Great Day Trips for Seniors in the Winnipeg Region

Winnipeg, the vibrant capital city of Manitoba, is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning natural landscapes. The city attracts people of all ages, though one demographic in particular has seen a big increase in population recently.

The senior’s population in the Winnipeg region is on the rise. For example, the number of people over the age of 85 has increased by 12% since 2016 (1).

If you're one of the many seniors who have made Winnipeg your home, you might be eager to explore the area beyond your new town. Luckily, Winnipeg is near some great destinations you can enjoy on a quick day trip.

Whether you're looking for somewhere to go during the winter or somewhere to cool off during the hot summer months, there are plenty of options available.

“If you are one of the many seniors who have made Winnipeg your home, you might be eager to explore the area beyond your new town.”

From charming heritage sites to picturesque parks and wildlife encounters, there is something to suit every interest. In this article, we will highlight some of the top day trips from Winnipeg.

Gimli

Gimli is a charming town with a welcoming community and only about an hour away from Winnipeg, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. It's a beautiful locale and you're sure to have a memorable day.

You're going to walk to start your day at the New Iceland Heritage Museum. Here, you'll learn about the town's history through artifacts, photos, and stories.

There's an iconic Viking statue that you won't want to miss. It's a symbol of Gimli's Icelandic heritage. It's also located on the water, which is the perfect spot for taking photos.

Along the water is the Gimli Boardwalk. You'll want to take a stroll here and appreciate the natural beauty. There are lots of shops, restaurants, and galleries to take in.

We recommend visiting in the summer and early autumn. You'll be able to enjoy concerts, take a sailboat ride, or have a picnic. The city comes to life June to September, and you'll be able to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

If you want to explore the city in the winter, don't worry, there are still a lot of activities for seniors. For example, you can try ice fishing, watching car races on the frozen lake, and enjoying the Viking demonstrations.

Brandon

Another location that is at the top of our list is Brandon. This will be one of your favourite day trips, especially if you're a foodie. You can take a self-guided tour of the local restaurants with friends.

If you're visiting in the winter or don't want to spend a lot of time outside, this is the spot for you. While there are some outdoor activities, there are a lot of indoor adventures too.

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum is ideal for those who are interested in learning about Canada's aviation history (2). There's also an art gallery that many people visit every year as well.

Looking to catch a game or concert, check out Keystone Centre. There's likely to be a fun event while you're in town that you can attend.

Riding Mountain National Park

If you enjoy being outside and observing wildlife, Riding Mountain National Park is the place for you. It's only about two hours away from Winnipeg.

On your day trip, be sure to look out for elk, black bears, moose, and white-tailed deer. There are also numerous bird species, so be sure to bring your binoculars.

There are walking trails for all skill levels, and if you're up for an adventure, you can kayak or canoe on the lake. The water is crystal clear, like nothing you've ever seen before. It's truly breathtaking.

Along with your binoculars, pack your camera as well. You'll want to remember the views and share them with friends and family.

This area is also rich in cultural heritage. You can learn about Indigenous history, early settlers, and the importance of conservation efforts. The more you know, the more you'll be able to appreciate the beauty of the park.

Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site

Calling all history buffs! If you've run out of things to do in Winnipeg and want to learn more about local history, it's time to visit the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site (3). It was originally built in the 1830s by the Hudson’s Bay Company.

The site is packed full of rich history that you'll find intriguing. After your visit, you'll appreciate the importance of the fur trade and how it affected the economy in the 1800s and much more.

It's located around 30 kilometres north and is an easy round trip.

Grand Beach

Grand Beach is unlike any of the other destinations mentioned above. It's a paradise location that's only an hour outside of Winnipeg.

It's known for its white sand and dunes. There are hiking and walking trails that you can enjoy and there are also water activities such as kayaking. The outdoor amphitheater has concerts and other entertaining events regularly as well.

Day Trips From Winnipeg

Winnipeg and the surrounding region offer an array of exciting day trips for seniors, allowing you to indulge in history, nature, and cultural experiences. Whether exploring historic sites, strolling through beautiful parks, or encountering wildlife, there is something for everyone.

These destinations provide accessible amenities and facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for you and your friends. Don't wait to get out of town and enjoy some fresh air.

Pack your bags, gather your friends, and embark on a remarkable adventure through the Winnipeg region.

Join our senior independent living community and discover what retirement living can be for you. Book a tour to get started or call us at 1-877-929-9222.

Footnotes:

1. CTV News Website: ‘It's going to affect everyone': Number of seniors over 85 expected to triple in next 25 years (April 22, 2022)
2. Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial
3. Parks Canada: Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site