Winnipeg was one of those cities that left me pleasantly surprised. I wasn’t expecting much from the Canadian Prairie City, but what I got completely blew me away!
The food, the history, the architecture and the culture – Winnipeg was a proper good time.
But, Winnipeg is a large city and not all of its neighborhoods will offer much to travellers, which is exactly why we wrote this no-stress guide for where to stay in Winnipeg.
Our article breaks down Winnipeg’s best neighborhoods by interest so you’ll be able to quickly identify which is the best for you.
Whether you’re looking to party like a rock star, dive deep into history, or eat amazing Canadian and international fare, we’ve got a neighborhood that’s perfect for you!
Let’s jump right to it. Here are our top picks for where to stay in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Winnipeg.
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La Cabane Guesthouse | Best Hostel in Winnipeg
This cosy and social hostel is strategically located in St. Boniface. This neighborhood is bursting with culture and has tons of cafes, restaurants and parks to enjoy. This hostel offers three unique styles of rooms, perfect for all types of travellers. A small breakfast is also included with each reservation.
Sometimes the best way to experience a destination is from a good dorm room with good people. Book one of these sweet hostels in Winnipeg and get ready for the time of your life!
Alt Hotel Winnipeg | Best Hotel in Winnipeg
The Alt Hotel is our choice for the best hotel in Winnipeg. It is located just moments from Winnipeg’s best restaurants, bars and clubs. This charming three-star hotel offers spacious rooms with comfortable beds and plenty of amenities. There’s also a concierge, 24-hour reception and free wifi.
Downtown
Downtown Winnipeg is home to the flagship store of the Hudson’s Bay Company. A venerable Canadian institution, the history of The Bay dates back to the 17th-century when it was used as a fur trading post.
St. Boniface
St. Boniface is a large neighbourhood located on the eastern side of the Red River. It is Winnipeg’s French Quarter and is home to the largest Francophone community west of the Great Lakes.
Exchange District
Set north of downtown is the Exchange District. The commercial and cultural centre of the city, the Exchange District is a thriving neighbourhood that is home to exciting annual festivals, excellent restaurants, and approximately 150 heritage buildings and warehouses.
Wolseley
Wolseley is one of the coolest and most unique neighbourhoods in Winnipeg. Once known as the “granola belt” thanks to its residents’ progressive politics, Wolseley is a neighbourhood that today embraces modern culture.
The Forks
Historic, modern and bursting with green space, The Forks is our recommendation for where to stay in Winnipeg for families.
Winnipeg is the capital and largest city in Manitoba. Off the beaten path for most travellers visiting Canada, Winnipeg is a charming city packed with history, culture, cuisine and fun. It’s a major centre in the Canadian Prairies and is home to approximately 705,000 people.
The city covers nearly 465 square kilometres and lies at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It is divided into 236 neighborhoods, each offering something unique to travellers.
To help you plan your time in Winnipeg, this guide will breakdown the five best neighborhoods in detail.
Located west of the city centre is Wolseley. A former haven for hippies, Wolseley is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Winnipeg (not only because it snows a lot here). Thanks to its rustic coffee shops and independent boutiques this area has soul and character.
Travel northeast from here to the Exchange District. A hotbed for action and activity, the Exchange District is packed with restaurants, bars, cultural centres and thriving nightclubs. It’s the ideal place to stay if you’re looking to enjoy a night out.
Head slightly south and you’ll find yourself in downtown, at the heart of Winnipeg. The busiest neighborhood in the city, downtown is home to historic landmarks, cultural institutions and a great variety of tourist attractions.
Continue south and you’ll pass through The Forks. A lively neighborhood that seamlessly combines history and modernity, The Forks is where you can enjoy the best of the city against a stunning natural backdrop.
And finally, cross the Red River and you’ll find yourself in St. Boniface. This neighborhood oozes Francophone culture and history around every turn. It has great landmarks as well as a good variety of budget accommodations.
Still not sure where to stay in Winnipeg? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
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Winnipeg’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In the next section, we’ll take a look at Winnipeg’s five best neighborhoods to stay in. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the one that’s the best fit for you!
