Eat. Shop. Play

The neighbourhoods of Bonavista, Island Lakes, and Royalwood in southeast Winnipeg offer a blend of suburban convenience, natural beauty, and urban amenities. While primarily residential, these communities are close to major shopping centers, diverse dining options, and exciting entertainment venues. With easy access to St. Vital Centre, Sage Creek, and Southdale, residents enjoy a mix of local businesses, big-box retailers, restaurants and unique recreational opportunities.

Shopping

While these neighbourhoods do not have large shopping malls within their borders, they are well-served by nearby retail hubs that offer everything from groceries and fashion to specialty stores and home goods.

1. Sage Creek Village Centre

• Located just a short drive from Bonavista and Royalwood, Sage Creek Village Centre provides a convenient modern shopping district with a variety of retailers, grocery stores, and services.
• Notable stores include:
  • Sobeys (groceries and household essentials).
  • Liquor Mart (wine, beer, and spirits).
  • Pet Valu (pet supplies and grooming).
  • Shoppers Drug Mart (pharmacy, cosmetics, and convenience items).
  • Boutique shops and fitness studios catering to health-conscious shoppers.

2. Southdale Shopping Centre 

• A small but busy retail area with a mix of big-name stores and smaller businesses, including:
  • Walmart (household essentials, clothing, electronics).
  • Canadian Tire (home improvement, outdoor gear, and automotive services).
  • Giant Tiger (discount household essentials, clothing and groceries).

3. St. Vital Centre 

• The largest shopping mall in South Winnipeg, just 3 minutes from these neighbourhoods.
• Features over 160 stores, including:
  • Hudson’s Bay, H&M, Sephora, Lululemon, and Sport Chek.
  • SilverCity St. Vital Cinemas for movies and entertainment.
  • Food court with a mix of fast food and casual dining options.

Restaurants

• Block and Blade Restaurant – locally owned and operated, serving great cocktails and amazing food.
• Pasta di Casa Italian Eatery – serving authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
• Harth Mozza and Wine Bar - Italian cuisine, served family-style, with an extensive curated wine list.

Entertainment and Recreation

While these neighbourhoods don’t have large entertainment complexes, their proximity to parks, nature trails, and community events makes them excellent for outdoor and social activities.

1. Bois-des-Esprits

• One of Winnipeg’s largest urban forests, featuring:
  • Walking and cycling trails through scenic woodlands.
  • Wildlife viewing with deer, birds, and beavers.
  • Public art carvings hidden among the trees, adding a unique touch to the experience.

2. Island Lakes Community Trails

• Interconnected pathways for jogging, biking, and dog walking.
• Features several playgrounds, open green spaces, and picnic areas.

3. Dakota Community Centre & Jonathan Toews Sportsplex 

• A major recreational hub offering:
  • Indoor skating rinks (hockey and public skating).
  • Fitness center and group exercise classes.
  • Youth and adult sports leagues (basketball, volleyball, soccer).

The Bonavista, Island Lakes, and Royalwood neighbourhoods provide an ideal mix of suburban comfort, outdoor recreation, and access to top shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. While these communities are primarily residential, their proximity to Sage Creek, St. Vital, and Southdale ensures that residents have plenty of shopping options, diverse restaurants, and exciting entertainment opportunities just minutes away. Whether you're looking for peaceful nature trails, great dining spots, or local community events, these neighbourhoods offer a vibrant and well-rounded lifestyle in Winnipeg.