One in a series of articles about Canadian destinations.

Canada is comprised of many provinces, one of which is Manitoba. Located in the heart of the prairies, Winnipeg is the perfect location to have a family vacation that is not only fun, but one that can also be quite memorable. The following is a list of five Winnipeg destinations that you must visit if you are traveling to western Canada.

1. The Forks National Historic Site

If you are traveling to Manitoba with your family, it is imperative to consider the massive amount of family-oriented activities that the city has to offer, one of which is the Forks National Historic Site. This unique area is comprised of urban shopping and historic architecture to provide visitors with year-round entertainment. With its array of dining and entertainment experiences, there is something perfect for everyone in your family. This historic site should not be missed as it contains the longest naturally-frozen skating trail in the world. Hockey, hiking, curling and snowshoeing activities are also contained therein.

2. Winnipeg Art Gallery

As one of the most visited art galleries in all of Canada, you and your family will be able to take in the beautiful work of some of the world’s most famed artists while at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. With exhibitions ranging from contemporary Inuit art to international art pieces and collections, there is always something new for visitors to take in. The museum’s gift shop offers many different products that are perfect to take home to those who were unable to come with you on your trip.

3. Assiniboine Park

As one of the oldest parks in Winnipeg, Assiniboine Park encompasses a variety of activities in one convenient location. Whether you are looking for the Assiniboine Park Zoo or even if you want to take some time to relax in the serenity of the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, the options are relatively endless. This park is located in lush surroundings and includes walking paths and English gardens, making it the perfect place to visit for a day on the town.

4. Gaming for the Adults

Alongside the ample amount of child friendly activities, Winnipeg, Manitoba also offers activities that are exclusively for older travelers such as a pair of casinos. With stunning interiors and unique themes, there is a casino perfect for anyone looking to have a great time. Also, you may want to consider taking some time out of your day to visit Assiniboia Downs, the famed horse racing track in Canada offering live racing from May through Sept.

5. Royal Canadian Mint

Many of the coins in the world are produced in Canada, more specifically in Winnipeg. The Royal Canadian Mint in Winnipeg is where every single coin in Canada is produced and put into circulation, including specialty coins such as pure gold chipmunk and seahorse coins. While there, you can learn about how coins are produced and take a walk through the coin museum for an immensely fun experience. Tours are conducted either in English or in French.

Other Things to Do

While in Winnipeg, there are many other things to do there. If your visit takes you there in August, the annual Folklorama festival should not be missed. this festival brings to the city 43 pavilions featuring cultures from around the world. Cultural displays, unique foods and an assortment of entertainment is part of this two-week festival, the largest and longest running one of its kind in the world. Children under the age of 12 are admitted for free.

Other places of interest include the Western Canada Aviation Museum, the Manitoba Museum, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Manitoba Planetarium & Science Gallery, Fort Gibraltar and Kildonan Park. So, plan your trip to take in all that this city in the prairies has to offer.

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