Issue link: http://tourismwpg.uberflip.com/i/918978
warm up with mini donuts, and a glass of local craft beer or wine at The Common, which has a decidedly après ski vibe. Assiniboine Park is also all about winter magic. For starters, Journey to Churchill at Assiniboine Park Zoo is the world's premier northern species exhibit. This is a chance to see animals like Arctic fox, wolves, snowy owls, caribou, seals and polar bears in their element. Don't miss the Sea Ice Passage to watch polar bears perform a graceful underwater ballet through the viewing tunnel. Throughout this exhibit are outdoor and indoor viewing opportunities, including the Tundra Grill eatery and Polar Playground, where little ones can burn off energy. Outside the zoo, Assiniboine Park sparkles with acres of snow-topped, tree-lined paths that you can hike and cross- country ski on. For a jackpot of winter activities, head to Winnipeg's stunning nature reserve FortWhyte Alive. It's home to North America's largest urban bison herd, who are at home in the snow. Explore the area by snowshoe (rentals available) and better yet, sign up for a guided hike by moonlight that ends with a roaring bonfire. You can also skate on its lakes, whizz down the toboggan slides, hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride and participate in special programming all winter long. Yogis can also practice their "snow-vasana" during the second annual Fire & Ice festival (February), where over 100 participants gather for a one-hour yoga session on a frozen lake, followed by indoor crafting activities, a pop-up market, snowshoeing and more. If you're not a total outdoorsy type, yet you still want to experience Winnipeg's winter air, then look no further than Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature. Winnipeg's picturesque outdoor spa is home to thermal pools, Scandinavian saunas, crackling fire pits, and heated relaxation rooms. Once you set out on the thermal experience, which involves going from a hot pool, to an ice cold shower under a waterfall, followed by blissful lounge time in the relaxation areas, you won't want to stop. When hunger strikes, be sure to hit up Thermëa's excellent restaurant, where eating delish Scandinavian-inspired local cuisine in your robe is mandatory. Dining at the Forks: Brian Gould FortWhyte Alive: Tourism Winnipeg Photo Courtesy of Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature www.tourismwinnipeg.com 15 WELCOME TO WINNIPEG ITINERARIES