Centennial Concert Hall Hacks for a Fun and Hassle-Free Visit
The Centennial Concert Hall is my go-to place when I feel like embracing my adultness. Sure, the first time I went there, I had to Google “what to wear to the symphony,” but hey, at least I looked the part!
I used to think that the symphony, ballet, or opera were boring, and yes, there are times when I still check my watch. But there’s something about those red seats, amazing acoustics, and pro lighting that helps you get swept away by the drama.
So if you’re planning to catch a performance here, this is the guide for you. Discover tips, tricks, and insider info for a flawless visit to Centennial Concert Hall.
Where is the Centennial Concert Hall?
The Centennial Concert Hall is located at 555 Main Street in downtown Winnipeg, near City Hall. It’s part of the Manitoba Centennial Centre and sits adjacent to the Manitoba Museum and near the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.
Speaking of which, here’s our complete guide to the Manitoba Museum, in case you want to hit it up before an evening show at Centennial.
How to Get to the Centennial Concert Hall
By Bus:
There are several Winnipeg transit bus stops nearby, including the Centennial Concert Hall Stop right in front of the venue on Main Street.
Another nearby option is the City Hall Stop, located just across the street at a controlled intersection with traffic lights. The Westbound Disraelia at Martha Stop is also close by—it’s only a short two-minute walk away.
By Car:
If you’re driving from downtown Winnipeg, head north on Fort Street and turn right onto Portage Ave (this turn is restricted on weekdays from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM). Then, use the second lane from the left to turn left onto Main St—parking info is listed in this guide.
By Bike:
From downtown, head south toward Fort Street, turn right onto Fort, and continue onto Notre Dame Avenue.
Turn right on Albert Street, then right again on McDermot Avenue; then, take a left on Rorie Street, then another left onto Market Avenue. From there, turn right, then right again (take the stairs)—the hall is on your right.
There are bike racks available in the indoor and outdoor parking spaces.
On Foot:
From downtown, head north and take the stairs leading toward Rorie Street; continue onto Rorie, then turn left on Market Avenue. Take a right on Lily Street, then a left (another set of stairs), and you’ll find the entrance.
Best Time to Visit Centennial Concert Hall
– Media credit: centennialconcerthall
The best time to visit the Centennial Concert Hall is during the fall and winter arts seasons when the symphony, ballet, and opera are in full swing. Evening performances are more lively, while matinees are great for a quieter experience.
Things to Know about the Centennial Concert Hall
– Media credit: stephanazulay
History
Centennial Concert Hall opened in 1968 as part of a project to freshen up downtown Winnipeg for Canada’s 100th birthday. From then on, it has smoothly hosted numerous RWD ballet performances, as well as symphonies and operas with no issues.
However, in 2015 (after 47 years!), they decided to finally replace their aging lighting system with an LED ArcSystem. And in 2019, it was found that the venue’s roof also needed $15 million in repairs—it’s an old building after all!
Now, it’s officially home to the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and Manitoba Opera, with a big stage and over 2,300 seats. It also shows off work from over 200 Manitoba artists in its Piano Nobile gallery space.
Parking
| Parking Option | Details |
| Indoor Parking Lot | Entrance on Lily Ave, behind the hall |
| Event Parking | $25 flat rate (first come, first served)Mon – Fri: After 5 PM, Valid until 1 AMWeekends: 2 hrs before the showPay at lower-level pay stations |
| Pre-Purchase Parking | Available for some commercial eventsIt may cost more than event-night ratesCheck the Event page or contact the presenting organization |
| Pre-Purchase for Arts Orgs | Contact directly:WSO – (204) 949-3999 RWB – (204) 956-2792 MB Opera – (204) 957-7842 |
| Evening Hourly Parking | $5/hour, Max $20 (5 PM – 11:59 PM)Pay at the pay station on exitLost ticket: $35 |
| Monthly Parking | Weekdays 1 AM – 5 PMCall (204) 956-1360 for details |
| Accessible Parking | Reserve through WSO, RWB, or MB Opera (see numbers above) |
Ticket Information
RWB, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and Manitoba Opera all handle their own tickets, so contact them directly or go to their websites. For everything else, you can buy tickets via Centennial Concert Hall’s website or from the box office.
Seating Information
Centennial Concert Hall has 2,303 comfy theatre-style seats spread across three levels, including two cozy loges. The balconies start around Row 25 and hang above the main floor, while the loges float above starting around Row 10.
You can view their seating chart here.
Accessibility
Guests using wheelchairs can enter the front of Centennial Concert Hall via ramps at the main driveway or the southwest corner on Market Ave. The hall offers wheelchair seating in specific rows and even a special elevator for access to Row 32 in Portal 16.
Some seats can even be swapped out for folding chairs without armrests. There are also options for guests with visual and hearing needs (you can borrow free listening aids from the Guest Services office)—just check with the box office for the best spot.
