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AI-Livingstone
03 Apr 2026
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7 Best Places for Weekend Trips From Winnipeg, MB

Weekend Trip Itinerary Overview (7 Best Getaways from Winnipeg)

Start with a classic Manitoba national-park weekend in Riding Mountain National Park (Wasagaming Area): spend a morning walking the Clear Lake shoreline, add a short hike to a lookout, and plan time for beach relaxing or paddling before heading back to town for an easy evening stroll. For a lake-and-trails escape close to the city, Whiteshell Provincial Park (Falcon Lake) is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and exploring Canadian Shield scenery—build your day around a beach session, then choose a moderate trail or a scenic drive to nearby viewpoints. For a laid-back day trip, head to Gimli Harbour & Waterfront on Lake Winnipeg for a walkable promenade, harbour views, and a sunset by the water.

To mix in quieter nature and local character, spend a day in Hecla / Grindstone Provincial Park for peaceful shoreline walks, wildlife viewing, and cycling or short hikes. If you want valley scenery and viewpoints, Pembina Valley Provincial Park offers rolling terrain and rewarding lookouts that are perfect for a half-day hike and picnic. Balance outdoor time with a unique indoor attraction at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre in Morden—great for any weather and an easy anchor for the day. Finally, round out the list with Spruce Woods Provincial Park (Spirit Sands), where sandy dunes and open landscapes create a one-of-a-kind hiking experience; pair it with nearby lake time to end the weekend refreshed.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Riding Mountain National Park (Wasagaming Area)

    A true national-park escape with an easy weekend-drive payoff: clear-lake swimming and paddling on Clear Lake, classic Wasagaming beach-and-boardwalk vibes, abundant wildlife viewing (especially bison and elk in the park area), and a mix of short scenic hikes and lookouts that work well in a 2–3 day trip.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Whiteshell Provincial Park (Falcon Lake)

    Ideal for a cabin-style lake weekend close to Winnipeg: warm-water swimming and sandy beaches at Falcon Lake, excellent canoe/kayak and boating, a large network of trails for hiking and biking, and nearby Canadian Shield scenery (granite, pine forest, smaller lakes) that feels more rugged and “up north” without a long drive.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Gimli Harbour & Waterfront (Lake Winnipeg)

    A relaxed lakeside town trip with a lively waterfront: an easy-to-walk harbour, long beach and promenade, sunset views over Lake Winnipeg, and a fun mix of public art and Icelandic-heritage attractions—great for strolling, biking, and spending a full day by the water without committing to backcountry hiking.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Hecla / Grindstone Provincial Park (Hecla Island)

    A distinctive Lake Winnipeg destination combining nature and small-town charm: scenic lakefront drives, quiet beaches and boardwalk-style strolls, excellent birdwatching and wildlife spotting in marshy areas, and a peaceful island feel that’s perfect for a low-stress weekend of cycling, hiking short trails, and sunset views over the water.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Pembina Valley Provincial Park (Manitoba)

    A dramatic change of scenery from the prairie with wooded hills, a river valley, and some of Manitoba’s best viewpoints: great for day hikes to lookouts, picnics, and camping, plus easy access to nearby valley communities. It’s an ideal weekend trip if you want rolling terrain, fall colours, and quick, rewarding trails without a long drive.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre (Morden)

    One of Manitoba’s most unique indoor-outdoor attractions: world-class marine reptile fossils from the ancient inland sea (including the famous mosasaur), engaging exhibits that work well in any weather, and hands-on learning that makes it a standout family-friendly stop—easy to pair with a weekend exploring Morden and the surrounding Pembina Valley region.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Spruce Woods Provincial Park (Spirit Sands)

    A rare Manitoba landscape that feels unexpectedly desert-like: hike through sandy dunes and open sand flats at Spirit Sands, spot unique plants adapted to the dunes, and take short, photogenic trails with big-sky views. It’s an especially great weekend trip if you want something very different from lakes-and-forest parks, plus easy add-ons like nearby Kiche Manitou Lake for swimming and canoeing.
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Restaurants

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    Clementine

    4.7
    $$$$

    Clementine

    Brunch spot in Winnipeg’s Exchange District that’s frequently brought up in Winnipeg-focused Reddit threads and often aligned with Eater-style “best brunch” picks; worth it for consistently strong breakfast plates, baked goods, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Deer + Almond

    4.2

    Deer + Almond

    A widely recommended Winnipeg dinner destination in the Exchange District (commonly discussed on Reddit and the type of restaurant Eater highlights): worth visiting for creative small plates, seasonal menus, and a fun night-out vibe before/after your day trips.
    4.2
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    Nonsuch Brewing Co.

    4.8
    $$$$

    Nonsuch Brewing Co.

