Don't let long cold winters fool you into thinking that Winnipeg doesn't heat up with activity year round. Manitoba's capital, this medium-sized city is just north of Minnesota along the Trans-Canadian Highway. As central Canada's urban center, Winnipeg boasts a variety of cultural attractions along with easy access to many of the province's state parks and Riding Mountain National Park.

Find local talent showcased at Artspace or educate yourself in provincial history, flora and fauna at the Manitoba Museum. Weather allowing, wander the French community on the east side of Red River, stopping for a look at St Boniface Basilica and museum housed beside it. Whether you're traveling with children or just a kid at heart, don't miss the Manitoba Children's Museum or in summer, a trip to see the bears and tigers at Assiniboine Park.

Test out your ice-skating skills on a run on the Assiniboine and Red Rivers when cold temperatures freeze up the region. With spring, the river becomes a popular play spot for canoeists. Rent one in town if you didn't pack your own.

Summer sends locals out with beach towels to sun on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. An easy drive from Winnipeg, the white sand beaches here assume warm airs once this expansive stretch of clear water thaws.

Winnipeg is 134 miles east of Brandon and 474 miles south of Thompson along Route 6.