10 ways to turn your visit into a beautiful story in Neepawa, Manitoba

Posted November 14, 2019 | Author Breanne Sewards

Neepawa has long been regarded as Manitoba's prettiest town - but there's more to this community than rolling hills and historical buildings. Stop into this picturesque town and experience a home-grown beer scene, literary legends and outdoor adventure.

Neepawa's iconic Stone Angel monument, is a poignant symbol of love and remembrance in the heart of the town's landscape.

1. Take a Tour at Farmery Brewery

Did you know that one of the largest beer brands in Manitoba is based in Neepawa? Head to Farmery Brewery and take a tour of the facilities and the hop yard, where you'll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to make retail-ready beer and sample some of the latest brews. Afterward, browse the gift shop or head outside to try some delicious fare and a beer flight from the on-site food truck, which is open during the summer months.

2. Visit the Margaret Laurence Home

When it comes to choosing the literary capital of Manitoba: Neepawa is certainly a contender. Why? Neepawa is the hometown of literary legend Margaret Laurence. You may know Laurence for her most famous novel, The Stone Angel, which took place in Manawaka, a fictional village based on Neepawa. The town has fully embraced Laurence, creating a museum out of her childhood home where you can see her typewriter, doctoral robes and more. The museum is open from Victoria Day to Labour Day, with appointments available to see the home during the rest of the year. Savvy readers and fans will also want to venture out into the picturesque Riverside Cemetery to see Laurence's tombstone and the Stone Angel, a monument was erected in 1903 to honour one of the town’s earliest settlers, Hon. John Andrew Davidson.

3. Practice Your Swing at the Golf Course

If you are heading west for a golf day, you need to consider the Neepawa Golf & Country Club. Not only is the Neepawa golf course one of the most scenic in the province, it is also one of the most accessible for all levels of golfers. The course's location along the Whitemud River makes for great views as you swing, swing, swing life away.

4. Get Active with Cross Country Skiing

Did you know that Neepawa is a cross country skiing hot spot? Pack up your skis and head to the Langford Winter Park to enjoy groomed trails and hills. There is a warming hut and outhouse on site.

5. Catch a Movie at the Roxy Theatre

Neepawa is home to one of the oldest operating theatrical venues in Manitoba. The Roxy Theatre was built in 1906 and renovated in 1936 into the Art Deco style you can see today. The theatre is now a municipally-designated historic site and still operates as a venue for the performing arts and movies. If you're heading to Neepawa, keep an eye on the Facebook page for upcoming shows.

6. Stop and Smell the Flowers at the Lily Nook

Neepawa might just be the Lily Capital of the World! During the month of July, take the short drive south of town to The Lily Nook, a 6-acre plot of land where 1500 varieties of lilies bloom each year. Pick up some flowers for your own garden, or wander through the beautiful growing field to smell the lilies and take some photos.

7. Hike the Great Trail

Get outside and explore a fantastic portion of the Great Trail in Neepawa. The town hosts over 10km of trails that will lead you by landmarks such as the Stony Creek School No. 133, the Canada 150 commemorative loop and Neepawa's downtown. Start at the trailhead sign located in Riverbend Park and keep your eyes peeled for interpretive signage along the way.

8. Try a Local Restaurant

Exploring the town is bound to work up an appetite, so stop into one of the town's locally owned restaurants for a bite to eat. Options include coffee, pies and more at Brew Brothers Bistro, Chinese food at Lee's Village and Bamboo Garden Restaurant, and to-go pastries and breakfast options at Lola's Bakery.

9. Wander Through the Beautiful Plains Museum

Step back into Neepawa's history at the Beautiful Plains Museum. The museum was established in 1976 at the Viscount School before being relocated to the Heritage Railway Station, which was built in 1902. This historic site serves as the perfect backdrop to learn about Neepawa's forefathers throughout three floors of collected artifacts. Theme rooms include a general store, a medical hall, a log cabin and a chapel. The museum is open from Victoria Day to Labour Day.

10. Explore the Town on Foot

We all know that the best way to explore a town is to embark on foot. Neepawa is no exception. Explore the streets to find beautiful historic homes and buildings, or stop into a local shop: the Art & Soul Artisan's Loft is a great spot for locally made products and vintage finds.

About The Author

Hey! I'm Breanne, Editorial Content Specialist for Travel Manitoba. First to jump in the lake and last to make it down the River Trail. Lover of croissants, cats, and croissant-shaped cats. Got a story idea? Email me at bsewards@travelmanitoba.com.

Editorial Content Specialist