Be a Hometown Tourist!

I wish I remembered what it was like to see The Forks for the first time — the greenery, the cobblestone, and all the smiling people. The out-of-towners get the chance to be a tourist in our hometown and to see this place with fresh eyes. They see as much as possible, take the tours, eat amazing food, and learn about our history. 

While you’re making your summer plans to vay-cay at the cabin or dance at a music festival, you might want to find time to be a tourist and experience The Forks like it’s the first time (again). 

Here are some of my favorite tourist-approved things to do: 

 Find some hidden gems in the Johnston Terminal Antique Mall

The Johnston Terminal Antique Mall is definitely a throwback. It will take you back to a time when cameras were loaded with film, and fancy hats were serious business. About 35 antique dealers fill up the 7,000 sq. ft. space with jewelry, toys, collectables, and SO much more.  

Shop local at the Forks Trading Company 

The Forks Trading Company is the place to go for a piece of memorabilia from your ‘trip’ to The Forks. Upstairs in the Market Loft, the Forks Trading Company specializes in Canadian Handmade products, and a large selection of their goods are handcrafted right here in Manitoba.  

Now, when it’s your turn to visit a different city, and a local compliments your necklace, you say, “Oh thanks! It was made in my hometown,” and beam Winnipeg pride.  

Grab lunch in the new Food Hall 

You’ll never have to debate where you’re going to eat because The Forks Market has a huge variety of tasty food. Find a spot at a reclaimed-wood table in the Food Hall, and enjoy your meal while being serenaded by the buskers.

The Forks Market has gotten a serious makeover. And soon (VERY SOON), It will also be getting new food vendors and a Craft Beer and Wine Kiosk. #winewednesday is about to have a whole new meaning.

Wander around and learn about the history  

Take a walk! The Forks is filled with monuments, statues and homages to this city's rich history. Visit the Public Orchard, Prairie Garden and Archeological Preserve, and South Point. 

Check out the Oral History Tour Wednesday at 10 a.m., July 6, 13, 20, 27. It’s free and will give you a picture of what life at The Forks was like hundreds of years ago. And, you will be a much better tour guide when you do have family and friends in town. 

Take in the view from Market Tower 

Market Tower has one of the best views of the mighty rivers, The Forks, and Winnipeg’s downtown. I suggest going at sunset to get the best out of the gorgeous view.  

Take the stairs, read about the history, and immortalize your day with a picture at the top of Market Tower. Don’t forget to #MeetMeAtTheForks 

Check out the Calendar of Events for a full list of summer fun! 

Blog post by: Laurie Brand

Laurie is a first-year Creative Communications student at Red River College. She's usually wandering around, snapping photos of anything in pretty lighting for her Instagram (@lorbrand) and answering to, "Woah, is that a film camera!?" Her favorite thing to do at The Forks is to grab some ice cream at Neon Cone (black cherry, duh) and find a comfy spot in Festival Field with a book by Miranda July.