A Perfect Day at Arnes Farmers Market (and Beyond!)
Exploring the Interlake, Shopping Handmade, and Soaking in Summer
If you’re looking for a fun day trip (or weekend getaway!) in Manitoba’s Interlake, the Arnes Farmers Market is one of my favourite places to be. Not just because I set up my Wheat & Wildflower Handmade booth here on summer weekends, but because it’s such a special little spot full of friendly faces, homemade treasures, and country charm.
Arnes Farmers Market is located just 16 km north of Gimli, Manitoba, surrounded by open fields and big skies. It’s part market, part gathering place, and part quirky roadside attraction. You'll love its rows of cozy wooden vendor sheds, friendly goats and pigs, vintage tractors, and even a lighthouse you can’t miss.
Old tractors and a dozer are fun for children to climb on!
How to Get Here
- Winnipeg to Gimli: Travel approximately 95 km / 59 miles (about 1 hour 15 minutes) north of Gimli on Highway #8. At Camp Morton corner, turn East for approximately 1 mile and then travel north on PR222.
- Gimli to Arnes Farmers Market: 16 km / 10 miles (about 10 minutes) – travel north on PR222. The market is located between Camp Morton and Arnes Roads.
- Arnes to Hecla Island: ~76 km / 47 miles (about 50 minutes). Travel north on Highway #8.
A One-Day Interlake Itinerary
If you're planning a one-day escape from Winnipeg, here’s my suggestion for a day filled with food, fresh air, and local finds:
Morning: Market Time!
Start your day early and head north another 10 minutes from Gimli on PR222 to Arnes Farmers Market, open Saturdays 9-2 and Sundays 10-2.
Wander the rows of permanent sheds where you’ll find handmade treasures (come say hi at my booth, Wheat & Wildflower Handmade!), fresh baking, produce, antiques, and so much more. Don’t forget to stop and see the goats and pigs at the petting area and let your little ones climb on the row of antique tractors – this is always the part kids love most.
Local favourite:
One of our favourite treats is the homemade donuts from the Mennonite’s baking booth. You’ll find them along the north east side of the market – there’s usually a line up for their wonderful and fresh donuts. Make this your first stop, because their donuts always sell out early. But if you miss them, their cheese-dill bread or any of their homemade cookies are also favourites.
Arnes Farmers Market is so unique. The rustic wooden sheds and barns make this the cutest market in Manitoba and the vendors are friendly. You're sure to find many treasures you'll love.
Afternoon: Gimli by the Lake
On your way back through Gimli, stop for lunch at one of my favourites:
- Ship & Plough Tavern – comfort food with a cozy pub vibe.
- Interlake Brewing Co. – for a locally brewed craft beer and local cuisine on their sunny patio.
- Smile Thai Cuisine – for fresh and flavourful Thai food.
Afterward, take a stroll along the beach, walk the seawall and snap a photo with the famous Viking statue. If you have little ones, a stop at the playground or an ice cream cone at the beach is always a hit. First Avenue is home to many wonderful restaurants.
Be sure to get a photo with the iconic Viking statue in Gimli!
Evening: Head for Home
After a full day outdoors, it’s an easy drive back to Winnipeg. Or, if the lake life is calling, make it a weekend...
A Weekend Getaway: Markets, Beaches & Hecla Adventures
Saturday: Markets + Heritage
Follow the same Saturday itinerary as above—Arnes in the morning, Gimli in the afternoon. Stay overnight at one of many cozy bed and breakfasts.
Sunday: Beaches + Nature
Drive about 25 minutes north of Arnes to Hnausa Beach Provincial Park for a quiet walk or dip in the water. Then continue another 50 minutes north to Hecla Island, where you can hike to Gull Harbour Lighthouse, visit historic Hecla Village, or golf at the Lakeview Hecla Golf Course.
On your way back south, stop in at Marvellous Meadows Golf & Grill, a friendly spot for a casual bite and a little putting practice.
Why I Love Arnes Farmers Market
There’s something simple and wonderful about spending a summer day at the market—talking to people, seeing kids play, and watching families pick out handmade goodies they’ll treasure. The Interlake has this peaceful, laid-back vibe that makes you slow down and appreciate the little things.
Whether you're stocking up on handmade clothing for your littles (my Grow-With-Me Tees and Sweaters are market favourites!) or just enjoying a warm sunny day, I hope you'll come explore this special corner of Manitoba.
Important Details Plan Your Visit
- Arnes Farmers Market: Saturdays 9-2, Sundays 10-2
- Wheat & Wildflower Handmade: Find me most weekends in my cozy little wooden shed—follow me on Instagram or check my website for updates.
- Gimli + Hecla Adventures: Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves a mix of nature and local charm.
See you at the market! 🌾
Arnes Farmers Market is a unique road side treasure that you'll love to visit!