A Cheat Sheet for the Exchange District’s Coolest Spots Created by Fun-Loving Locals
On balmy afternoons, I love strolling around the Exchange District—I always see something new, like a hidden mural or a cozy cafe I’ve never been to. No wonder it’s known as one of the best sightseeing spots in Winnipeg!
A perfect afternoon here would include sipping a latte at an indie cafe, browsing local boutiques, and catching live music at Old Market Square.
So, if you want to experience the best of this neighborhood, here’s my handy guide to exploring the Exchange District like a true Winnipegger.
Where is the Exchange District?
The Exchange District is in downtown Winnipeg, a block north of Portage & Main, spanning 20 city blocks. It’s divided into the East Exchange, known for its arts and restaurants, and the West Exchange, home to old warehouses and studios.
What is the main street in the Exchange District?
The main street running through the Exchange District is Main Street itself, which forms its eastern boundary. Within the district, McDermot Avenue and Bannatyne Avenue are also key streets running east-west.
How to Get to the Exchange District
By Bus:
The Exchange District is one of Winnipeg’s most connected areas by transit. Major bus routes like the 11, 12, 15, 16, 18. 21, 22, and 24 all stop nearby.
Some of the closest bus stops are at Main Street and McDermot Avenue, William Avenue and King Street near City Hall, and Princess Street at William Avenue on the west side of the district.
By Bike:
You can easily bike to the Exchange District via the Winnipeg Central Loop, which connects neighborhoods through clearly marked and easy-to-navigate signs.
Finishing the entire route takes about 45 minutes if you’re up for some light exercise. You can stop to enjoy urban parks, landmarks, and shops along the way before reaching the Exchange District.
There are several specific bike routes you can follow in this link.
By Car:
From anywhere in Winnipeg, take Main St (Route 52) heading toward downtown. Once you’re on Main St, look for McDermot or Portage Ave to enter the heart of the district.
There are plenty of on-street and off-street parking options available. There are even heated parkades for winter, and you can pay by coin, credit card, or phone for convenience.
Note that metered parking is free after 5:30 PM on weekdays, free for two hours on Saturdays, and completely free all day on Sundays and holidays.
Best Time to Go to the Exchange District
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The best time to visit the Exchange District is during the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival in mid-July, when crowds gather around The Cube in Old Market Square. You can also visit in mid-June for the TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival.
What to Do and See in the Exchange District
Go on a guided walking tour
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A guided walking tour is the best way to dive into the Exchange District’s fascinating history (and maybe meet other fun-loving locals, too!). The guides share stories about Winnipeg’s early boom years and the epic architecture that still stands strong today.
Such tours are run by Exchange District Walking Tours, and you can book by emailing [email protected] or calling 204-942-6716 (extension 1). Cost is $10 per person, $8 for students with ID, and $6 for under 18s.
The meeting place is at the Exchange District BIZ office at 492 Main Street. Plus, they’re dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry BFF along!
Check out charming heritage buildings
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If you love beautiful buildings and historic architecture, the Exchange District will be your happy place. With over 150 heritage buildings, many over a century old, every street feels like an open-air museum.
Don’t miss the Confederation Life Building, an example of Chicago School architecture, featuring a steel frame and terracotta cladding. The Union Bank Tower, Canada’s first skyscraper, is another beauty—it showcases the Renaissance Revival style.
Explore the Old Market Square
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Old Market Square is in the heart of the Exchange District, offering a peaceful green space surrounded by beautiful historic warehouses. Its circular layout and leafy trees make it a great spot to relax in between exploring nearby galleries and shops.
On sunny days, I love lounging on the grass (with a good book and some snacks) or catching up with friends along the stone benches.
If you’re looking for the perfect urban park in the middle of downtown, you should definitely visit this space.
Catch live performances at The Cube
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At the center of Old Market Square stands The Cube, an eye-catching stage with a futuristic, aluminum design. It comes alive in summer with free concerts, cultural festivals, and special events almost every weekend.
