Should You Visit Winnipeg?

Is Winnipeg worth visiting?

Yes, Winnipeg is worth visiting for a number of reasons. This is a city that everyone should explore, and we loved our time here.

Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the terrific museums and attractions and great food.

Winnipeg is the capital of Manitoba. It is filled with museums, restaurants, parks, and fun activities. Head to the Exchange District for art galleries or The Forks for history and culture. It's also a multicultural city that is a railway transportation hub.

5 Reasons to Visit Winnipeg

1. Museums and Attractions

There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

2. Food

You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

3. Nightlife

The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

4. Shopping

You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.

5. Authenticity

Winnipeg has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.




Is Winnipeg worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 21°C (71°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (82°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Winnipeg, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums and enjoy the evening activities.


Summer Weather in Winnipeg
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
July 21°C (71°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
August 20°C (68°F) 75 mm (3 in)
September 14°C (57°F) 51 mm (2 in)

Is Winnipeg worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Winnipeg. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Winnipeg can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 7°C (45°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums.


Autumn Weather in Winnipeg
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
October 7°C (45°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
November -3°C (26°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
December -13°C (9°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)

Is Winnipeg worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Winnipeg. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Winnipeg can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -17°C (2°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the nightlife.


Winter Weather in Winnipeg
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
January -17°C (2°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
February -14°C (8°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
March -6°C (22°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)

Is Winnipeg worth visiting in the Spring?

The weather in Winnipeg can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 5°C (42°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Winnipeg, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and grab some drinks at a bar.


Spring Weather in Winnipeg
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
April 5°C (42°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
June 19°C (65°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)

Things to Consider Before Visiting Winnipeg

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Winnipeg might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Winnipeg here or see if Winnipeg is expensive here.

Related

What is Winnipeg most famous for?

Winnipeg is most famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections. People visit this impressive city for its great museums and attractions. It's also known for food, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as friendly, welcoming, and cultural.


What is the most famous sight in Winnipeg?

The most popular sight in Winnipeg is The Forks. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Winnipeg on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Forks and other attractions here.

How touristy is Winnipeg? Is it a popular city to visit?

Winnipeg is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)


  • Private City Tour in Winnipeg: $48
  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.94
  • Louis Riel & Red River Metis Trails Tour: $74
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $5.94
  • Winnipeg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $41
  • Winnipeg's Wealthy Beginnings: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.94
  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.94
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.94

How long should I spend in Winnipeg?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Winnipeg is two to four days. Since Winnipeg has activities such as museums and attractions, many visit for up to four days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Winnipeg? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Winnipeg?.