Nestled on the remote shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill, Manitoba, is a destination unlike any other. Famous for its polar bears, this small town offers extraordinary wildlife encounters, untouched natural beauty, and adventurous Arctic experiences that make it one of Canada’s most unique travel destinations.
But Churchill isn’t just about polar bears. From majestic beluga whales and the dazzling Northern Lights to historic forts and thrilling dog sledding excursions, this northern wilderness offers an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.
Whether you’re drawn to wildlife photography, indigenous history, or extreme Arctic sports, here are the top things to do in Churchill that make it a bucket-list destination.
10. Bird Watching – A Paradise for Avian Enthusiasts
While polar bears may steal the spotlight, Churchill is also a dream destination for bird lovers. Over 270 bird species migrate through or nest in the region, making it one of the best birdwatching locations in North America.
Highlights:
Snowy owls, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons soaring over the tundra
American golden plovers, tundra swans, and Arctic terns
Prime viewing from the shores of Hudson Bay, boreal forests, and Churchill River
Best Time to Visit: May to August, when flocks of birds migrate and nest in the area.
9. Miss Piggy Plane Wreck – A Legendary Crash Site
A short drive from town, this abandoned cargo plane has become one of Churchill’s quirkiest attractions. Nicknamed “Miss Piggy” because of the heavy loads it carried, the plane crash-landed just short of the airport in 1979—and miraculously, all crew members survived.
Highlights:
An eerie yet fascinating wreck covered in graffiti
Perfect for adventurous photographers
A reminder of Churchill’s remote Arctic conditions and aviation history
Best for: Urban explorers and history buffs looking for an offbeat Churchill experience.
8. Wapusk National Park – The Ultimate Polar Bear Habitat
If you want one of the most exclusive Arctic experiences in the world, Wapusk National Park is a must-visit. Spanning 11,475 square kilometers of tundra and boreal forest, this remote national park is home to one of the world’s most important polar bear denning areas.
Highlights:
Incredible chances to see wild polar bears in their natural habitat
Helicopter and tundra vehicle tours for breathtaking views
Arctic foxes, caribou, and wolves roaming the vast wilderness
Best for: Wildlife lovers and photographers looking for once-in-a-lifetime Arctic encounters.
7. Dog Sledding – Ride Like a True Arctic Explorer
Few experiences compare to racing across the snow on a traditional dog sled, powered by a team of energetic, well-trained huskies. Dog sledding isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life in the Arctic.
Highlights:
A thrilling ride through Churchill’s snowy landscapes
Meet the huskies and learn about the history of dog sledding
Summer options available with wheeled sleds
Best for: Adventure seekers looking for an authentic Arctic thrill.
6. Churchill Northern Studies Center – Arctic Science in Action
Want to understand the Arctic’s delicate ecosystem? The Churchill Northern Studies Center offers a rare opportunity to learn about the region’s climate, wildlife, and indigenous heritage while staying at a research station.
Highlights:
Educational tours on Arctic ecology, wildlife, and conservation
Hands-on activities like igloo building and dog sledding
Prime location for viewing polar bears and the Northern Lights
Best for: Science lovers, eco-tourists, and those looking for an immersive learning experience.
5. Prince of Wales Fort – A Historic Arctic Stronghold
Built in 1717 by the Hudson’s Bay Company, this star-shaped stone fortress once protected Canada’s fur trade from rival European powers.
Highlights:
Explore the remains of barracks, workshops, and ancient cannons
Incredible views over Hudson Bay
Guided tours that bring 18th-century Arctic history to life
Best for: History enthusiasts and explorers who love visiting remote landmarks.
4. Northern Lights Tours – Witness Nature’s Greatest Light Show
Churchill is one of the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights, thanks to its location directly beneath the Auroral Oval.
Highlights:
Breathtaking views of swirling green, purple, and blue lights
Dark, remote locations provide perfect viewing conditions
Lodge stays and winter camping under the Aurora Borealis
Best Time to Visit: January to March, when long nights create ideal conditions.
3. Itsanitaq Museum – A Deep Dive Into Inuit Culture
Step into one of Canada’s finest collections of Inuit artifacts, where you can explore the art, history, and traditions of the indigenous peoples who have lived in the Arctic for millennia.
Highlights:
Centuries-old Inuit carvings, weapons, and tools
Taxidermied Arctic wildlife, including a polar bear and musk ox
A well-stocked gift shop with authentic Inuit crafts
Best for: Cultural travelers and history lovers wanting to learn about Canada’s indigenous heritage.
2. Beluga Whale Watching – Swim With the ‘Canaries of the Sea’
Each summer, Churchill becomes the world’s best spot for beluga whale watching, as over 3,000 belugas gather in the Churchill River to feed and give birth.
Highlights:
Boat tours, kayaking, and snorkeling experiences with belugas
Hear their playful ‘singing’—a mix of chirps, clicks, and whistles
Unforgettable encounters with these curious, friendly creatures
Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to mid-August, when belugas migrate into the river.
1. Polar Bear Watching – The Ultimate Arctic Adventure
As the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill offers unparalleled opportunities to see these majestic predators in the wild. Each fall, over 1,000 polar bears migrate along Hudson Bay’s frozen shores, waiting for the sea ice to form.
Highlights:
Tundra vehicle safaris for up-close encounters
The largest concentration of wild polar bears on Earth
Unforgettable wildlife photography opportunities
Best Time to Visit: October to November, just before the sea ice forms.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Churchill?
Polar Bears: October – November
✔ Best chance to see them up close
✔ High demand—book tours months in advance
✔ Colder temperatures (-9 to 1°C / 16 to 34°F)
Beluga Whales: July – August
✔ Warmest temperatures (16 to 17°C / 61 to 62°F)
✔ Perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and boat tours
✔ Bug season—bring insect repellent
Northern Lights: January – March
✔ Dark, clear skies with minimal precipitation
✔ Best viewing conditions for the Aurora Borealis
Which Arctic adventure in Churchill excites you the most?
