Creative Learning And Fun At Manitoba Children’s Museum

The Manitoba Children’s Museum in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada offers creative learning and fun for children under 10 years of age

The Manitoba Children’s Museum, located at The Forks in the heart of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, features interactive exhibits for creative learning and fun. Brightly coloured exhibits throughout the museum invite young ones to play, imagine, and learn.

Years ago, I took my daughter and step-daughters to the museum. In the more than two decades since then, I’d only been back once, to see the Eaton’s Fairytale Vignettes on display over the Christmas season. Until this past summer, that is, when I visited with my now grown-up daughter and my grandchildren.

My grandchildren were aged two and seven. Both found plenty to interest them and enjoyed the visit. However, I’m not sure how many more years my seven-year-old grandson will find the exhibits engaging. The facility is designed for children under the age of 10, but some children may find less to interest them at ages eight or nine.

Things had changed since my earlier visits, but other things remained the same. I was pleased to see that one of the things that remained the same was Locomotive 9161. Given that the museum is housed in the oldest surviving train repair facility in Manitoba, it seems fitting that a train occupies the centre of the museum and remains a highlight.

Locomotive 9161 was built by General Motor’s Electro-Motive Division for Canadian National Railway Company in 1952. It carried passengers and freight twice-weekly between Winnipeg and Churchill, Manitoba until 1989, when it was put into storage. As the train got further north, it could travel no faster than 50 to 65 kilometres per hour (30 to 40 MPH) over the muskeg. It was restored in 1993 by a volunteer crew and moved to The Forks.

Popular as it is, the train is not the only attraction at the museum. I am highlighting a few of them below.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Snacks and beverages are available for purchase at the coffee bar, but you are welcome to bring your own nut-free snacks. All food and beverages must be consumed in the designated eating area. For more information, including hours and admission prices, visit the Manitoba Children’s Museum website.

Never miss a story. Sign up for Destinations Detours and Dreams free monthly e-newsletter and receive behind-the-scenes information and sneak peeks ahead.

PIN IT