Winnipeg Museums

The children can be anything they want at this fun hands-on museum. There are exciting and educational galleries at every turn, with something for every age.

Take a unique glimpse into the past at this museum of historical fashion, the only one of its kind in Canada. Select items from the museum's extensive collection of 35,000 historic costumes and artifacts are on display. This summer's exhibit includes costume displays from 50 years of Rainbow Stage. "Over the Rainbow" delves into trends in theatre costuming, period costumes and includes pieces from The Wizard of Oz, 42nd Street, Crazy for You, Fiddler on the Roof and West Side Story. There is also a pioneer home and Prairie Crocus Victorian-style tea room on-site.

History comes to life in the Museum’s nine permanent galleries. Watch a magnificent polar bear as he waits under Northern lights for daylight to break; climb aboard the Nonsuch, a famous replica of the 17th century ship responsible for the founding of the Hudson’s Bay Company; or travel back in time to the roaring 20’s. With many travelling and temporary exhibits, there’s always something new to learn at this museum.

This museum focuses on the endeavors of the men and women who protect the city of Winnipeg from killer conflagrations. It was an active fire hall until 1990. They showcase fire fighting vehicles that date as far back as 1882.

The largest outdoor park of its kind in Canada features 14 aircraft tracing the history of military flight in Canada, ranging from a World War II aircraft to a CF5 fighter. The museum features a collection of rare artifacts, three Victoria crosses, and the Battle of Britain lace tapestry. Free. Museum open by appointment only.

Home to the Marion and Ed Vickar Jewish Museum, the first museum of its kind in Canada. Features permanent exhibit Diversity and Vitality: The Jewish Experience in Western Canada. Mon-Tue & Fri, Sun noon-4 pm, Wed-Thu noon-8 pm.

The Transcona Historical Museum has as its vision to maintain and promote the history, stories and community spirit of Transcona. Exhibits explore the origins of Transcona and the accomplishments of its citizens. Visitors can learn about our railway heritage, veterans, community builders and The Greatest Transconians. There are also extensive archaeology and lepidoptera collections. Education programs for all ages can be arranged by appointment. Summer hours Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m and regular hours Tuesday-Friday 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m, Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00p.m.

Explore the history of electricity in Manitoba from the 1800s to the future. Interactive and interesting exhibits include a replica turn-of-the-last-century tram car and a towering robot made of 50 appliances. Free admission and personal tours.

Take a trip back through time to witness what the prairie was like before settlement and urbanization. This museum teaches Manitoba history and ecology through guided hikes and exhibits in its interpretive centre. Among the 160 species of prairie plants on-site are waist-high grasses and wildflowers, as well as many prairie animals. Open Sundays only. Free, fee for pre-booked guided tours.

The province's long history of athletic excellence is celebrated with biographies of inductees and informative exhibits on sport in Manitoba. Free.

Learn the history of aviation in Canada with displays of vintage aircraft and artifacts. Of special interest is a replica of the Avrocar flying saucer. Kids will also enjoy SKYWAYS, a hands-on aviation exhibit. Special exhibits include Magazines: Life Before TV and the Don Fonger Exhibit.

The railway played a major role in the development of this city and the museum's goal is to preserve that heritage. Among other artifacts, the museum is home to the first steam locomotive on the Canadian prairies, The Countess of Dufferin.

Discover the history of the early days of Winnipeg's Francophone community. The building is the oldest in Winnipeg, and the largest oak log structure in all of North America. Inside, the museum depicts the day-to-day lives of the French and Métis people of the early Red River Colony.

Thousands of artifacts from Manitoba's crafts people document the history of crafts in Manitoba. Tue-Sat 11 am-4 pm. Suggested donation $2.