Would like to visit Winnipeg when it gets warmer (hotels, theater)

[psulions2007]

Hi everyone! I'm planning a trip, likely this summer, that involves visiting Manitoba/Winnipeg and Lake Winnipeg. What are some must-see, must-do things in and around Winnipeg? Best shopping areas, parks, beaches, entertainment, etc.?

In Canada, I've only been to the St. Catharine's-Niagara Falls corridor in Ontario, so I'm hoping for a uniquely Prairieland experience!

Also as a sidenote, I have a dog who is up to date on all of his shots...is there any risk, providing that I have all of his vaccination records, that I would be turned away at the border with him in the car? Also, are pet friendly hotels common/available in Manitoba/Canada?

Thanks everyone!

[mricu]

I lived in Winnipeg for 3 years before moving onto San Diego. But here are some pointers:

Things to see/do:
- Visit the Forks (Marketplace, historic sites, skateboard park)
- Boat down the Red River and Assiniboine Rivers
- Picnic at Assiniboine Park (also have sculpture garden, flower gardens, duck pond)
- Take in a Dinner Theater at Celebrations Dinner Theater
- Take a guided tour of downtown Winnipeg (they also have haunted tours)
- A walk down Osborne Street is a neat experience
- Grab Dinner and a Gelato in Little Italy

My Choices for Shopping:
- Polo Park (Owned by Fairview Cadillac)
- St. Vital Center
- Outlet type stores in Linden Woods

Beaches (Not in Winnipeg, but a short drive away):
- Grand Beach is an amazing oasis in the middle of Canada with pure white sand, but not much else around.
- Gimli Beach is more happening and the town is very inviting and a great place to explore

Thats all that comes to mind at the moment.

[smakawhat]

Well I think the previous poster got most of it for must do's. Not hard plenty of time to do all that.

I was born and raised, but moved away 10 years ago.

I'll just add:

Food:

Go to Alycia's and get some perogies

Sightseeing:

Spend some time in Old Market Square area
Check out the Fort Garry Hotel for brunch on Sunday (or do they have it every day?) not sure. Then take a brief elevator ride to the top to see the skyline... it's a free ride to check out the view (hidden tip).

that's all I can think of that hasn't been said... I am a little out of the loop these days about the place

Depending on when you go also, there's sometimes lots of festivals and things going on. In the summer the city can get quite empty on weekends as everyone drives out of town on Friday for mass exoduses to lake cottages and beaches. Depending on when you go, check out the Fringe Festival, Folklorama (that's in August), and the Folk Festival.

PS...

wear a lot of mosquito repellent