Thinking about a trip to Churchill, Manitoba with your family? You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. From kayaking alongside beluga whales to spotting polar bears in the wild, Churchill is one of Canada’s most unforgettable (and surprisingly family-friendly) destinations. In this post, Carolyn Regehr, a Canadian mom of two young boys, shares her firsthand experience exploring Churchill with her family. You’ll find everything you need to plan your own Arctic adventure: how to get there, where to stay and eat, what to do (with kids!), what to pack, safety tips, budgeting advice, and so much more.

All Aboard to Churchill

Choo Choo!
Thomas, you can make it up that bridge!
Chugga-chugga, chugga-chugga Choo Choo!
Percy, uncouple my car. Whoosh!
Sir Topham Hatt is waiting for us.

These are the kinds of conversations that echo through our home on a daily basis. We have two boys, and they’re both obsessed with trains—especially Thomas the Tank Engine. Their wooden train set is a constant source of imaginative play, and they can spend hours lost in their own little railway world.

So when we told them we were going on a real train adventure, all the way to Churchill, Canada, to see beluga whales and maybe even polar bears, they were beyond thrilled. In fact, they started asking every single day for months: “When are we going on the train?!”

What Is Churchill…And Where Is It?

Churchill is a remote town located in northern Manitoba, Canada, perched on the shores of Hudson Bay and the mouth of the Churchill River. Despite its isolation, it’s become a world-renowned destination for wildlife tourism…and for good reason.

Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, Churchill is one of the only places where you can safely spot polar bears in the wild. In the summer, it also offers the incredible experience of seeing and interacting with thousands of migrating beluga whales. Add in breathtaking tundra landscapes and a front-row seat to the northern lights, and it’s easy to see why Churchill is on so many adventure-lovers’ bucket lists.

Why Visit Churchill?

People from all over the world travel to Churchill for its one-of-a-kind wildlife experiences and stunning natural beauty. Imagine spotting a massive white bear roaming freely across the tundra, watching the aurora borealis dance overhead, or feeling the gentle nudge of a curious beluga whale as you paddle your kayak across the water. It’s unforgettable.

My partner Chris and I have always dreamed of visiting Churchill to experience the wild landscape and see wildlife in their natural habitat. When we floated the idea to our boys, they were just as excited. They’ve always loved animals, and the chance to see them outside a zoo, in the wild, was a big deal for all of us.

Is Churchill for Kids?

Yes! Absolutely!

Churchill is a surprisingly family-friendly destination for wildlife lovers. When we visited, our boys were 5 and 7 years old, and it was the perfect age for them to experience this kind of adventure. They were wide-eyed and full of energy as they boarded the train, explored the remote northern town, and squealed every time they spotted wildlife.

There’s a wide range of activities available, and many can be tailored to fit your family’s interests and comfort level. Whether you’re into boat tours, hiking, cultural experiences, or just watching nature unfold, there’s something for every age.

Be Bear Aware

Before diving into all the amazing things to do in Churchill and how family-friendly it is, it’s important to understand one key fact: you’re in polar bear country. While it’s absolutely possible to have a safe and memorable trip with kids, awareness and caution are essential.

Polar bears are wild, powerful predators, and while most sightings happen on guided tours, they do occasionally wander into town. Locals take this seriously:

  • Car doors are left unlocked so anyone can take shelter if needed.
  • Warning sirens alert the town when a bear is spotted nearby. When you hear it, you head indoors immediately.
  • Certain areas are off-limits, like beaches or trails clearly marked as polar bear habitat.
  • Guides carry firearms for protection during excursions (not to alarm you, but to be prepared in case of emergency).

As a parent, it’s important to stay close to your kids at all times. Never let children run ahead, and avoid quiet or unpopulated areas on your own. Talk together as you walk, keeping your voices loud, light, and steady helps avoid startling a bear. Always follow local advice, obey signs, and respect the boundaries in place.

It may sound intense, but this awareness is part of what makes a visit to Churchill so unique. You’re not just visiting a town, you’re stepping into a truly wild environment. With the right precautions, it’s an unforgettable, family-friendly adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come.

How to Get to Churchill

Because of its remote location, Churchill is not accessible by road. You’ve got two options to get there: fly or take the train. Both are scenic in their own way, and both offer a unique adventure.

Option 1: Flying to Churchill with Calm Air

Calm Air is a regional airline that offers direct flights to Churchill from Winnipeg, Manitoba. The flight takes around 2 hours and gives you stunning aerial views of northern Canada’s wilderness—an unforgettable experience in itself.