You can check the Exchange BIZ website for upcoming events. For concerts, I recommend bringing essentials (a blanket, ice-cold beer, and snacks) to help settle you in for live music or theatre under the open sky.
Admire powerful street art and murals
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The Exchange District is covered in cool, breathtaking murals that add life to its historic brick walls. Local artists have transformed back lanes, hidden corners, and alleys into colorful public galleries.
You’ll find everything from abstract art to murals celebrating Winnipeg’s cultural icons. Make sure to bring your camera or fully charge your phone—each mural makes for a perfect Instagram shot.
Watch a film at Dave Barber Cinematheque
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Cinematheque is Winnipeg’s beloved indie cinema located inside Artspace on Arthur Street. It screens Canadian films, documentaries, and international features you won’t see at major theatres.
The intimate movie experience is perfect for film lovers who appreciate unique storytelling. You can also check out the theatre’s schedule for filmmaker Q&As and other special events that cinephiles would love.
Enjoy a show at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre
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The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre is Canada’s oldest English-language regional theatre. It hosts everything, from classic plays to bold contemporary productions.
Seeing a show here lets you experience Winnipeg’s thriving arts scene. The building itself is a striking example of Brutalist architecture, with its exposed concrete and geometric design.
Spend an afternoon at the Manitoba Museum
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If you’re looking for an indoor adventure in the Exchange District, the Manitoba Museum is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon exploring. Located in the East Exchange, this massive spot showcases Manitoba’s natural and human history.
Don’t miss the full-size replica of the 17th-century Nonsuch shop, which you can actually walk aboard. You can also visit the Planetarium for stunning astronomy shows or have hands-on fun in the Science Gallery.
Snap photos of the iconic Albert Street
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Albert Street is one of the most photogenic streets in Winnipeg, lined with historic warehouses and vintage lampposts. Its narrow layout and old-world feel make it popular for photo walks and film shoots.
An iconic building here is the Royal Albert Arms Hotel. It’s very snap-worthy, with its brick facade and classic architecture that captures the gritty, artsy vibe of the area.
If you’re a photography hound, I recommend going here in the early morning or the golden hour. These times provide the best lighting for your shots.
Go local art gallery-hopping
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If you’re an art lover, the Exchange District is the place to be, with its streets filled with creativity and inspiration. You can spend an afternoon gallery hopping to discover everything from Indigenous contemporary works to local emerging artists.
For instance, you can check out Urban Shaman Contemporary Aboriginal Art Gallery for powerful Indigenous art, or pop into Cre8ery Gallery & Studio for rotating exhibits. And for urban street art displays, explore the Graffiti Gallery just east of the district.
Where to Eat and Drink in the Exchange District
Clementine Cafe
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Website: http://clementinewinnipeg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clementine.winnipeg/
Address: 123 Princess St
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 942-9497
Clementine is a cozy lower-level brunch spot with lovely stone walls that give it a warm, hidden-gem vibe. It’s just a two-minute walk from Old Market Square, so I suggest fueling up here before exploring the Exchange District.
I recommend starting your day with my fave, their Braised Bacon Benedict—thick-cut bacon on a fluffy biscuit topped with poached eggs, brown butter hollandaise, and dill. Pair with their amazing coffee, wine, beer, or one of their signature breakfast cocktails.
Peasant Cookery
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Website: http://www.peasantcookery.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peasantcookerywpg/
Address: Travellers Building, 283 Bannatyne Ave
Hours: Monday: 4:30 PM – 10 PM
Tue – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Fri – Sat: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (204) 989-7700
Peasant Cookery is a warm, rustic spot that puts an upscale spin on classic comfort food using locally sourced ingredients. They’re big on their house-made philosophy, curing their own meats and pickling their veggies in-house for extra flavor.