Bars and Concessions
You can grab drinks and snacks in the lobby and Piano Nobile areas, with everything from coffee and soft drinks to wine and beer. You can also bring your drink into the theatre, just ask for a disposable cup and lid since glass and food aren’t allowed inside.
What to Do in the Centennial Concert Hall
Watch a ballet performance
– Media credit: centennialconcerthall
Catching a ballet at Centennial Concert Hall is always such a vibe—once the music starts and the dancers hit the stage, you’re completely pulled in. I remember going to RWB’s The Nutcracker; it was magical from start to finish, like an actual fairy tale!
They don’t have a strict dress code, but come on, it’s ballet! So, I recommend dressing up a bit for the occasion, since most guests do.
And if you’re set on watching a specific show, you need to book seats way in advance, since they tend to sell out quickly. You can book RWB tickets here.
Catch an opera show
– Media credit: manitobaopera
I didn’t think I’d be that into opera, but seeing a show at Centennial made me appreciate this art form. The talent on stage is unreal, and the hall’s insanely amazing acoustics really highlight the powerful vocals of the opera singers.
If you’re a hardcore opera fan, I suggest booking a seat on the first row of the first balcony. But just a heads up, these seats are said to be the priciest; a slightly cheaper alternative is a seat on the orchestra level (from Rows 15-22).
Enjoy a lively musical
– Media credit: centennialconcerthall
Seeing a musical at Centennial is always a blast—the lights, sets, costumes, dancing, and music all come together perfectly. I watched Chicago there a few years ago, and I swear, I couldn’t stop humming the songs for days.
If you’re going as a group, I recommend checking Centennial’s website for group promos and packages, or simply drop by the hall’s Box office (lower level).
Vibe at a concert
– Media credit: centennialconcerthall
Be it a big-name artist, a cool local act, or an esteemed pianist, a concert at the Centennial always feels like a big night out. I’ve been to a few and loved how the hall’s acoustics just wrap around you—and there’s not a bad seat in the house!
Sadly, you cannot nurse a beer while watching since food/drinks are not allowed into the auditorium. But here’s a tip—you can pre-order and pay for your drinks before taking your seat, and when you return during intermission, they’ll be waiting for you.
Listen to the Symphony
– Media credit: centennialconcerthall
I dare you not to get the chills when you attend a Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra show live—every note in the hall feels rich and full, and the walls are made for music. The first time I went, I was surprised at how moving it all was, to be honest.
If you don’t want to stand out, definitely wear formal attire to the symphony. And don’t ever be late (like my friend was) since you can’t enter until the next performance break.
Where to Eat near Centennial Concert Hall
Blufish Japanese Restaurant
– Media credit: carleighoutintheworld
Website: https://www.blufish.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blufish_sushi_winnipeg/
Address: 179 Bannatyne Ave
Hours: Mon – Wed: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM –9:30 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM –11 PM
Saturday: 4:30 PM –11 PM
Sunday: 4 PM –9 PM
Contact: (204) 779-9888
For a tasty spot to eat before or after a show at Centennial, Blufish is a solid choice (only a 6-minute walk away). They’ve got everything, from classic sushi rolls to creative ones like the Spicy Ben or Lobster Roll. Bonus: They also make gluten-free sushi!
Hy’s Steakhouse and Cocktail Bar
– Media credit: hyssteakhouse
Website: https://www.hyssteakhouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyssteakhouse/
Address: Richardson Building, 1 Lombard Ave, Main Floor
Hours: Monday: 4 PM – 10 PM
Tue – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Saturday: 4 PM – 11 PM
Sunday: 4 PM – 9 PM
Contact: (204) 942-1000
For steak and cocktails, head on over to Hy’s, which is only a 7-minute walk from Centennial. This upscale spot is a local favorite, famous for its steak frites—perfect for a pre-show dinner, and since they’re open til late, a post-performance nightcap.
Where to Stay near Centennial Concert Hall
Mere Hotel
– Media credit: merewinnipeg
Website: https://www.merehotel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merewinnipeg/
Address: 333 Waterfront Dr
Hours: Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 11 AM
Contact: (204) 594-0333
Mere Hotel is only a 5-minute walk away from Centennial Concert Hall. This modern, stylish hotel has free WiFi, a TV, and a bathrobe, with some rooms offering river views. There’s also a fitness centre, plus a 24-hour reception and vending machines.
Fairmont Winnipeg
– Media credit: gayvoyageur
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/winnipeg/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fairmontwinnipeg/
Address: 2 Lombard Place
Hours: Check-in time: 4:00 PM
Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Contact: (204) 957-1350
Fairmont Winnipeg is only a 7-minute stroll from Centennial—their classically elegant rooms have Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, and plush down comforters. In the morning, you can enjoy a lovely breakfast at Velvet Glove, their onsite restaurant.