10 hidden Manitoba gems for your film shoot

Manitoba is a great place to film, offering a diverse, unique landscape that can be used to tell compelling stories. With its natural beauty and vibrant cities, it's no wonder why filmmakers have been drawn to Manitoba for years. If you’re considering shooting your production in Manitoba, here is our top 10 list of hidden gems for filming to share with your location manager.

1. Spirit Sands

Spirit Sands is a mesmerizing area of rolling sand dunes spanning 4+ square kilometers. The constantly shifting landscape is a unique, unforgettable sight, perfect for stunning backdrops. Located in Spruce Woods Provincial Park, Spirit Sands should definitely be considered for outdoor shoots.

2. Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site

Located in the town of Selkirk, the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site is a great place to recreate life in the early 1800s. Its historic buildings and gardens, built by the Hudson’s Bay Company on the western bank of the Red River, are idyllic for period pieces. It’s located north of Winnipeg and is run by the Canadian government.

3. The Assiniboine River

The Assiniboine River is located in the eastern part of the province. With its wide and flowing banks, this iconic Canadian river is perfect for scenes that require a flowing river or a cityscape viewed from a river.

4. Boreal Forest

The Boreal Forest is located in the northeast part of the province. With its towering trees and deep, dark forests, the Boreal Forest would suit scenes that call for rugged, dramatic settings.

5. Churchill

Located on the shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill is remote, striking and truly one of a kind. This is the place to go for polar bears and the aurora borealis! With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture, Churchill is the go-to for capturing the beauty of the far north.

6. Hecla Island

A far cry from polar bears, the beautiful Hecla Island is a hidden gem of Manitoba. Located in Lake Winnipeg, its rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife make it the perfect place to film a romantic drama.

7. Riding Mountain National Park

Located in the heart of Manitoba, Riding Mountain National Park is one of the most picturesque parks in Manitoba. Its rolling hills, lush forests, and abundant wildlife are well suited to forest and hiking scenes or a nature production.

8. Whiteshell Provincial Park

Located southeast of Manitoba, Whiteshell Provincial Park is a stunning and secluded wilderness area. With its crystal-clear lakes and rugged rock outcrops, Whiteshell Provincial Park is a remote, untouched landscape.

9. Oak Hammock Marsh

Located in the Interlake region, Oak Hammock Marsh has diverse wildlife, wetlands, and an interpretive centre. This spot is hard to beat for marsh scenes and sweeping skies, beauty and tranquillity.

10. Manitoba Legislative Building

We’ve featured this spot a few times in the past--and for a good reason: it’s a versatile, grand building. Located in downtown Winnipeg, the Manitoba Legislative Building is a large building that works for various shots. With its stunning architecture and vibrant gardens, the legislative building is a great place to capture the beauty of Winnipeg.