A dish you have to try (IMHO) is their Aged Cheddar Gnocchi—pillowy, Parisian-style gnocchi with rich aged cheddar, roasted mushrooms, brown butter, parmesan, and more. And if you’re here on a Wednesday, check out their Buck-a-Shuck Oyster Night!
Deer + Almond
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Website: https://www.deerandalmond.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deer_and_almond/
Address: 85 Princess St
Hours: Tue – Sat: 5 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (204) 504-8562
Deer + Almond is a trendy spot in the Exchange District, known for its globally inspired plates and craft cocktails. If you’re planning to come on a Friday or Saturday with a big group, remember that they can only accommodate a maximum of 8 guests per party.
As for food, their tasting menu is a must-try, with staff who take the time to explain each dish so you can savor each bite. Highlights from my visit were the grilled peaches (so delicious!) and the melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu.
Where to Shop in the Exchange District
Vantage Vintage Boutique
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Website: https://www.vantagevintagebtq.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantagevintagebtq/
Address: 70 Albert St #210
Hours: Wed – Sat: 11 AM – 5 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 3 PM
Contact: (204) 801-5681
Vantage Vintage Boutique is a must-visit if you love eclectic and wearable retro pieces. They’re known for their amazing selection of carefully curated vintage and antique clothing, with shop owners who go out of their way to help you.
They also provide wardrobe pieces for film, TV, and public figures, so you know their collection is top-tier. And if you’re looking for something specific, just let them know—they’ll do their best to help you track it down.
Tara Davis Studio Boutique
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Website: https://www.taradavis.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taradavis.boutique.studio/
Address: 246 McDermot Ave
Hours: Tue – Sat: AM – 3 PM
Contact: (204) 504-8272
Tara Davis Studio Boutique is a happy little gift shop that is full of beautiful things. It’s part studio, part boutique, and part gallery, filled with lovely goodies hand-selected from over 100 Canadian talented artists.
Handmade is the heart of everything here, from jewellery and ceramics to cards, socks, baby items, and candles. If you’re looking for the perfect gift or a treat for yourself, this is the place—plus, you’ll be supporting local!
Where to Stay in the Exchange District
Fairmont Winnipeg
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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 9-minute walk from Old Market Square and 10 minutes from the Manitoba Museum. That’s why it’s an ideal base for exploring the Exchange District.
The rooms are dreamy, featuring plush down comforters, Egyptian cotton sheets, and thick high-end bedding. Suites come with separate living areas, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, there’s even an upgraded suite with a baby grand piano.
After a day of sightseeing, take a plunge in their saltwater pool with gorgeous city views, soak in the hot tub, or relax in the steam room. And for some well-deserved retail therapy, they offer direct access to Winnipeg’s downtown underground shopping area.
The Inn at the Forks
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Website: https://www.innforks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innattheforks/
Address: 75 Forks Market Rd
Hours: Check-in time: 3:00 PM
Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Contact: (204) 942-6555
The Inn at the Forks is just 5 minutes away from the Exchange District and 4 minutes from the Forks Market—talk about being in the heart of the action.
Expect modern and comfy rooms, with flat screen TVs, Bose speakers, and upscale beds. Upgraded rooms come with extras like complimentary bottled water and pull-out sofas; some even have fireplaces, Keurig coffeemakers, and waterfront views.
Don’t miss SMITH Restaurant downstairs—it’s a local favorite known for its rustic yet modern vibe and beautifully plated dishes. Their brunch is indulgent and Insta-worthy—a lovely treat before hitting up the Exchange District.
Mere Hotel
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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 a great pick since it’s only 2 minutes away from the Exchange District (or a 9-minute stroll to the Centennial Concert Hall).
The rooms here are stylish and comfy, with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary snacks in the mini-fridge. Add plush bathrobes and walk-in rainfall showers, and you’ll definitely be drowning in luxury.
There’s also a 24-hour front desk to help you with anything, an on-site fitness center for a morning workout, and a cool restaurant/lounge nearby with tasty menus. Basically, everything you’d want for a seamless stay.