Downtown Winnipeg

The capital city of Canada's fifth province has a lot to see and do, having been around since the early 1800s. As such it is no surprise that there are many quality accommodations spread throughout the city. When visiting Winnipeg, it is important to find the right lodgings in the right location, according to budget and the purpose of the trip.

The WorldWeb.com Travel Guide Accommodation Directory provides all the information visitors need to choose the right place to stay in the city that gave the world Winnie-The-Pooh (though the bear that inspired the stories was not actually born in Winnipeg). In this directory visitors will find detailed information on many choices, from hotels and Bed & Breakfasts to lodges and hostels, with links to booking services and even interactive maps displaying the location of lodgings relative to restaurants and attractions.

ABOUT WINNIPEG

Since the first European settler arrived in 1738, Winnipeg has grown into a prosperous metropolis, inching ever closer to that magical population of one million citizens. The capital of Manitoba is known primarily for agriculture and manufacturing, but is also growing stronger in the transportation industry. Recent years have seen an increase in urban redevelopment, as both the population and the city's financial resources grow.

Even still, Winnipeg remains manageable and simple to get around. It is easy for visitors to cross town for business or sightseeing. For a better idea of where things are and how to get from place to place when in the prairie city, visit the Interactive Map and select the items to be viewed, from accommodations to attractions to restaurants.

Downtown
Downtown is an ideal location for visitors wanting to explore the city. Main Street runs north from the city centre, and allows for easy access to all major thoroughfares. Portage Avenue, running southwest of downtown (where it connects with Main Street), may be the best destination for shopping. The corner of Portage and Main is not just the windiest corner on the continent, it is also the perfect spot to discover the renewal vision Winnipeg enjoys, with many recently built or refurbished architectural wonders. In addition to all the stores, historic sights and entertainment opportunities radiating outward from the core, downtown contains a wealth of restaurants to help visitors find the right satisfying meal. Many of the government buildings have inexpensive cafeterias offering a different special each day, and there are plenty of hotels with restaurants to choose from. In addition to its exquisite restaurant, Mariaggi's Theme Suite Hotel, the perfect spa destination, offers one of the more unique retreats in the province. Just west of the Red River, its elaborate theme rooms, including an African safari and Japanese samurai themes, welcome visitors with accents from around the world. Rooms offer Jacuzzi style whirlpool tub, a 5 disc CD player, TV with VCR and DVD and many more amenities. Closer to the river lies the Fairmont Hotel Winnipeg, the city's only CAA/AAA Four Diamond rated destination. Located on the aforementioned corner of Portage and Main, the Fairmont offers easy routes to the best of Winnipeg, from ballet to baseball. Among its many perks are a rooftop pool for swimming with a view, a modern health facility and world class dining at The Velvet Glove.

The St. Regis Hotel, on the north side of Winnipeg Square, is one such example. The St. Regis offers excellent dining, a fitness centre and business services but at lower rates than the luxury hotels. Close enough to the river for a scenic boat cruise, the hotel is also close to the Centennial Concert Hall and the Winnipeg Convention Centre, the Planetarium and the zoo, Lower Fort Garry, markets and shops, casinos and much more. The University of Winnipeg, local theatre and Red River College are all within walking distance. Likewise, the Quest Inn, on the western edge of downtown, offers both short and long term stays, a buffet dining room and an excellent location next to Central Park.

St. Boniface

St. Boniface
St. Boniface, the French Quarter, has the country’s largest French-speaking community west of Quebec. The town was founded as a mission opposite the colony of Lord Selkirk in 1818, and amalgamated into Winnipeg in 1972. St. Boniface would come to prominence as the birthplace of Canadian revolutionary and founder of Manitoba, Louis Riel.

Gîte de al Cathedrale Bed & Breakfast, in North St. Boniface, is close to both Route 57 across the Red River and the river itself, parks and shops. This location offers easy access to the downtown across Provencher Boulevard. On the south side, on the border between St. Boniface and Norwood, is the Norwood Hotel. Only five minutes from downtown, the Norwood can accommodate groups of up to 300 in their conference rooms, offers a full array of business services, and has plenty of perks for the leisure traveller.

Fort Rouge
Fort Rouge, once known as St. Boniface West, became Winnipeg's first suburb when annexed by the city in 1882. The Main Street bridge was originally built in 1880, creating greater access to this riverside location (conveniently close to downtown), which began to attract the more affluent settlers. Fort Rouge is close to many historic sights, parks and, of course, the Assiniboine River. One popular spot is the Quality Inn Winnipeg, close to both the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Providing guests with the latest amenities, such as a free full service business centre and high speed Internet access, the Quality Inn has a lot to offer. In addition, this pet-friendly hotel is close to museums, galleries and theaters, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the Forks National Historic Site of Canada. Outdoor lovers can try their hands at golfing, boating, fishing and biking, and all visitors can enjoy the variety of restaurants and lounges such as Colosseo Ristorante Italiano and 529 Wellington.

Chinatown
Chinatown, one of the more unique areas of the city, was formed in 1909. This Chinatown (between James and Higgins Avenues) may be smaller than those of some provincial capitals, but it is intriguing nonetheless. Here visitors can find unusual treats, excellent meals and fun keepsakes. Lodgings like Mariaggi's Theme Suite Hotel are close by, as well as the river and major routes to all that Winnipeg has to offer, such as the Planetarium at the Manitoba Museum and the Science Gallery at the Manitoba Museum. Around Chinatown, locations such as The Marlborough Hotel and the Radisson Hotel Winnipeg offer great locations and great rates, catering to a wide range of preferences.

