Located smack in the middle of Canada, Winnipeg was once a contender to be Canada’s national capital. Winnipeg may have lost out on that distinction, but the city is one of the most family-friendly in Canada. Summers are a dream here, but the abundance of cultural and family attractions make it an attractive city break destination any time of year. Here are five fun and educational things to do in Winnipeg with kids.
The exterior of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights resembles the folded wings of a dove. (Photo credit: CMHR)
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
You can’t miss this museum in Winnipeg. Not only is it the world’s first museum dedicated to human rights, but also it's an architectural marvel. This towering structure of glass, stone and steel has changed the city’s skyline. It houses 11 thought-provoking galleries, which define the concept of human rights and propose methods for protecting them. More a hub for learning and discovery center than stuffy museum, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a destination for dialog. While historical events are revealed here through interactive exhibits, don’t be surprised if a visit here ignites your children’s sense of justice.
The natural playground at Assiniboine Park inspires creative play (Photo credit: Assiniboine Park Conservancy)
Assiniboine Park
Despite covering a massive area (over 1,100 acres), you won’t need to worry about carrying the kids through this woodland area. A double-decker bus shuttles families past acres of trees, over gently rolling hills and through English gardens during the summer months. You’ll probably spend most of your time at the Nature Playground, inspired by that classic board game: Snakes and Ladders (Chutes and Ladders in the US). Adults will have to duck to enter through the child-sized door to get to the willow tree tunnels, crow’s nest ropes and serpent slides, but it’s worth it. Be sure to pack towels as there’s a water (and sand) play area.
Say hello to the rescued polar bears at Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg (Photo Credit: Assiniboine Park Conservancy)
Journey to Churchill at Assiniboine Park Zoo
While the zoo is set in Assiniboine Park, it’s truly a destination in its own right. Featuring over 2,000 animals including red kangaroos, African black-footed penguins and two new snow leopard cubs, the big draw is the newly opened Journey to Churchill. This cool exhibit focuses on northern species that call Canada home and educates youngsters on the effects of climate change in the Arctic. Let me tell you, having polar bears swim over top of you in the underwater viewing tunnels is a surreal experience that can’t be missed. Nor can crawling through the Polar Playground, especially if you fancy stepping on a moving ice-mass floor that responds to footsteps. A fun way to navigate your way though the site is with the Zoo Explorer Program. Kids can check off the animals and exhibits they’ve seen to receive an official Zoo Explorer card.
Anyone can participate in bird banding and release at Oak Hammock Marsh (Photo credit: Jody Robbins)
Oak Hammock Marsh
Outdoorsy families can spread their wings at Oak Hammock Marsh, a reclaimed conservation center just outside the city. Over 300 species of fowl can be found here, representing more than half the number of species in Canada. Kids can assist in important research by capturing, banding and releasing birds back into nature. During bird banding activities, naturalists teach guests how to identify birds and why this wetland wonderland is such an important stop on the migratory path.
If water fowl is your thing, canoes are available for gentle paddles. On the water, you’ll learn voyager songs and view plenty of marsh cattails on the journey. There’s also a cafe with a bird’s eye view of the marsh and a lush rooftop garden that guests can wander through. But this place isn’t just for the birds. Kids have a hoot trying to catch the 10 different species of frogs and toads that are hopping all over the place.
5 Fun Things to Do in Winnipeg with Kids – It's easy to get into the groove at the Variety Heritage Adventure Park at the Forks (Photo credit: Parks Canada)
Variety Heritage Adventure Park at the Forks
A National Historic Site, Variety Heritage Adventure Park brings the region’s 6,000 year history to life. Within the six themed zones representing historic Winnipeg, you’ll find a trading post, climbing wall, and an ox cart slide. Families can cool off from the hot prairie sun at the spray pad or dip their toes in the trickling stream that sluices through the playground. And don’t worry about packing snacks. The Forks Market has dozens of food stalls that are easy on the wallet.
Which of these Winnipeg with kids activities would appeal most to your family? Let us know in the comments below!
A Note from The Saucy Travel Mama: Thank you Tourism Winnipeg for hosting my stay. As always, my opinions are my own.
About Jody Robbins, The Saucy Travel Mama
I can’t even tell you how happy I am to see one about Canada. I feel like it’s an unsung hero where travel blogs are concerned, and that is totally without merit. Thank you for your insight Jody, it’s duly appreciated by my family and we’ll be putting Winnipeg at the top of our list!
So now I’m feeling a tad guilty, as three of us Travel Mamas are from the Great White North. Are there any particular destinations you’d like to learn more about or see covered? Thanks so much for your feedback, Luke!