The Forks National Historic Site: Where History Meets Nature
Explore the rich history and natural beauty at The Forks National Historic Site in Winnipeg, a cultural hub where rivers converge.
A brief summary to The Forks National Historic Site
- Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, Downtown, Manitoba, R3C 4S8, CA
- +1204-927-7874
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
The Forks National Historic Site is a must-visit for tourists in Winnipeg, blending historical significance with natural beauty. This iconic location marks the meeting point of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, a site that has been a gathering place for thousands of years. Today, it serves as a vibrant cultural hub, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past while providing a host of modern attractions. As you stroll through the expansive parklands, you'll discover numerous walking and biking trails that wind through lush greenery and scenic river views. The Forks is also home to the Forks Market, where local artisans and food vendors showcase their unique offerings, making it an ideal spot to sample local cuisine and shop for handmade goods. The site is rich in history, with interpretive displays and guided tours available to enhance your experience. Don't miss the iconic Canadian Museum for Human Rights nearby, which complements the historical narrative of The Forks. Whether you're looking to relax by the riverside, indulge in local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Winnipeg, The Forks National Historic Site offers a diverse range of activities for every visitor. Plan your visit around one of the many festivals held throughout the year, as these events highlight the vibrant community and cultural diversity that makes this location truly special.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the rivers.
- Check the local events calendar for festivals and markets that showcase local artisans and cuisine.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the rivers and the historical architecture around the site.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the extensive trail system that connects to other attractions in Winnipeg.
Getting There
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Walking
From Osborne Village, head north on River Avenue towards Stradbrook Avenue. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Assiniboine Avenue. Turn left onto Assiniboine Avenue and walk until you reach the Forks Market Road. The Forks National Historic Site is located at Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4S8. This route is approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes around 20-25 minutes on foot.
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Public Transit - Bus
From Osborne Village, walk to the nearest bus stop at the corner of River Ave and Stradbrook Ave. Take bus number 24 or 60 heading towards downtown. Ride for about 5-10 minutes and get off at the stop at Main St at The Forks. From there, it is a short walk to The Forks National Historic Site located at Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4S8. The bus fare is approximately CAD 3.00.
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Biking
If you have access to a bike, you can cycle from Osborne Village to The Forks National Historic Site. Start by heading north on River Ave, then turn left onto Assiniboine Avenue. Follow it until you reach the Forks Market Road. The total distance is approximately 1.5 kilometers and should take around 10-15 minutes by bike. Make sure to follow the bike lanes and pathways along the way.
Attractions Nearby to The Forks National Historic Site
- Children's Museum
- The Forks National Historic Amphitheatre
- Oodena Celebration Circle
- CN Stage and Field
- Winnipeg Sign
- Forks Market Plaza and Canopy
- The Forks Market view point
- Esplanade Riel Footbridge
- The Forks Market Tower
- Saint-Boniface or St Boniface Cathedral Cemetery
- The Forks Market
- Mahatma Gandhi Statue
- The Forks Historic Port
- Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum
- Louis Riel's tomb
Landmarks nearby to The Forks National Historic Site
- Parks Canada
- Path of Time
- The Meeting Place
- Travel Manitoba
- Peace Meeting Site
- Laverendrye Park
- The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre
- Dalnavert Museum and Visitors' Centre
- Stephen Juba Park
- Winnipeg Police Museum
- emptyful by Bill Pechet (City of Winnipeg Public Art Collection)
- The Grain Exchange Building
- Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain
- Manitoba Historical Society
- Fort Gibraltar