The name ‘Winnipeg’ means ‘muddy water’ in the aboriginal Cree dialect spoken by many indigenous people across Canada. However, the city of Winnipeg got its name from Lake Winnipeg. Today, it is the largest city of Canada’s Manitoba province. Located at the bottom of the Red River Valley, this city is also known as the ‘Gateway to the West’.
It is quite multicultural in nature and hosts some exciting annual festivals such as the Jazz Winnipeg Festival and Folklorama. While exploring this majestic city, you’ll come across some of its popular tourist attractions. Here, we’ve listed the most fascinating ones among them:
1. The Manitoba Museum
One of the major highlights of this museum is a Pliosaur fossil, which is 95 million years old. This museum is devoted mainly to the human and natural history of the Manitoba province. It features nine permanent galleries showcasing the best of what Manitoba has to offer.
On the domed screen of the interactive Science Gallery and Planetarium, you can witness the vastness of the night sky. Among the popular exhibits is Nonsuch, which is a replica ketch sailing ship used in the 17th century. Upon hopping on board, you’ll get to see all areas of the ship.
2. Fort Whyte Alive
This is an interpretive center that houses an aquarium and some nature exhibits such as the burrowing owls. Fort Whyte Alive is spread over a vast area of 259 hectares. It is famous for its five lakes, bog boardwalks, and grassy parkland. As you begin exploring its surroundings, you’ll get to see the bison herd and bird-feeding stations.
While you’re at the prairie dog town, you can watch the prairie dogs in action. You’ll also have a memorable experience on the walking and cycling trails that span seven kilometers. If you’re visiting this place during summer, you can take the sailing and paddling courses taught on the small lakes.
3. St. Boniface Cathedral
The oldest cathedral in western Canada, St. Boniface Cathedral was founded in the early 19th century. It is one of the finest examples of French Romanesque architecture. Owing to some instances of fire over the years, it was rebuilt several times.
The cathedral also has a cemetery, which is the oldest Catholic burial ground in Western Canada. You’ll find many old gravestones of the first settlers here. Some of them are of prominent people who lived here in those days. You can also visit the St. Boniface Museum near the cathedral.
4. Corydon Avenue
You’ll be delighted to visit this tree-lined street, which has small, trendy shops and restaurants. This is a place where many locals arrive to unwind and enjoy some pleasant moments. The main area stretches from Daly Street to Harrow Street. As this is a busy area, parking can be a bit challenging at times. Many of the restaurants here offer a wide range of cuisines.
You’ll also get to witness some street art, such as eight large metal figures. They represent the countries of Greece, Italy, Scotland, France, Spain, Argentina, Japan, and Ukraine. On most Friday and Saturday nights, concerts are held at this place featuring many talented musicians.