Curator’s statement
Winnipeg was once a place I proudly called home. Growing up in a small town nearby, our monthly trips into the city—usually to the Unicity area—felt exciting and full of possibility. When I moved there on my own at 17, I found myself drawn to downtown, celebrating Canada Day at The Forks, taking photography lessons in the Exchange District, and eventually launching my own training company from Fort Garry Place, connected to The Fort Garry Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre. Now home to the Winnipeg Jets, Canada Life Centre will always hold special meaning for me, as it’s where I became engaged when the Manitoba Moose played there.
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Things to do in Winnipeg
Wander through The Forks Market: Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring The Forks Market, sharing local bites, browsing handcrafted goods, and enjoying the energy of this historic meeting place. It’s the perfect spot to slow down together and soak in the heart of the city.
Unwind at Thermea Nordik Spa: Escape the city pace with a couples spa day at Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature, where hot and cold thermal pools, saunas, and quiet relaxation spaces create the ultimate romantic reset. It’s peaceful, restorative, and ideal for reconnecting.
Skate or cycle along the river trails: In winter, bundle up and skate hand-in-hand along the Nestaweya River Trail at The Forks—one of the most unique urban skating experiences in Canada, with warming huts and prairie sky views along the way. In summer, rent bikes from Bee2Gether Bikes and follow the scenic river pathways that wind through downtown, Assiniboine Park, and St. Boniface for a relaxed and memorable way to explore the city together.
Discover the Manitoba Museum & The Nonsuch: Explore Manitoba’s rich history at Manitoba Museum, where you can stand aboard the full-sized replica of the Nonsuch and imagine the fur trade era that shaped the region. It’s immersive, fascinating, and a meaningful way to connect with the province’s past.
Walk Through Old St. Boniface: Cross the river and stroll through historic St. Boniface Cathedral, where the cathedral ruins create one of the most romantic photo backdrops in the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, step back in time with a visit to Fort Gibraltar for a glimpse into Winnipeg’s early days.
Places to eat & drink in Winnipeg
The Original Pancake House: Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at The Original Pancake House, known for fluffy pancakes, classic waffles, and comforting breakfast favorites. It’s a warm, cozy spot to fuel up before a day of exploring The Forks and downtown Winnipeg.
Modern Electric Lunch: A modern downtown favorite where classic diner charm meets fresh, elevated comfort food. With hearty breakfast options and creative twists on lunch classics, it’s a perfect stop for a relaxed meal between city adventures.
Two Kelly’s Cafe: Located in Fort Garry Place, Two Kelly’s Cafe is a hidden downtown gem known for fresh, satisfying lunches in a casual setting. Voted Top Breakfast Spot in Winnipeg 2025. Be sure to try their Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap, it’s to die for!
The Peasant Cookery: For a cozy lunch, Peasant Cookery combines hearty European-inspired dishes with a warm, intimate dining room. It’s ideal for couples who want comfort food with a touch of elegance.
The Crafted Crust: Perfect for a casual lunch or shared snack, The Crafted Crust is known for its wood-fired pizzas, fresh toppings, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Grab a slice (or two) and enjoy it together on a sunny patio or cozy indoor table.
James Avenue Pumping Station: For a lively, pub-style dinner, James Avenue Pumping Station offers hearty comfort food and craft beers in a historic building. Its industrial charm and spacious interior make it a fun stop for couples looking for something casual yet unique.
The Old Spaghetti Factory: Offering timeless Italian comfort in a warm, nostalgic setting that’s perfect for a relaxed date night. With generous portions, charming decor, and classic pasta favorites, it’s a cozy choice for couples who love good food and a great atmosphere.
Hy’s Steakhouse: For a classic, romantic evening, Hy’s Steakhouse serves premium steaks, fresh seafood, and elegant sides in a polished, upscale environment. Dim lighting and attentive service create the perfect setting for a special night out.
Velvet Glove: Sip cocktails and enjoy small plates at Velvet Glove, a historic downtown bar with a sophisticated, intimate vibe. It’s ideal for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night rendezvous in the heart of the city.
529 Wellington Steakhouse: For a celebratory dinner, 529 Wellington Steakhouse offers premium steaks, fine wines, and a classic steakhouse atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for couples looking to cap off a romantic weekend with elegance and flavor.
Need to know
Getting around: Downtown Winnipeg is very walkable, making exploring multiple points of interest in a single area possible. If you prefer, you can also rent bicycles at Bee2gether Bikes at the Forks. You may choose to rent a car, or even consider hiring a limousine service.
Historic and cultural highlights: Downtown is full of history—from the Exchange District’s early 20th-century architecture to St. Boniface’s French heritage. Bring a camera: these streets, bridges, and landmarks are perfect for romantic photos.
Safety and comfort: Downtown Winnipeg is generally safe, especially during the day and in busy areas. During the daytime, you can utilize the underground tunnels that will take you below Portage and Main, a well-known and extremely high-traffic intersection where the wind will literally take your hat away. Stick to well-lit streets at night, and enjoy popular areas like The Forks, the Exchange District, and Portage Avenue, which are lively and well-patrolled.
Many attractions and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, so plan your itinerary to minimize backtracking. For a romantic touch, try sunrise or sunset walks along the river or across the Esplanade Riel.
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