    Often suggested in Reddit “where should we eat/drink” threads for its food + beer pairing in a striking historic setting; worth a stop for house-brewed beer, wood-fired cooking, and a great atmosphere for groups.
    4.8
    $$$$
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    Feast Cafe Bistro

    4.6
    $$$$

    Feast Cafe Bistro

    Commonly recommended on Reddit for Indigenous-inspired comfort food and a casual, welcoming feel; worth visiting for dishes built around local ingredients and a distinctly Manitoba experience.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Segovia Tapas Bar and Restaurant

    4.7
    $$$$

    Segovia Tapas Bar and Restaurant

    A frequent “special night out” recommendation on Winnipeg Reddit and the kind of buzzy room Eater write-ups tend to feature; worth it for shareable tapas-style plates and a vibrant bar scene.
    4.7
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre, Ascend Hotel Collection

    4.4

    The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre, Ascend Hotel Collection

    Often featured on Hotels.com as a top Winnipeg stay; worth it for its historic grand-railway-hotel character, central location near downtown/The Forks, and full-service spa—great as a comfortable hub between day trips.
    4.4
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    Fairmont Winnipeg

    3.7

    Fairmont Winnipeg

    A Hotels.com mainstay for downtown Winnipeg; worth it for walkable access to the Exchange District and The Forks area, reliable full-service amenities, and an easy in/out location for driving to weekend destinations.
    3.7
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    Mere Hotel

    4.3

    Mere Hotel

    Commonly well-rated on Hotels.com; worth it for stylish modern rooms, a quieter riverside setting close to The Forks/Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and convenient parking for road-trip nights.
    4.3
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    Elkhorn Resort, Spa, & Conference Centre (Onanole, near Riding Mountain National Park)

    4.2

    Elkhorn Resort, Spa, & Conference Centre (Onanole, near Riding Mountain National Park)

    Frequently listed on Hotels.com for Riding Mountain area stays; worth it for being close to Wasagaming/Clear Lake, on-site spa, and an easy base for hiking, wildlife viewing, and lake time.
    4.2
    Picture for Elkhorn Resort, Spa, & Conference Centre (Onanole, near Riding Mountain National Park)
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    Lakeview Gimli Resort

    4.1

    Lakeview Gimli Resort

    A popular Hotels.com option in Gimli; worth it for its waterfront location near the harbour, easy access to the beach/promenade, and a relaxed Lake Winnipeg weekend vibe.
    4.1
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Winnipeg Folk Festival

    Winnipeg Folk Festival

    The event will take place at Winnipeg Folk Festival - Birds Hill Park in Winnipeg.
    Map IconWinnipeg Folk Festival - Birds Hill Park in Winnipeg (24.95 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    McPhillips Electronic Monster Bingo

    McPhillips Electronic Monster Bingo

    Returning to the Casinos of Winnipeg on May 2, 2026 - Electronic Monster Bingo! Join us for $75,000 in must-go prizing!* Ticket price will include entry to the event, basic game purchases and a meal. Additional games and products will be available fo...
    Map IconMcPhillips Station Casino - Electronic Bingo Area in Winnipeg (28.02 mi)
    Calendar Icon2 May 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Gabriel Rutledge - Don't Read The Comments Tour

    Gabriel Rutledge - Don't Read The Comments Tour

    All AgesModo Live Presents...Gabriel RutledgeDont Read The Comments Tour Saturday April 25, 2026WECCWinnipeg, MB
    Map IconWest End Cultural Centre in Winnipeg (29.14 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Royal Wood - Have A Heart Tour

    Royal Wood - Have A Heart Tour

    All AgesMODO-LIVE, presents...ROYAL WOODHave a Heart Tourw/ Special Guests Friday, May 1st, 2026West End Cultural CentreWinnipeg, MB
    Map IconWest End Cultural Centre in Winnipeg (29.14 mi)
    Calendar Icon2 May 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Yelawolf with Prof & That Mexican OT

    Yelawolf with Prof & That Mexican OT

    The event will take place at Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg.
    Map IconBurton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg (29.68 mi)
    Calendar Icon3 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Yelawolf with Prof & That Mexican OT
  • Event Icon

    Dirty Dancing in Concert

    Dirty Dancing in Concert

    The event will take place at Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg.
    Map IconBurton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg (29.68 mi)
    Calendar Icon9 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Dirty Dancing in Concert
  • Event Icon

    The Sheepdogs - Out All Night Tour

    The Sheepdogs - Out All Night Tour

    The event will take place at Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg.
    Map IconBurton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg (29.68 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for The Sheepdogs - Out All Night Tour

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Try out something from Jenna Rae at the Airport, they just opened that location and it would be something quick to try while youre waiting for your flight its a local bakery c...

