Provencher Bridge
Winnipeg, Manitoba

The province of Manitoba lies in the middle of Canada. Derived from a native Cree word meaning “Straight of the Spirit”, Manitoba is a land that is glorious and free. Known for its dramatic landscapes, 100,000 lakes and exciting wildlife, this central Canada region is a treasure in the prairies. Spend an afternoon paddling on the Red River Canoe or Caddy Lake; or Kayak in Sturgeon Falls or Hecia Island - no matter where you spend your time, the rugged shorelines of Manitoba are thrilling. While there are many vibrant explorations one could have when traveling through Manitoba, here are the top four places we’d have on our list.

Choose from 2 Best Western hotels when in Manitoba and enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

The Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre in Morden. If you like dinosaurs or sea monsters, then this is the place for you. Boasting the largest collection of Prehistoric marine fossils in North America, travelers can have the opportunity to see life-size reconstructions of skeletons including megalodon, mosasaurs and plesiosaurs. While at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Center, meet “Bruce” - the 43-foot mosasaur. The fiercest marine reptile, a mosasaur is larger and scarier then a T Rex. See what life is like as a Paleontologist and participate in an actual excavation of new fossils. Join the “Fossil Dig Program” and have your very own fossil finding adventure. Other Prehistoric marine fossils on site include turtles, birds, and squid. Visit the Discovery Center and see what life was like 80 million years ago.

Spirit Way in Thompson - 16 reasons to take a walk. The 2.5km pathway highlights 16 remarkable points of interest for walkers and cyclists. Full of historical, cultural, geological, and artistic perspectives - Spirit Way is designated a Manitoba Star Attraction. Starting at the Heritage North Museum, make sure you purchase the official Spirit Way Guide Book and GPS Wolf Hunt Passport, and then enjoy your journey traversing through the forest to Miles Hart Bridge. Have your camera ready, and be on the lookout for attractions like beautiful wolf statues and the world's largest mural of a Robert Bateman painting.

Churchill - home of the Northern Lights, Polar Bears and Beluga Whales. Polar Bears - called “Lords of the Arctic” is a magnificent animal. Growing more than 600 kg (1,320 lbs) and standing 3.05 metres (10 feet) tall - these are no ordinary creatures. There are several ways to observe the Churchill polars playing in their frigid playgrounds - take a ride on a local tundra vehicle, visit a wilderness lodge built on the bears’ shore, or take a guided walk through areas the bears' frequent most. The other majestic Churchill creature is the Beluga Whale. Nicknamed a “sea canary” because of their high-pitched whistles - beluga whales reach nearly 6 meters (18 feet) in length and 1,600 kilograms (3,500 pounds) in weight. Sociable animals - you can venture out on passenger boats or even down in the water snorkeling to visit the beluga whale. One of the top three places to see the northern lights, scientists from around the world travel to Churchill to watch the spectacular natural light show. Another must-do while in Churchill is tasting Arctic Char - let’s just say you can call it the “steak of the sea”. Similar to salmon or trout, Arctic Char is some of the freshest fish you’ll ever taste.

FortWhyte Alive in Winnipeg. Featuring 640 acres of forest, lakes, marshes and self-guiding trails - FortWhyte Alive is an oasis in the wild. Home to over 27 species of wild animals including waterfowl, whitetail deer, and muskrats; during the fall watch for the thousands of Canada geese and ducks that flock to FortWhyte. Rent a boat or canoe and set out on scenic lakes for year-round fishing for pike, walleye and trout. Whether hiking, nature watching or relaxing on a boat - taking a trip to FortWhyte will bring you as close nature as you can get.