Manitoba is a place with lots of things to see and do. Here are some of the best things about Manitoba that you might enjoy:

1. Thompson: “Wolf Capital of the World”

   Canada is home to about 50,000 grey wolves. Around 10% of these wolves live in Manitoba. You can see them in a place called Thompson. Thompson has forests and open spaces. It is a great place for people who love nature. Thompson is 739 kilometres north of a city called Winnipeg.

2. Churchill: “Polar Bear Capital of the World”

   Polar bears come to a place called Churchill from July to September. This is why it is called the “polar bear capital of the world.”

   The best time to see them is from October to November. Big trucks can take people safely to see the bears. They can also see beluga whales in the Churchill River.

   Churchill is one thousand kilometres north of Winnipeg. There are no roads going there! You can only get there by plane or train.

3. Arden: “Prairie Crocus Capital of the World”

   Arden is famous for its purple crocus flowers. The prairie crocus is the first plant to bloom after the long winters in Manitoba. It is a symbol of strength. It’s the official flower of Manitoba.

   Arden celebrates this flower with the Prairie Crocus Festival. It is held on the first Saturday of May. A photo contest is part of the festival. The best crocus picture wins a prize.

   Arden is 6 km north of the Yellowhead Highway. This is about 160 km northwest of Winnipeg.

4. Altona: “Sunflower Capital of the World”

   Altona has the Sunflower Festival every July. They celebrate this happy flower with different events. One of these is a contest where the winner gets a trip to Australia. Altona’s sister city is Emerald, Queensland, Australia.

   Altona is 100 km southwest of Winnipeg. While you’re there, take a picture with the world’s biggest painting. It is a copy of Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” made by Cameron Cross.

5. Selkirk: “Catfish Capital of the World”

   Selkirk, Manitoba is where you can catch very big fish. A part of the Red River goes by Selkirk. While you’re there, you can also visit the Marine Museum of Manitoba and Red River Lighthouse.

   The city celebrates its world title with “Chuck the Channel Cat.” It is a 33-foot high statue. It was named after local fisherman Chuck Norquay.

   Selkirk is 42 kilometres away from Winnipeg. That’s a quick 37 minute drive!

Sources: Get to know Manitoba’s “unofficial” capitals (and few that we definitely just made up), Breanne Sewards, Travel Manitoba; and Why Thompson, Manitoba is the Wolf Capital of the World, Nick Walker, Canadian Geographic. Accessed September 20, 2023.