Now that we’ve discovered how amazing our own backyard is, let’s plan the ultimate Gimli vacation! We’ve only skimmed the surface of discovering the Interlake region, let’s explore the hidden gems in Gimli we might not know about! Whether you live in or near Gimli or just want a break from the city, this small town, which was named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Most Charming Towns, is the perfect spot for a quick family getaway. Here’s a discovery guide to help make the most of your visit. Have a look! Gimli Webcam.
Where to Stay
There are some pretty fantastic places to choose from, but if your kids are in it to swim it, it’s not a holiday if there isn’t a pool. Lakeview Gimli Resort offers the perfect place to get away on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. Offers indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a sauna, not to mention the beach just steps away! You can enjoy some peace and quiet (while the kids are in the pool) or head out to the town for an exciting adventure, this Icelandic town is full of history and incredible sites to see. This resort is packed with thoughtful features, wonderful amenities, and a small-town charm.
Have a seat and take in the incredible view of Lake Winnipeg on the patio of Seagulls Restaurant & Lounge. Enjoy fantastic food, excellent service, and a relaxing atmosphere. Choose from an extensive menu with a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, and entrees, each of which has its own unique touch. Ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible, including the pickerel caught from Lake Winnipeg next door, for the freshest and most delicious experience the interlake region has to offer.
If you’re looking for a pub atmosphere, head over to The Pier Lounge just steps away from the Seagulls main restaurant area.
Meet, drink, socialize, and enjoy the game. With the harbour and beach at your fingertips, The Pier is Gimli’s best place to unwind and have a great time.
Some other places to stay in the area:
Hotels and Inns:
Cottages and B&B’s:
- Domes in the Orchard – Arnes
- KALS Vacation Rentals – Spruce Sands
- Lake Escape Cottage Rentals
Camping:
Things to Do
Kids may want to stay in the pool or on the beach for the entirety of the vacation, but we assure you, that they will not regret exploring this town!
Gimli Glider Museum
Ready to be Educated, Enlightened, and Entertained? Fantastic! That’s precisely the intent of the Gimli Glider Exhibit. An interactive, experiential discovery of the famous skilled landing that impacted training and operations throughout the industry.
The story is told in-depth with video and personal recollections of the 1983 event, accompanied by important artifacts. Offering a full-scale, mock-cockpit simulator provides an experience of an eight-mile approach to the runway piloting a disabled airliner. Official Gimli Glider Day each year is July 23rd. gimliglider.org
Learn to Sail at the Gimli Yacht Club
The Sail Canada CANSail Program is designed to provide a solid introduction to sailing. The program is taught by certified Sail Canada instructors who have life-saving and first aid certificates. Emphasis is on safety, fun, and a great learning experience. Visit them on June 27, 2022, for their Save the Lake Fish Fry! Organized by the Gimli Yacht Club and the Kiwanis Club of Gimli & District. This family-friendly fundraising event features education, fun, and food! All in support of a healthy Lake Winnipeg. Learn more!
HP Tergesen & Sons – Boutique in Gimli
H.P. Tergesen & Sons Store is the oldest operating store in Manitoba, managed by the fourth generation Tergesen. The pressed tin exterior and interior plus the hardwood floors depict the era of its construction – 1898. Call: 204-642-5958 or Email: tergesen@mymts.net (PHS)
New Iceland Heritage Museum
The New Iceland Heritage Museum (NIHM) features exhibits at two sites in Gimli MB and greets visitors from around the world year-round, seven days a week, at its main multi-media location at #108 94-1st Avenue, Gimli in The Waterfront Centre. Learn more.
Lake Winnipeg Visitor Centre
Open seasonally, the Lake Winnipeg Visitor Centre (LWVC) is located at Gimli Harbour on Centre Street. The LWVC pays tribute to the fishing industry and interprets the natural history of Lake Winnipeg. Learn more.
The Lake Winnipeg Visitor Centre is open Monday-Thursday 10:00-6:00 pm, Friday 10:00-8:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday 1:00-4:00
Gimli International Film Festival (July 20-24)
The Gimli International Film Festival (GIFF) is Manitoba’s premier film festival and the largest rural film festival in all of Canada. Since 2001, GFF has welcomed thousands to the shores of Lake Winnipeg for its various film screenings of local, national, and international feature films, documentaries, short films, and experimental media; not to mention the festival’s premiere event – the Beach Screenings which take place every night of the five-day festival and have drawn people from all over the world to take in one of Manitoba’s most unique summer experiences. Learn more!
Icelandic Festival of Manitoba (July 29-Aug 1)
Other Things to Do and Attractions to See:
Places to Eat
Sugar Me Cookie Boutique Bakery
At Sugar Me Cookie Boutique & Bakery, you will only find confections made from quality ingredients united with time-honoured recipes that you would expect to find in your grandmother’s kitchen. Cookies, Cakes, Pies, Icelandic Traditional Vinarterta, Ponnukokurs, and much more. Specializing in Vinarterta, imperials & they have “The Butter Tart Lady” Butter tarts!
Robins Donuts 
Gimli Robins is where you can get fast and friendly service along with deliciously fresh food and great coffee.
Local pickerel and homemade fries; it doesn’t get fresher than this!
Brennivins Pizza Hüs offers a full menu of items, including pasta, pizzas, appetizers, and even a kids’ menu to choose from.
Quality food and service with a smile!
Supporting their neighbours and friends! Their menu proudly features many great made-in-Manitoba products, and all of our tap beers are made in the province by local craft brewers. Also one of the hottest live music venues in Manitoba! They host a variety of other events, including stand-up comedy, open mic, games night, and a traditional British-style pub quiz!
