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A new discovery space is now open at The Forks for visitors and locals to explore Indigenous tourism.
Explore Indigenous, launched by Indigenous Tourism Manitoba (ITM) and The Forks North Portage Partnership, officially opened today as the new home for Turtle Tours and ITM’s Discovery Centre.
“Indigenous tourism is one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors in Canada and Manitoba has an important role to play in that growth,” said the Honourable Nellie Kennedy, Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism in a press release. “This space provides a vital link between Indigenous-led businesses and visitors seeking meaningful, authentic experiences.”
Explore Indigenous was initially developed to build awareness and understanding of Indigenous-led tourism in Manitoba.
Participants are able to participate in self-guided learning tours and interpretive displays. There is also a "showcase which features Original Original-accredited artisans, linking visitors directly to Indigenous-owned businesses through QR codes and, in the future, on-site retail. Rotating displays and videos help tell the stories of Indigenous tourism operators in Manitoba paired with visitor information service staff to help travellers include an Indigenous tourism experience in their trip planning," the release said.
“Even with all the work that’s been done to grow Indigenous tourism, many people still don’t know who our operators are or where to find them,” says Holly Spence, CEO of Indigenous Tourism Manitoba in a press release. “This space is designed to change that. It’s about creating awareness, education and pride, celebrating authentic Indigenous voices and ensuring visitors can easily explore, learn and connect.”
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) leads the Original Original accreditation which helping visitors identify experiences that are a minimum 51% Indigenous-owned.
ITM has also launched a guidebook, Adventure to Understanding. The book is a travel companion and highlights Original Original-accredited operators across the province.
“Manitoba is home to many powerful and inspiring Indigenous experiences,” said Angela Cassie, Chief Operating Officer of Travel Manitoba in a press release. “Explore Indigenous helps shine a light on those stories, those places and the people leading the way in Indigenous tourism.”
An Indigenous-owned walking tour and culinary experience, called Turtle Tours, has also found its new home owned and operated by Ashley Smith who also runs Turtle Village in Riding Mountain National Park.
“We’re proud to bring our storytelling and food experiences to The Forks, in the heart of Treaty One territory,” said Ashley Smith, owner/operator of Turtle Tours in a press release. “This space allows us to welcome people in, share stories and honour the culture and history of this land. We hope visitors leave with a deeper connection to the place and the people.”
“We’re proud to welcome Explore Indigenous with Indigenous Tourism Manitoba and Turtle Tours to The Forks. These organizations highlight the powerful stories, teachings, and traditions deeply connected to this land. These authentic tour experiences share knowledge, encourage reflection, and offer a deeper understanding of the importance of The Forks as a historical meeting place,” said Jessica Floresco, Chief Operating Officer of The Forks in a press release. “Creating a platform for Indigenous-led tourism allows us to build meaningful relationships and advance our commitment to reconciliation in action.”