On Jan. 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 visitors will find a host of world-class attractions, performance groups, sports facilities, gardens, cultural centres, and vibrant neighbourhoods – and a pretty stylish park surrounding the Fort.

Here are 50 ways visitors, and residents can celebrate the city’s milestone anniversary in style:

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 (Oct. 16-Nov. 9), Little Women (Nov. 20-Dec. 14, 2024) and Indecent (Feb. 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.
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 (Aug. 15-Sept. 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 (Nov. 7-10) and Nutcracker (Dec. 20-23 & 26-28).
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 (Aug. 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. Shop ‘til you drop at Outlet Collection Winnipeg, home to over 100 renowned fashion brands including Saks OFF 5TH, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, Kate Spade Outlet, Under Armour, Nike, and many more
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.

    Canadian Museum of Human Rights

26. Tee off at Winnipeg’s diverse golf courses, offering options from PGA Canada tour-level links to relaxed nine-hole courses.
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. Feel the mist on your face from Canada’s tallest indoor waterfall as you pass underneath towering palms and plants within The Leaf, an impressive horticultural attraction featuring Mediterranean and Tropical biomes, a butterfly garden, colourful outdoor gardens, and Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar.
29. Root for the Winnipeg Goldeyes and enjoy local food vendors, craft beer, and family entertainment at one of North America’s best little ball parks.
30. Be transported by the powerful performances of Manitoba Opera, where classic tales are brought to life with beautiful vocals and dramatic staging.
31. ‘Beyond the Beat; Music of Resistance and Change’ is a new exhibition at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights that shares the backstory on how musicians and fans have used music to change the world! Interact with dynamic audio/video installations; explore historic moments, legendary instruments, stage outfits and more.
32. Be entertained at Prairie Theatre Exchange, known for its engaging productions including this season’s Bed & Breakfast (Sept. 24-Oct. 6), Ponderosa Pine (Nov. 5- 17) and Raised By Women (April 1-13, 2025).
33. Laugh under the stars in Assiniboine Park at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival, where some of the top names in comedy including Nate Bargatze, Bill Burr, and Tom Segura will take the stage (July 19-21).
34. Visit the iconic Saint Boniface Cathedral, a symbol of Manitoba’s Francophone and Métis heritage and resilience.
35. Get a Winnipeg Attractions Pass for savings on some of the city’s top attractions, all while keeping admissions in one convenient location on your phone.
36. Take a Winnipeg Waterways Tour or 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 on display along with family-friendly entertainment and engaging fan activities.
38. Experience the thrill of the Red River Ex, with carnival rides, games, concerts and summer fun for the entire family (June 14-23).
39. Wander through art, light, and creative installations during Nuit Blanche, Winnipeg’s all-night art event (Sept. 28).
40. Feel the thunder of hooves at Assiniboia Downs, where live horse racing and betting alongside fine dining options make for an unforgettable day out.
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. Release your inner kid during a day of family fun in the sun at Tinkertown, an outdoor amusement park filled with rides, games, and sweet treats for kids of all ages.
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 classic plays meet the great outdoors including A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Iago Speaks (on select dates through July 7).
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.
47. Climb to new heights at Vertical Adventures and The Hive, where indoor rock-climbing challenges both beginners and experts.
48. Support Valour FC and get caught up in the excitement of professional soccer in Winnipeg.
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.
50. Pursue pilsners and indulge in IPAs at the 20+ breweries and taprooms located throughout the city.