Assiniboine Riverwalk - Image 1
1 / 3

Assiniboine Riverwalk Winnipeg

4.6
·491k reviews·Winnipeg, Canada

Winnipeg's riverwalk offers seasonal magic, from summer patios to a world-class winter skating trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Vibrant patios & live music

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Assiniboine Riverwalk - Image 1

Assiniboine Riverwalk Winnipeg

Best Time

Summer evenings

Vibrant patios & live music

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Winnipeg's riverwalk offers seasonal magic, from summer patios to a world-class winter skating trail.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit for its stunning seasonal transformations and vibrant community spirit."

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ Ice Trail Ready Early

The Forks River Trail can open as early as December! Check conditions for skating fun.

🛶 Kayak Rentals Available

Rent a kayak for an hour to explore fall colors right in the city.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Forks River Trail

The Forks River Trail

Confluence of Red and Assiniboine Rivers

A stunning winter wonderland for skating, or a scenic path for summer strolls.

Assiniboine Park Zoo

Assiniboine Park Zoo

Assiniboine Park

Home to diverse wildlife, including the popular Journey to Churchill exhibit.

Riverside Patios

Riverside Patios

Various locations along the river

Enjoy live music and delicious food with a beautiful river view.

Kayaking Serenity

Kayaking Serenity

Assiniboine River

Paddle through tranquil waters and admire fall colors from a unique perspective.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Seasons

Winnipeg's riverwalk transforms with the seasons. Summer offers vibrant patios and kayaking, while winter brings a magical ice trail. Check conditions before you go, especially for winter activities.

Respect and Reflection

The Assiniboine River is a place of deep historical and cultural significance. Visitors are encouraged to approach their experience with respect, particularly concerning Indigenous history and reconciliation efforts.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Vibrant patios & live music
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Why
Magical ice skating trail
Crowd
High
When
Fall mornings
Why
Serene kayaking, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

HIDDEN GEM ALERT! Fire Winnipeg Patio! #fyp #winnipeg #wpgnow #wpgeats #wpgfoodie #wpgmb #winnipegtiktok
@wusgoodwpg
8.6K likes • 205.9K views

⛸️ Ice Trail Ready Early

The Forks River Trail can open as early as December! Check conditions for skating fun. TikTok

🛶 Kayak Rentals Available

Rent a kayak for an hour to explore fall colors right in the city. TikTok

Winnipeg is centred on two rivers, the Red and Assiniboine, so we’re all about water no matter the weather! #winnipeg #tellmewithouttellingme #travel
@tourismwinnipeg
8.4K likes • 573.7K views
Students from Murdoch MacKay Collegiate and Collège Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau enjoyed their field trip to the Assiniboine Park Zoo today. It was a a perfect fall day to spend outdoors! . . . #studyinmanitoba #manitoba #studyinretsd #retsd #creatingstudentsuccess #internationaleducation #winnipeg #studyabroad
retsd_international
84 likes • 0 views

🎶 Patio Vibes

Discover hidden gem patios with live music and river views. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Nighttime Safety

Be mindful of safety when walking at night, especially from The Forks. Reddit

🎃 Boo at the Zoo 🎃 Liv absolutely loved dressing up, pretending it was Halloween (“Mommy I’m Anna” 😂) and seeing some animals Such a beautiful night with lots of smiles 😋 I mean who doesn’t love 25 degrees in October ♥️ #assiniboinepark #assiniboineparkzoo #winnipeg #manitoba #booatthezoo #halloweeen #costume #annafrozen #family #familytime❤️ #stroke #strokesurvivor #strokerecovery #strokeaware...
kristinlmcmahon
48 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Ice Trail Ready Early

The Forks River Trail can open as early as December! Check conditions for skating fun. TikTok

🛶 Kayak Rentals Available

Rent a kayak for an hour to explore fall colors right in the city. TikTok

🎶 Patio Vibes

Discover hidden gem patios with live music and river views. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Nighttime Safety

Be mindful of safety when walking at night, especially from The Forks. Reddit

🐻 Zoo Adventures

Assiniboine Park Zoo offers family fun, including seasonal events. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Assiniboine Riverwalk's seasonal beauty, from summer patios to the magical winter skating trail. The area offers a blend of natural scenery, family-friendly attractions like the zoo, and a rich historical context. Some visitors note that nighttime safety can be a concern in certain areas.

What People Like

Beautiful seasonal transformations
Iconic winter skating trail
Family-friendly attractions

What People Dislike

Nighttime safety concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Assiniboine Riverwalk is easily accessible from The Forks, a central Winnipeg hub. You can reach The Forks by car, bus, or even by walking from downtown. Many visitors find it convenient to park at The Forks and explore from there. TikTok

Yes, Winnipeg Transit buses serve the area around The Forks, making it accessible via public transportation. Check the Winnipeg Transit website for routes and schedules. Reddit

Absolutely! Winnipeg has a growing network of bike paths, and the riverwalk is a popular route for cyclists. Bike racks are available at The Forks.

The riverwalk is best explored on foot or by bicycle. In winter, it transforms into a popular ice skating trail.

Yes, The Forks offers ample paid parking lots. Consider arriving early, especially during peak seasons or events, to secure a spot.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Assiniboine Riverwalk itself is a public space and does not have an admission fee. However, attractions along the river, such as the Assiniboine Park Zoo, will have their own entry fees. Instagram

The riverwalk is generally accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, specific amenities or attractions along the river may have their own operating hours. The Forks Market, for example, has set hours.

