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A Winter Date at FortWhyte Alive
Looking for a memorable way to celebrate love and friendship this Valentine’s day? Embrace a date filled with adventure, connection and the beauty of Manitoba’s winter.
FortWhyte Alive, Winnipeg’s 660-acre reclaimed urban oasis, offers the perfect setting for fresh air, wildlife encounters and unique seasonal activities. Whether you’re spending the day with your partner or pal-entine, the magic of the outdoors creates lasting memories. Bundle up and enjoy this full-day itinerary designed to bring you closer no matter the temperature outside!
9:00 AM
Snowshoeing to Start the Day
Kick off your FortWhyte Alive visit with a little friendly competition, or a relaxed trek, depending on your vibe. Speak to staff at the Alloway Reception Centre to borrow a pair of snowshoes and hit the well-groomed trails. With over seven kilometres of winding paths through forests, lakes and prairie, there’s plenty to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife - deer, hares and even foxes make their way through the snow-covered landscape.
10:30 AM
Bison Viewing
There’s nothing quite like seeing North America’s largest land mammal up close. FortWhyte Alive is home to a herd of bison, a true symbol of the prairies. Take a walk over to the viewing areas with binoculars or find a spot along the fence for a closer look. Against the snowy backdrop, these massive creatures make for an awe-inspiring sight. Fun fact: Bison can run up to 55 km/h - faster than most of us on a toboggan hill!
11:30 AM
Tobogganing Thrills
Speaking of Tobogganing, it’s time to bring out your inner kid! Head to the toboggan slide for some old-fashioned winter fun. Whether you’re racing to the bottom or taking in the view, the rush of crisp air and the sound of laughter make for a great midday break.
12:30 PM
Lunch at Buffalo Stone Café
All that fresh air and activity calls for a good meal! Luckily, Buffalo Stone Café has you covered. Open daily until 4:30 PM, this cozy café serves up hearty, locally inspired meals that hit the spot after a morning outside. A Bison burger, warm cup of coffee and a homemade treat make for the ideal Winnipeg winter lunch.
1:30 PM
A Look Back in Time at the Sod House
After lunch, step into the past at the Sod House. This fascinating structure offers a glimpse into how early prairie settlers managed Manitoba’s winters. It’s a great spot to snap a few photos and spark a conversation about whether you and your adventure partner could have made it through a winter without modern gear.
2:00 PM
Ice Fishing, Wildlife Watching & the Touch Museum
Curious about ice fishing? FortWhyte Alive offers beginner workshops or the option to bring your own gear and give it a try. Whether you reel in a catch or simply enjoy the tranquil setting, it’s a relaxing way to spend the afternoon. Nearby, the feeding station is a prime spot to see chickadees, woodpeckers and other winter birds. Then, visit the Touch Museum for a hands-on experience with Manitoba’s wildlife through interactive displays featuring local species.
3:00 PM
Warming Up at the Fire Pit
As the afternoon light fades, gather around a fire pit for a classic winter experience. If you’ve booked through FortWhyte Alive, you can even roast bannock and marshmallows over the flames. The crackling fire and scent of woodsmoke set the stage for great conversation - whether reminiscing about past adventures or planning the next one.
4:00 PM
A Quick Stop at The Nature Shop
Before heading home, stop by The Nature Shop to pick up a unique, nature-inspired souvenir. From cozy toques to scented candles and books on local flora and fauna, it’s a great way to bring a piece of FortWhyte Alive home with you.
4:30 PM
Wrapping Up the Day
As FortWhyte Alive closes its gates, you’ll leave with more than just rosy cheeks - you’ll have a full day of fresh air, laughter and shared moments to cherish. Whether it was the thrill of tobogganing, the quiet magic of bison watching, or simply the joy of spending time together, this is a winter date that warms the heart.
About The Author
Hi! I’m Anna - an art-loving, book-browsing, trail-running adventurer with a soft spot for Manitoba's wild beauty. Whether I’m paddling across a lake or wandering through a museum, I’m always discovering new ways to share what our province has to offer.
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