Pros: Fast, convenient, and great if you’re short on time.
Cons: It’s more expensive than the train and may limit how much gear you can bring.

Option 2: Riding the Train with VIA Rail

VIA Rail operates a passenger train from Winnipeg to Churchill, which takes about 45 hours. It’s a long ride, but an incredible way to see Canada’s changing landscapes: thick boreal forests, glittering lakes, and finally, the stark beauty of the tundra.

You can also opt to drive to Thompson, Manitoba, and catch the train from there, which shortens the journey to about 16 hours. That’s what we did. We made a 2-week road trip out of it, camping at various provincial parks along the way before catching the train in Thompson.

Pro tip: The train is part of the adventure. Bring snacks, books, games, and enjoy the slow travel experience. It’s part of what makes a trip to Churchill so special.

Our Churchill Train Adventure with Kids 

Off in the distance, the train slowly came into view. Chugga-chugga, choo choo! I wish I could have heard our boys’ inner monologue in that moment, but their faces said it all: pure, wide-eyed joy. They stood in awe as the train rolled up to the platform, practically vibrating with excitement.

The moment had finally arrived. And while playing with toy trains is fun, actually climbing aboard a real one? Absolutely magical.

Because our train to Churchill left in the evening, we were treated to a lingering summer sunset as we began our journey. We headed straight to the observation dome, where we had a front-row seat to the breathtaking beauty of northern Manitoba. Miles of dense forest, sparkling lakes, and the rhythmic clickety-clack of the train crossing rickety wooden bridges. It was a Canadian train travel experience we’ll never forget.

Since most of the 16-hour ride (from Thompson to Churchill) took place overnight, we eventually settled in for the night in our semi-reclining seats. With blankets, pillows, and a few trusty stuffies, we did our best to get cozy and grab some rest, though sleeping on a train with kids is always a bit of a gamble!

Our boys are early risers, and 5 a.m. felt very early that day. But we made the most of it. Together, we crept quietly back up to the dome car and watched the world slowly wake up. As the train gently rolled along, the rising sun painted the sky in brilliant hues, deep blues and purples shifting into soft pinks and warm oranges. It was pure magic.

By morning, the landscape had changed dramatically. The thick green forests had given way to sparse tundra, with scraggly trees and water-logged lowlands stretching in every direction. And thanks to one of the friendly VIA Rail attendants, we even caught a glimpse of a caribou bounding away into the distance – a thrilling first wildlife sighting before we’d even arrived.

What to Do and See in Churchill?

From wildlife encounters to dog sledding, historic sites to mural art, Churchill offers a wide variety of family-friendly adventures. But keep in mind—many of the area’s most exciting experiences are seasonal, so it’s important to plan ahead, know what you want to see, and time your trip accordingly.

Here’s a breakdown of the top things to do in Churchill and the best time of year to enjoy each one:

Polar Bear Tours

Best time to go: October to November

Hop aboard a massive, all-terrain tundra vehicle, designed to safely navigate the wilds of the north—and venture out to spot polar bears in their natural habitat. These guided tours are one of the main reasons people visit Churchill in the fall. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Beluga Whale Tours

Best time to go: Late June through August

Every summer, about 4,000 beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River to feed and give birth. It’s one of the best places in the world to see belugas, and there are several family-friendly ways to get close to them:

  • Boat tours
  • Zodiac rides
  • Sea kayak or paddleboard excursions

Some tours also include a stop at Fort Prince of Wales, a National Historic Site accessible only by water.

Northern Lights Viewing

Best time to go: February–March and August–September

Churchill is one of the best places in Canada to see the aurora borealis, thanks to its location under the auroral oval. You can join a northern lights tour or simply step outside your accommodations and look up. Winter offers longer, darker nights, but fall skies can be spectacular too.

Town & Area Sightseeing

Best time to go: February–March and June–September

Explore the quirky charm and rich history of Churchill with a guided or self-paced tour around town. Highlights include:

  • The Wildlife Management Area (keep your eyes peeled for polar bears!)
  • Polar Bear Jail
  • Miss Piggy Plane Crash Site
  • Cape Merry National Historic Site
  • Churchill Rocket Research Range

Hiking Tours

Best time to go: June–September

Stretch your legs on scenic hikes that are both adventurous and educational. Popular routes include:

  • Ithaca Shipwreck trail
  • Sloop Cove to Prince of Wales Fort historic trail

Always go with a guide if hiking in bear territory.

