Issue link: http://tourismwpg.uberflip.com/i/131860
Courtesy Exchange District BIZ Courtesy Juncatta International THE FORKS Recently voted the best public space in Canada, the 53-acre site at The Forks is a vibrant tourist destination that offers endless stories to tell. Sensational shopping and diverse culinary options await, including large patios overlooking the river, ethnic eateries, an organic bakery, as well as sumptuous fine dining and family-friendly restaurants. Activities abound at The Forks where you can stroll the Riverwalk, hop on a water taxi, take in 6,000 years of history and gaze upon wild prairie gardens. There's also the world-class urban skateboard plaza to try and watch tricks. Special note: top skateboarders Tony Hawk and Bam Magera have skated and filmed here. www.theforks.com Courtesy Dan Harper FORT GIBRALTAR Celebrate the "joie de vivre" of French Canadian and Métis adventurers at this former fur trading post of The North West Company. In February, the fort is transported to the 1800s during Festival du Voyageur, when Manitoba's fur trading roots are celebrated with song, food, dance and eye-popping snow sculptures. Throughout the year, costumed interpreters pay homage to the province's roots, educating and entertaining visitors. www.fortgibraltar.com Courtesy Parks Canada LOWER FORT GARRY The oldest surviving stone fort in North America, Lower Fort Garry is known for its role as a major agricultural and industrial supply centre in the fur trade of Western Canada. Today, costumed interpreters and historical displays showcase the past as you visit the Governor's house, fix your horse's shoe at the blacksmith shop, buy some goods at the company store and indulge in a hearty meal. www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/mb/fortgarry/natcul/natcul2.aspx THE MANITOBA MUSEUM The history of the province comes to life inside this stunning, award-winning museum. Sail aboard the life-sized replica of the "Nonsuch" ketch or stroll the boardwalks of Winnipeg circa 1920. Follow the roots of Canada through the Hudson's Bay Gallery and visit the shoreline of Churchill 450 million years ago. Then head to the future inside the Science Gallery and Planetarium. The latter installed Canada's most advanced projection system, the Digistar 5 and the second of its kind in the world. It offers viewers a nearly 3D viewing experience. www.manitobamuseum.ca Courtesy Winnipeg Art Gallery THE EXCHANGE DISTRICT Designated a National Historic Site, this 30-block area packed full of stunning turn-of-the-lastcentury architecture is a hub of activity all year long. In August, Old Market Square becomes home to the renowned Winnipeg Fringe Festival. Wander through the area taking in unique shops and boutiques selling funky vintage finds, one-of-a-kind fashion and local art. Have a bite to eat with eclectic offerings like trendy French plates, hip vegan fare and creative poutine. Then toss back a pint or dance the night away at one of the area's numerous pubs and night clubs. www.exchangedistrict.org Courtesy The Manitoba Museum Signature Attractions WINNIPEG ART GALLERY Canada's oldest civic art gallery is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a series of special exhibits and events until September 2013. The WAG has the world's largest collection of contemporary Inuit art that includes more than 10,800 works of sculpture, prints, drawings and textiles. www.wag.ca For more information or to arrange a media visit, contact Nisha Tuli at 204.954.1993 or nisha@tourismwinnipeg.com 7