With a population of over 600,000, Winnipeg is renowned as the coldest city in Canada (despite its location in the south). It was formerly known as the coldest city on the planet.
The coldest temperature ever recorded in the city was -47.8°C (-54°F) in December 1879. This is due to its topography, which makes it vulnerable to polar highs. They are essentially Arctic high-pressure storms that bring in a lot of cold air. At the same time, Winnipeg experiences extremely hot and humid summers. So, if you visit in the summer, you won’t have to worry about the cold. And now it’s time to visit Winnipeg!
WALKING THROUGH THE HISTORICAL EXCHANGE DISTRICT
Winnipeg’s Exchange District is one of the city’s most recognizable and bustling neighborhoods. As well as its home to some of the greatest historical structures in Canada. Therefore it makes it ideal for sightseeing in Winnipeg. With its lovely brick facades and pillars, this neighborhood transports you back in time 100 years.
The Exchange is also known as the “Chicago of the North”. It is home to almost 150 landmark buildings constructed between 1880 and 1920. This is also Winnipeg’s cultural center, with a plethora of restaurants, coffee shops, galleries, and lifestyle retailers. These make it one of the best things to do in downtown Winnipeg.
This is a neighborhood you don’t want to miss if you’re searching for things to do in Winnipeg this weekend. Whether you’re seeking to shop, gaze up at the wonderful architecture. Or simply look for things to do in Winnipeg this weekend. If you’re interested in history and want to learn more about the gorgeous location, you can even take a guided tour of the historic district!
GO TO THE FORKS – Things to do in Winnipeg
The Forks is the confluence of two rivers, the Red River and the Assiniboine River. This, in fact, is the hub of Winnipeg. Here people go shopping at the Forks Market and eat at the numerous restaurants. Or you can listen to buskers and live music, and relax by the river.
In fact, indigenous people have used it as a meeting place for over 6,000 years. There’s also a water taxi service that lets you hop on a boat. It takes you down the river to other prominent city spots. This is a terrific area to get a sense of the city’s ambiance. It is also close to many other popular Winnipeg attractions. Including the Children’s Museum (one of the finest things to do with kids in Winnipeg) and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
EXPLORE THE CANADIAN HUMAN RIGHTS MUSEUM
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is located directly adjacent to the Forks. It is one of the best museums in Canada and one of the top Winnipeg attractions. This Manitoba museum, housed inside the city’s most outstanding architecturally beautiful edifice, invites visitors on a voyage of inspiration.
The structure is well-thought-out, with the entry traveling somewhat below into relative darkness. All the way up to the light-filled Tower of Hope with sweeping views of the city. It is the world’s only museum completely dedicated to human rights awareness and education. It inspires people from all over the world. Multisensory exhibitions look at human rights issues from a global perspective, but with a particularly Canadian viewpoint.
The emphasis is on Canada and its human rights difficulties throughout the years. There are also displays highlighting some of the worst human rights atrocities committed around the world. As well as inspirational people who have made a difference. This one-of-a-kind Canadian museum for human rights is unquestionably one of the best things to do in Winnipeg.
CHECK OUT THE ANIMALS AT ASSINIBOINE PARK AND THE ZOO
The Assiniboine Park Zoo is located right in the heart of Winnipeg’s most beautiful park. As a consequence, it allows visitors to engage with animals from all over the world. The Zoo is open all year and boasts over 80 park-like acres to explore. It has quickly become one of Winnipeg’s top tourist attractions.
One of the most popular creatures to observe originates in the same province. You can find Polar bears, muskoxen, Arctic foxes, wolves, and other northern species found in Northern Manitoba… It’s in the award-winning Journey to Churchill exhibit.
It is the world’s most comprehensive northern species exhibit of its kind. Looking through the glass to see a polar bear swim by has become an iconic symbol of Winnipeg’s Zoo. This is also one of the greatest Winnipeg family attractions.
In addition to exotic animals from around the world, Assiniboine Park is home to the McFeetors Heavy Horse Centre.
It spans 4.7 acres and contains a barn, pastures, paddocks, and a carriage shed. Visitors to the Zoo can take barn tours and learn about Manitoba’s pioneer era. At that time they used heavy horsepower in industries such as agriculture, forestry, mining, and road construction. For the little ones, there are even wagon rides.
If you’re looking for a little more adventure, this 5-night polar bear tour from Winnipeg will satisfy you. It will take you into the Canadian wilderness to see polar bears and other species in their native habitat. It is without a doubt one of the most thrilling things to do around Winnipeg.