Eastern Manitoba Travel Guide
Explore the best of Eastern Manitoba with our detailed tour guide. Discover the top attractions, activities, accommodations, food, and more.
- Introduction to Eastern Manitoba
- List of Places to Visit in Eastern Manitoba
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Manitoba
- Best Things to Do in Eastern Manitoba: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Manitoba
- Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Manitoba
- Where to Stay in Eastern Manitoba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Eastern Manitoba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Manitoba
- Best Time to Visit Eastern Manitoba
- Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Manitoba
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Eastern Manitoba: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Eastern Manitoba
- Where to Go Next from Eastern Manitoba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Eastern Manitoba
Eastern Manitoba is a hidden gem that offers visitors a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Located in the Prairies region of Canada, this region offers a variety of experiences for all types of travelers.
From museums and historical sites, to hiking and biking trails, to unique local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Eastern Manitoba. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Eastern Manitoba.
List of Places to Visit in Eastern Manitoba
Here are the top places to visit in Eastern Manitoba:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Fort Gibraltar – a reconstructed fur trading post that offers a glimpse into the life of fur traders in the 18th century.
- Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site – a beautifully preserved 19th-century fort that offers interactive exhibits and guided tours.
- Manitoba Agricultural Museum – showcases the history of agriculture in Manitoba through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- Manitoba Museum – the largest museum in Manitoba that showcases the province’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Natural Attractions of Eastern Manitoba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Whiteshell Provincial Park – a beautiful park that is perfect for hiking, camping, and water activities.
- Pinawa Dam Provincial Park – offers stunning views of the Pinawa Channel, and is a popular spot for fishing and water activities.
- Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve – a unique natural area that is home to a variety of rare plants and animals.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Manitoba
Eastern Manitoba offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the top routes:
- Bois-des-Esprits Trail – a 7 km trail that winds through a beautiful forested area.
- Pinawa Trail – a 6 km loop trail that offers stunning views of the Pinawa Channel.
- Mantario Trail – a challenging 60 km hike that offers breathtaking views of the Whiteshell Provincial Park.
Best Things to Do in Eastern Manitoba: Activities and Tours
- Canoeing and Kayaking – Eastern Manitoba is home to numerous lakes and rivers that are perfect for water activities.
- Fishing – there are plenty of opportunities for fishing in Eastern Manitoba’s lakes and rivers.
- Wildlife Viewing – Eastern Manitoba is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, and black bears.
- Guided Tours – there are a variety of guided tours available in Eastern Manitoba, including historical tours, nature tours, and cultural tours.
Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Manitoba
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Eastern Manitoba:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Fort Gibraltar and tour Winnipeg |
| 2 | Spend the day in Whiteshell Provincial Park |
| 3 | Hike the Mantario Trail |
| 4 | Visit the Manitoba Agricultural Museum and Pinawa Dam Provincial Park |
| 5 | Take a guided nature tour of the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve |
| 6 | Canoe or kayak in one of Eastern Manitoba’s lakes or rivers |
| 7 | Visit the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site |
Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Manitoba
Eastern Manitoba offers a unique local cuisine that is influenced by the region’s history and geography. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Perogies – Eastern Manitoba is known for its delicious perogies.
- Smoked Goldeye – a local delicacy that is made with smoked fish.
- Bison Burgers – bison is a popular meat in Manitoba and is often served in burgers.
Local Beverages
- Fort Garry Brewing Company – a local brewery that produces a variety of craft beers.
- Lazy Bear Brewing – offers a variety of craft beers and ciders.
- Freshly roasted coffee – Eastern Manitoba is home to a variety of coffee shops that roast their own beans.
Where to Stay in Eastern Manitoba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Eastern Manitoba, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some top choices:
- Whiteshell Lakeside Resort – a beautiful lakeside resort in Whiteshell Provincial Park.
- Pine Tree Resort – a family-owned resort that offers cabins and RV camping.
- Heartland on the Lake – a charming bed and breakfast located on Lake Winnipeg.
What to Buy in Eastern Manitoba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Manitoba Maple Syrup – a delicious souvenir that is produced right here in Eastern Manitoba.
- Birch Bark Baskets – a unique and practical souvenir that is made by local artisans.
- Bison Jerky – a tasty snack that is made from locally sourced bison meat.
Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Manitoba
Eastern Manitoba is home to a diverse mix of cultures, including Indigenous peoples, French Canadians, and Mennonites. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Eastern Manitoba
The best time to visit Eastern Manitoba is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and activities like hiking, biking, and water sports are at their best.
Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Manitoba
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Take advantage of the region’s outdoor activities.
- Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Don’t:
- Disturb the local wildlife.
- Ignore safety warnings in natural areas.
- Dispose of waste improperly.
Safety and Health
Safety in Eastern Manitoba
Eastern Manitoba is a generally safe area to visit. As always, visitors should take common sense precautions like locking their car doors and not leaving valuables visible.
Health in Eastern Manitoba
There are no major health concerns in Eastern Manitoba. Visitors should bring any necessary medications with them and be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Getting to Eastern Manitoba: Transportation Options and Logistics
Getting to Eastern Manitoba is relatively easy. Here are some transportation options:
Airports Near Eastern Manitoba
- Winnipeg International Airport
- Brandon Municipal Airport
Bus Stations Near Eastern Manitoba
- Winnipeg Bus Terminal
Other Options
Eastern Manitoba is easily accessible by car or RV. There are several major highways that run through the region.
How to Get Around in Eastern Manitoba
The best way to get around Eastern Manitoba is by car or bike, as many of the region’s top attractions are spread out.
Where to Go Next from Eastern Manitoba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Kenora, Ontario – a charming town located on the shores of Lake of the Woods.
- Riding Mountain National Park – a beautiful park that offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- Winnipeg – Manitoba’s capital city is full of cultural attractions, delicious food, and fun outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Eastern Manitoba offers visitors a unique mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that are sure to delight travelers of all types. With its beautiful parks, charming small towns, and delicious local cuisine, Eastern Manitoba is definitely worth a visit.
