Gluten Free Things to do in Winnipeg

Winnipeg Travel Tips

G-Free Travel Rating

9/10

Major Airport

Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG)

Official Language

English & French

Currency:

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Power Outlets:

Types A & B

Eating Gluten Free in Winnipeg

We did not spend a lot time here but had plenty of gluten free things to do in Winnipeg and the dining options were abundant. Kara found another crepe place which is now my favorite dining option when we travel. We also found an excellent coffee/breakfast establishment that worked out excellently. Our last meal was at an airport hotel but they had a gluten free pasta option that tasted fantastic. Key thing as always is the research done in the planning phase to determine the options available.

Our top list of things to do while in Winnipeg

Hit the Trails

Whether you prefer biking, hiking or going out for a leisurely stroll Winnipeg has many trails to explore. Their culture embraces outdoor activities come winter or summer. The city features an extensive network of bike paths, including the Assiniboine Riverwalk and routes through Assiniboine Park. Community initiatives like Bike Winnipeg advocate for cycling-friendly infrastructure making active transportation easy and safe. In fact, many hotels have bike rentals for free as a means of transportation for exploring Winnipeg. That is exactly what we did.

Parks offer scenic trails that combine nature with urban charm. The FortWhyte Alive trail system provides views of prairie vistas and wetland views, where as Harbour View Trail at Kilcona Park allows for a relaxing stroll around a serene lake.

If you want a more eccentric experience then try the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, located in Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park which is a poised outdoor gallery showcasing the works of renowned Ukrainian-Canadian artist Leo Mol. This beautifully landscaped Garden features over 300 pieces thoughtfully placed among flower beds, walking paths, and a tranquil pond.

Winter

In winter Winnipeg transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities that embrace the season. The Forks River trail, one of the world’s longest naturally frozen skating trails, is perfect for ice skating or walking. Assiniboine Park and other parks host cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails while Kildonan Park features a picturesque toboggan hill. If you have an adventurous side then join the locals in fat biking on groomed snowy trails.

The Forks Market

Johnston Terminal

Shopping

Winnipeg offers a diverse shopping experience, more than what I anticipated. Whether you are after high-end retail or one-of-a-kind treasures, Winnipeg offers something for every shopper. Since Lazy Bear Expeditions put us up at the Inn at the Forks the night before we left for Churchill, we dove into the shopping at the Forks Market and Johnston Terminal.

Forks Market & Johnston Terminal

It is a must visit for locally made crafts, Indigenous art, and gourmet food items. They even host seasonal pop-ups and artisan vendors to keep everything fresh. Mixed among all the boutique shops are a couple of restaurants and coffee shops. Since it is designed as a space to get together, the Forks Market has a ping pong table and huge patio overlooking the Assiniboine River. It’s a great place to grab coffee or ice cream and decompress.

While strolling through the shops at Johnston Terminal, don’t forget to stop at Pulse Gallery and check out what the Manitoba artists are creating. We found a fantastic piece of art that highlights our polar bear tour. If you are looking for something else, try one of the other locations highlighted below. The options are endless.

Osborne Village

Just a short stroll from downtown this village is known for its bohemian vibe. It features vintage stores like Out of the Blue, quirky gift shops and eclectic fashion boutiques. There are many restaurants tucked in amongst the boutiques in case you get hungry during your retail therapy session! This area is also know to have the best live music dive bars if you’re up for that.

Grant Park Shopping Centre

It is a specialty bookstores and unique gift stores alongside mainstream retail outlets. This shopping Centre has over 70 retailers and services so you’ll be sure to find everything you need.

CF Polo Park

If you are ready to dive head first into shopping then this is the place to start. It is Winnipeg’s largest shopping mall located near the downtown area. It features over 200 stores, including popular brands like Sephora, Coach and Hudson Bay. You can really find everything from fashion to electronics to home goods with numerous dining options in between.

Museums

Winnipeg is rich in history, culture and art, and its museums reflect this diversity. Here is a list of a couple of the city’s top museums.

Canadian Human Rights Museum

Features interactive exhibits exploring global and Canadian human right stories and stunning architecture, including the “Tower of Hop.”
Location: Near The Forks
Admission: ~$13 USD/adult ticket Free on Sundays
Random Tidbit: The first museum in the world dedicated solely to human rights.

Manitoba Museum:

Features aspects of natural history, human history, and science. The Nonsuch gallery houses a life-sized replica of a 17th-century ship. There is also a planetarium for astronomy shows and a science gallery with hands-on exhibits.
Location: Downtown Winnipeg
Admission: ~$20 USD for all 3 (museum, science exhibit and planetarium show)

Royal Aviation Museum:

Features a restored aircraft from the early 20th century and interactive exhibits exploring aviation technology and history. It has been dedicated to Canada’s aviation history.
Location: Near Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (you’ll actually drive right by it on your way out).
Admission: ~$12 USD/adult ticket

Children’s Museum

Features ever-changing themes to keep the kids interested each season with new workshops. It also has a hands-on activity called the “illusion Tunnel.”
Location: The Forks
Admission: ~$9 USD/adult ticket

Dalnaverrt Museum and Visitors’ Centre

Features a glimpse back to the 19th-century life in Manitoba. The guided tours of this restored Victorian Mansion highlight the beautiful period furnishings and seasonal exhibits.
Location: Downtown Winnipeg
Admission: ~$7 USD/adult ticket

There are plenty more to explore making Winnipeg a vibrant destination for museum enthusiasts. Please remember to check operation times as each one varies.