Dog Sledding & Dog Carting

Available: Year-round

In winter, bundle up and glide through snowy trails on a traditional dog sled ride: a thrilling, hands-on experience kids will love. In summer, swap the sled for a dog cart and enjoy a fast-paced ride through the tundra behind a team of eager huskies.

Churchill Northern Studies Centre

Open year-round

This subarctic research center offers guided tours where visitors can learn about local wildlife, environmental science, and sustainability. Great for older kids and curious learners!

Museums, Culture & Local Shops

Open year-round

Want to dive into the history and heritage of Churchill? Don’t miss:

  • Small gift shops and stores along the main road
  • Itsanitaq Museum – Indigenous artifacts and local history
  • Parks Canada Visitor Centre – Wildlife and cultural exhibits
  • Arctic Trading Company – Locally made crafts and souvenirs

Churchill Town Centre Complex

Open year-round

A surprising gem for families! The complex includes a school, health centre, library, fitness facilities, indoor playground, ice rink, pool, curling rink, and more. It’s the community hub and a great place for kids to stretch their legs indoors.

SeaWalls Churchill Murals

Available year-round

Churchill is home to dozens of stunning outdoor murals created as part of the SeaWalls project, which brings awareness to ocean conservation and northern ecosystems. You can rent bikes, a car, or join a tour to see the artwork up close—it’s a fun way to explore town with kids.

Best Time of Year to Visit Churchill

There’s a small window—usually in August—when you might be able to experience all three of Churchill’s big natural attractions:

  • Polar bears (starting to move inland)
  • Beluga whales (still in the river)
  • Northern lights (just beginning to return)

That’s when we went! Nature is unpredictable, and we knew we might not see everything on our list—but we also knew that any time spent exploring Churchill would be unforgettable, no matter what.

How to Plan Your Churchill Trip

There are two main ways to experience Churchill:

  1. Book an all-inclusive tour
  2. Plan your own DIY itinerary

Option 1: All-Inclusive Tours

Many tour companies offer all-in-one Churchill packages that include flights, hotel accommodations, guided wildlife excursions, and even some meals. For families who want a stress-free, fully organized experience, this can be a great option. You won’t have to worry about logistics, and you’ll be in the hands of experienced local guides.

Option 2: Build Your Own Itinerary

Our family chose the DIY route, and it worked really well for us. Planning our own adventure gave us the flexibility to:

  • Choose the specific tours we wanted
  • Travel at our own pace
  • Explore more budget-friendly accommodations and travel options (like camping and train travel)

It took a bit more research and effort, but it allowed us to tailor the trip to fit our family’s interests, schedule, and budget.

When to Book Your Churchill Trip (and How Long to Stay)

Churchill is a bucket-list destination for many people, and spots fill up fast. Whether you’re traveling in summer to see beluga whales or in fall to spot polar bears, it’s important to book early, ideally several months in advance.

I recommend:

  • Booking at least 3–6 months ahead for peak seasons (summer and fall)
  • Staying 2 to 4 days in Churchill, depending on how many activities or tours you plan to do

If you’re combining Churchill with a longer Canada trip (like we did with a road trip through Manitoba), you might want to plan a little extra time for travel days, especially if you’re arriving by train.

Churchill Tour Companies & All-Inclusive Adventures

Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive trip or want to book individual wildlife excursions, here are some of the most popular and reputable tour companies in Churchill. Many of them offer polar bear tours, beluga whale watching, dog sledding, and northern lights excursions, depending on the season.

  • Frontiers North Adventures – Known for their iconic Tundra Buggy® tours during polar bear season.
  • Natural Habitat Adventures – Partnered with WWF, offering immersive nature experiences.
  • Lazy Bear Expeditions – Offers both lodge stays and beluga/polar bear combo tours.
  • Churchill Wild – Specializes in luxury wilderness lodges and walking safaris.
  • Discover Churchill – Locally-owned, great for photography and educational tours.
  • Sea North Tours – Beluga-focused summer tours including kayaking and boat trips.
  • North Star Tours – Offers sightseeing, wildlife tours, and cultural experiences.
  • Blue Sky Expeditions – Dog sledding and dog carting year-round.
  • Wapusk Adventures – Family-friendly dogsledding and cultural programs.
  • Nanuk Operations – Limited info available; check locally or through tourism sites.
  • Sub-Arctic Tours – Small group and custom wildlife tours.
  • Beyond Boreal Expeditions – Guided nature and wildlife tours.
  • Kischikamee Wildlife Adventures – Indigenous-led tours rooted in culture and ecology (look for future updates online).

