Winnipeg’s winters offer the perfect time to dive into the city’s rich history and culture through its incredible museums. With hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and cozy indoor spaces, these destinations make for ideal family outings during the colder months. Here’s a refreshed list of family-friendly museums to explore this winter.
1. The Manitoba Museum
The Manitoba Museum is the ultimate family destination, offering an exciting mix of history, science, and immersive exhibits.
What to Do:
• Climb aboard the iconic Nonsuch, a full-size replica ship that transports you back to Manitoba’s early fur trade days.
• Let kids explore the interactive Science Gallery, featuring hands-on experiments, a water table, and a tornado simulator.
• Marvel at the Planetarium shows, where you can travel through the stars and learn about constellations from the warmth of your seat.
Pro Tip: Check for winter-themed Planetarium programs—they often offer seasonal shows featuring stars visible in Winnipeg’s crisp winter skies.
2. Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR)
The CMHR, with its breathtaking architecture and thought-provoking exhibits, is a wonderful spot for families seeking education and inspiration.
What to Do:
• Kids will enjoy interactive displays in the Rights Today gallery, learning how their actions can make a difference.
• Walk the stunning indoor ramps leading to the Tower of Hope, which offers panoramic views of the city’s snowy landscape.
• Explore exhibits like Inspiring Change, featuring kid-friendly activities and stories about young human rights advocates.
Pro Tip: Bring your camera to capture the dazzling sight of the CMHR lit up against the winter skyline!
3. The Children’s Museum
A winter staple for Winnipeg families, the Children’s Museum at The Forks is a warm escape filled with fun and creativity.
What to Do:
• Kids can climb, crawl, and explore Engine 374, a real-life train engine at the heart of the museum.
• Head to Tumble Zone or Illusion Tunnel, where kids can get moving and burn off some energy.
• Enjoy winter-themed crafts and events held regularly during the colder months.
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with skating on The Forks’ trails or enjoying a hot chocolate at one of the nearby cafes.
4. Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada
Located near Winnipeg’s airport, the Royal Aviation Museum offers a unique and engaging experience for aviation lovers of all ages.
What to Do:
• Explore historic aircraft and climb into interactive cockpits where kids can imagine themselves as pilots.
• Check out the Skyways Discovery Zone, a play area filled with aviation-inspired activities just for kids.
• Learn about the history of bush planes and Manitoba’s pivotal role in Canadian aviation.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit during quiet hours on weekdays for a less crowded, more personalized experience.
Make Winter Learning Fun for the Whole Family
Winnipeg’s family-focused museums offer the perfect way to beat the winter chill while discovering the city’s rich culture and history. Whether your family loves hands-on experiments, climbing into cockpits, or exploring the past, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season.