Osborne Village
On the other side of the Assiniboine River, south of downtown, lies Osborne Village. Popular for shopping and dining out, the village is worth a visit before heading to nearby Little Italy. Route 62, is the heart of Osborne Village and the Osborne Village Inn. Comfortable and affordable rooms and lounge are on site, close to the restaurants and shops of Route 62.

Winnipeg International Airport Area
The Winnipeg International Airport Area is an excellent consideration for both business and leisure travellers, as the location is close to major roadways through Winnipeg as well as those leading out of the city to such coveted spots as Lake Winnipeg. Found on the north side of the city, for business travellers, the Four Points by Sheraton Winnipeg International Airport is an excellent choice. The hotel is attached to the terminal, and offers both banquet and conference facilities, as well as an excellent fitness centre. Other hotels on the airport grounds, such as the Hilton Suites Winnipeg Airport and the Comfort Inn Airport, offer plenty of amenities at great rates. Canad Inns Polo Park Winnipeg, just east of the airport, caters to the leisure traveller with family oriented dining, Splasher's Indoor Pool & Waterslide, the Tijuana Yacht Club and the popular Playmakers Gaming Lounge. It is also close to movie theatres and major shopping centres.

POPULAR ALTERNATIVES

	Lake Winnipeg

In the prairies, camping is an enjoyable alternative (unless it is winter). Clean air, lush fields and immense skies set off the peace found in camping. There are plenty of sites around Winnipeg that fit the bill, with two of the most popular destinations being Lake Winnipeg (less than one hour north of the city) and Lake Manitoba, around 30 minutes northwest of downtown, putting a comfortable distance between visitors and the hustle of the capital city. The proximity of Winnipeg campgrounds to the Canadian Shield keeps adventurous and outdoor loving travellers close to both the city and ample natural wonders. Coonestoga Campsites and Lilac Resort Campground, in the southeast, offer a variety of amenities, and are ideal for families. Far enough from the hustle of downtown, their location provides immediate access to the Trans-Canada Highway and Route 150 into the downtown core. Campgrounds a bit further out, like Arrowhead Campground & RV Park, also offer lower rates, independence and flexibility.

For travellers looking for more a little more privacy but still seek the peace of a rural environment, Guest Ranches in the Winnipeg area provide the same comforts as B&Bs, but are not residences or family homes, affording more privacy. The Busted Boot Guest Ranch, southwest of the city on Highway 2, is a perfect example of the modern guest ranch. Different lodging types are available, from a cabin that sleeps a whole family to teepees, and many outdoor adventures are offered, including horseback riding and sleigh rides for winter visitors.

Useful Accommodation Links for Winnipeg

GETTING AROUND

Visitors rarely encounter difficulties when exploring Winnipeg. All of the major accommodations, restaurants and attractions are accessible, or within a short drive from the major thoroughfares. The layout of the city is made up of simple, easy to follow grids, and there is a reliable public transit system for those without vehicles which is often the best option. Winnipeg Transit operates extensively throughout the city, with regular stops at or near the most popular attractions. Single trip fares are inexpensive, but for those planning on relying on the transit system for seeing the city, books of tickets offer a small discount. Tickets are available at many places, from convenience stores to grocery stores to most pharmacies.

There are many sources for vehicle rentals, and Winnipeg can accommodate all ranges, from fuel efficient economy cars to limousine rentals for those looking to celebrate. Car rentals, fuel and parking are not as expensive as in many other major cities.

There are also a few sports retailers that offer bicycle rentals, and as Winnipeg is not very large, bicycles are not a bad option. Fun and less expensive, they provide a healthy and environmentally friendly means of travel that allows sightseers to make unexpected stops when they discover something new around the corner. Winnipeg maintains a well-developed system of pathways, many of which include a stretch along the river. As with most cities, these pathways are shared with inline skaters and hikers, so standard rules of the road apply.

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Old Winnipeg

Fishing Trips
Visitors looking to fish will find the Winnipeg area very much to their liking. There are many package trips available that cover the region surrounding the capital city. Lake Winnipeg is well known for its high restock rate, meaning there is always something to catch, especially walleye, North America's most coveted sport fish. Planned excursions aren't always necessary, however, as great fishing can easily be found within the city. The Red River, which runs north and south through Winnipeg, is a good source for channel catfish and trophy size walleye. Also passing through the city centre, branching off of the Red River, the Assiniboine River provides some of the best sport fishing in the area. Local sporting goods outfitters can provide information on the best places to find that elusive catch, as well as the best gear to use.

Along the winding rivers are many delightful accommodations, ideal for visitors seeking this particular recreational activity. Many are also close to other Winnipeg attractions and the downtown for business travellers. Montcalm Gordon Motor Hotel is close to the southern Red River and also close to St. Vital Park and the Southwood Golf and Country Club. There is also a Super 8 Motel Winnipeg just north of that same course. Twin Pillars Bed & Breakfast Winnipeg in Riverview, south-east of downtown, is an excellent choice for its close proximity to both rivers as well as the cite centre, as is the Norwood Hotel and the Osborne Village Inn. Choices become more sparse north of downtown, but there are some quaint independent places like Curtis Gordon Motor Hotel and the Tudor-style Almost Home B&B Winnipeg. Many similar comforts can be found along the Assiniboine River, such as Clarion Hotel and Suites, the Holiday Inn Winnipeg Airport West, and Oakdale Bed & Breakfast Winnipeg.