With a broad range of landscapes, rich history, and various activities, Manitoba attracts tens of millions of visitors who come every year to witness what this marvelous Canadian province has to offer. When it comes to outdoor adventures, people enjoy unmissable experiences such as world-class fishing, snowmobiling, animal viewing, and so much more. Arts, culture, and history bring the past and present of Manitoba to life, with many unique facts to discover. Here are the top 10 day trips to take in Manitoba that will help visitors explore this magnificent Canadian region.
10 Provincial Parks
Manitoba is home to a plethora of protected areas that preserve natural and cultural treasures. There are over 80 parks in the region, and which one counts as a day excursion is determined by the traveler's penchant for driving. Birds Hill, more forested, and Grand Beach, the touristy park, are good options for those who don't like wandering too far outside the province's boundaries. Those with a little more guts can find a lovely site even further away in the Whiteshell or Duck Mountains.
- Recommended: It is preferable to reserve online through the park's official website to find the perfect destination for the ultimate adventures in nature.
9 The Forks
A Manitoba day trip list is incomplete without heading to The Forks. It's the city's typical green hangout place, with enough to do whether on a budget or not. Visitors could stroll through the many paths to take in the history that has unfolded at this spot where the Assiniboine and Red rivers meet. They can also explore and spend an hour or two at the Human Rights Museum before moving on to take part in other activities.
8 Lake of the Woods
People can rent a chalet and stay for a few days along the lake, while others can get up early to drive the 3.5 hours road because the area's lakes, streams, and islands are surely a canoeist and fisherman's dream. Kenora, a small town situated on the lake, has a good selection of dining and fishing options, and the Canadian flags flying from practically every home and lodge will make any patriot cry.
7 Outlet Shopping In The U.S.A
Many Manitobans' favorite day outings include a journey down south, where fast food comes in larger portions and brand names are cheaper. Fargo and Grand Forks, located in North Dakota and approximately 3 hours away, are popular shopping destinations for the middle class.
6 Churchill
This one is a bit of a detour from Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, but it's well worth it if one can get there. With approximately 900 habitants, Churchill is known for its polar bears, whales, and magical northern lights. The best time to visit depends on what one wants to see. The months of July and August are the best for seeing Beluga whales. Polar bears are visible in October and November, and the magical northern lights in the months of February and March.
- Recommended: To take full advantage of this town, the best is to plan a multi-day trip to fully enjoy its mystic natural wonders and wildlife.
5 Canoe Trip In Remote Manitoba For A Few Days
Manitoba is one of those regions where diverse modes of transportation are best for getting around. In reality, Manitoba offers the best canoeing experiences in the country. This activity along one of the province's many rivers allows one to see some of the region's most untouched and pure wilderness.
- Tip: Visitors can book a canoe trip with Twin River Travel which multi-day trips for all skill levels
4 Beach Day at the Grand Beach Provincial Park
The eastern side of Lake Winnipeg, Canada's sixth-largest lake, is home to the Grand Beach Provincial Park. Surprisingly, pristine beaches with white sands and grassy dunes reaching as high as 8 meters (30 feet) can be found there, making it one of North America's best beaches. About 100 kilometers north of Winnipeg, this park is a fantastic area to swim and windsurf. Aside from watersports, the Spirit Rock Trail and the Ancient Beach Trail are two of the park's hiking paths. There are various picnic places as well as camping sites.
3 Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site
The Hudson's Bay Company established the Lower Fort Garry on the western bank of the Red River in 1830, some 32 kilometers north of the original Fort Garry (where Winnipeg currently stands), after the latter was destroyed by disastrous floods in 1826. Visitors can take their time to stroll through Canada's oldest collection of stone fur trade buildings and imagine life as a trapper or merchant. These are just a handful of travel possibilities.
2 The Osborne Village
While many proclaim Osborne Village to be "Canada's Best Neighborhood," this pearl of a town is a must-visit for all travelers. Many of Winnipeg's upcoming and established artists call this neighborhood their home, and it is one of the city's most densely populated areas. Visitors can enjoy the public art or take a ride on a bike on one of Manitoba's busiest roads.
1 Gimli
With its charming neighborhood and history, Gimli is the perfect destination for people who love crowds and some loud vibes. The best time to visit the heart of Manitoba's Interlake region is during its annual Icelandic Festival or film festival.