Where in Manitoba can you find free-roaming peacocks, Canada’s longest swinging pedestrian bridge and one of the coolest rock quarries in the province? Located 2.5 hours from Winnipeg and 30 minutes from Brandon, Souris is a top destination for families this summer in Manitoba.

Tour this southwestern town’s local attractions and historical homes, or spend the day at the community waterpark. Take in views of the scenic Souris River Valley or savour some quiet time on the peaceful trails of Victoria Park. Souris also has a number of restaurants, a drive-in and a highly coveted bakery to keep you and your family well fed throughout your visit.

PART 1 - Park pathways and swinging bridges

Start your Souris adventure at Victoria Park, located just below Crescent Avenue where the Plum Creek meets the Souris River. Have a picnic on one of the spacious lawns with a playground nearby or continue on down one of the many trails and paths, where the town’s honorary peacock residents can be often spotted roaming freely. Victoria Park is one of the oldest parks in the province and is also home to the Old Oak Tree, believed to be over 600 years old.

Take the sand hill route to reach the Lookout Tower, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the town and its surrounding landscape.

Victoria Park is also where you’ll find the campground and community pool – making it a convenient and fun place to put down roots for your visit. The pool is a favourite for families and features four slides, a lazy river and a beach-like entry.

Located close to the park is Souris’ most iconic attraction: the Souris Swinging Bridge. This Manitoba Star Attraction spans 184-metres over the Souris River and is Canada’s longest swinging pedestrian bridge.

PART 2 - Town wanderer

In town, you’ll find a handful of restaurants, shops and museums you keep you busy throughout your visit. Flower lovers should spend some time in Sadler’s Creekside Greenhouse, or head out of town to Hicks Berry Farm for a U-Pick strawberry farm and fresh-cut flowers. Back in town, Lagasse’s Studio of Fine Art is the place to go for a selection of works and products from over 80 local artists.

Housed in a heritage building, the Hillcrest Museum transports you back in time to life in the early 1900s. The museum contains Indigenous artifacts and collections and exhibits on the early settler families of Souris. The building itself is a sight to behold – with an etched glass entrance, an ornate wooden staircase and pressed tin ceilings.

In the evening, catch a movie at the historic Avalon Theatre, which has been recently upgraded with comfortable seating and a digital film projector.