Winnipeg Sightseeing
We went on a trip around Winnipeg today with friends Mike & Elaine. The weather has improved enough for us to finally go out for long periods of time. First off was Assiniboine Park Zoo. We had a bit of trouble at the start finding the entrance but that was solved quickly. There was a bit of a line at the entrance but it was moving constantly. The zoo is pretty big. At least compared to Philippine zoos. But I have to say that Avilon Zoo in Rizal is comparable in quality. I saw a lot of animals I've never seen "in the flesh" like the Grizzly Bear, Polar Bear, Camels, Bisons and others. Interestingly, they had peacocks freely roaming the zoo grounds. There were also lots of rodent type animals around the place.
Here are a few pictures at the zoo.
See the full photo gallery here.
Info:
Assiniboine Park Zoo
Zoological Society of Manitoba
After leaving the zoo, Mike & Elaine introduced us to VJ's Drive Inn. They serve burgers, hotdogs, fries, shakes, etc. The place seems to be very popular as there was always a line at the counter. Probably very unhealthy but very good.
Next stop was St. Boniface Cathedral. This was a nice reminder of the Churches in the Philippines. I was told that it burned down in the past, then they rebuilt it retaining the facade.
Full album here.
Info:
St. Boniface Cathedral
From here, we went across the river to the Forks. The Forks is where the Assiniboine River and Red River meet. It was a meeting place for traders and settlers for 6000 years. Today, it is probably one of Winnipeg's most well known tourist spots with shopping areas, restaurants, concert venues, etc. However the most noticeable sight here is the Esplanade Riel pedestrian bridge. The moment I saw that structure from Main Street, I decided I wanted to go there.
Full photo album here
Info:
The Forks
The Forks (Wikipedia)
The Esplanade Riel
Our last stop was the Manitoba Legislative Building. This is where the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba (provincial government) meets. It's an impressive building by itself but is also well known because of the "Golden Boy" perched on top of the dome.
Full photo album here.
Info:
Manitoba Legislative Building
Manitoba Legislative Building (Wikipedia)
Golden Boy
After that, it was time to go home. It was an enjoyable trip. I haven't been able to go camera crazy in a long time. I probably need new batteries since they died on me at the Legislative Building. We're very thankful for Mike & Elaine for driving us around. There are still a lot of places to visit in the city like the Royal Canadian Mint, a bunch of Museums, etc. We'll get to those soon enough.
