Gimli

Founded in 1875 as the Republic of New Iceland, Gimli maintains strong cultural ties to its Nordic roots and operates as a prominent lakeside destination. The town sits on the western shore of Lake Winnipeg, the tenth largest freshwater lake in the world, providing a vast expanse for water activities. During the summer, the local population surges as visitors utilize the sandy beaches, the active harbor, and the nearby golf courses. The Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, known as Íslendingadagurinn, takes place here every August, featuring traditional cultural events, food, and Viking village reenactments. The Gimli Seawall Gallery displays an extensive collection of murals depicting local history and culture along the pier. In winter, the frozen lake surface hosts ice fishing shelters and the Gimli Ice Festival, which includes ice racing. The town is situated approximately one hour north of Winnipeg via Highway 9.

Nearby cities

Brandon

The second-largest city in Manitoba, a major agricultural hub.

History & landmarks

The Forks (Winnipeg)

A historic meeting place at the confluence of two rivers, now a market and park.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

A national museum in Winnipeg with striking architecture.

Manitoba Legislative Building

The seat of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, located in Winnipeg.

Nature

Lake Winnipeg

A very large but relatively shallow lake in Manitoba, a remnant of prehistoric Lake Agassiz.

More places

Winnipeg Logistics Hub

Central hub for freight traffic in Canada.

Fort Garry

A former Hudson's Bay Company trading post that was central to the early history of Winnipeg and the Red River Colony.

Assiniboine Park Zoo

A zoo in Winnipeg renowned for its award-winning 'Journey to Churchill' exhibit.

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Churchill Beluga Whales

In the summer, thousands of beluga whales gather in the Churchill River estuary.

Hudson Bay

A large inland sea in eastern Canada that freezes in winter and is known for polar bear migrations.