Winnipeg Winter Escape

Today, discover Winnipeg's most iconic gathering place, The Forks. During winter, this historic meeting place transforms into a spectacular snowy playground. Lace up a pair of skates and glide along the world's longest naturally frozen skating trail as it winds along the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Along the route, admire the unique warming huts, internationally acclaimed for their innovative architecture and design, before skating beneath a canopy of twinkling lights after dark.Warm up inside The Forks Market, where you'll find an excellent selection of local restaurants, craft beer and wine, artisan shops and Manitoba-made gifts.Seasonal Highlight (February 12–21, 2027):
Guests travelling during these dates may wish to spend the evening at Festival du Voyageur, Western Canada's largest winter festival. Celebrate the region's French-Canadian and Métis heritage with live music, traditional cuisine, maple taffy, impressive snow sculptures and lively cultural performances in Winnipeg's historic French Quarter of St. Boniface.

Spend the morning at Assiniboine Park Zoo, home to the internationally acclaimed Journey to Churchill exhibit. This immersive Arctic experience offers the opportunity to see polar bears swimming overhead through an underwater viewing tunnel, alongside muskoxen, Arctic foxes, snowy owls and other northern wildlife in thoughtfully designed natural habitats inspired by Churchill, Manitoba.This afternoon, trade snow for tropical warmth at The Leaf, one of Winnipeg's newest attractions. Wander through beautifully curated indoor biomes featuring lush tropical plants, Mediterranean landscapes, seasonal floral displays and Canada's tallest indoor waterfall. Complete your visit in the butterfly garden, where colourful butterflies flutter freely through the tropical surroundings.

Gain a deeper understanding of Manitoba's rich Indigenous heritage during the Those Who Made the Winter - Indigenous Winter Survival Tour. Led by Indigenous guides, this fascinating walking experience explores how the First Peoples of this land survived and flourished through thousands of winters, sharing stories of innovation, community and resilience while exploring Nestaweya, the historic meeting place of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers.Later, visit the Winnipeg Art Gallery - Qaumajuq, home to the world's largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art. Explore thousands of remarkable carvings displayed within the striking three-storey Visible Vault and discover exhibitions celebrating Indigenous artists from across Canada.

Embrace the beauty of a Manitoba winter with a visit to FortWhyte Alive, one of Winnipeg's premier outdoor nature destinations. Upon arrival, stop by the Alloway Reception Centre, where friendly staff can help you make the most of your visit. Rent a pair of snowshoes and venture out onto the frozen expanse of Lake Devonian, exploring peaceful snow-covered trails and open landscapes while keeping an eye out for local wildlife.After your outdoor adventure, warm up at the Buffalo Stone Café, where you can relax with a hot drink, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch or indulge in a sweet treat while overlooking the picturesque winter scenery.Before leaving, experience one of FortWhyte Alive's most popular winter attractions, the Richardson Rrrun. Borrow a sled and make your way to the top for sweeping views across the frozen lake before enjoying an exhilarating ride back down onto the snow below. Fun for both adults and children, it's the perfect way to round off your winter adventure.
For those looking to continue their winter adventure, consider visiting the Snow Maze. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest snow maze, this seasonal attraction features giant snow sculptures, tubing, snow games, bonfires, a giant luge run and the unique Snow Bar, perfect for warming up with a hot chocolate or winter cocktail.

Your winter escape comes to an end today. Make your own way to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport for your onward journey, taking home unforgettable memories of Manitoba's snowy landscapes, vibrant culture and uniquely Canadian winter experiences.