Interlake Region, Canada Travel Guide
Discover the Interlake Region of Canada: A blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture nestled between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba.
The Interlake Region of Canada is a stunning area nestled between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. This picturesque destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to relax, the Interlake Region has something for everyone. Nature lovers will be delighted with the vast array of outdoor activities available. From fishing and boating on the pristine lakes to hiking and bird-watching in the lush forests, the Interlake Region is an adventurer's paradise. The area's diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. History enthusiasts will appreciate the region's rich heritage, which is evident in its charming towns and historical sites. Visit the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site to step back in time and experience life in the 19th century. Explore the many museums and cultural centers that showcase the area's Indigenous heritage and the stories of the early settlers. The Interlake Region is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Local galleries and studios feature the works of talented artists, while festivals and events celebrate the area's diverse traditions and community spirit. Don't miss the chance to sample the local cuisine, which reflects the region's rich cultural tapestry and natural bounty.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Interlake Region.
- Visit in summer or early fall for the best weather and outdoor activities.
- Bring binoculars for bird-watching; the region is home to many unique species.
- Explore local farmer's markets for fresh, seasonal produce and handmade crafts.
- Check out local festivals and events to experience the vibrant community spirit.
- Pack comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the region's natural trails.
Explore Interlake Region: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Interlake Region
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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South Beach Casino & Resort
Experience the vibrant blend of gaming, dining, and relaxation at South Beach Casino & Resort in beautiful Scanterbury, Manitoba.
Mennonite Heritage Village
Discover the rich history and culture of the Mennonite community at Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach, Manitoba.
Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park in Manitoba, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Stonewall Quarry Park
Explore the breathtaking Stonewall Quarry Park – a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure in Manitoba.
Best landmarks in Interlake Region
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South Beach Casino & Resort
Discover excitement at South Beach Casino & Resort in Manitoba, where gaming, dining, and relaxation await in a stunning beachfront setting.
Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park
Experience the tranquil beauty of Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park, a natural haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure in Manitoba.
Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, a captivating journey through Canada's past.
Stonewall Quarry Park
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Stonewall Quarry Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Manitoba.
Best restaurants in Interlake Region
Top-rated picks
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Lakeview Gimli Resort
Discover lakeside luxury at Lakeview Gimli Resort - your perfect getaway in Manitoba with stunning views and exceptional amenities.
Europa
Experience delightful international cuisine at Europa in Gimli - where local ingredients meet global flavors in a cozy setting.
Beach Boy Restaurant
Experience fresh seafood and delightful dining at Beach Boy Restaurant in scenic Gimli - where every meal feels like a vacation!
Seagulls Restaurant & Lounge
Discover lakeside dining at Seagulls Restaurant & Lounge in Gimli—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Best bars in Interlake Region
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King's Head Pub
Discover the heart of Winnipeg at King's Head Pub: a perfect blend of local culture, lively atmosphere, and delicious cuisine in the city’s downtown.
Underdogs
Experience the ultimate sports bar in Winnipeg at Underdogs, where great food, drinks, and live sports create unforgettable moments.
The Toad in the Hole
Discover The Toad in the Hole, a cozy pub in Winnipeg offering delicious food, a wide drink selection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all visitors.
Yellow Dog Tavern
Discover the lively Yellow Dog Tavern in Winnipeg, where delicious food and local brews create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Best nightclubs in Interlake Region
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High And Lonesome Club
Experience Winnipeg's vibrant nightlife at High And Lonesome Club, the ultimate bar and live music venue for unforgettable moments.
Club 200
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club 200 in Winnipeg, the ultimate gay night club with great food, music, and an inclusive atmosphere.
World Famous Palomino Club
Discover the electric atmosphere of Winnipeg's Palomino Club, a premier night club featuring lively music, delicious drinks, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
On The Rocks Bar & Niteclub
Discover the vibrant nightlife at On The Rocks Bar & Niteclub, where great drinks and lively entertainment await in Selkirk, Manitoba.
