Winnipeg’s winter is long and cold, but it can also be a great time of year! Don’t just hole up inside and wait for spring. Here’s how to keep spirits up in between snowfalls.
1: Layer Up in Style!
Before you brave the elements, you’ll need the right gear. Take advantage of the myriad of stylish, functional clothing options in Winnipeg to create a look you’ll be happy to sport out and about during the winter months.
Mountain Equipment Co-Op
303 Portage Ave
Items to get: Sorel Boots and MEC Ski Pants
Website
The North Face
Order online on their website or visit The Prairie Summit Shop Winnipeg
675 Empress St
Items to get: Puffer Jacket or Fleece
Website
Roots
Outlet Collection Winnipeg
1585 Kenaston Blvd
Items to get: Sweaters, Scarfs
Website
2: Enjoy the Great Outdoors!
If you’ve lived in Winnipeg a long time, it’s easy to forget how unique our winters are, and easy to overlook how much our city actually embraces our cold weather. Here are some ways you can enjoy the winter months.
Assiniboine Zoo Journey to Churchill Exhibit
While we brave the elements, the animals at our zoo thrive in these cold temperatures. View Polar Bears, Seals, and a myriad of other tundra dwellers in their prime.
Website
Outdoor Rinks
Dotted around the city, these free rinks are a perfect place to lace up some skates and stay active this winter season.
Festival Du Voyageur
Live music, ice sculptures, caribou shots…what more could you ask for in a chilly day or night out? Experience this annual festival from February 14th to the 23rd.
Website
Thermea Spa
Warm up at this Nordic spa that offers saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms in a relaxing, tranquil environment.
Website
RAW: Almond
A unique dining experience on a frozen river run by world class chefs.
Website
Snow Maze (A Maze in Corn)
The fall tradition adapts to the winter months with the world’s largest snow maze! Also on site: bonfires, games, and the adult only Snow Bar.
Website
3: Escape the Elements
Okay, we know being outside is good for the soul, but sometimes you just want to go somewhere where the wind doesn’t hurt your face. No fear, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy as well!
Winnipeg Jets Game
Cheer on the home team at The Canada Life Centre! Tickets are available on Ticketmaster right up until game time.
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
One of Winnipeg’s most recognizable landmarks is the perfect place to spend a weekend afternoon. Notable Exhibitions on now:
Love in a Dangerous Time: Canada’s LGBT Purge
Strength in Numbers: The Polish Solidarity Movement
Climate Justice
https://humanrights.ca/
The Leaf
Missing a mother nature that’s not under a blanket of snow? The Leaf offers you the opportunity to enjoy tropical biomes without ever having to leave the city.
https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/leaf/lifegrows
Uptown Alleys
Bowling, arcade games, and laser tag! Keep the whole family busy at this entertainment complex in St James.
https://uptownalley.ca/
4: Warm up with local gastronomy
Here are some ways you can take advantage of Winnipeg’s food scene to keep yourself warm between activities.
Hearty Comfort Food at Inferno’s Bistro
312 Des Meurons St
Notable dishes:
French onion soup
Sweet curry mussels and fries
Prime sirloin with brandied peppercorn sauce
https://www.infernosbistro.com/
Spicy Ramen Soup at Saburo Kitchen in True North Square
Choose from any of their hearty ramens on offer, you can’t go wrong!
https://www.hargravestmarket.com/restaurants/
Indulge at Smoke’s Poutinerie at their Exchange District Location
Notable dishes:
Perogy
Buffalo Chicken
Korean BBQ
https://smokespoutinerie.com/
Winnipeg winters are not for the faint of heart, but with the right mindset, a little preparation, and a list of cozy spots to visit, they can become an experience to enjoy, rather than endure. From bundling up in the warmest layers to indulging in hearty bowls of soup or poutine, there’s no shortage of ways to make winter a season of comfort and fun.