Situated at the confluence of the Assiniboine and Red Rivers, Winnipeg has been an important hub for over 6,000 years. The name Winnipeg comes from the Cree word win nipee, meaning “muddy waters,” likely inspired by the Red River’s murky flow. French fur traders were the first Europeans to arrive, but it was the opening of the railroad in 1886 that truly transformed the city, connecting it to the rest of the country. Today, Winnipeg is home to around 700,000 people, making it Canada’s seventh-largest city, with a diverse economy and cultural scene.

Winnipeg’s weather is nothing short of extreme, with hot, almost tropical summers and freezing, snow-filled winters. The locals embrace it all with a busy calendar of festivals, sporting events, music concerts, and world-class theatre throughout the year. The city also boasts several historic districts and heritage sites, alongside green spaces and peaceful parks, many of which line the riverfront. While often seen as a gateway to Manitoba’s northern wildlife adventures, Winnipeg is a scenic and vibrant city worth exploring in its own right.