Tours and programs

Though Louis Riel himself never lived in the house, after he was hanged for high treason his body lay in state in the living room for two days in December 1885. The Riel-Lagimodière family moved there in 1864 and descendants of the Riel family lived there until 1969. The plot of land, which was originally a long narrow strip reaching the Red River, also commemorates the history of Métis river lots.

Hear tales of Louis Riel’s life and his struggle to defend Métis rights in a rapidly changing world. Discover a house in mourning and a way of life both traditional and evolving. Explore deeper with a self-guided tour and by reading the interpretive panels. Learn how Manitoba came to be a province and have fun playing a variety of traditional family games.

Through funding from the Manitoba Métis Federation, the Louis Riel Institute offers interpretive programming at Riel House for the 2024 season.