Interpretive Experiences and Guided Tours
Interpretive experiences and guided tours © Parks Canada
This house was home to generations of the Riel family until 1969. Many events of historic significance resonated within these walls. It is here in his mother’s living room that famous Métis leader Louis Riel’s body lay in state for two days in December 1885. The house itself is a fine example of Red River post-on-sill construction and has been restored to its original 1886 state.
Interpretive Experiences
Open from mid-May to the Labour Day in September, Riel House National Historic Site makes the most of the summer, offering a variety of interpretive programming for our visitors. All interpretive activities are available in English and French.
Please contact Riel House National Historic Site at 204-257-1783 for information about fees, schedules and advanced bookings.
Guided Tours
Interpretive experiences © Parks Canada
Guided tours are available during the summer. A bilingual tour guide in historic dress will take you through the yard and gardens of the site.
In 1886, the Riel family farm stretched from the Red River to the Seine River according to the traditional Métis river lot system. One glance at a map leaves the modern city gardener in awe. Today, the less extensive gardens are actively cultivated and illustrate for visitors which flowers and vegetables were grown in the late 19th century.
Step into the living room of the family home where the famous Métis leader, Louis Riel, a founder of Manitoba, lay in state for two days in December 1885 after he was hanged for high treason. Inside this restored Red River Frame House, you can reflect on the fascinating and complex story of Louis Riel and explore this modern legacy with knowledgeable guides.
Riel House closes its summer season with its annual Métis Harvest Celebration and Corn Roast on the Sunday of the Labour Day weekend. Come on out for the traditional entertainment and corn roast and help say good-bye to summer.
Riel House National Historic Site is operated for Parks Canada by la Société historique de Saint Boniface.