The Forks

The Forks occupies an exceptional physical setting at the meeting point of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, functioning as a nexus of community life for millennia. Archaeological excavations reveal that Indigenous nations used this specific shoreline for seasonal gatherings, trading routes, and diplomacy over 6,000 years ago. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, it evolved into an operational anchor for French fur traders, the Hudson's Bay Company, and later the transcontinental railway boom that fueled western Canadian expansion.

Today, this layered history is celebrated rather than obscured. Historic brick railway stables, carriage shops, and grain elevators have been reimagined into communal shopping and dining halls, while the Oodena Celebration Circle pays homage to ancestral Indigenous traditions through ceremonial earthworks and star-gazing sightlines. The Forks seamlessly bridges past and present, offering an authentic, welcoming urban sanctuary right in the core of Winnipeg.

Reasons to Visit

• Unmatched Culinary Hub: The Forks Market brings together award-winning local chefs, offering everything from fresh pickerel to gourmet smash burgers and craft beers on tap.
• World-Class Winter Trails: Glide along the Nestaweya River Trail, one of the longest natural frozen skating trails globally, dotted with architectural warming huts.
• Deep Cultural Connections: Stand at a historic Indigenous meeting point and explore interpretive public art installations and historical plaques throughout the 54-acre park.
• Proximity to Museums: The iconic Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the Manitoba Children's Museum are located immediately adjacent to The Forks grounds.
• Scenic River Promenades: Rent a bicycle, board a riverboat tour, or stroll the landscaped pathways watching rowers on the waterways.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid driving and searching for parking on peak summer festival weekends when parking lots fill rapidly; use public transit or active transit instead.
• Do not step onto river ice that is outside the designated, monitored boundaries of the groomed skating trail in winter.
• Avoid rushing through the market during lunch rush hours (12:00 PM to 1:30 PM) if you prefer a quieter seating experience at The Common.
• Don't overlook the upper floor of The Forks Market, where independent local artisans sell handmade goods, jewelry, and regional crafts.

Local Transportation Tips

The Forks is one of the most accessible destinations in Winnipeg. It is directly connected to Union Station (serviced by VIA Rail) and sits adjacent to major downtown bus routes operated by Winnipeg Transit. For pedestrians and cyclists, the paved Active Transportation paths link The Forks seamlessly with the Exchange District, Osborne Village, and St. Boniface via the pedestrian Esplanade Riel bridge. During summer months, the Splash Dash Water Bus provides charming, affordable boat transit stops along both rivers.

Travel Etiquette

• The Forks is a designated clean-air and smoke-free public space in most high-density gathering areas and near entrances.
• Dispose of waste thoughtfully using the well-labeled organic compost, recycling, and landfill bins located throughout the market.
• Respect ongoing cultural celebrations, drum circles, or ceremonies occurring within the Oodena Celebration Circle.
• Keep to the right side of the multi-use pathways when walking or running to allow cyclists to pass safely.

Recommended Age Group

The Forks is an extraordinarily versatile public park and commercial district designed to accommodate visitors of every generation.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. Smooth, barrier-free paved paths accommodate strollers easily, and family restrooms equipped with clean nursing stations are conveniently located in The Forks Market.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children love the sprawling outdoor Variety Heritage Adventure Park, splash pad in summer, and the adjacent Manitoba Children's Museum housed in a historic train shed.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The Plaza at The Forks features Canada's largest urban skate park (30,000 square feet), while photo-worthy food halls and seasonal ice paths provide ample independent entertainment.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Excellent craft beverage curation at The Common, lively river patio scenes, local shopping, and direct pedestrian access to downtown nightlife.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. Abundant seating along shaded river paths, step-free access across all renovated facilities, elevator access in historic buildings, and gentle guided river boat tours.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Level, paved walkways connect all major outdoor facilities, river overlooks, and parking facilities.
• The Forks Market and Johnston Terminal are equipped with automated doors, elevator access to second-story shops, and wheelchair-accessible modern restrooms.
• Designated accessible parking spaces are positioned close to main entry portals.
• Winter warming huts and riverside access points incorporate gradual ramps where geography permits.

Did You Know?

The architectural warming huts along the frozen river trail during winter are selected through an international design competition that attracts submissions from world-renowned architects, artists, and engineering teams annually.

Cool Statistics

• Over 4 million visitors walk through The Forks every year.
• Archaeological evidence shows continuous human activity at the site dating back over 6,000 years.
• The site spans 54 acres of protected parkland, heritage structures, and urban riverbank.