#1 Downtown – Where to Stay in Winnipeg First Time
At the intersection of Portage and Main is downtown Winnipeg. The heart and soul of the city, downtown is one of the busiest neighborhoods in Winnipeg. It’s where you’ll find an excellent array of restaurants, shops and bars, and is our pick for where to stay if you’re visiting Winnipeg for the first time.
Downtown Winnipeg is home to the flagship store of the Hudson’s Bay Company. A venerable Canadian institution, the history of The Bay dates back to the 17th-century when it was used as a fur trading post. Talk to almost any Canadian and they’ll tell you there’s no more iconic department store in the country. If you like to shop, a visit to this excellent institution is a must!
Humphry Inn & Suites Winnipeg | Best Budget Hotel in Downtown
Thanks to its location in downtown Winnipeg, this is one of our favourite budget options in the city. You’ll enjoy great restaurants, nightlife and sightseeing options at your front door. This three-star hotel offers large rooms with desks and modern amenities. There’s also a convenient on-site restaurant.
Alt Hotel Winnipeg | Best Hotel in Downtown
The Alt Hotel is our top choice for where to stay in downtown Winnipeg. This hotel is moments from Winnipeg’s best restaurants, bars and clubs. This charming three-star hotel offers spacious rooms with comfortable beds and plenty of amenities. There’s also a concierge service, 24-hour reception and free wifi.
Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown
This fantastic hotel is located at the heart of Winnipeg and is within walking distance of great bars, shops and restaurants. This hotel is comprised of 263 traditional rooms with a variety of features. Guests can also enjoy an indoor pool, a spa, and a free shuttle service.
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- Admire the architecture of the beaux-arts Union Station railway depot.
- the shops and stalls at Portage Place.
- Catch a stunning performance of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
- Dine on delicious contemporary Canadian dishes at 12 Resto Bar.
- Root for the National Hockey League’s Winnipeg Jets at The MTS Centre.
- See incredible works of art at the Winnipeg Art Gallery.
- Shop until you drop at central Winnipeg Square.
- Take a tour of The Manitoba Legislative Building and see the famous Golden Boy statue.
- Visit the iconic flagship store for the Hudson’s Bay Company.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 St. Boniface – Where to Stay in Winnipeg on a Budget
St. Boniface is a large neighborhood located on the eastern side of the Red River. It is Winnipeg’s French Quarter and is home to the largest Francophone community west of the Great Lakes. This neighborhood is steeped in history and bursting with culture. Here you can learn all about legendary Louis Riel and see an incredible selection of designated historical sites.
It is also where you’ll find a variety of budget accommodation options, including the only hostel in the city. For cost-conscious travellers and tourists counting their pennies, there’s no better place to stay in Winnipeg than the St. Boniface neighborhood.
Love to eat? This is also a great place to indulge in delicious French and Franco-Canadian dishes and delicacies.
La Cabane Guesthouse | Best Hostel in St. Boniface
This cosy and social hostel is strategically located in St. Boniface. The neighborhood is bursting with culture and has tons of cafes, restaurants and parks to enjoy. This hostel offers three unique styles of rooms, perfect for all types of travellers. A small breakfast is also included with each reservation.
Norwood Hotel Winnipeg | Best Apartment in St. Boniface
This awesome hotel comes complete with laundry facilities, a concierge service and a golf course. Set in St. Boniface, this two-star hotel offers a convenient base for exploring the city. Enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which provides a range of breakfast options each day.
St Boniface | Best Vacation Rental in St. Boniface
Located in Winnipeg’s French Quarter, this hotel is a great base in Winnipeg with so many fantastic attractions and landmarks nearby. It’s also close to great restaurants, cafes and parks. This cosy vacation rental provides comfortable accommodations and modern amenities perfect for all styles of travellers.
Things to See and Do in St. Boniface
- Dine on gourmet French dishes at the chic bistro Resto Gare.
