Royal Canadian Mint offers a unique experience that’s as educational as it is awe-inspiring. This spot is definitely a must-see in our book.
One of the highlights of visiting the Mint is the 45-minute guided tour. Friendly and knowledgeable guides take you on a journey through the coin production process, and you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the bustling production floor.
The Mint building itself is a sight to behold. Its sleek, modern glass design sparkles under the prairie sun, but it’s at its most stunning during sunset when the warm orange glow of the sky reflects off its surface.
If you’re planning a visit, try to go on a weekday when the Mint is in production. You can see the machines in action and watch coins being made in real time, which we think is pretty cool.
| Pro Tip: After your tour, visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs, including collectible coins and keepsakes. You can also pick up official Canadian Mint products, like limited-edition coins or themed merchandise—perfect gifts or additions to any collection. |
Saint Boniface Cathedral
– Media credit: bahbthewriter
Website: http://www.cathedralestboniface.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/st-boniface-cathedral/
Address: 180 De La Cathedrale Ave
Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 12 PM, 1 PM – 4:30 PM
Contact: (204) 233-7304
Once the largest Roman Catholic cathedral in the region, St. Boniface Cathedral is a stunning example of French Romanesque architecture. Located just across the river from The Forks, the cathedral is at the heart of the French Quarter.
The cathedral’s iconic facade is one of the most photographed buildings in Winnipeg, with its dramatic, west-facing view across the Red River toward downtown.
Stroll through local shops selling delicious cheese and chocolates, browse art galleries, and in the summer, step back in time at Fort Gibraltar. Here, costumed actors bring to life the history of the voyageur era, adding a fun and educational twist to your visit.
We also like exploring the grounds surrounding the cathedral—home to one of Western Canada’s oldest Roman Catholic cemeteries.
| Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the Festival du Voyageur, Western Canada’s largest winter festival. Held annually in St. Boniface, the festival celebrates Franco-Manitoban culture and history. |