1. See a local comedy show

2. See a movie

3. Visit the Manitoba Museum

Couples are drawn to the Manitoba Museum for dates, because it offers more than a traditional historical experience – it provides an immersive and interactive outing.

Situated at 190 Rupert Ave., this cultural institution stands out as a preferred destination for couples seeking an adventure-filled evening.

“The Nonsuch Gallery and the 1920 Winnipeg Cityscape are fan favourites,” Sam Wijesinghe, a learning facilitator at the Manitoba Museum, says. These two attractions create an atmosphere that feels like embarking on an exploration, except the twist is attendees are discovering a whole new world together.

The Nonsuch Gallery immerses visitors in the world of an iconic ship that sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in 1668 and 1669. According to the Manitoba Museum, the replica was built in 1968 in England to celebrate the tricentennial of the Hudson’s Bay Company. It sailed 14,000 kilometers through salt and fresh water before finding its home in Winnipeg.

“People love going onto the ship and exploring it,” Wijesinghe says.

The gallery’s intricate details and captivating stories create an atmosphere that transports visitors to an era of exploration and trade.

Another beloved spot for dates, the 1920 Winnipeg Cityscape, is where a snapshot of the city’s past comes alive.

From the hustle and bustle of the Amy Galbraith dress store to the mystique of a tarot-reading room and Strathcona restaurant, the immersive experience offers a vivid glimpse into the past.

“People enjoy going into the little stores and rooms. It’s like being in another world,” Wijesinghe says.

Couples can also relish a movie date within the enchanting confines of the 1920 Cityscape, where the Proscenium Theatre becomes an integral part of the experience. Illuminated by warm lights and offering snug seating, the theatre screens silent short films featuring iconic stars of the era, such as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton.

Overall, these exhibits give couples a shared adventure, offering a special date experience.

Wijesinghe says a lot of couples choose First Fridays for date nights, because the museum is free from 5 until around 8 p.m. Adult admission is usually $15, and the museum is usually open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Published in Volume 78, Number 12 of The Uniter (November 30, 2023)