Winnipeg is Canada’s best-kept secret for a fun, creative, food-fueled girls trip getaway. Although Winnipeg is often overlooked and known as the “Middle Child,” it is a culturally diverse and eclectic city. It is also packed with vibrant arts, incredible architecture, a world-class Nordic spa, and a surprisingly good culinary scene.
We recently hopped on the quick 1.5-hour direct flight from Minneapolis for a long weekend away, and Winnipeg blew us away.
In other words, whether you’re craving a relaxing spa day with the girlies, matcha craft cocktails, or exploring local artisan markets, Winnipeg has all the fixings for an ideal girls trip without the overwhelming tourist crowds. Next, read our non-touristy guide to a girls trip in Winnipeg.
WHERE TO STAY ON A GIRLS TRIP IN WINNIPEG
When picking a home base for your Winnipeg girls weekend, you’ll want to stay near The Forks or the historic Exchange District because both areas put you close to the city’s best attractions. As a result, you’ll be within walkable distance or a short ride away from the city’s best dining, coffee shops, and scenic riverwalks.
Inn at the Forks: We absolutely loved staying at Inn the Forks located along the river. It’s less than 20 minutes from the airport and the perfect hub for your girls trip in Winnipeg. Additionally, the rooms are spacious and modern, and include a great view of the city and iconic Winnipeg sign. Plus, you’re literally steps away from The Forks Market, making morning coffee runs or late-night dessert strolls super easy.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK ON A GIRLS TRIP IN WINNIPEG
Of course, dining is one of the most important components of a successful girls trip, and Winnipeg’s dining scene did not disappoint! Next are the spots you need to check out, which offers everything from French cafes to moody speakeasies.
- Crumb Queen (and Andy’s Lunch) – cozy comfort vibes – Tucked into Osborne Village, this local favorite serves up some of the best sourdough bread, seasonal crullers, and flaky pastries in Canada. First, stop by early for a cruller and stay for Andy’s sandwich menu. The focaccia sandwiches are chef’s kiss!
- Shirley’s – local upscale vibes– Perfect for an elevated dinner out with the girls. The ambiance is chic, intimate, and centered around a seasonal, ingredient-focused menu paired with fantastic wines. Of course, ordering the tuna crudo is a must. Delicious!
- Sous Sol – moody speakeasy vibes – Hidden behind an unmarked red door down a flight of stairs in Osborne Village, this candlelit French speakeasy feels like you’re entering a secret bohemian dinner party. While you’re there, order a round of craft cocktails, share late-night bites on vintage china, and don’t skip dessert—the limited menu may be small, but the offerings are spectacular.
- Pauline Bistro – classic brunch vibe – Located in St. Boniface, this elegant, bright French bistro is a staple for brunch or morning coffees. For example, expect classic dishes like croque madames, french toast, and perfect mimosas.
- Cargo Bar – outdoor patio vibes – Situated along the river at Assiniboine Park, this renovated shipping container turned outdoor pop-up beer garden is ideal for golden-hour drinks on the patio. Of course, get the cider and you won’t be disappointed.
- Rose Coffee & Wine – girls night out vibes – A dreamy day-to-night spot where you can kick off the afternoon with artisanal espresso and transition smoothly into natural wines and small bites by the evening.
- The Forks Market – diverse local food hall vibes – Ideal for group dining when everyone on the girls trip wants something different. There, sample everything from local craft beer, wood-fired pizza, rice bowls, and sweet treats.
THINGS TO DO ON A GIRLS TRIP IN WINNIPEG
Despite being a smaller Canadian city, Winnipeg is packed with activities perfect for a girls trip getaway. Listed below are the non-touristy highlights and essential stops to add to your itinerary.
Explore The Leaf
Located inside Assiniboine Park, The Leaf is a stunning indoor biome and home to Canada’s largest indoor waterfall. Plus, it’s the perfect backdrop for photos and has a cutesy restaurant on-site.
Walk Across the Esplanade Riel
Stroll across this pedestrian bridge that connects Downtown Winnipeg to the historic French Quarter, Saint-Boniface. Meanwhile, the views over the Red River at sunset are unmatched.
Relax at Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg
A total highlight of any Winnipeg trip. Here, this outdoor Scandinavian thermal spa is tucked into a forest setting, with different types of saunas, cold plunges, thermal waterfalls, and outdoor relaxation fire pits. Plan to spend a few hours there rotating between the saunas, tubs, and lounging in the cozy robes. Finally, we highly recommend treating yourself to an onsite massage as well!
Visit WAG-Qaumajuq (Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq)
Home to the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art. Additionally, the Qaumajuq building itself is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a soaring three-story visible glass vault holding thousands of hand-carved stone sculptures.
Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Housed inside a towering glass sculpture, this museum is as inspiring as it is striking. Then, work your way through the immersive ramps up to the Israel Asper Tower of Hope for 360-degree views of the Winnipeg skyline.
Shop and Dine at The Forks Market
A renovated historic rail hangar transformed into a food hall and artisan marketplace! Obsessed. Browse through local Manitoba boutiques on the second floor. Afterward, grab craft wine or local bites on the main floor. So many incredible options to choose from offering a wide array of cuisines—plus, they are all local, too!
Experience First Fridays in the Exchange District
If your trip falls on the first Friday of the month, head to the historic Exchange District asap! There, local art galleries, artist studios, design shops, and cozy wine bars open their doors late for a vibrant and cozy neighborhood crawl! A blast.
Don’t Miss: Folklorama (August Visits)
Additionally, if you happen to schedule your girls getaway in August, you are in for a treat with Folklorama. Running across two weeks every summer, it is the world’s largest and longest-running multicultural festival and such a blast to experience. During the festival, dozens of volunteer-run pavilions pop up across the city, each showcasing authentic global food, drinks, cultural music, and traditional dance performances. In fact, we attended during our getaway and had the absolute best time tasting dishes from around the globe and celebrating Winnipeg’s vibrant cultural diversity.
Sample Three-Day Girls’ Trip Itinerary in Winnipeg
DAY 1:
Explore Downtown & The Exchange
- Check into Inn at the Forks, a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of downtown at The Forks National Historic Site.
- Then, head over to The Forks and explore the local market. Make sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty dining options!
- Afterward, go on a scenic river boat tour with Winnipeg Waterways. Just a short walk from The Forks and only a 45-minute tour.
- Finally, treat yourself to a glass of rose with dinner at Rosé Coffee & Wine.
DAY 2:
Cafes & Galleries
- First, brunch at the cute and chic Pauline Bistro.
- Then, walk down Tache Promenade to get a view of the skyline.
- Afterward, visit the Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq and check out the local art.
- Next, pop into Saint’s Café / Small Mercies and hang out in the charming alley patio.
- Finally, grab an early dinner at Shirley’s, and don’t forget to order the Tuna Crudo!
DAY 3:
Relax & Recharge
- Get to Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg early on in the day to maximize your time.
- You need to go through a full hot/cold cycle to experience the full health benefits. First, experience ten minutes in a sauna, thirty seconds in a cold plunge, and end with twenty minutes of rest. Repeat!
- There’s a cafe on site that serves breakfast and lunch.
This girls trip was a mix of relax, recharge, and reconnect. We found a welcoming destination proud of it’s rich history filled with unique things to do and see. Winnipeg, you won’t be disappointed!