Are you searching for fun things to do in Winnipeg with kids? Winnipeg is a city that offers rich experiences that cater to families of all shapes and sizes.
From educational museums and historical sites to nature parks and interactive exhibits, the city is brimming with fun things to do for kids.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 fun things to do in Winnipeg with kids. From museums to walking trails and delicious dinners, I promise you’ll have a memorable experience with your entire family.
P.S. This article is made in collaboration with Tourism Winnipeg and Travel Manitoba. We are incredibly grateful they hosted us for our stay. It allowed me to write a deeper and more quality review. Note that all opinions are our own.
Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost. Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you.
1. Assiniboine Park Zoo
The Assiniboine Park Zoo offers families a unique blend of education and entertainment. Covering over 80 acres, the zoo is home to various animals from around the globe. The highlight of the Assiniboine Park Zoo is definitely the Journey to Churchill exhibit. In this indoor and outdoor exhibit, you can see polar bears, Arctic foxes, and wolves in a setting that mimics their natural habitat. You can also learn about life in the Arctic in Churchill, MB.
It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to wildlife conservation and the importance of biodiversity.
PRO-TIP when visiting the Assiniboine Park Zoo with Kids
The zoo is big and it’s a lot of walking. I recommend bringing a travel stroller (or renting one from the zoo). My kids are 5 and 7 years old, and it was great to have a stroller (we rented one). The kids could relax their legs occasionally, and I could put all our stuff in the stroller.
You can also ride the free train across the zoo. It’s a great way to see some zoo sections you don’t have time to see before leaving.
2. The Leaf at Assiniboine Park
The Leaf is an indoor botanical garden that offers a year-round escape into nature. It’s divided into four distinct biomes:
- the Hartley and Heather Richardson Tropical biome,
- the Mediterranean Biome,
- the Babs Asper Display House, and
- the Shirley Richardson Butterfly Garden.
This unique botanical garden showcases a variety of plants from tropical, Mediterranean, and other climates. The centerpiece of this place is Canada’s tallest indoor waterfall, a spectacle sure to captivate children and adults alike.
The kids loved spending (a lot) of time in the Shirley Richardson Butterfly Garden. Many butterflies are flying freely in the garden and sometimes landing on you.
Also, when exploring the main biome, the Hartley and Heather Richardson Tropical Biome, participate in the unofficial scavenger hunt and search for the little pineapple.
The Leaf is an excellent opportunity for families to learn about plant life from different regions, making it both an educational and visually stunning experience. Plus, the architecture of the building is amazing.
3. Nature Playground at Assiniboine Park
The Nature Playground at Assiniboine offers a fun place for families to enjoy the great outdoors and most importantly, for kids to burn off all the extra energy.
You’ll find some playground modules, including fun slides and sand bins. It’s also at one of the entrances to the Nature Playground (where you see the “Nature Playground” sign) that you can see the famous statue of Winnie the Bear.
There is also a lovely little garden and some nature walks. Don’t miss the tiny door when exiting the playground towards the Pavillion.
Here is the map of Assiniboine Park if you want to explore more of this park.
4. Winnie the Pooh Exhibit at Assiniboine Park
One of the most enchanting stops at Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg has to be the “Winnie the Pooh Gallery” at the Pavilion. This charming exhibit takes you on a nostalgic journey back to your childhood, celebrating the world-famous bear named Winnie.
A real-life bear cub from Winnipeg inspired Winnie the Pooh, hence why he was named “Winnie”. The gallery showcases original sketches, manuscripts, and memorabilia that tell how a little bear from Winnipeg inspired A.A. Milne to create the beloved character.
This exhibit is special because it appeals to both young and old. Children will be captivated by the colorful illustrations and interactive elements, while adults can delve into the historical context and fascinating backstory.
It’s a must-visit for anyone who the whimsical world of Winnie the Pooh has ever touched.
Are you a fan of Winnie the Pooh? Don’t miss White River in Ontario if you drive in Northern Ontario. You can see a fun Winnie the Pooh road stop.
5. Old Saint-Boniface Walking Tour
The Old Saint-Boniface Walking Tour is a cultural journey through Winnipeg’s French Quarter Saint-Boniface. The tour is an excellent way for families to learn about the region’s rich French-Canadian and Métis heritage. It’s a 1.5-hour guided walk at the Tourisme Riel offices and the Saint-Boniface Museum.
