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Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, and the very centre of both Canada and North America, is a city that I actually never would have planned to visit, and for that, I'm embarrassed, because this amazing metropolis features a national museum, some of the friendliest Canadians I've ever encountered, and a food scene that deserves a ton of attention. After we finished our icy adventures with Mercedes-Benz in Gimli, which is one hour north of the capital, we checked into the Fairmont Winnipeg and explored the city. Today, I am sharing my top five spots you absolutely have to visit when you're in Winnipeg.
“Winnipeg is the capital and largest city of Manitoba, Canada. It is located near the longitudinal centre of North America, at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers.
The Winnipeg area was a trading centre for Aboriginal peoples prior to the arrival of Europeans. The first fort was built there in 1738 by French traders. A settlement was later founded by the Selkirk settlers in 1812, the nucleus of which was incorporated as the City of Winnipeg in 1873.” -- Wikipedia
IN GENEROUS PARTNERSHIP WITH
TOURISM WINNIPEG & FAIRMONT WINNIPEG
- the fairmont winnipeg -
After experiencing the Fairmont signature hospitality and service in London, Toronto, Marrakech , Calgary, and Ottawa, we didn't even think twice before choosing the Fairmont Winnipeg as our home base to explore Winnipeg. Its ideal location on Portage and Main, one of this historic centres of the city, makes it the perfect spot to walk to all the hotspots, even in the winter. The comfortable beds and lush bathrobes paled in comparison to the warm service and friendly demeanor of everyone we encountered here!
- the forks market -
Walking distance from the Fairmont Winnipeg is The Forks, a vibrant and multiuse district in downtown that has 6000 years of history serving as a sacred and important meeting place for Indigenous peoples, followed by European fur traders, Scottish settlers, railway pioneers and tens of thousands of immigrants. It features tons of different things to do, but our favourite was definitely The Forks Market - what was once horse stables is now a vibrant food hall featuring local favourites and little boutiques.
- Canadian Museum for Human Rights -
This physically impressive space is only five years old but already frames the Winnipeg landscape. It’s one of two national museums that aren’t in Ottawa, and the founders of CMHR worked hard to get its current status. It’s also the worlds only museum dedicated to human rights. Daunting in its stature and the subject matter it covers, it is a beautifully finished experience. From incredibly interactive galleries inside covering a wide range of human rights stories, issues, and current topics, it’s a must see in Winnipeg. My favourite part was the very respectful and apparent focus on the indigenous peoples whose land we inhabit and the respect owed to them, first and foremost.
- thermëa by nordik spa-nature -
After visiting our first every Nordik spa in Quebec back in November, we finally understand all the hype around them. Totally chilled out (literally sometimes), the cycling principles of hot-cold-rest is the perfect way to unwind from travelling and exploring. The Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature is a quick 20 minute drive from downtown Winnipeg, and features a restaurant and amazing spa facilities.
- velvet glove restaurant -
Literally everyone who has been to Winnipeg can attest to its insane culinary scene, and now, we are believers! Although the Velvet Glove is located right in the lobby of the Fairmont Winnipeg, its definitely worth it's own spot on this list as it was some of the best food we've ever had. Fresh, local ingredients presented in uncomplicated dishes made for unpretentious and warm dining. The service was top notch and the white table cloth meets wood burning fireplace was such a beautiful ambiance!
My first time in Winnipeg, Manitoba will certainly not be my last - the charm of the city has us convinced we have to return. And if for nothing more, then for their famous cinnamon buns which were available to order everywhere! Have you been to Manitoba's capital? If not, will you now?
