BRANDON, MB – The city of Brandon, Manitoba’s second-largest urban center, is embarking on an ambitious journey to transform its tourism sector and rebrand itself as a premier travel destination. In a significant move to boost local economic growth, the City Council has allocated $40,000 from the 2026 budget to develop the city’s first-ever comprehensive tourism strategy. This investment will be further supported by an additional $20,000 sourced from the Accommodation Tax Reserve, creating a total fund of $60,000 to build a roadmap for attracting visitors to the “Wheat City.”
The new policy aims to capitalize on unique local experiences and natural assets that have previously been underutilized. Key priorities include developing experiential tourism such as guided canoe trips along the Assiniboine River and curated historical tours. Additionally, the strategy focuses on enhancing local amenities, with proposals to improve trails, art galleries, and museums. One notable project under consideration is the restoration of the decommissioned Rideau Park water tower, which officials hope to turn into a family-friendly landmark and a prime spot for photography.
Jennifer Watson, Executive Director of the event-focused non-profit Brandon First, highlighted that while the city already hosts major agricultural and sporting events, a formal, city-wide strategy has been the “missing piece” to becoming a true tourist hub. However, organizers acknowledge that a significant hurdle remains: the city’s limited hotel capacity. During major events, the current accommodation options are often filled to capacity, signaling a need for further investment in hotels and short-term rentals to ensure the city can comfortably host thousands of guests.
This strategic push comes at a critical time as the city prepares for high-profile events like the Dakota Nation Winterfest, which is set to make a major return in 2027. Ultimately, the administration views this plan as a long-term investment leading up to Brandon’s 150th anniversary in 2032. By celebrating its diverse culture and history while modernizing its brand, Brandon aims to reach international tourism standards, attracting not only visitors but also new residents and long-term private investment to the region.