No, booking tickets is not necessary for accessing the riverwalk. If you plan to visit specific attractions like the Assiniboine Park Zoo, it's advisable to check their websites for advance ticket options, especially during busy periods. Instagram

Yes, The Forks and surrounding areas often host special events, festivals, and concerts that may require tickets. It's best to check The Forks' official website for event schedules and ticketing information.

To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting on weekday mornings or during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Winter weekends can be very busy with skaters. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Activities vary by season. In summer, enjoy walking, biking, kayaking, and dining at riverside patios. In winter, the Forks River Trail becomes a popular ice skating path. TikTok+1

Yes, it's very family-friendly! The Assiniboine Park Zoo is a major draw for kids, and the open spaces along the river are great for playing. Seasonal events often cater to families. Instagram

Capture stunning shots of the river, the city skyline, and the unique architecture at The Forks. Winter ice formations and summer sunsets offer particularly picturesque scenes.

The Forks Market offers a wide variety of food vendors. Additionally, several restaurants and patios are located along the river, providing great dining experiences with views. TikTok

Dress for the weather! Comfortable walking shoes are essential. In winter, warm layers, hats, and gloves are a must for skating. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the river and city skyline. Winter days with fresh snow can also be very photogenic.

The confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, the unique bridges, and the historic buildings at The Forks are all excellent subjects. The Assiniboine Park Zoo also provides many photo opportunities. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or long exposures, especially during winter.

Drone usage is subject to regulations. It's crucial to check Transport Canada's guidelines and any local bylaws regarding drone operation in public spaces and near attractions like the zoo.

Look for the changing ice formations in winter, the vibrant fall foliage, and the diverse wildlife at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. The cultural significance of the area also offers compelling visual stories. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Assiniboine Riverwalk area is a fantastic destination for families. The Assiniboine Park Zoo is a major highlight, offering engaging exhibits like Journey to Churchill that kids will love. Instagram+1 In the summer, consider renting a kayak for a gentle paddle on the Assiniboine River, providing a unique perspective of the city. TikTok The open spaces along the river are perfect for letting kids run around, and The Forks Market offers a wide array of food options to satisfy picky eaters. During winter, the Forks River Trail is an iconic skating experience that families can enjoy together. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Assiniboine Riverwalk itself is free to access, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity. Enjoy walking or biking along the scenic paths without spending a dime. TikTok Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, saving on dining costs. The Forks Market offers affordable food options if you prefer to buy something. In winter, skating on the Forks River Trail is a free activity if you bring your own skates; rentals are available at a reasonable price. TikTok

couples

For a romantic outing, explore the riverside patios during summer evenings, often featuring live music and a vibrant atmosphere. TikTok A kayak trip on the Assiniboine River, especially during the fall colors, offers a serene and intimate experience. TikTok In winter, a skating date on the illuminated Forks River Trail is incredibly picturesque and memorable. TikTok Consider a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the riverbanks, taking in the city's views and enjoying each other's company.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Winter Wonderland: The Forks River Trail

When winter descends upon Winnipeg, the Assiniboine River transforms into a magical playground. The Forks River Trail is a highlight, offering one of the longest naturally frozen skating rinks in the world. It's a beloved community activity, with the trail often opening as early as December, sometimes even before Christmas! TikTok+1 Visitors can rent skates at The Forks, making it an accessible winter adventure. The trail connects to other skating paths, creating an extensive network for exploration. Remember to dress warmly, as Winnipeg winters can be very cold, but the crisp air and sparkling ice make it an unforgettable experience. TikTok

Beyond skating, the winter landscape along the river is breathtaking. The snow-covered banks and the frozen river create a serene, picturesque scene. It's a fantastic opportunity for winter photography, capturing the unique beauty of the Canadian prairie in its icy glory. Even if you're not a skater, a walk along the riverbanks offers stunning views and a chance to experience Winnipeg's winter charm. TikTok

A Journey Through History and Culture

The Assiniboine River and its surrounding areas hold deep historical and cultural significance for Winnipeg. This land has been a gathering place for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Anishinaabe, Cree, and Métis. TikTok The confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers was a vital hub for the fur trade and continues to be a central point in the city's identity. Understanding this rich history adds a profound layer to any visit.

Visitors can learn more about this heritage through various initiatives. The Forks National Historic Site offers interpretive programming, and there are ongoing efforts towards Truth and Reconciliation. Instagram Engaging with these aspects of the area fosters a deeper appreciation for the land and its peoples. It's a reminder that the riverwalk is not just a recreational space but a place with a living history that continues to shape the community. TikTok

Exploring the Assiniboine Park Zoo

A short distance from the main riverwalk, the Assiniboine Park Zoo is a must-visit, especially for families. It's renowned for its innovative exhibits, most notably the Journey to Churchill, which allows visitors to see polar bears and other northern species in a simulated Arctic environment. Instagram The zoo is committed to conservation and education, offering a chance to learn about diverse wildlife and the importance of protecting their habitats.

Beyond the polar bears, the zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and various primates. Seasonal events, like 'Boo at the Zoo' during Halloween, add extra fun for visitors of all ages. Instagram The zoo's layout is designed for pleasant walking, with well-maintained paths and engaging displays. It's a perfect complement to a day spent exploring the riverbanks, offering a blend of nature, education, and entertainment. Instagram

You may also like