- Eat delicious and traditional Caribbean fare at Deen’s Caribbean Restaurant & Patio.
- Enjoy incredible vegan desserts and more at Le Monkey Bar.
- Experience the incredible Festival du Voyager, a must if visiting in February.
- Explore the grounds of the Université de Saint-Boniface.
- Marvel at the design of the Basilique-Cathedrale de Saint-Boniface.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Mini Donuts Factory.
- Take a stroll along the Provencher Boulevard.
- Visit the Royal Canadian Mint and learn all about Canadian money.
- Walk across the Provencher Bridge which connects St. Boniface and The Forks.
#3 Exchange District – Best Area to Stay in Winnipeg for Nightlife
Set north of downtown is the Exchange District. The commercial and cultural centre of the city, the Exchange District is a thriving neighborhood that is home to exciting annual festivals, excellent restaurants, and approximately 150 heritage buildings and warehouses.
The Exchange District is our recommendation for where to stay in Winnipeg if you’re looking for nightlife. Dotted throughout the neighborhood are an array of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and pubs that cater to travellers of all ages and styles. So whether you’re keen to dance until dawn, enjoy a cosy glass of wine, or see a world-class show, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in Winnipeg’s Exchange District.
The Marlborough Hotel | Best Hostel in Exchange District
The Marlborough Hotel is located between the Exchange District and downtown Winnipeg. They have both a restaurant and bar on-site, perfect for enjoying a drink before a night on the town. It has 148 modern rooms and there’s even an indoor pool. Enjoy great options for dining, shopping and nightlife at your doorstep.
Mere Hotel | Best Hotel in Exchange District
This colourful and unique hotel is our pick for where to stay in the Exchange District. It boasts wonderful views, luxurious bathrooms, and a superb on-site restaurant. It’s also well-positioned for exploring Winnipeg as there are many landmarks, shops and cafes nearby. Enjoy modern facilities at this excellent three-star hotel.
The Fairmont Winnipeg | Best Hotel in Exchange District
If you’re going to stay in one of Winnipeg’s hippest districts, why not enjoy one of the city’s most luxurious hotels. The Fairmont Winnipeg is conveniently located in the Exchange District. It offers comfortable and contemporary rooms and boasts a stylish lounge and delicious restaurant. There’s also a sauna, a Jacuzzi and a heated pool.
Things to See and Do in Exchange District
- Catch an entertaining show at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.
- Dance the night away at 441 Main.
- Dive deep into the history at the Manitoba Museum.
- Enjoy great cocktails at the Amsterdam Tea Room.
- Grab a drink at Browns Social House.
- Listen to live music at the World Famous Palomino Club.
- Party until dawn at Citizen Nightclub.
- Sample from a wide selection of beers at Yellow Dog Tavern.
- See an outstanding performance by the Manitoba Opera.
- Sip great coffee at Forth Café.
- Visit the Winnipeg City Hall.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Wolseley – Coolest Place to Stay in Winnipeg
Wolseley is one of the coolest and most unique neighborhoods in Winnipeg. Once known as the “granola belt” thanks to its residents’ progressive politics, Wolseley is a neighborhood that today embraces modern culture. It’s where you’ll find hip cafes and trendy boutiques nestled alongside organic bakers and independent shops.
It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re keen to embrace your inner hipster and enjoy an afternoon of people watching on Sherbrooke Street.
This is also our recommendation for architecture aficionados as Wolseley is home to one of the best-preserved collections of historic character houses in the city. Wander along Wolseley’s charming streets and marvel at the funky, fun and colourful 20th-century houses that line them.
Winnipeg Holiday | Best Apartment in Wolseley
This excellent property is conveniently located in Winnipeg at the heart of Wolseley. It’s within walking distance of the neighborhood’s trendiest restaurants, cafes and boutiques. This apartment comes complete with five comfortable and spacious rooms each outfitted with essential amenities and wonderful features.
Hansen | Best Guest House in Wolseley
The Hansen Guest House is a fantastic place to make your base in Wolseley. It has six comfortable and spacious rooms that are equipped with modern features. This property also provides a swimming pool, room service and free wifi. You’ll enjoy plenty of sightseeing, dining and nightlife options close by.