Where to Stay in Churchill

If you’re traveling with an all-inclusive package, your accommodations will be included. But if you’re booking à la carte, note that Churchill is a small town with limited lodging, and options fill up fast—especially during polar bear season and summer whale tours.

Here are some of the most popular places to stay (book early!):

  • Iceberg Inn – Simple, budget-friendly option.
  • Churchill Bed & Breakfast – Cozy, locally hosted stay.
  • Bear Country Inn – Basic amenities, convenient location.
  • Tundra Inn – Popular for families, plus access to the Tundra Pub.
  • Seaport Hotel – Hotel and restaurant combo, walkable location.
  • The Aurora Inn – Apartment-style suites, good for longer stays.
  • Churchill Motel/Hotel – Local listing, call to book.
  • Polar Inn and Suites – Centrally located, clean and simple.
  • Bears Den Bed and Breakfast – Homey and welcoming.
  • Blueberry Inn – Quirky and cozy option with a local vibe.

Where to Eat in Churchill

Churchill may be small, but it’s got surprisingly good food—from home-style meals to hearty pub fare and even some upscale options.

  • Tundra Pub – Classic pub-style meals, right next to the Tundra Inn.
  • Seaport Hotel Restaurant – Sit-down dining with a variety of local dishes.
  • Lazy Bear Café – A local favorite with Arctic-inspired cuisine (try the muskox burger!).
  • Dancing Bear Restaurant – Great family-friendly spot with comfort food classics.
  • Ptarmigan Restaurant – Traditional meals with northern flair.
  • Churchill Hospital Cafeteria – Don’t let the location fool you—it’s affordable, filling, and surprisingly good!
  • Northern Store – Best place to grab snacks, groceries, or picnic supplies.

How to Get Around in Churchill

Once you’re in Churchill, getting around town is fairly straightforward; it’s a small community with just a few main roads. However, it’s important to understand that Churchill is polar bear territory, and precautions are necessary at all times, even in town.

While many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, walking around isn’t something to take lightly. Locals are very aware of the risks and follow strict safety measures. You should too.

Polar bears occasionally wander into town, and while sightings aren’t common on every street corner, they’re serious when they do happen. Locals leave their car doors unlocked in case someone needs to escape a bear. There are warning signs in areas that are off-limits (like certain beaches), and sirens sound when a bear is spotted nearby. When that happens, you head inside quickly and stay there.

If you’re walking with kids, stay close together, speak loudly, and avoid wandering off down side streets or onto unmarked trails. Always read signage and follow local advice. Never let children run ahead or explore on their own.

Most tour companies offer pick-up and drop-off for excursions, which is the safest and easiest option. As for car rentals, they aren’t commonly used or necessary. Most places are walkable with caution, and many areas outside town (like the Wildlife Management Area or polar bear viewing zones) are restricted and require permits, which are only available to licensed tour operators. The roads can also be rough and are not ideal for visitors to navigate alone.

Bottom line: Plan to walk with care in town and let your guided tours handle any out-of-town travel.

What to Pack for Churchill (With Kids)

Packing for Churchill is a bit like packing for an adventure to the edge of the world, because, in some ways, you are! The weather can change quickly, the terrain is rugged, and you’ll want your kids to be comfortable (and dry) while exploring. Layers are key, and packing light isn’t really an option when you’re chasing belugas and polar bears.

Here’s what we packed (and what we’re glad we brought):

  • Layers, layers, layers – Think base layers, fleeces, and a windbreaker or rain jacket. The weather in summer can feel cool, even in July.
  • Waterproof shoes or boots – There’s often puddles, wet grass, and muddy spots, especially near the water. Dry feet = happy kids.
  • Warm hats + gloves – Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially on boat tours.
  • Sunscreen + bug spray – The sun reflects off the water, and the mosquitoes? They are very real.
  • Binoculars – Our kids loved spotting belugas, birds, and (possibly) bears from a safe distance.
  • Small daypack – For snacks, water, and layering pieces when you’re out exploring.
  • Comfort items for the train – Think travel pillows, cozy blankets, stuffies, card games, and snacks. Lots of snacks.
  • Camera or phone with lots of storage – You’ll want to capture the magic.

