12 Best Weekend Getaways Near Winnipeg Recommended by Outdoorsy Locals
It’s been a long week. Whether it was tackling work deadlines or endless errands, you just know you’ve earned a little escape.
And what better way to recharge than with a weekend getaway, either solo, with your loved one, or making memories with the family?
Lucky for you, Winnipeg is surrounded by amazing spots. From lakeside cabins for couples to family-friendly adventures in nature, there’s nothing like a quick escape to reset and reconnect.
So, if you’re ready to treat yourself and your crew, here are the best weekend getaways near Winnipeg—because you deserve it!
Gimli
– Media credit: exploregimli
Website: https://www.gimli.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exploregimli/
Address: West Side of Lake Winnipeg
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 642-6650
Just an hour outside Winnipeg, Gimli is the ultimate spot for a weekend getaway. Sitting on the west side of Lake Winnipeg, it’s the largest Icelandic settlement outside Iceland (seriously cool, right?) and totally lives up to its name, “Home of the Gods.”
Start your day at Gimli Beach, a Blue Flag-certified gem where you can swim, windsurf, sail, or just chill by the water. Feeling artsy? Take a stroll along the Sea Wall at Gimli Harbour to check out murals painted by local artists.
Don’t miss Harbour Park, known to the locals as Bill’s Hill. It’s a scenic little spot with views of Lake Winnipeg and even a replica Viking sod hut; and right at the base of the hill, near 2nd Avenue, is a huge Viking statue.
Afterward, we recommend swinging by Amma’s Tea Room & Gift Shop on 1st Avenue for a cup of tea with fresh scones and Icelandic-inspired menu items—yum!
| Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in the winter, head north to Camp Morton Provincial Park for some amazing cross-country skiing. Snowmobiles aren’t allowed, but you can easily get there via the old Rail Trail—trust me, it’s totally worth it! |
Whiteshell Provincial Park
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Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/eastern/whiteshell.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explorethewhiteshell/
Address: Hwy 1, Eastern Manitoba
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: +1 866-626-4862
Whiteshell Provincial Park is located in eastern Manitoba, a four-season playground that offers rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and the fresh scent of pine in the air.
Dive into Meteorite Lake, where swimmers and scuba divers can explore its unique underwater beauty. For families, it’s one of nature’s best playgrounds with plenty of sandy beaches to build castles on and trails to explore.
Anglers will be spoiled for choice with over 200 lakes—test your skills by catching northern pike, bass, walleye, or even rainbow trout. And keep an eye out for some furry and feathered locals too!
When it comes to where to stay, you can pitch a tent at a private waterfront campsite, book a family-friendly cabin, or splurge on a resort by the beach.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Owl Wing Nordic Centre at Falcon Trails Resort—their hand-crafted coffee menu is a must-try. Order a cozy London fog or treat yourself to a frothy cappuccino while soaking up those gorgeous Whiteshell views! |
Riding Mountain National Park
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Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/riding
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riding-mountain-national-park/
Address: 135 Wasagaming Dr, Onanole
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 848-7275
Just a few hours from Winnipeg lies Riding Mountain National Park, an incredible park that boasts peaceful grasslands and dense wilderness, all in one spot.
Hiking here is an absolute dream, with trails for every level. Challenge yourself on rugged backcountry paths or take it easy on a scenic stroll through the boreal forest.
For a little extra adventure, check out the bison tour and get up close to these majestic creatures, or try your hand at geocaching. You can also saddle up for a horseback ride across the park’s backcountry trails.
When it’s time to wind down, you can camp at Wasagaming Campground, rent a charming yurt or an oTENTik, or book the Cairns Cabin if you’re visiting in the winter.
| Pro Tip: During winter, you can ski or snowshoe through the park’s snowy wonderland! Rentals are available at Elkhorn Resort, the Friends of Riding Mountain Learning Centre, and McCreary Ski and Outdoor Club. |
Paint Lake Provincial Park
– Media credit: travelmanitoba
Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/park-maps-and-locations/northeast/paint.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paint-lake-provincial-park/
Address: 59 Elizabeth Drive, Thompson
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 677-6653
Paint Lake Provincial Park is a true outdoor playground with activities centered around the beautiful Paint Lake.
In the summer, the marina, hiking trails, boat launches, and even baseball diamonds make it a hotspot for fun. Plus, Paint Lake is famous for its walleye and northern pike, so don’t forget your fishing gear!
