Top 50 things to do to celebrate Winnipeg's 150th  - Esplanade Riel Bridge overlooking downtown Winnipeg (photo Mike Peters)

Esplanade Riel Bridge overlooking downtown Winnipeg (photo Mike Peters)

Top 50 things to do to celebrate Winnipeg's 150th

By: Staff Writer // June 3, 2024

Mark the city's century and a half with these must-do experiences in 2024 

On January 19, 1874, Winnipeg’s first City Council met. Back then, the main attraction for the city’s nearly 2,000 inhabitants was  a large muddy road connecting a handful of roughly assembled wood houses, along with the stone gate of Upper Fort Garry.   

Fast forward 150 years, now you have your pick of world-class attractions, performance groups, sports facilities, gardens, cultural centres, and vibrant neighbourhoods to savour — all of which are group travel approved.  

Here’s 50 uniquely Winnipeg experiences that your group will relish to help celebrate the city’s 150th. 

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1. Explore  Assiniboine Park, a cherished year-round destination where you can get nearly nose-to-nose with polar bears at the Zoo, walk underneath exotic plant life in The Leaf, stroll the English Garden's pathways, appreciate art at the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, and group dine in settings that showcase the Park’s ample greenspaces.   

2. Step back in time at the  Manitoba Museum where the province's rich history comes to life through fascinating exhibits, artifacts and replicas like the famed Nonsuch ketch, which you can all board.  

3. Reflect on human rights stories from around the globe at the  Canadian Museum for Human Rights and marvel at its stunning architecture inspired by the Canadian landscape. Thematic group tours available daily.  

4. Admire breathtaking Inuit art and contemporary masterpieces at  WAG-Qaumajuq, downtown’s internationally celebrated cultural hub.  

5. Explore  The Forks for a perfect blend of history, culture, cuisine, shopping and patio dining along the scenic riverside. In winter, take your group out on the ice to see (or skate to) our internationally assembled Warming Huts.  

6. Take a group tour that’s both literally and figuratively always on the money at the  Royal Canadian Mint, which produces millions of coins for countries around the world.  

7. Connect with nature and wildlife at  FortWhyte Alive where groups can paddle a voyageur canoe, hike, fish, go birding and embark on a bison safari.   

8. Takeoff into aviation history and explore vintage aircraft at the  Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, which has been welcoming visitors into its new, upgraded space since 2022.  

9. Be captivated by compelling storytelling and performances at the  Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, including The Play That Goes Wrong (October 16 – November 9, 2024), Little Women (November 20 – December 14, 2024) and Indecent (February 12 – March 8, 2025). 

10. Take a thematic tour of the  Exchange District's historic streets and alleyways, home to art, fashion, breweries, patios, history you won’t believe, and plenty of culinary delights. 

11. Get swept up by the joie de vivre of Saint-Boniface on a group tour with O Tours, where you can wine and dine, see famous sights like Louis Riel’s resting place, and learn of the rich history of the city’s French Quarter. 

12. Bask in the sun at  Winnipeg Folk Festival, a celebration of music, art, and community under the open sky of Birds Hill Provincial Park. Held annually in July.  

13. Enjoy a magical evening of musical theatre at  Rainbow Stage, nestled in the beautiful setting of Kildonan Park. Each summer the company stages at least two Broadway musicals, with one show suitable for all ages. 

14. Uncover the secrets of the  Manitoba Legislative Building on a tour filled with fascinating history, architecture, art, and design by Heartland International Travel & Tours. 

15. Witness the elegance and emotion of Canada’s  Royal Winnipeg Ballet, where every performance tells a powerful story through dance. Upcoming productions include Giselle (November 7 — 10, 2024), Nutcracker (December 20-23 & 26-28, 2024), and Jekyll & Hyde (March 6-10, 2025), with group seating available.  

16. Relish the unpredictability of live theatre at the  Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, an annual celebration of creativity, arts, and community that takes place every July in the Exchange District.  

17. Relax and rejuvenate in the saunas, steam rooms, and thermal pools of the Scandinavian-inspired  Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature. This open-air spa has it all, including excellent dining and tailored experiences for groups of up to 20.  

18. Immerse yourself in cultures from around the world at  Folklorama, the world’s largest and longest-running multicultural festival where group tours will bring you to three pavilions in one evening. Held every August throughout the city.   

19. Feel the excitement at a  Winnipeg Blue Bombers game, where Canadian football is on full display for passionate fans at Princess Auto Stadium.  

20. Challenge your group at  Activate Games, a Winnipeg original interactive gaming adventure that has conquered the world with its rooms that are like playing a real-life, 8-bit inspired video game. Groups can compete against each other as each Activate room –– be it ducking and dodging lasers, shooting futuristic hoops, or jumping across floor-is-lava type tiles –– will earn them points.  

21. Groove to the beats at the  Winnipeg Jazz Festival, showcasing both local talent and international stars. Annually every June, including plenty of free public shows on the outdoor Cube stage.  

22. Admire the city's creativity on a  West End Mural Tour, a colourful display of street art and community spirit in Winnipeg’s most worldly neighbourhood.  

