Categories > Guides and Tips
Explore Gimli’s top 12 unforgettable weekend adventures!
- Shop by the H.P. Tergesen's General Store
- Bask yourself under the sun at the Gimli Beach
- Discover the interesting past of the Gimli Glider Exhibit
- Visit the Iceland Heritage Museum
- Explore the rich history of Viking Park
- Look at beautiful artworks at the Gimli Art Club Gallery
- Participate in the Islendingadagurinn (Icelandic Festival)
- Go through several films in the Gimli Film Festival
- Appreciate the wonderful murals at the Gimli Seawall
- Stop by the Arnes Farmers' Market
- Have a grand outdoor adventure at the Camp Morton Provincial Park
- Feel like an islander when you visit Hecla Island
Want to spot a Viking in Canada? Head to Gimli—you might not find the real deal, but their giant Viking statue is the next best thing.
This charming lakeside town is packed with fun, from historical sites to fresh, local eats. Spend a weekend here and you’ll leave with stories tall enough to rival Norse legends!
To get you started, check out these activities in Gimli that promise a weekend as legendary as any Viking saga!
Shop by the H.P. Tergesen’s General Store
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Address: 82 1 Ave, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: +12046425958
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM–6 PM
Step back in time at H.P. Tergesen’s General Store, the oldest operating store in Manitoba since 1899.
Located in the heart of Gimli, this store offers a unique selection of books, Icelandic crafts, and clothing right next to heritage displays that tell the town’s history. It’s the ideal place to find a meaningful souvenir that carries the essence of Gimli.
The store itself, with original fixtures and a quaint atmosphere, represents a piece of local history. It’s a great spot if you’re interested in the charm and stories of Gimli’s past.
Pro Tip:
Visit during local festival times, such as the Icelandic Festival, to enjoy Tergesen’s at its most festive, complete with special items and decorations that highlight Icelandic culture.
Bask yourself under the sun at the Gimli Beach
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Address: Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Head to Gimli Beach for a perfect day by the water. It’s a great spot to swim, kayak, or just chill on the sandy shores of Lake Winnipeg. The beach is clean and family-friendly, with plenty of space to spread out and relax.
The water’s usually good for a swim and there’s equipment to rent if you feel like paddling around. Not into getting wet? It’s also a prime spot for just kicking back and taking in the view.
Pro Tip:
The beach gets busier in the afternoon. Head there early to enjoy a quieter experience and snag a good spot.
Discover the interesting past of the Gimli Glider Exhibit
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Address: 10 Centre St, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: http://gimliglider.org/
Contact Details: +12046425577
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 AM–6 PM
Want something that’s out of this world—more specifically, up above the sky? Then you need to check out the Gimli Glider Exhibit to get the full story on the emergency landing of an Air Canada flight on Gimli’s old airstrip.
It’s a unique piece of aviation history right where it happened. The exhibit has parts of the actual plane and interactive displays that explain how this flight landed safely without power
It’s not just about the plane either because the exhibit details the pilot’s quick thinking and the events of that day through visuals and artifacts. This makes it a cool, educational stop if you’re into history or aviation.
Pro Tip:
The exhibit is pretty detailed, so give yourself at least an hour to take it all in. Check ahead for any guided tours which can give you deeper insights into this remarkable event.
Visit the Iceland Heritage Museum
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Address: 94 1 Ave, Gimli, MB R0C 1B1, Canada
Website: https://nihm.ca/
Contact Details: +12046424001
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10 AM–4 PM; Weekends 1–4 PM
At the New Iceland Heritage Museum, immerse yourself in the saga of Icelandic settlers in Manitoba. This museum celebrates their journey and contributions, featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories that trace their cultural heritage.
This museum is a cultural cornerstone offering insights not only into the lives of Icelandic immigrants but also into the broader history of the area. It’s a must-visit for those interested in the profound impacts of migration and community.
Pro Tip:
The museum frequently updates its exhibits and hosts special events that delve deeper into Icelandic culture—perfect for a culturally enriching visit.
Explore the rich history of Viking Park
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Address: 4813 45 St, Stettler, AB T0C 2L2, Canada
Website: https://www.stettler.net/play/playgrounds
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Viking Park is a tribute to Gimli’s Nordic roots, featuring a striking 15-foot Viking statue that dominates the landscape.
The park is beautifully landscaped with gardens that are themed around Norse mythology, including areas dedicated to trolls and elves, popular figures in Nordic tales.
Explore the pathways adorned with runes and plaques that tell stories of the Icelandic settlers and their heritage. It’s a serene place for a walk and to enjoy the artful integration of history and mythology.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the heritage wall at the back of the park. It’s illuminated for evening visits and offers a fantastic backdrop for photos.
