Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/55101
WINNIPEG Winter Park at The Forks The Forks Historic Port and Riverwalk follow the curves of the Red and Assiniboine rivers to the grounds of the Legislative Building. Board the River Spirit for a guided river tour, rent a canoe or stroll the winding Riverwalk. In winter, the ice is groomed for skating, walking and cross-country skiing on the popular, and the world's longest, River Trail. w: www.theforks.com From your first steps down the tree-lined path toward the Nature Playground, you will be transported into a world of wonder that encourages children of all ages to run, jump, climb, explore, and play! Exercise your body and your imagination while you explore the sand and water play area, slithering slides, a sky-high crow's nest, willow tree tunnels, basket swings, a giant robin's nest, net bridges, and topiaries. These unique features are inspired by and incorporated into the area's natural surroundings, which include two acres of trees, gardens, gently rolling hills, and colourful rubber mountains. Another highlight is the Children's Garden inspired by the classic childhood board game of Snakes and Ladders. Natural materials have been used wherever possible, from a larger- than-life robin's nest constructed of reclaimed, naturally-felled oak to a troupe of topiary frog musicians and a living checker-board guarded by a fearsome or friendly-looking wooden serpent (depending on how you feel about snakes). The new space is designed as a year-round destination, as the land is naturally transformed by the uniquely Manitoban elements each season brings. Showcasing everything from endless spring tulips to wintery snow-covered hills, the Nature Playground will be a space for families to enjoy throughout the year. location: west of the Assiniboine Park Pavilion and south of the Duck Pond p: 204-927-6000 w: www.assiniboinepark.ca b Pavilion Gallery Museum, located in the beautifully restored 1929 pavilion, features a permanent collection of three prominent artists: Ivan Eyre, Walter J. Phillips and Clarence Tillenius. Allow one hour minimum. Free admission. Hours vary by season. A fine dining restaurant, Terrace Fifty-Five Food & Wine, is located in the Pavilion. For reservations call 204-832-PARK. p: 204-927-6000 w: www.assiniboinepark.ca b THE FORKS Welcome to Winnipeg's most popular gathering place for shopping, dining and year-round fun and adventure! Located downtown at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, people have been making history here for thousands of years. By day or evening, enjoy acres of riverside attractions. Sample global menus and the finest fresh food, meet the merchants and explore shops you won't find anywhere else. Or follow the beat of a different drummer and discover non-stop entertainment, river trails, parks and the beauty of our historic port. See ad page 13 p: 204- 942-6302 w: www.theforks.com b At the Explore Manitoba Centre, travel counsellors provide year-round information on special events and activities throughout the province. Over 8,000 ft2 of incredible interpretive displays showcase the eight tourism regions of Manitoba. b The Forks Market offers fresh and specialty foods plus more than 50 charming shops – housed in a fun and funky building that was originally a horse stable! Head to the Hayloft for handicrafts and one-of-a-kind items from clothing and artisan-inspired gifts to jewelry, toys and much more. The dining choices are endless. In a single visit, you'll be faced with the challenge of choosing dishes from the four corners of the globe as well as the made-in- Manitoba specialties that have earned Winnipeg a reputation for culinary greatness! Dine indoors or out on our popular patios! Open year-round. p: 204-942-6302 w: www.theforks.com b 13 Six thousand years ago this was a great place to meet. Centuries later it still is. The Forks is rich with the history of people who all came here to meet. It is Winnipeg's number one tourist destination where, at any time throughout the year, you can visit and find plenty to do, see, taste and experience: 200+ events, a fresh food market, heritage attractions, open greenspaces, a children's museum, skateboard park, boutique hotel, theatre, over 70 shops, skating trails and much, much more. See you at The Forks. Info Hotline 957-7618 Toll Free 1-888-942-6302 www.theforks.com