Manitoba Children's Museum, Winnipeg

The Manitoba Children's Museum, located at The Forks in Winnipeg, is where imagination runs the show and play is serious business. Established in 1983 and opened to the public in 1986, this non-profit, charitable organization has spent over 35 years nurturing creativity, curiosity, and hands-on learning for kids of all ages.

Housed inside Manitoba’s oldest surviving train repair facility, the museum blends history with innovation across twelve permanent galleries. Kids (and nostalgic grown-ups) can climb aboard a real 1952 diesel locomotive or wander through a vintage 1910 Pullman passenger coach. From the dizzying heights of the Lasagna Lookout to mind-bending experiences in the Illusion Tunnel, every corner is built for exploration. Budding scientists can get their feet wet in the Splash Lab, while toddlers have their very own dedicated zone in the Tot Spot.

In the winter, the museum transforms into a magical wonderland with Eaton’s Fairytale Vignettes. This restored holiday tradition-once housed in the Eaton’s department store-brings stories like Cinderella and Humpty Dumpty to life through charming, nostalgic displays from mid-November to early January.

Beyond exhibits, the museum offers school programs, workshops, birthday parties, seasonal day camps, and even facility rentals for those who want to party in style (kid-style, that is). Whether you're a local or just passing through, the Manitoba Children's Museum is a place where learning meets laughter, and where the wild energy of childhood gets the spotlight it deserves.