When winter rolls around, the area transforms into a snow globe. From cross-country skiing and tobogganing to exploring the park’s extensive snowmobile tracks, it’s easy to see why snowmobilers love this place.
As for accommodations, stay at one of the electrically serviced or basic campsites at Paint Lake or Lakeview campgrounds, or go off the grid with a backcountry campsite.
| Pro Tip: For canoe enthusiasts craving a challenge, the historic Grass River Canoe Route is a must—paddle through rapids, waterfalls, and the islands dotting Paint Lake! |
Pisew Falls Provincial Park
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Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/northeast/pisew.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pisew-falls-provincial-park/
Address: MB-6, Mystery Lake
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 677-6648
Pisew Falls Provincial Park’s name was inspired by the Cree word for the hiss of a lynx—kind of like the sound of water that greets you as you approach the falls.
Speaking of falls, the Grass River drops 13 meters (42.7 feet), changes direction, and jets through a dramatic gorge. Head to the observation platforms; it’s the kind of spot that makes you stop and appreciate nature’s raw energy.
Now, if you’re up for a challenge, the Upper Track Trail is a must-try for seasoned hikers. This rugged backcountry trail—used for thousands of years by Indigenous peoples and early fur traders—demands good physical fitness and preparation.
For those looking to extend their stay, the park offers backcountry camping at the end of the trail loop. Just remember to bring your essentials, including toilet paper.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to take all your garbage with you and toss it in the parking lot garbage cage on your way out. Let’s keep this beautiful spot just as stunning for the next round of adventurers! |
Brandon
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Website: https://www.brandon.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cityofbrandon/
Address: Manitoba
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: https://brandon.ca/city-contact/contact-us
Brandon, sitting pretty along the Assiniboine River, is the perfect getaway spot for history buffs—enjoy national and provincial heritage sites, as well as quirky museums.
Start your adventure with the Assiniboine Riverbank Trail, a picturesque mix of forested paths and paved walkways that lead you right into the heart of Brandon’s downtown.
For a dose of nostalgia, swing by the Carousels and Dolls Doll Museum. It’s packed with an impressive collection of dolls—including vintage Barbies and timeless 20th-century gems.
Plus, don’t miss the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, a must-visit for World War II enthusiasts. Located in a historic hangar, this museum brings the bravery and sacrifice of the RCAF to life.
| Pro Tip: Make time for the Westman Reptile Gardens, another Manitoba Star Attraction. With over 300 creatures—from massive pythons to tiny geckos and even poison dart frogs—this place is a hit with kids and adults alike. |
La Riviere
– Media credit: travelmanitoba
Website: https://pembina.ca/m/la-riviere
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la-riviere-manitoba/
Address: Pembina Valley
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: [email protected]
Tucked in the scenic Pembina Valley, La Riviere is home to Manitoba’s oldest ski resort, Holiday Mountain Resort. For decades, ski enthusiasts have flocked here, and it’s no wonder—the resort still offers top-notch downhill and cross-country trails.
Nature lovers and shutterbugs, you’re in for a treat—the area is teeming with wildlife, making it a hotspot for hunters and photographers alike.
You can also set up camp at La Riviere Campground, which has 14 well-treed serviced sites right along the Pembina River. Each site comes with electrical and water service, along with picnic tables and fire pits for that classic camping vibe.
The campground’s picnic shelter even has a commercial-sized BBQ to keep your crew well-fed. Imagine having dinner with the valley views as your backdrop—just wow!
| Pro Tip: Don’t leave La Riviere without snapping a photo at the iconic Wild Turkey statue—a quirky piece of local history and the perfect way to remember your trip! |
Churchill
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Website: https://www.churchill.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofchurchill/
Address: Manitoba
Hours: Mon – Sat: Open 24 hours
Contact: (204) 675-8871
For a weekend getaway that feels like stepping into another world, Churchill is the ultimate destination. Sitting 1,000 kilometers north of Winnipeg, this remote gem is famously known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World.
As a bonus, they’re not just about polar bears—beluga whales steal the show in the summer. Over 57,000 of these playful white whales migrate into Hudson Bay each year, with 4,000 swimming right into the Churchill River Estuary.
If the wildlife hasn’t sold you yet, the northern lights definitely will. With auroras visible up to 300 nights a year, Churchill is one of the best spots on Earth for a celestial show.
