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, and now you have your pick of world-class attractions, performance groups, sports facilities, gardens, cultural centres, and vibrant neighbourhoods to savour — along with yes, occasionally some mud after it rains and that same stone gate of Upper Fort Garry that is now surrounded by a pretty stylish park. (#somethingsneverchange)

Get out there and celebrate this city’s 150th in style with one of these 50 uniquely Winnipeg experiences. 

1. Explore Assiniboine Park, a cherished year-round destination where you can get nearly nose-to-nose with polar bears at the Zoo, discover exotic plant life in The Leaf, stroll the English Garden's pathways, play in the Nature Playground, appreciate art at the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden and relax with a picnic or barbecue, all on-site.  

2. Step back in time at the Manitoba Museum where the province's rich history comes to life through fascinating exhibits alongside the popular Planetarium and interactive Science Gallery. 

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.  

4. Admire breathtaking Inuit art and contemporary masterpieces at WAG-Qaumajuq. 

5. Explore The Forks for a perfect blend of history, culture, shopping and patio dining along the scenic riverside. 

6. Take a 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 through the engaging outdoor activities at FortWhyte Alive which features extensive walking trails, paddling, fishing, and migratory bird and bison sightings. 

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. Wander through the Exchange District's historic streets and alleyways, home to art, fashion, breweries, patios, and plenty of culinary delights. 

11. Take part in the spectacle of a legendary Whiteout at Canada Life Centre as the Winnipeg Jets seek the Stanley Cup.  

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 (July 11 – July 14). 

13. Enjoy a magical evening of musical theatre at Rainbow Stage, nestled in the beautiful setting of Kildonan Park. This season's productions are Mary Poppins (August 15 — September 1) and the vibrant Winnipeg-based Ma-Buhay! by local Joseph Sevillo (June 27 — July 14).  

14. Uncover the secrets of the Manitoba Legislative Building on a tour filled with fascinating history, architecture, art, and design.  

15. Witness the elegance and emotion of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, where every performance tells a powerful story through dance. The new season includes Giselle (November 7 — 10, 2024) and Nutcracker (December 20-23 & 26-28, 2024).

16. Relish the unpredictability of live theatre at the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, an annual celebration of creativity, arts, and community (July 17 — 28).  

17. Relax and rejuvenate in the saunas, steam rooms, and baths of the Scandinavian-inspired oasis of Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature. 

18. Immerse yourself in cultures from around the world at Folklorama, Winnipeg’s vibrant multicultural festival (August 4 – 17).  

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 yourself and your friends at Activate Games, an interactive gaming adventure that started in Winnipeg and has since conquered the world with its rooms that are like playing a real-life video game.  

21. Groove to the beats at the Winnipeg Jazz Festival, showcasing both local talent and international stars (June 14 — 22) 

22. Admire the city's creativity on the West End Mural Tour, a colourful display of street art and community spirit. 

23. Be moved by the powerful performances of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, a staple of the city’s music scene. 

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, all while enjoying games, trivia, and tales that reveal what makes the city truly special. 

26. Embrace diversity and inclusivity at the Pride Winnipeg Festival, a vibrant and colourful celebration that unites the community in support of 2SLGBTQ+ rights and achievements (May 24 – Sun, June 2).  

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.  

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 (May 17 — 19).