Drive Go-Karts

Go-karting in Winnipeg offers an exciting activity for thrill-seekers and families alike. Local tracks, like SpeedWorld Indoor Kart Track, provide high-speed fun in a controlled environment. During the race, you speed around winding tracks with sharp turns and straightaways long enough for you to floor it. It’s perfect for some friendly competition or honing your driving skills. Be prepared for a forearm workout!! Something I was not expecting.

Our Experience

I have never been to an indoor go-kart track, so this was a first for me and I wasn’t sure what to expect. The ones I had been to in the past were outdoors and normally part of some amusement park that didn’t go very fast. This was vastly different and people there took it very seriously. Terry loved it because he likes the challenge, but for me I was a little stressed out. You go in with a larger party (unless you reserve the track) and I didn’t want to get in the way of people racing each other or going for a record time.

We paid for three races, lucky for me, I shaved off 2 seconds of my time by the third race and was only milliseconds away from some of the regulars. While I know that can be a long time when it comes to racing I was still pretty proud of myself. Terry, of course, was top 3 after the first race.

Day Trip to Churchill

This takes a little coordination and a pretty penny. Since it is not as simple as boarding a tour bus and driving a couple hours to the destination, you have to fly a couple hours to get to Churchill. In fact, the only way to get there is either a 48 hour train ride or 2.5 hour flight. The flight is pretty basic; however, the plane’s wings are constructed above the windows leaving a clear view of the vastness below.

The guided tundra buggy tours allow you close yet safe encounters with these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. The best time is to schedule this tour is during their migration season (mid-October through mid-November). Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Arctic foxes, snowy owls, and other wildlife. It’s an unique ecosystem you get to explore along the Hudson Bay, all while learning of the Inuit culture.

While this is doable and there were people there who opted for this option, we recommend staying a couple nights. This allows you to break up the travel days and long days spotting wildlife. Lunch is served while on the tundra buggy, so make sure you confirm a gluten free meal prior to heading out! If a day trip is all you can manage, this adventure offers unforgettable wildlife sightings and breathtaking Arctic landscapes.

The Best of the Gluten Free Things to do in Winnipeg

Keeping with the theme of endless opportunities, eating your way around Winnipeg is by far the best gluten free thing to do. The vibrant dining scene has a growing focus on accommodating dietary restrictions, including gluten-free options. Many bakeries and restaurants cater to gluten-free diners, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some of the ones we would recommend.

Kawaii Crepe

Starting with Terry’s new favorite food to find while we travel…the crepe. This is a local mini-chain offering both gluten-free and regular crepes. You can pick from numerous premade suggestions or build you own. Terry tried both a sweet crepe and a savory one. I only had room for a savory one but it was fantastic. As always make sure all the ingredients are gluten-free on top of the batter. It seemed like our server was going to make whatever we wanted without thinking through the whole concept so you always have to be on your toes.

Modern Electric Lunch

It is a short walk from our hotel, Mere Hotel, and was a great way to start our morning off. The coffee was just what we needed after arriving from our cool wall, plus the dreamy aroma that came with it makes you feel cozy and right at home. The waitstaff was very knowledgeable about the items that were gluten-free. It does help that they have a menu dedicated to the gluten-free diet. Terry had plenty of options. I tried the gluten-free Turkish eggs and couldn’t have been happier.

Blue Marble

Attached to the Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel, we were lucky the waiter on that night was very attentive to the needs of a gluten-free diet. Unfortunately, they do not have what they can accommodate on the menu so you do have to ask. It’s more than just a burger without a bun so definitely ask. Terry had pasta and enjoyed it very much. Their drink menu is extensive to pair nicely with your meal. Terry even did a flight of rum which he doesn’t get to do often.

Oakberry Acaí Bowls & Smoothies

If you are in need a quick breakfast or a fruity snack to get you through until your next meal, this is a great option. Terry likes his smoothies and I am on an acaí bowl kick right now. Plus, you can build your own to ensure you get exactly what you want. Their menus highlight that they have gluten-free granola.

Clay Oven

Another local mini-chain spaced out around Winnipeg. This restaurant specializes in Indian food where several of their dishes like curries and biryanis are naturally gluten-free. The waitstaff is very knowledgeable about multiple different food allergens.

Fusion Grill

If you are in the mood for an upscale dining experience then this is the place to go. They are known for their creative cuisine with gluten-free adaptations available. And the best part is they use only locally sourced ingredients. Make sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

Santa Lucia Pizza

If you’re in need of more comfort food or something you can grab on your way home then pizza is a great option. They offer a gluten-free crust option and you can pair it with a specialty pizza or pick your own classic toppings. As always, double check the toppings are gluten free as well.

With Winnipeg’s growing awareness of dietary needs, gluten-free diners can explore a wide variety of options from casual eats to fine dining. If you are traveling or a local resident new to the restaurant, always inquire about kitchen practices to ensure cross-contamination is not an issue.

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