Optional but fun:

  • A notebook or journal for kids to document animals they see, draw murals, or write about their trip.
  • Reusable water bottles—Churchill has limited shops, and staying hydrated is important!

The key is to be prepared for both chilly and mild weather and prioritize comfort. Churchill is casual, no need for anything fancy!

Budget Tips: What Does a Trip to Churchill Cost?

Let’s be real: getting to Churchill isn’t cheap. It’s a remote northern destination, and that comes with a price tag. But with a little planning and flexibility, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s what we learned:

Biggest costs to expect:

  • Transportation – Whether you fly (more expensive) or take the train (more time, less cost), getting there is a major expense. We saved money by taking the train from Thompson, rather than all the way from Winnipeg.
  • Accommodations – Options range from basic motels and B&Bs to full-service hotels. We booked early to snag a budget-friendly spot.
  • Tours – Beluga and polar bear tours are the highlights of the trip, and understandably, they’re priced accordingly. Expect to spend $100–200+ per person per tour.

Budget-friendly tips:

  • Bring snacks and groceries – We stocked up in Thompson and used the Northern Store in Churchill for simple meals and packed lunches.
  • Choose one or two must-do tours, and fill the rest of your time with self-guided adventures like murals, hikes, and exploring town.
  • Travel with another family – Splitting costs on accommodations and car rentals can really help.
  • Book in advance – Everything from tours to lodging sells out quickly, and last-minute prices are rarely in your favor.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your kids and want to make it count, Churchill is worth every penny.

Family-Friendly Churchill Itinerary: 3 Days, 2 Nights with Kids

Our Churchill itinerary was packed with adventure, learning, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. We spent two nights and three full days in Churchill and felt like we saw and did everything we hoped for. If you’re planning a short trip with kids, here’s a sample itinerary to help inspire your own:

Day 1: Arrival + Kayaking with Belugas

  • 9:00 AM – Arrive by Train in Churchill
    Step off the train and soak in the fresh tundra air—your adventure begins!
  • 1:00 PM – Tour the Churchill Northern Studies Centre
    Take a Green Building Tour at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre and learn about sustainability, ecology, and life in the subarctic.
  • 6:30 PM – Sunset Beluga Kayak Tour
    Join Sea North Tours for a magical sunset kayak with beluga whales. Note: Age restrictions may apply, so plan ahead if traveling with younger kids.

Day 2: Play, Polar Bears, and More Belugas

  • Morning – Play at Churchill Town Centre Complex
    Let the kids burn off energy in the indoor playground—also a great option if the weather isn’t cooperating.
  • 1:00 PM – Beluga + Fort Tour
    Hop aboard a boat with Sea North Tours for a beluga whale watching tour combined with a visit to the historic Fort Prince of Wales.
  • 4:00 PM – Polar Bear Tundra Tour
    Head out on a tundra vehicle tour with Great White Bear Tours to spot wildlife and explore the vast northern landscape.

Day 3: Town Exploration + Departure

7:30 PM – Depart by Train

Morning – Explore Churchill’s Local Attractions
Stroll through town, pop into local gift shops, and stop by the Parks Canada Visitor Centre to learn about the region’s history, wildlife, and Indigenous culture.

1:00 PM – Wildlife Sightseeing Tour
Wrap up your adventure with a final Wildlife & Sightseeing Tour with Discover Churchill.

Our Family’s Favorite Churchill Experiences

Beluga Whales

We were standing on the rocky shore of Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba. The cool summer wind was gentle and inviting, the salty air carried the smell of the sea, and the white-capped waves shimmered in the sunlight. We had just arrived by train to this world-renowned destination and couldn’t wait to see the bay.

As we gazed out at the choppy water, something looked… off. The white shapes bobbing along the surface didn’t quite move like waves. I squinted, focusing on the surf—and then it hit me. They weren’t whitecaps. They were beluga whales.

Standing together as a family, our mouths dropped in amazement. We were watching hundreds of beluga whales surfacing for air right in front of us. It was like the water was alive, belugas to the left, belugas to the right, surfacing, diving, and splashing in every direction.

We’d read that in summer, around 4,000 beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River to feed and give birth in its warmer, shallow waters. Between July and August, it’s not hard to find them They are quite literally everywhere.

Later, we joined a beluga whale watching tour in the estuary of Hudson Bay. It was a thrilling and humbling experience to be on the water, surrounded by these curious, gentle creatures. Belugas travel in pods and often swim alongside boats, playing in the wake and peeking above the surface with their signature smile.

