City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Photo: Visit Winnipeg (Facebook)

Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, Canada, sits along the Red and Assiniboine Rivers where it offers history, art, culture and outdoor adventure for boaters and travelers. Whether you’re searching for water-based recreation, sightseeing excursions or a relaxing stroll among historic architecture, keep reading to pick up some ideas to add to your itinerary.

The Forks

Photo: The Forks (Facebook)

A historic meeting place for more than 6,000 years, The Forks is a vibrant destination where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers converge. This area features unique shops, restaurants and museums, including The Forks Market and the Manitoba Children's Museum. In the winter, visitors can skate along the river trail. Summer offers outdoor concerts, scenic river walks and boat launches for Red River access.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Photo: Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Facebook)

One of Winnipeg’s most iconic landmarks, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) is a must-visit for anyone interested in social justice and history. The museum’s stunning architecture and interactive exhibits explore human rights issues from Canada and around the world.

Assiniboine Park and Zoo

Photo: Assiniboine Park Zoo (Facebook)

Assiniboine Park is one of Winnipeg’s most beautiful green spaces. It features lush gardens, walking trails and the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. The Assiniboine Park Zoo is home to the Journey to Churchill exhibit, where visitors can see polar bears swim overhead in a massive underwater viewing tunnel.

The Manitoba Museum

Photo: Manitoba Museum (Facebook)

For a deep dive into Manitoba’s history and natural wonders, the Manitoba Museum is the place to go. The museum features fascinating exhibits, including a full-scale replica of the 17th-century ship Nonsuch and immersive dioramas showcasing the province’s diverse ecosystems. It’s an excellent spot to visit while staying at marinas or private boat slips for rent near Winnipeg.

Royal Canadian Mint

Photo: Visit Winnipeg (Facebook)

Coin collectors and history lovers alike will appreciate a visit to the Royal Canadian Mint, where billions of coins for Canada and other countries are produced. Guided tours provide insights into the coin-making process and the history of currency in Canada.

Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg

Photo: Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg (Facebook)

Are you looking for a relaxing retreat from a private boat lift for rent? Visit Thermëa Spa Village Winnipeg, a Scandinavian-inspired spa offering outdoor thermal pools, saunas and soothing treatments. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the city.

FortWhyte Alive

Photo: Wikimedia/Teles/Public Domain

Nature lovers looking for an excursion from a private boat dock rental will enjoy FortWhyte Alive. This vast urban nature reserve features walking trails, lakes and wildlife such as bison and deer. Activities like canoeing, birdwatching and educational programs make it a great destination for all ages.

Photo: Wikimedia/Joe Passe/CC by SA 2.0

Art enthusiasts will love the Winnipeg Art Gallery, which is home to an impressive collection of Inuit art at Qaumajuq, the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit sculptures. The museum also features exhibitions showcasing Canadian and international artists.

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