    Winnipeg Weekend Getaway

    Try out something from Jenna Rae at the Airport, they just opened that location and it would be something quick to try while youre waiting for your flight its a local bakery c...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Distance wise 2-3ish hours max to drive there. ... Brereton Lake Resort. Three cabins have hot tubs (two have inside, one has outside) and the restaurant is great! Make sure t...

    Weekend getaways

    Distance wise 2-3ish hours max to drive there. ... Brereton Lake Resort. Three cabins have hot tubs (two have inside, one has outside) and the restaurant is great! Make sure t...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Out west in Manitoba Spruce Woods/Spirit Sands is always cool and if you don't want to (once again) hike there is the option to take a tour on horse wagon. There's a...

    What are some cool 1-2 day(s) trip locations within an 8 hour driving radius of Winnipeg

    Out west in Manitoba Spruce Woods/Spirit Sands is always cool and if you don't want to (once again) hike there is the option to take a tour on horse wagon. There's a...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Might be a bit of a stretch for time but Nopiming is great. Black Lake or Tulabi Falls are super nice. ... Im camping at Black Lake this weekend for the first time super exite...

    What are some good 1 to 2 hr drive destinations outside winnipeg?

    Might be a bit of a stretch for time but Nopiming is great. Black Lake or Tulabi Falls are super nice. ... Im camping at Black Lake this weekend for the first time super exite...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    A place and community to discuss all local Manitoba news, events, and more. ... Elkhorn Resort & Spa in Riding Mountain National Park. ... Elkhorn. The thermal spa is lovely! ...

    Any ideas on a weekend getaway - outside of Winnipeg

    A place and community to discuss all local Manitoba news, events, and more. ... Elkhorn Resort & Spa in Riding Mountain National Park. ... Elkhorn. The thermal spa is lovely! ...

    /r/Manitoba
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Take Hwy 8 (or 9) North and go through all of the beach towns along Lake Winnipeg (Matlock pier, Winnipeg Beach, Gimli), check out Camp Morton. Keep going north to Hecla Islan...

    Solo road trip from Winnipeg 1-2 day itinerary to cover as many tourist spots as possible outside the city

    Take Hwy 8 (or 9) North and go through all of the beach towns along Lake Winnipeg (Matlock pier, Winnipeg Beach, Gimli), check out Camp Morton. Keep going north to Hecla Islan...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Check out Therma in Winnipeg if you want a unique spa experience. ... Buffalo point (in summer) - peninsula with 3 beaches (south & east side has soft sugar-sand), cabins for ...

    Where to stay for a weekend getaway?

    Check out Therma in Winnipeg if you want a unique spa experience. ... Buffalo point (in summer) - peninsula with 3 beaches (south & east side has soft sugar-sand), cabins for ...

    /r/Manitoba
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    We cannot provide a description for this page right now

    Any ideas on a weekend getaway - outside of Winnipeg

    We cannot provide a description for this page right now

    /r/Manitoba
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  • Reddit Icon

    You will likely see it as you drive into Winnipeg from the border. Visit the James Avenue pumphouse or Cibo for a bite to eat then walk down waterfront street past the ball pa...

    Visiting From The U.S. What To Do In And Around Winnipeg?

    You will likely see it as you drive into Winnipeg from the border. Visit the James Avenue pumphouse or Cibo for a bite to eat then walk down waterfront street past the ball pa...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Near riding mountain (not exactly close to Winnipeg, about a 5 hour drive) is a little lodge called Boone outfitting. I highly recommend this place. Beautiful hunting lodge, g...

    Looking for a weekend getaway!

    Near riding mountain (not exactly close to Winnipeg, about a 5 hour drive) is a little lodge called Boone outfitting. I highly recommend this place. Beautiful hunting lodge, g...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Drive up highway 9 and 8 go through selkirk,petersfields, clandeboye, Winnipeg beach simile. The all the way to hecla island. Pack a picnic lunch. About 15 miles into hea Park...

    Day Trips

    Drive up highway 9 and 8 go through selkirk,petersfields, clandeboye, Winnipeg beach simile. The all the way to hecla island. Pack a picnic lunch. About 15 miles into hea Park...

    /r/Manitoba
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Solo 5 or 6 day trip to Winnipeg at the end of August (low key scoping out your city for a potential move) - what should I check out to get a feel for life in the city? ... Fo...

    Best day trips manitoba

    Solo 5 or 6 day trip to Winnipeg at the end of August (low key scoping out your city for a potential move) - what should I check out to get a feel for life in the city? ... Fo...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    I checked the AllTrails app and someone had left a review from this Canada Day long weekend hike. Some parts were inaccessible due to a broken boardwalk and apparently you nee...

    Nature day trip outside Winnipeg?

    I checked the AllTrails app and someone had left a review from this Canada Day long weekend hike. Some parts were inaccessible due to a broken boardwalk and apparently you nee...

    /r/Winnipeg
    View on RedditView on Reddit