Look at beautiful artworks at the Gimli Art Club Gallery
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Address: 3 Centre St, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: http://www.gimliartclub.com/
Contact Details: +12046428217
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM–5 PM
Visit the Gimli Art Club Gallery for a vibrant display of local artworks. The gallery showcases a diverse range of media from paintings to sculptures, all created by artists from the Gimli area. It’s a great spot to get involved with the community through art workshops and events
You can enjoy the creativity on display and perhaps participate in a workshop to make your own art. Also, the gallery’s close proximity to the marina also offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Pro Tip:
Check out the gallery’s schedule before visiting as they often host special exhibitions and artist talks that are well worth attending
Participate in the Islendingadagurinn (Icelandic Festival)
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Address: 107-94 1st Avenue, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: http://www.icelandicfestival.com/
Contact Details: +12046427417
Opening Hours: Monday and Wednesday 10 AM–3 PM
Celebrate Icelandic culture at the Islendingadagurinn, held every August in Gimli. This festival is a lively showcase of heritage with Viking battle reenactments, traditional Icelandic food, and music.
Here, it’s best if you dive into the demonstrations of ancient crafts and games, and enjoy performances that keep old traditions alive.
The festival not only honors the history of Icelandic settlers in Manitoba but also brings it to life in a fun, engaging way for all ages. From tasting hakarl (fermented shark) to watching strongman competitions, there’s something intriguing for everyone.
Pro Tip:
Consider staying through the festival’s duration to fully experience its extensive lineup of events. Many visitors also take part in the “Become an Honorary Icelander” program, where you can learn Icelandic phrases and customs to deepen your engagement with the culture
Go through several films in the Gimli Film Festival
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Address: 94 1 Ave #100, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: http://gimlifilm.com/
Contact Details: +12046427790
Opening Hours: Weekdays 9 AM–5 PM
Experience cinema with a twist at the Gimli Film Festival, Canada’s largest rural film festival. You can enjoy a unique setting as films are screened right on the beach, allowing you to watch under the stars on Lake Winnipeg’s shores.
The festival features a mix of local, national, and international films, making it a cinephile’s paradise.
The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the sound of the waves and the open sky, creates a memorable movie-going experience. Whether you’re a fan of groundbreaking documentaries or indie films, the festival offers something to capture every imagination.
Pro Tip:
Bring a blanket and arrive early to claim a good spot on the beach. The evening screenings are especially popular, so a comfortable setup can enhance your experience.
Appreciate the wonderful murals at the Gimli Seawall
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Address: 104 2 Ave, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
Website: http://www.gimli.ca/
Contact Details: +12046426650
Opening Hours: 24/7
The Gimli Seawall, adorned with vibrant murals, offers a panoramic view of the town’s rich history and culture as you stroll along the lakeside.
These artworks not only depict Gimli’s Icelandic and maritime heritage but also celebrate its community and local legends.
This scenic walk serves as an open-air gallery, providing a narrative of Gimli through artistic expressions. Each piece is a window into a story, whether it be of historical significance or local folklore, making for an enlightening visit.
Pro Tip:
For the best mural viewing experience, plan your walk for early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight enhances the colors and details of the art.
Cooler temperatures during these times also make for a more pleasant stroll.
Stop by the Arnes Farmers’ Market
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Address: Gimli, MB R0C 0C0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: +12046425411
Opening Hours: Weekends 10 AM–2 PM
Located just a short drive from Gimli, Arnes Farmers’ Market is a hub for fresh local produce and handcrafted goods. This market is a favorite for both locals and visitors, offering everything from homemade preserves and baking to artisanal crafts and fresh vegetables.
It’s a wonderful spot to mingle with the community, enjoy some local flavor, and pick up unique items that are hard to find anywhere else.
Pro Tip:
Try to visit in the morning to get the best selection of fresh goods, as popular items tend to sell out quickly. Also, many vendors are cash-only, so remember to bring enough to cover your finds.
Have a grand outdoor adventure at the Camp Morton Provincial Park
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Address: Camp Morton, MB R0C 0M0, Canada
Website: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/parks/park-maps-and-locations/central/camp_morton.html
Contact Details: +12046427143
Opening Hours: 24/7
Camp Morton Provincial Park, just north of Gimli, is an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and families alike. The park features scenic hiking trails that weave through wooded areas and along the lake, offering stunning views and a tranquil environment.
It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic, a peaceful hike, or even bird watching. Also the park’s unique yurt accommodations provide a cozy and unique overnight experience for those looking to stay longer and immerse themselves in nature
The area is also rich in history, with several heritage sites that explain the region’s past, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical education.
Pro Tip:
If planning to stay overnight, booking the yurt accommodations in advance is recommended as they are quite popular and tend to fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons.
Feel like an islander when you visit Hecla Island
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Address: Manitoba R0C 2R0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Hecla Island is a haven for those who love both nature and history. The island offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase stunning landscapes and frequent wildlife sightings.
Golf enthusiasts will find pleasure in the well-maintained courses, while history buffs can explore Hecla Village to learn about the early Icelandic settlers.
The park also hosts several Icelandic heritage sites, enriching visitors’ understanding of the area’s cultural history. Here, you can absorb the beautiful scenery and delve into the stories of Manitoba’s Icelandic community.
Pro Tip:
Plan your hikes for early mornings or late evenings. To fully immerse in Hecla’s natural and historical offerings, consider an overnight stay at one of the island’s lodges or campsites.