The Columns Bed & Breakfast | Best Bed & Breakfast in Wolseley
This bed and breakfast is our pick for where to stay in Wolseley. It is located a short walk from the neighborhoods coolest bars, restaurants and shops and is close to downtown Winnipeg. This BnB offers four cosy bedrooms, laundry facilities, a sun deck and a garden.
Things to See and Do in Wolseley
- Indulge in cinnamon buns, cookies and more at Tall Grass Prairie.
- Enjoy drinks at Handsome Daughter.
- Grab a beer and a sandwich at Cousins Deli.
- Dine on American fare at The Tallest Poppy.
- Sip hip coffees and cappuccinos at Thom Bargen.
- Sink your teeth into a savoury burger at Boon Burger Café.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Decadence Chocolates.
- Kickstart your day with a filling breakfast at Stella’s Café & Bakery.
- Savour excellent sandwiches, soups and more at the trendy Sherbrook Street Deli.
- Browse the shops and stalls at the Wolseley Farmer’s Market.
#5 The Forks – Best Neighborhood in Winnipeg for Families
Historic, modern and bursting with green space, The Forks is our recommendation for where to stay in Winnipeg for families.
This fantastic neighborhood is located west of downtown, nestled at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It is a designated National Historic Site of Canada and is packed with plenty of activities and attractions perfect for families of all ages and sizes. From bustling food markets to one-of-a-kind museums, The Forks has something for every type of traveller.
The Forks is also home to a number of cultural institutions geared towards children. From lively theatres to colourful museums, you won’t have to go very far to keep your little ones entertained in The Forks.
Fort Garry Hotel | Best Hotel in The Forks
The Fort Garry Hotel is one of our favourite hotels in Winnipeg. Set in The Forks, this hotel is close to landmarks and a wide selection of eateries and shops. It has a myriad of wellness features, including a Turkish steam bath, a sauna and free wifi.
Inn at the Forks | Best Hotel in The Forks
This exquisite four-star hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay in The Forks. It is ideally located in the neighborhood offering easy access to tourist attractions, dining and shopping options. This modern hotel has a gym and valet parking. Rooms are spacious and boast wonderful views of Winnipeg.
Luxury Furnished Suites | Best Apartment in The Forks
This property is an excellent place to stay if you’re keen to explore The Forks. It’s set at the heart of the neighborhood and is walking distance to great tourist attractions and restaurants. This property has nine modern apartments, perfect for families. There’s also a swimming pool and restaurant on-site.
Things to See and Do in The Forks
- Be engaged at the Manitoba Theatre for Young People.
- Discover more than 100 years of rail history at the Winnipeg Railway Museum.
- Eat well at the Old Spaghetti Factory.
- Explore the importance of human rights through interactive displays and exhibits at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
- Go for a stroll along the peaceful Riverwalk.
- Learn and play at the Manitoba Children’s Museum
- Root for the home team, the Winnipeg Goldeyes Baseball Club.
- Shop and snack your way through the Forks Market.
- Wander throughout the Forks National Historic Site, a nine-acre green oasis.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Winnipeg
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Winnipeg and where to stay.
What To Pack For Winnipeg
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Winnipeg
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Winnipeg
Winnipeg is a gem city that enchants travellers. It’s one of the most overlooked capital cities in Canada, but one that rewards tourists who do venture off the beaten path. With its rich history, thrilling culture, diverse food scene and incredible natural surrounding, Winnipeg is truly a city that has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Winnipeg. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap of our favourites.
La Cabane Guesthouse in St. Boniface is our favourite hostel in Winnipeg. Not only is the neighborhood brimming with history and culture, but it’s conveniently located near downtown, The Forks, and Winnipeg’s Exchange District.
Another great option is the Alt Hotel Winnipeg with its spacious room, comfortable beds and modern amenities and features.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Canada.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Winnipeg.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Canada instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Canada.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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