Saint-Boniface is the largest French community in Western Canada. You still find nowadays a vibrant French heritage and vibe. Plus, as soon as you cross the Esplanade Riel pedestrian bridge, you’ll see the change in architecture, which has a European touch.
During this Old Saint-Boniface walking tour, we saw the Hôtel de ville, the Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface, the Saint-Boniface Cathedral, and so many more historic buildings.
I did the guided tour with my young boys, and I think they were a little too young to really appreciate it. It is a shame because it was so interesting to me (but I am a little biased. I love learning about francophone heritage worldwide).
6. Saint-Boniface Museum
The Saint-Boniface Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the French-Canadian and Métis communities. The museum features many artifacts, including a significant collection related to Louis Riel, a key figure in Manitoba’s history.
Plus, the Saint-Boniface Museum is located in Winnipeg’s oldest building.
7. The Forks Market
The Forks Market is a bustling hub that offers a wide range of shopping and dining options. From local produce to artisanal crafts, there’s something for everyone. It’s an excellent place for families to experience Winnipeg’s local culture and flavors.
We had lunch at Wienerpeg with hot dogs and pull pork sandwiches. The kids also had a delicious frozen yogurt from Frogurts and I treated myself with a comforting Latte from Fools & Horses Coffee Company.
It’s a perfect place for families since it’s more of a food court. So everyone can choose what they want to eat and sit together to eat it. But the decor is much more warm and welcoming than a typical mall food court.
Note that all parking lots in the Forks district are paid parking.
8. The Forks National Historic Site
Adjacent to the Fork Market is The Forks National Historic Site. It’s located at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, a significant location steeped in 6,000 years of history.
This area has been a meeting place for Indigenous peoples, fur traders, and settlers. Today, it is a vibrant public space that blends the past and the present. The site features a variety of outdoor sculptures, historic rail cars, and a recreated prairie garden. You can also find the famous Park’s Canada red Adirondack chairs.
The children’s playground, Fort Parka playground, is a hit among younger kids with its unique boat structure and water play area.
Also, during the summertime, there are different activities and guided tours. You can also do a self-guided walking tour of the Forks National Historic Site.
»» Download your self-guided walking tour here ««
9. Children’s Museum
The Children’s Museum, located at The Forks, is explicitly designed for children to learn through play. It’s one of the coolest indoor playgrounds in Winnipeg. The museum features 12 permanent galleries that offer hands-on experiences, including the famous Illusion Tunnel. There is also a splash lab and a milk machine.
The Children’s Museum is housed in the oldest surviving train repair facility in Western Canada. You can walk into an actual old train engine. It’s one of the best things to do with toddlers in Winnipeg.
What age is the Children’s Museum Winnipeg for?
The Winnipeg Children’s Museum targets children 10 years old and under. It’s an interactive and educational space where children can engage their curiosity and creativity.
10. Canadian Museum of Human Rights
The Canadian Museum of Human Rights is a thought-provoking institution exploring human rights, freedom, and equality. While the subject matter may suit older children and teenagers, it’s a valuable educational experience. Families can engage in meaningful conversations about human rights and social justice.
Honestly, I feel like my kids were a little too young to understand and appreciate this museum. There is an interactive Inclusion Game on the second floor in the Canadian Journeys that kids will love. It’s a motion‐sensor Lights of Inclusion game in the gallery’s center. Kids can watch how their movements activate a “bubble” of colored light on the floor.
You can also take a glass elevator ride to the Israel Asper Tower of Hope viewing platform. You’ll have a great view of the city.
If you plan to visit the Canadian Museum of Human Rights with your young children, I recommend reading the guide and suggested itinerary on the museum’s website.
11. Manitoba Museum
The Manitoba Museum shows the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders. It features a Planetarium, a Science Gallery, and the main museum galleries.
I recommend starting your visit with the Museum Galleries where you’ll see animals, native American artifacts and even see the replica of the Nonsuch ship.
The Nonsuch Gallery was a highlight for me. You’ll take a step back to 17th century in Deptford, England, to a wharf lined with businesses and where a ship, the small ketch Nonsuch.