Best shops in Interlake Region
Top-rated picks
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CF Polo Park
Discover CF Polo Park, Winnipeg's top shopping mall with over 170 stores, diverse dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Outlet Collection Winnipeg
Discover unbeatable deals and a diverse shopping experience at Outlet Collection Winnipeg, the premier outlet mall in Manitoba.
Johnston Terminal
Experience the best of local shopping and dining at Johnston Terminal, Winnipeg's vibrant cultural hub.
Wild Things Unique Gifts
Explore Wild Things Unique Gifts in Assiniboine Park for a delightful array of locally crafted souvenirs and unique treasures to cherish forever.
Explore Interlake Region on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Interlake Region, mapped for you.
Interlake Region Essentials
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The Interlake Region is located in central Manitoba, Canada, bordered by Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. The nearest major city and airport is Winnipeg, approximately 70 kilometers to the south. From Winnipeg, you can drive via Provincial Trunk Highways 6, 7, or 8. Alternatively, bus services connect Winnipeg to various towns within the Interlake Region. Car rentals are available at the Winnipeg airport for a more flexible travel experience.
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Within the Interlake Region, the most convenient way to travel is by car. The region's attractions are spread out, making driving the best option. Local taxi services are available in larger towns like Selkirk and Gimli. Public transport options are limited, so plan your trip accordingly. Cycling is also popular, especially in and around scenic areas such as the Gimli waterfront.
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The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Selkirk, Gimli, and Stonewall. Currency exchange services can be found in Winnipeg if needed.
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The Interlake Region is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime is rare, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car, especially in remote areas. The towns of Selkirk and Gimli are safe, but as always, be cautious when walking alone at night in unfamiliar places. Emergency services are reliable and can be reached by dialing 911.
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In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals and clinics are located in larger towns such as Selkirk and Gimli. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues. Keep a list of emergency contacts and local embassy information handy.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual wear is acceptable almost everywhere. Religion: Do respect local churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport options are limited. Don't expect frequent schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi'. A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like pickerel and Icelandic-style foods in Gimli. Don't forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20%.
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To experience the Interlake Region like a local, visit the farmers' markets, especially in Gimli and Stonewall. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss fishing opportunities on Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. For a unique experience, attend the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba held annually in Gimli. Hiking trails such as the ones in Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
When is the best time to visit Interlake Region?
Useful Local Phrases for Interlake Region
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Interlake Region. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHello
[hɛloʊ] - GoodbyeGoodbye
[ɡʊdˈbaɪ] - YesYes
[jɛs] - NoNo
[noʊ] - Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
[pliːz/jʊr ˈwɛlkəm] - Thank youThank you
[θæŋk ju] - Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
[ɪkˈskjus mi/ˈsɔri] - How are you?How are you?
[haʊ ɑr ju] - Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
[faɪn. ənd ju] - Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
[du ju spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ] - I don't understandI don't understand
[aɪ doʊnt ˌʌndərˈstænd]
- HelloHello
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
[aɪd laɪk tə si ðə ˈmɛnju, pliːz] - I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
[aɪ doʊnt it miːt] - Cheers!Cheers!
[ʧɪrz] - I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
[aɪ wʊd laɪk tə peɪ, pliːz]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
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- Help!Help!
[hɛlp] - Go away!Go away!
[ɡoʊ əˈweɪ] - Call the Police!Call the Police!
[kɔl ðə pəˈlis] - Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
[kɔl ə ˈdɒktər] - I'm lostI'm lost
[aɪm lɔst] - I'm illI'm ill
[aɪm ɪl]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
[aɪd laɪk tə baɪ...] - I'm just lookingI'm just looking
[aɪm dʒʌst ˈlʊkɪŋ] - How much is it?How much is it?
[haʊ mʌʧ ɪz ɪt] - That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
[ðæts tuː ɪkˈspɛnsɪv] - Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
[kæn ju ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
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- What time is it?What time is it?
[wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[ɪts wʌn əˈklɑk] - Half past (10)Half past (10)
[hæf pæst (10)] - MorningMorning
[ˈmɔrnɪŋ] - AfternoonAfternoon
[ˌæftərˈnun] - EveningEvening
[ˈivnɪŋ] - YesterdayYesterday
[ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ] - TodayToday
[təˈdeɪ] - TomorrowTomorrow
[təˈmɔroʊ] - 11
[wʌn] - 22
[tu] - 33
[θri] - 44
[fɔr] - 55
[faɪv] - 66
[sɪks] - 77
[sɛvən] - 88
[eɪt] - 99
[naɪn] - 1010
[tɛn]
- What time is it?What time is it?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
[wɛr ɪz ə/ðə...?] - What's the address?What's the address?
[wɒts ði ˈædrɛs] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
[kæn ju ʃoʊ mi (ɒn ðə mæp)?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
[wɛn ɪz ðə nɛkst (bʌs)?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
History of Interlake Region
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Long before European settlers arrived, the Interlake Region was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Cree and Anishinaabe. These communities thrived in the area, relying on its abundant natural resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering. Their rich cultural traditions and deep connection to the land are still evident today in the region's numerous archaeological sites and cultural practices.
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The late 17th and early 18th centuries marked the advent of the fur trade in the Interlake Region. European traders, primarily from the Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company, established trading posts in the area. These posts became vital hubs for the exchange of furs, goods, and information between Indigenous trappers and European traders. The legacy of this era is preserved in several historic sites and museums throughout the region.
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In the late 19th century, the Interlake Region saw an influx of Icelandic settlers. Seeking refuge from volcanic eruptions and economic hardship in Iceland, these immigrants established communities such as Gimli and Riverton. The Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, held annually in Gimli, celebrates this unique cultural heritage with traditional food, music, and historical reenactments.
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The fertile soil of the Interlake Region attracted many settlers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Agriculture quickly became the cornerstone of the local economy, with wheat, barley, and other crops being the primary products. The establishment of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the early 1900s facilitated the transportation of goods and further boosted agricultural development.
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The Narrows, a narrow strait connecting the northern and southern basins of Lake Manitoba, has been a vital waterway for centuries. Indigenous peoples, fur traders, and settlers all used this passage for transportation and trade. Today, the Narrows remains an important cultural and recreational area, known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance.
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During World War II, the Interlake Region played a crucial role in supporting the war effort. Local communities contributed by producing agricultural goods, while several training facilities for the Royal Canadian Air Force were established in the area. The Gimli Air Base, in particular, became a key training site and continues to operate as a civilian airport and aviation museum.
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Today, the Interlake Region is known for its vibrant cultural festivals that celebrate its diverse heritage. Events like the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, the Arborg Agricultural Fair, and the Fisher River Cree Nation's annual powwow attract visitors from near and far. These festivals showcase traditional music, dance, crafts, and cuisine, providing a rich cultural tapestry for all to enjoy.
Neighbouring Regions of Interlake Region
The closest regions to Interlake Region, if you have time for more than one.
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The Enchanting Interlake Region of Canada
The Interlake Region of Canada is a stunning area nestled between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. This picturesque destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to relax, the Interlake Region has something for everyone. Nature lovers will be delighted with the vast array of outdoor activities available. From fishing and boating on the pristine lakes to hiking and bird-watching in the lush forests, the Interlake Region is an adventurer's paradise. The area's diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. History enthusiasts will appreciate the region's rich heritage, which is evident in its charming towns and historical sites. Visit the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site to step back in time and experience life in the 19th century. Explore the many museums and cultural centers that showcase the area's Indigenous heritage and the stories of the early settlers. The Interlake Region is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Local galleries and studios feature the works of talented artists, while festivals and events celebrate the area's diverse traditions and community spirit. Don't miss the chance to sample the local cuisine, which reflects the region's rich cultural tapestry and natural bounty.