Eat. Shop. Play.

The Downtown and Exchange Districts are vibrant urban hubs offering an eclectic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. These areas are steeped in history and culture, blending modern attractions with historic architecture, making them a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

Shopping in Downtown and Exchange Districts

Downtown Winnipeg offers a diverse shopping experience, ranging from boutique stores to large retail hubs. Portage Place Mall, located in the heart of downtown, features a mix of fashion retailers, tech shops, and convenience stores. Numerous independent stores selling a variety of wares line Portage and Graham Avenues.

The Exchange District, known for its historic buildings and creative community, is a haven for boutique shopping. Here, independent stores like Tara Davis Studio Boutique offer unique Canadian-made wares, while Boutique Anya specializes in stylish women’s fashion. The district is also a hotspot for vintage and thrift shopping, with stores like Vantage Vintage catering to those seeking one-of-a-kind finds. Art lovers can explore the many galleries selling local artwork, handmade jewelry, and pottery.

During the summer, the area comes alive with pop-up markets and artisan fairs, showcasing local makers and small businesses. The Exchange District is also home to the Alleyways Market, an outdoor market featuring handmade goods, food vendors, and live entertainment.

Restaurants in Downtown and Exchange Districts

The culinary scene in downtown Winnipeg is incredibly diverse, with options ranging from fine dining to casual eats. In the Exchange District, you’ll find trendy restaurants that blend innovative cuisine with stunning atmospheres. Deer + Almond is a favourite for its creative small plates and cozy vibe, while Clementine offers elevated brunch dishes in a chic basement setting.

For those craving international flavours, the area delivers. Shawarma Khan serves authentic Middle Eastern dishes, Chosabi Asian Eatery offers modern takes on Asian street food, and Bodegoes blends global flavours with Winnipeg’s unique flair. Fine dining options include Peasant Cookery, known for its French-inspired cuisine and charming patio, and 529 Uptown, an upscale steakhouse in a historic building.

For coffee enthusiasts, Parlour Coffee offers expertly brewed coffee alongside light snacks and pastries. Many of these cafes double as community hubs, hosting art shows and live music.

Entertainment in Downtown and Exchange Districts

Entertainment is at the heart of both Downtown and the Exchange District. The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre (RMTC), located in the Exchange District, offers world-class plays and performances throughout the year. Nearby, the Centennial Concert Hall is home to the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and hosts ballets, operas, and large-scale concerts.

Film buffs can visit the Dave Barber Cinematheque, an intimate art house theater showcasing independent and international films. The Exchange District also boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries such as the Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art and Urban Shaman Gallery, which focus on modern and Indigenous art.

Downtown Winnipeg is home to the Canada Life Centre, a multi-purpose arena that hosts Winnipeg Jets hockey games, concerts by international artists, and large-scale events. For outdoor entertainment, The Forks, a historic meeting place where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers converge, offers year-round activities. In summer, it’s a lively spot for outdoor concerts, festivals, and waterfront dining, while winter brings skating on the Nestawaya River Trail and seasonal markets.

The Exchange District’s cobblestone streets and historic buildings also serve as a stage for events like the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, Nuit Blanche, and Jazz Winnipeg Festival, which draw thousands of visitors every year.

Nightlife thrives in both areas, with the Exchange District’s bars and clubs offering everything from craft cocktails to live DJ sets. Favourites include Patent 5 Distillery, known for its locally made spirits, and King’s Head Pub, a staple for live music and great food.

The Downtown and Exchange Districts of Winnipeg offer an unbeatable combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment, all set against a backdrop of historic charm and urban energy. Whether you’re exploring boutique shops, savouring diverse cuisine, or enjoying world-class arts and culture, these neighbourhoods provide endless opportunities to experience the best of Winnipeg.