Visitor Reception Centre

Start your visit to Lower Fort Garry at the Visitor Reception Centre. The centre is open from late May until early September each year. Check the hours of operation and how to get here before your visit.

Connect with our staff to help plan your visit and have the best possible experience while you’re here.

The centre offers maps, brochures, interpretive exhibits and events.

Arriving at the Visitor Reception Centre

If arriving by private vehicle, park your vehicle in the parking lot, where there are four spots with electric vehicle charging stations that can be used for a fee, and eight spots designated for those with mobility challenges. Parking for motorcoaches is also available. All parking at Lower Fort Garry is free unless otherwise specified.

There is uneven ground on parts of the walkway leading to the Visitor Reception Centre. Once you enter the building, check in with a Parks Canada Visitor Service Attendant to pay your admission fee and purchase an enhanced program experience or guided tour.

Artifacts

The Visitor Reception Centre has historic artifacts on display near the front entrance before the welcome desk and near the Multi-Purpose Room. Learn more about life at Lower Fort Garry through these historic tools, toys, kitchen items and more.

Theatre

Sit for awhile and take in short videos about the history of Lower Fort Garry and the significance of Treaty No. 1 running on a 20-minute loop.

The theatre is also available for meeting and event rentals.

Multi-Purpose Room

The Multi-Purpose Room and adjoining patio is available for meeting and event rentals.

Gift shop

Stone Fort Trading Company, operated by Friends of Lower Fort Garry, has the same hours of operation as Lower Fort Garry.

Information / language services

Services at Lower Fort Garry are offered in both English and French. Pick up a site orientation map in the Visitor Reception Centre. 

Picnic area / picnic shelter

Looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy a picnic? Lower Fort Garry has picnic tables as well as ample grassy areas near the Visitor Reception Centre. Enjoy the space with friends and family, but please practice leave-no-trace guidelines to ensure others can enjoy the space afterwards.

Restaurant

Life A Little Sweeter has the same hours of operation as Lower Fort Garry.

Restrooms

The Visitor Reception Centre has men’s and women’s washrooms, including one accessible toilet in each washroom. Each washroom has a baby-changing table, and there is a room with an adult changing table across the hall from the washrooms.