Then, you can go to the lower level to the Science Gallery. Your kids will love all the interactive activities.
The Manitoba Museum is a well-rounded educational experience for families since it offers a multi-faceted learning experience that covers history, science, and astronomy.
Plan at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the Manitoba Museum fully.
PRO-TIP | Are you planning on visiting a few museums while in Winnipeg?
If so, you might want to consider purchasing the Winnipeg Attraction Pass. This pass will give you access to 5 of the most popular attractions in Winnipeg including Manitoba Museum, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, Royal Canadian Mint and FortWhyte Alive.
12. Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada
The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. It houses a collection of more than 20 aircraft and offers numerous exhibits detailing the history of aviation in Western Canada.
Kids will love the Kids’ Zone and the Forces of Flights simulator. Also, if the weather is great, make sure to go outside and have the kids try the pedal plane rides.
13. Royal Canadian Mint
The Royal Canadian Mint offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Canada’s coins are made. It’s a fascinating process that combines history, economics, and engineering.
The Royal Canadian Mint can only be visited with a guided tour. They are offered in French or English. The guided tours are educational and entertaining, making them a unique family experience. They last about 45 minutes.
It’s cool to see the coin production line and process and learn all about the Mint. It was also interesting to learn that the Royal Canadian Mint also produces coins for other countries. I had no idea.
14.FortWhyte Alive
FortWhyte Alive is a nature center offering various outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and sailing. One of its main attractions is the bison herd, which can be observed safely. Another cool thing is the floating boardwalk.
It offers a hands-on nature experience, allowing families to engage in various outdoor activities. Kids will also love to grab a net outside the Interpretive Center and search for insects or sea creatures.
If you’re hungry after walking one of the many trails at FortWhyte Alive, you can grab lunch (or a snack) at Buffalo Stone Cafe.
15. Dinner in the Exchange District
The Exchange District is one of Winnipeg’s most iconic neighborhoods, renowned for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. This 20-block area is like a time capsule, transporting you back to the early 20th century with its well-preserved buildings that once served as banks, warehouses, and merchant shops.
Today, the district is a bustling hub for culture and creativity, housing art galleries, theaters, and boutique shops.
If you are craving something unique and delicious in the Exchange District, try Corrientes Argentine Pizzeria. This restaurant offers a twist on the classic pizza mixed with Argentine flavors and ingredients.
We shared a pizza and a few empanadas and it was delicious.
GETTING READY FOR YOUR WINNIPEG TRIP?
✈️ BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS: Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG) is the closest airport. Find cheap flights using Google Flights or Skyscanner, where you can compare airline tickets.
🚗 RENT YOUR CAR: You can rent a car directly from Winnipeg Airport. I recommend you compare pricing on DiscoverCars or Expedia.
🛏️ BOOK YOUR HOTEL: Booking.com is an excellent search engine for hotels and guesthouses in Winnipeg. You can look at the Residence Inn by Marriott Winnipeg. It has a cool waterpark.
F.A.Q Things to Do With Kids in Winnipeg
What is Winnipeg famous for?
Winnipeg is famous for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and role as the “Gateway to the West” in Canadian history.
What is Winnipeg’s top attraction for families?
The top attraction for families in Winnipeg is the Assiniboine Park Zoo, known for its Journey to Churchill exhibit where visitors can see polar bears, Arctic foxes, and more.
What is Winnipeg’s newest attraction?
Winnipeg’s newest attraction is The Leaf, an indoor botanical garden located in Assiniboine Park, featuring plants from various climates and a towering indoor waterfall.
Is it worth going to Winnipeg?
Yes. A 100% Yes. It is worth going to Winnipeg. Winnipeg offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring museums and historic sites to enjoying outdoor adventures, making it a worthwhile destination for all types of travelers.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Winnipeg With Kids
I hope this guide helps you plan a fun and educational trip with your family to Winnipeg!
Winnipeg is more than just a stopover city; it’s a destination filled with enriching and entertaining activities for families. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor exploring the city for the first time, this guide offers a curated list of things to do in Winnipeg with kids.
So why wait? Start planning your family’s next Winnipeg adventure today and create memories!
Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.