Begin your tour at The Forks (1 Forks Market Rd), Winnipeg’s historic meeting place where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers converge. Start at the Johnston Terminal, a restored 1930s warehouse with a rustic. Spend 25 minutes exploring the terminal’s heritage displays and riverfront views. Entry is free, and no bookings are needed.
Walk 5 minutes within The Forks to The Common (1 Forks Market Rd), a lively food hall with a cozy, eclectic vibe. Grab a coffee or light breakfast at Fools & Horses Coffee, known for its artisanal brews and affordable pastries. The bustling setting evokes a classic bistro. Spend 40 minutes enjoying the fare and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, no reservations required, but arrive early to avoid crowds.
Stroll 10 minutes across the Esplanade Riel bridge to Saint-Boniface, Winnipeg’s French-speaking quarter, and visit Cathédrale de Saint-Boniface (180 Avenue de la Cathédrale). This historic 1908 cathedral, with its Romanesque facade and serene interior, offers a nod to Quebecois heritage. Spend 20 minutes admiring the architecture or quiet grounds.
Walk 10 minutes to Provencher Boulevard, pausing at Chez Sophie (248 Avenue de la Cathédrale), a charming French bistro with a warm, intimate vibe. Grab a quick croissant or quiche, affordable and no bookings needed for a casual visit. Spend 30 minutes savouring the food and browsing nearby boutiques, like Le Coin, for local crafts.
Continue 15 minutes (or take a quick bus) to Exchange District, Winnipeg’s historic core with 19th-century warehouses. Stop at Forth Café (171 McDermot Ave), a trendy, no-reservations spot with a retro-industrial feel, perfect for a sandwich or dessert. Spend 45 minutes dining and exploring the district’s cobblestone streets and murals.
Finally, walk 15 minutes to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (85 Israel Asper Way), a striking modern landmark near The Forks. Spend your final 40 minutes browsing a gallery (like the Indigenous Perspectives exhibit) or enjoying a hot chocolate at the museum’s Era Bistro. The nearby Forks Market, with its open plaza and river views, offers a picturesque finale.
This tour covers Winnipeg’s historic Forks, French-infused Saint-Boniface, vibrant Exchange District, and cultural landmarks in about four hours, blending history, food, and local colour. The route is roughly 4 km, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket for Winnipeg’s breezy weather.
