Discover Stories that Span Generations

Indigenous tourism offers visitors an opportunity to connect with the stories, cultures, traditions, and histories that have shaped this land for generations. Across Westman and throughout Manitoba, Indigenous experiences provide meaningful ways to learn, explore, and appreciate the deep cultural roots of the region.

From art and storytelling to cultural events, outdoor experiences and more, Indigenous tourism invites travelers to experience Manitoba through a different lens – one grounded in connection, community, and respect for the land.

Wakpa Tanka Lookout – Miniota, MB

Perched high above the Assiniboine Valley near Miniota, Wakpa Tanka Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views and a meaningful connection to the region’s Indigenous history. The name “Wakpa Tanka,” meaning “Great River” in Dakota, reflects the site’s deep cultural significance and long-standing relationship with the Assiniboine River. Located near the Silver Bend Trail, the lookout features interpretive signage highlighting more than 700 years of Sioux First Nation heritage, archaeology, and early river travel along this historic corridor. It’s a peaceful and scenic stop where visitors can pause, reflect, and appreciate both the natural beauty and rich cultural history of the area.

 

Turtle Village – Riding Mountain National Park, MB

photo credit: Turtle Village

Located in the heart of Wasagaming within Riding Mountain National Park, Turtle Village offers a unique Indigenous tourism experience that blends culture, sustainability, and connection to the land. Created by Indigenous entrepreneur Ashley Smith of Gambler First Nation, Turtle Village features off-grid “Turtle Shell” accommodations designed to provide visitors with an immersive nature experience while honouring Indigenous teachings and traditions. Guests can take part in guided storytelling experiences, learn about the history and significance of Clear Lake and the surrounding area, and enjoy traditional foods such as fire-roasted bannock. The experience highlights the importance of reconciliation, cultural preservation, and Indigenous-led tourism while celebrating the deep historical ties Indigenous peoples have to Riding Mountain and Treaty 2 Territory.

 

Clay Banks Bison Jump – Cartwright, MB

The Clay Banks Bison Jump near Cartwright is one of Manitoba’s most fascinating archaeological and cultural sites, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and traditions of Indigenous peoples who lived on the prairies thousands of years ago. Used by Sonota and Besant First Nations peoples approximately 2,500 years ago, the site served as a strategic buffalo jump where bison were carefully guided over steep clay cliffs during organized communal hunts. These hunts required remarkable skill, teamwork, and deep knowledge of the land and animal behavior. Archaeological discoveries at the site have revealed evidence of camps, tools, and butchering areas, helping historians better understand the important relationship between Indigenous communities and the bison, which provided food, clothing, shelter, and tools essential for survival. Today, Clay Banks stands as both a scenic lookout and an important reminder of the rich Indigenous history and cultural heritage deeply rooted in Manitoba’s prairie landscape.

 

National Indigenous Peoples Day – Brandon, MB

photo credit: Chelsea Kemp, Brandon Sun

National Indigenous Peoples Day in Brandon is an opportunity to celebrate and honour the cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. Held annually on June 21, the day brings communities together through cultural performances, traditional music and dance, storytelling, artisan markets, educational activities, and opportunities to learn about Indigenous heritage and teachings. Events throughout Brandon often highlight the importance of reconciliation, community connection, and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge with visitors and residents alike. It is a meaningful time to recognize the deep cultural roots and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples within Westman and across Canada while celebrating the vibrant traditions that continue to shape the region today.

 

Tipi Tours Legacy Project – Brandon, MB

photo credit: Chelsea Kemp, Brandon Sun

The Tipi Tours Legacy Project in Brandon is a meaningful Indigenous tourism and reconciliation initiative that grew from the community’s involvement in the nationally recognized Walking With Our Sisters commemorative art installation. The project features a series of permanent tipis located throughout Brandon at schools, public spaces, and community organizations, each sharing teachings, artwork, and stories connected to Indigenous culture, history, and healing. Created as places for reflection, education, and gathering, the tipis honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people while encouraging ongoing conversations about truth and reconciliation. Visitors exploring the tour gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous traditions, symbolism, and the importance of preserving cultural knowledge for future generations.

 

Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba  – Brandon, MB

photo credit: Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba

Located in downtown Brandon, The Art Gallery Of Southwestern Manitoba plays an important role in celebrating contemporary art and cultural expression across the region, including the work of Indigenous artists from Manitoba and beyond. Through rotating exhibitions, community programming, and educational events, the gallery regularly highlights Indigenous perspectives, storytelling, and artistic traditions while creating space for meaningful conversations around identity, culture, reconciliation, and the connection to the land. The gallery’s exhibitions often feature works by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists whose pieces explore both traditional and contemporary themes through a wide range of artistic mediums. As one of Manitoba’s leading contemporary galleries, the AGSM continues to support diversity and inclusion in the arts while helping visitors engage with Indigenous culture through creative expression and shared experiences.

 

*Tourism Westman would like to acknowledge that Southwest Manitoba encompasses Treaty 1 and Treaty 2 Territory and is located on the original territory of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dene and Dakota Nations, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.  Acknowledging these original caretakers is a reminder of our unique heritage, our important relationship and our obligations to and shared responsibilities with Indigenous Peoples.

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