We recommend staying at one of the cozy hotels or eco-lodges in the area, where you can stargaze at night or just soak in the breathtaking Arctic landscapes.
| Pro Tip: Churchill’s remote location means there are no roads to get here. You’ll need to hop on a plane or train for your journey north, but believe me—the adventure is worth every kilometer! |
Kenora
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Website: https://www.kenora.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecityofkenora/
Address: Lake of the Woods, Ontario
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: 807-467-2000
For an easy weekend getaway just two hours from Winnipeg, Kenora has everything you need to escape the hustle. Nestled on the north shore of the stunning Lake of the Woods, this friendly town delivers big on natural beauty and relaxation.
Kick off your adventure with a cruise aboard the MS Kenora. This 2 to 2.5-hour boat tour takes you through scenic channels, past Coney Island Beach, and returns via Devil’s Gap.
Rushing River Provincial Park is also a must-visit. Spend your day canoeing, wading in the clear waters, or just relaxing with a picnic.
Before you head home, stop by the Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre. With its rotating displays, this spot is a hub for everything “Lake of the Woods.”
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Heritage Townscapes Project murals scattered across Kenora. These 21 murals, painted on building sides, tell the stories of the town’s history. Grab a map from the Tourist Information Centre and turn your trip into a mural-hunting adventure! |
Duck Mountain Provincial Park
– Media credit: trailsoftoba
Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/park-maps-and-locations/western/duck.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duck-mountain-provincial-park-manitoba/
Address: Highway 57, MB-366
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: +1 204-734-3429
Located in the heart of the Duck Mountain Provincial Forest, this park is a stunning blend of forested hills, wetlands, valley meadows, and lakes. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Manitoba’s wilderness is so special.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that it’s home to black bears, moose, white-tailed deer, and even lynxes and wolves. Imagine spotting a moose while you sip your morning coffee by the lake or hearing wolves howling in the distance!
Camping here is also a treat, with four campgrounds offering a mix of basic and electrical sites. If you’re looking for something unique, try staying in one of the yurts.
Planning a group trip? Blue Lake and Childs Lake have group campsites ideal for a weekend with friends or family. And if tents aren’t your thing, there are rental cabins and full-service lodges available as well.
| Pro Tip: Listen up, anglers—Duck Mountain is a fishing paradise, with lakes teeming with walleye, northern pike, lake trout, Arctic char, and more. Bring your fishing gear and spend the day reeling in some of the best catches Manitoba has to offer! |
Niagara Falls
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Website: https://niagarafalls.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niagarafalls/
Address: Ontario
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: 905-356-7521
For a weekend getaway that’s as iconic as it is unforgettable, Niagara Falls is hard to beat. This natural wonder is made up of three jaw-dropping waterfalls: Horseshoe, Bridal Veil, and American Falls.
One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of the region is along the Niagara Parkway. Stroll the promenade at the brink of the falls for up-close views from Table Rock Welcome Centre to Hornblower Niagara Cruises Plaza.
Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, with gardens blooming and the river at peak flow. Fall offers lovely autumn foliage, while winter gives you snow-dusted landscapes and the glistening frozen mist from the falls.
As for activities, go hiking in Niagara Glen, take a thrilling Whirlpool Jet Tour on the Niagara River, or head to Niagara-on-the-Lake for a wine tour!
| Pro Tip: We suggest skipping the massive summer crowds by visiting in mid-May to mid-June or early September to early October. These shoulder seasons still offer great weather and fully open attractions but with fewer people. |
Banff National Park
– Media credit: visit.banff
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visit.banff/
Address: Alberta
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: [email protected]
Banff National Park is Canada’s first and oldest national park, and it’s also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No wonder it’s on every travel guru’s must-visit list!
This place is a year-round gem, but the best time to visit is from mid-June to mid-October, especially if winter isn’t your vibe. During these months, the weather is perfect for exploring the park’s stunning landscapes.
You can canoe on turquoise lakes, take a guided float tour to marvel at the hoodoos, or hike trails that lead to some of the most incredible viewpoints you’ll ever see.
And for an authentic experience, we recommend staying at one of the park’s campgrounds or lodges.
| Pro Tip: Deciding where to stay? Choose Banff Town if you want a base for exploring day trips to Yoho and Kootenay National Parks. If you’re after a quieter retreat, opt for accommodations near Lake Louise. |