The Forks Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

The Forks is more than just a tourist destination; it is the spiritual and historical heart of Winnipeg. For over 6,000 years, Indigenous peoples have gathered here where the reddish waters of the Red River meet the muddy Assiniboine. Today, this rich history blends seamlessly with modern architecture, creating a vibrant public space that feels alive in every season. Whether you are watching the river flow in the summer heat or skating on it in the dead of winter, the energy here is undeniable.

Walking through the site, you are surrounded by converted historic rail buildings that now house bustling markets, artisan shops, and diverse restaurants. The juxtaposition of the industrial brick architecture with the ultramodern glass spire of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights creates a skyline that is uniquely Winnipeg. It is a place where locals come to jog, families come to play, and visitors come to understand the soul of the Canadian Prairies.

A Meeting Place for Millennia

The Forks sits on Treaty 1 territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation. Its history as a meeting place is tangible at the Oodena Celebration Circle, a natural amphitheatre that honours the area’s heritage through celestial orientation and traditional ceremonies. Interpretive walls and sculptures throughout the site tell the stories of the fur trade, the railway boom, and the waves of immigration that shaped Manitoba.

Beyond history, the site acts as the city’s living room. In the summer, the patio at The Common is the place to be seen, while the winter transforms the rivers into the world-famous Nestaweya River Trail. This adaptability makes The Forks the anchor of Winnipeg’s culture, offering a distinct experience depending on when you choose to visit.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Canadian Museum for Human Rights - This architectural masterpiece is the first museum solely dedicated to the evolution and future of human rights. Admission is approximately $21 CAD for adults, and it is located right on site, easily accessible by foot.

The Forks Market - The central hub of activity, this restored stable features a food hall, fresh market, and observation tower. Entrance is free, though food costs vary. It is the heart of the site, 0 km from the centre.

Esplanade Riel - A stunning cable-stayed pedestrian bridge that links The Forks to the French-speaking St. Boniface quarter. It is a free, open-air attraction and provides one of the best photo ops in the city, stretching 0.2 km across the Red River.

Nestaweya River Trail - In winter, this becomes one of the longest skating trails in the world, stretching up to 6 km or more depending on ice conditions. Access is free, with skate rentals available in the market for a small fee.

Planning Your Visit

The Forks is located in downtown Winnipeg and is easily accessible by car, transit, or active transportation. There is ample parking, including parkades and surface lots, though prices can range from $2 to $5 CAD per hour depending on the event schedule. If you are staying downtown, the walking distance is manageable, and the pleasant river walk makes the journey enjoyable.

Pack according to the season, Winnipeg weather is extreme. In summer, bring sunscreen and bug spray for the evenings. In winter, thermal layers, a windproof parka, and insulated boots are essential survival gear, not just fashion statements. The site is very walkable, but comfortable shoes are a must as you will likely cover several kilometres exploring the various trails and bridges.

The Forks is a destination that reinvents itself with the calendar. While summer offers the ease of patio dining and river boat tours, there is a magical, quiet beauty to the site in winter that many find surprising. No matter when you arrive, the confluence of the rivers guarantees a warm Winnipeg welcome.