23. Be moved by the powerful performances of the  Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, a staple of the city’s music scene whose repertoire includes classical, pop, live symphonic soundtracks, and holiday shows.  

24. Cheer on the  Winnipeg Sea Bears at Canada Life Centre as they ball in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) during their sophomore season.  

25. Discover Winnipeg's most incredible sites and stories aboard the  Winnipeg Trolley Company’s Heart of the Nation city tour, featuring highlights like Assiniboine Park, the Exchange District, and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. The guides are so engaging, while your group will love the games, trivia, and tales that reveal what makes the city truly special during the tour.  

26. Embrace diversity and inclusivity at the  Pride Winnipeg Festival, a vibrant and colourful celebration that unites the community in support of LGBTQ+ rights and achievements. Late May to early June annually.  

27. Try your luck and enjoy entertainment at  Club Regent Casino and McPhillips Station Casino, each offering a variety of games, events and experiences in a lively environment. Group packages and experiences available upon request.  

28. Celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage at  Manito Ahbee, a festival featuring music, art, culture and one of Turtle Island’s largest pow wows at Red River Exhibition Park. Annually in May.  

29. Root for the  Winnipeg Goldeyes and enjoy local food vendors, craft beer, and zesty entertainment at one of North America’s best little ball parks. Group tickets and game day tailored experiences always available too, including the opportunity for choir groups to perform before and during the game for the home crowd.  

30. Be transported by the powerful performances of  Manitoba Opera, where classic tales are brought to life with beautiful vocals and dramatic staging. 

31. Open doors to the city's architectural and historical wonders with  Doors Open Winnipeg, a weekend of discovery that invites you to explore hidden gems and celebrated landmarks. Annually in May.  

32. Laugh, think, and be entertained at  Prairie Theatre Exchange, known for its engaging productions including upcoming productions Bed & Breakfast (September 24 – October 6), Ponderosa Pine (November 5 – 17) and Raised by Women (April 1 – 13, 2025).  

33. Go ghost hunting with your group at Winnipeg’s most haunted haunts. The Winnipeg Trolley Company’s  The Haunted Winnipeg Tour is hosted by the Midnight Conductor, taking you spooky spots with ghostly histories like the Fort Garry Hotel and Seven Oaks House.  

34. Visit the iconic  Saint Boniface Cathedral, a symbol of Manitoba's Francophone and Métis heritage and resilience. 

35. Head out on the plains with the Prairie Dog Central Railway. Day trips on this historic steam train can include interactive bandits that just may board the train, while groups love visiting the charming little station at Grosse Isle.  

36. Take a  Splash Dash boat tour for a unique perspective on Winnipeg’s scenic waterways and landmarks. 

37. Dance for the Jumbotron at a  Manitoba Moose game where the excitement of AHL hockey is always accompanied with engaging fan activities. Group rates and packages always available.  

38. Experience the thrill of the  Red River Ex, with carnival rides, games, concerts and summer fun for your entire group. Annually in June.

39. Wander through art, light, and creative installations during  Nuit Blanche, Winnipeg’s all-night art event. Annually in late September.  

40. Feel the thunder of hooves at  Assiniboia Downs, where live horse racing and betting alongside delicious dining options make for an unforgettable day out. Group packages available. 

41. Lose yourself in the fun of  A Maze in Corn all year round, featuring mazes, a petting zoo and seasonal activities for all ages. 

42. Learn about the city’s rockin’ history during a  Magical Mystery History Tour. Join local music historian and author John Einarson on a mini bus as he tours you to spots where legends like Neil Young, The Guess Who and Joni Mitchell either grew up or started to make a name for themself.  Available for groups of 15 to 22.  

43. Step into history at  Upper Fort Garry, a key site in Manitoba’s founding story that features a dynamic Heritage Park with interpretive elements that illuminate the site's pivotal role in history. 

44. Be spellbound by  Shakespeare in the Ruins, where some of the Bards best plays (along with Shakespeare-inspired originals) are staged under open skies against the backdrop of the Trappist Monastery.  

45. Enjoy the sophisticated sounds of the  Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, a large group of Winnipeg-based musicians blending classic jazz with innovative arrangements. 

46. Race to excitement at  Grand Prix Amusements and Thunder Rapids, offering go-karting, miniature golf, bumper boats and batting cages for adrenaline seekers of all ages.  

47. Climb to new heights at  Vertical Adventures and The Hive, where indoor climbing walls offer challenges for both beginners and experts.  

48. Support  Valour FC and get caught up in the excitement of professional soccer in Winnipeg at Princess Auto Stadium.  

49. Explore the natural beauty and wildlife of  Oak Hammock Marsh, an ecological sanctuary that inspires and educates with more than 30 species of mammals, seven species of amphibians, and hundreds of bird species alongside many fish, reptiles, and invertebrates that call the wetland home. With massive voyageur canoes for rent, whole groups can glide through the wetlands together.  

50. Pursue pilsners and indulge in IPAs at the 20+  breweries and taprooms located throughout the city.

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