1. Find a hidden gem

Souris

Heading to the small town of Souris to cross Canada's longest swinging pedestrian bridge? Slot in some time to also visit the famous Rock Shop, where you can choose between shopping a fine array of polished stones -- or find them yourself by obtaining a permit into the Agate Pit. The twelve-acre glacial deposit is known for its agates, epidote, jasper, petrified wood and more.

2. Land a plane

Gimli

While in the Icelandic beach town of Gimli, stop into this little museum that's tucked among storefronts of Gimli's commercial strip. The Gimli Glider Exhibit commemorates the amazing emergency landing of a Boeing 767 aircraft that ran out of fuel en route to Edmonton in 1983. Book a time to visit and you can even try your hand at landing a plane in the flight simulator!

3. Take a DIY trip to Churchill

Churchill

While many visitors to Churchill opt for all-inclusive packages, there are also a number of DIY options for seeing this unique northern town in the summertime. Stay at the Tundra Inn (which is also home to one of the town's best restaurants) and experience beluga season a-la-carte by booking individual tours for kayaking, boat tours or even stand-up paddleboarding.

4. Milkshakes and mini putt

Carman

If you've been trying to check out more of Manitoba's yummy drive-ins this summer, chances are you've heard of the iconic Syl's Drive In in the small town of Carman. But did you know it's also the site of a super fun and retro mini-golf course? Pair your milkshake or burger with a few rounds and have the perfect, family-friendly day.

5. Camp at the museum

Austin

Looking for an unconventional camping spot? Camp at the museum! Three Creeks Campground is located right outside the gate of the Manitoba Agricultural Museum. Sleep under the stars and then spend the next day exploring the grounds where you will find 26 buildings from 1879 to the 1920’s — including log cabins, houses, churches, trades and public buildings.

6. Stay in a bed and breakfast

Various

Where there are small towns, there are bed and breakfasts. Skip the chain hotels and instead stay the night in on the edge of a National Park, in a cozy heritage home or in a historical farmhouse. Check out the Bed & Breakfast Association of Manitoba's website for even more options throughout the province!

7. Experience valley life

Minnedosa

Looking for a small town you can easily spend an entire weekend in? Minnedosa is the place! Spend a day splashing at the public beach at Minnedosa Lake, while admiring the breathtaking views of the rolling Little Saskatchewan River valley. The lake is also the site of the super thrilling Splish Splash Water Park. Once the beach day is through, plan to explore the town's museums, shops and more! Visit Tourism Westman for even more activities and attractions in the town of Minnedosa.

8. Step inside Nellie's Homes

Manitou

Nellie McClung was a writer, speaker, suffragette, and later politician….a key figure in the movement to allow some women the right to vote, first, in Manitoba and then across the nation. The home of Nellie McClung in her early years is located in the small town of Manitou. A tour of Nellie’s Homes takes visitors through three historic buildings, which are all interconnected by a poignant narrative of a young Nellie McClung who lived in and around Manitou for nearly 20 years. Visit the town's Tourist Information Centre to grab a map of a self-guided driving tour of other historic sites in the town of Manitou — many of which have a connection to Nellie McClung, such as the famous Manitou Opera House.

9. Drive for doughnuts

Arborg

Where in Manitoba can you grab a doughnut, see a giant curling rock and visit a heritage village? Arborg, of course. Known for its incredible bakery, many take the drive just to grab a fritter or a loaf of rye bread. But don't leave town without catching a glimpse of the world's largest curling rock and learning a bit about the area's history at the Arborg and District Multicultural Heritage Village.

10. Paddle the day away

St. Malo

Spend the day at the beach in St. Malo or take your adventure to the next level by renting a kayak or canoe from Sayzoons. Meet at the St. Malo boat launch and get ready to paddle. Bike rentals are also available!