Our guides practiced ethical wildlife tourism, their boats were equipped with propeller guards or jet drives to protect the whales. They also dropped a hydrophone into the water so we could listen to the belugas communicating. We heard chirps, whistles, clicks… and some sounds that had the kids (and us!) giggling. Let’s just say belugas have a surprisingly impressive range of fart noises.

We were also lucky enough to spot baby belugas, which are gray in color, swimming cheek-to-cheek with their mothers. When mama surfaced, so did baby. It looked like a perfectly choreographed underwater dance, a tender, graceful display of motherhood and connection that left us speechless.

Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour

Our Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour took us across Churchill and the surrounding area, exploring landmarks, local lore, and of course, searching for polar bears. While summer sightings aren’t guaranteed, we were incredibly lucky to see one—and the journey to get there was full of surprises.

We started the day at Cape Merry, climbing around its old stone walls and cannons while learning about the area’s military history. Then we visited several colorful SeaWalls murals, created by artists to inspire protection of the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem.

Like many tours in Churchill, this one involved a lot of scanning the horizon for white lumps that might be bears. (Spoiler: most were rocks.) Still, the anticipation made it exciting.

We stopped by Miss Piggy, a crashed cargo plane perched dramatically on a hill. The story goes that after a mechanical failure, the crew walked safely back to town—an odd but beloved Churchill landmark. Next, we visited the outside of the Polar Bear Holding Facility (aka “polar bear jail”), where bears are temporarily held if they wander too close to town. At the time, the jail was empty—no naughty bears behind bars.

We also explored the old rocket range, pressing imaginary buttons and pretending to launch rockets into the vast northern sky. It was pure childhood magic.

Finally, just as the tour was wrapping up, we headed into the Wildlife Management Area—and at the last possible moment, our guide spotted a bear. There, sunbathing on a flat rock near the Hudson Bay, was a real, live polar bear.

From a safe distance, we watched as the bear scratched its back, wiggled around to get comfortable, sniffed the air, and finally laid its head down on the rock, completely relaxed in its wild, northern home.

It was a moment of pure wonder—and one our family will never forget.

Polar Bear Safety in Churchill

Polar bears are not like other bears. They’re apex predators, and they can be dangerous. If you’re planning a visit to Churchill, especially with children, it’s absolutely essential to understand polar bear safety protocols.

Churchill takes bear safety seriously, and so should you. The town has its own “polar bear patrol” and clear safety guidelines for both residents and tourists. It’s not uncommon to see warning signs around town, and locals will tell you: never walk around after dark, stay close to your group, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in the fall when bears are most active.

Here are a few quick safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Never wander outside town boundaries or onto the tundra without a trained guide.
  • Avoid walking at night or in low-visibility conditions.
  • Keep kids close and always in sight.
  • Follow the instructions of local guides and tour operators—they know what they’re doing.
  • Read the official Polar Bear Safety Guide on the Town of Churchill website before your trip.

Despite their reputation, polar bears aren’t lurking on every street corner, but you are in their territory, and a little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a safe and memorable visit.

An Arctic Adventure We’ll Never Forget

We went on a wild adventure all the way to Churchill, a tiny town at the top of Canada where polar bears roam and beluga whales swim in the sea. To get there, we rode a real train for hours and hours through forests, over rickety bridges, and into the wild, open tundra.

We explored colorful murals, climbed around a crashed plane, and even saw the outside of a real polar bear jail. Just when we thought we might not see one, a polar bear appeared, lounging peacefully on a rock near the bay, calm, majestic, and completely at home in the Arctic.

We kayaked with beluga whales, giggled at their underwater songs, and watched baby whales swim cheek-to-cheek with their mamas. We played, learned, wandered, and wondered.

This trip was more than a vacation. It was a family adventure full of awe and discovery, a chance to step into a world unlike any we’d known before. Churchill gave us memories we’ll be talking about for years to come, and a deep appreciation for the wild, wonderful north.

About the Author

Carolyn and her family love nature and being outside in all seasons. Through Prairie Crew Adventures’ website and Instagram, Carolyn shares her passion for making the outdoors accessible and enjoyable for families. She shares practical tips, such as what to wear in winter when cross-country skiing, engaging kids on the trail, and crafting budget-friendly travel itineraries, like their memorable trip to Churchill, Manitoba to see beluga whales and polar bears.