About Tourisme Riel
Saint-Boniface is located on Treaty 1 land, the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.
Prior to colonizers arriving on the banks of the Red River, there were primarily Cree, Ojibway, and Assiniboine tribes settled in this area. Their often nomadic lifestyles, including traditional methods of fishing, hunting, and trading furs and goods, did not align with the vision that European settlers had for the development of the region. First Nations and Métis peoples were forcibly removed from their traditional lands, and excluded from the increasingly European society by people like Joseph-Norbert Provencher, who put in place tactics to assimilate Indigenous peoples. These nations have had to fight for their rights, freedoms, and to protect their cultural traditions for generations.
It is important to recognize that Saint-Boniface was built over thousands of years of history, trauma, hardship, and attempted cultural assimilation. It is everyone’s responsibility to learn, understand, and work towards reconciling Canada’s history with Indigenous peoples.
The Riel district
The Riel district is a dynamic and culturally rich region that encompasses the neighborhoods of Saint-Boniface, Saint-Norbert, and Saint-Vital. Named after Louis Riel, a key figure in Manitoba’s history, the district reflects a blend of Francophone and Métis influences. Saint-Boniface, often referred to as the French Quarter, is renowned for its lively artistic scene, historical architecture, and the majestic Saint-Boniface Cathedral. Saint-Vital, with its diverse communities, offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, along with parks and recreational areas. Saint-Norbert, located at the southern tip, is characterized by its farmers’ market, showcasing local and artisanal products, and is also a key player in the history of Manitoba’s annexation to Canada. Together, these neighborhoods contribute to Winnipeg’s unique and diverse cultural fabric.
Our Information Centres
Old Saint-Boniface City Hall
Our main office is located inside the Old Saint-Boniface City Hall at 219 Provencher Blvd.
Esplanade Riel
Find our information kiosk, located on the Esplanade Riel, open May through August.
Our Team
Sheri-Lee Desrosiers
Reservations Coordinator
Mathieu Nadeau
Operations Manager
Erwan Bouchaud
CEO Entreprises Riel
Lynn Springett
Administrative Assistant