A Foolproof Guide to Living like a Local at Osborne Village
Along with St. Boniface and the Exchange District, Osborne Village (or simply “The Village”) is one of the artsier neighborhoods in Winnipeg. It’s my go-to spot whenever I want a little bit of everything without the downtown hustle and bustle.
It has tons of cool, quirky shops and lots of dining spots as well. One minute I’m checking out handmade decor or vintage records, the next, I’m sipping coffee at a cafe or grabbing a bite of something global (French, Italian, you name it!).
You definitely won’t get bored here—whether it’s my first visit of the month or my fifth, I always leave discovering something new.
But don’t take my word for it; see it for yourself! Here’s my complete guide to exploring Osborne Village like a local.
Where is Osborne Village?
Osborne Village is a walkable neighborhood in the heart of Winnipeg, just south of downtown. Tucked between the Assiniboine and Red rivers, it stretches down to Osborne Junction and offers a central location with lots of amenities.
How to Get to Osborne Village
By Car:
From downtown Winnipeg, head south on Route 52 and follow River Ave toward Osborne Village. Turn left onto Scott St, and you’ll be in the heart of the neighborhood.
By Bus:
Walk to the Eastbound Portage at Fort bus stop and catch the Blue rapid transit bus toward the University of Manitoba. Get off at Harkness Station, then take a short 7-minute walk to Osborne Village.
By Bike:
First, bike south on Fort St, then turn left and continue along Garry St. Then, follow the route onto Stradbrook Ave, ride down River Ave, and turn left onto Scott St to reach Osborne Village.
On Foot:
Start walking south and make your way onto Fort St. Turn onto Route 42 North (Smith St), follow it for a bit, then head right on Stradbrook Ave to reach Osborne Village.
Best Time to Visit Osborne Village
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The best time to visit Osborne Village is in late June, when the neighborhood buzzes with music and art during the annual Village Music Fest. This cool event took the place of the former Canada Day Street Festival.
Things to Know about Osborne Village
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History
Osborne Village popped up in the late 1800s as part of the old Fort Rouge area. It was named after Osborne Street, which runs right through the heart of the neighborhood, while the street itself is named after a military officer, William Osborne Smith.
Things started to pick up when streetcars rolled in and bridges started connecting the Village to the rest of the city. By the early 1900s, it became home to one of Winnipeg’s earliest hospitals and public parks, and eventually, high-rise apartments.
Gradually, Roslyn Road became a fancy spot with big family mansions, while the rest of the Village kept more of a middle-class feel. Now, it’s one of Winnipeg’s most loved and walkable neighborhoods—a go-to for brunch, vintage shopping, or a late night out.
Parking
Parking in Osborne Village can be tricky—street spots are limited and often metered, especially along busier blocks. Most side streets offer free parking for 1 to 2 hours between 9 AM and 5:30 PM, but signs vary by block, so make sure to check the rules.
If you’re visiting on a weekend or during a busy time, it’s often easier to take transit, bike, or grab a ride-share instead.
Walkability
Hailed as one of Winnipeg’s most walkable neighborhoods, the Village’s streets are compact and easy to explore on foot, with wide sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and lots of storefronts and patios to stop at along the way.
Osborne Village BIZ
Run by a board of local business owners and a city-appointed member, the Osborne Village BIZ represents all retail, commercial, and professional businesses in the area. It’s funded through a City of Winnipeg levy.
It has been supporting the neighborhood since 2003, working to promote local businesses and make the area more desirable and welcoming. They handle everything, from community events and beautification projects to marketing and placemaking.
What to Do in Osborne Village
Shop for local, handmade, or vintage finds
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Osborne is known for secondhand gems—think retro stuff in thrift shops, vinyl records in old-school music stores, and quirky knick-knacks in antique spots. There are also charming indie bookshops and offbeat gift stalls scattered throughout.
Fashion-wise, boutiques in the Village offer laid-back streetwear and stylish accessories, often with a sustainable or local twist. Speaking of which, from prints and pottery to handmade jewelry, you’ll find plenty of locally crafted items, too.
Have a lovely neighborhood stroll
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One of the best ways to enjoy Osborne Village is on foot—start at River and Osborne, then wander past colorful murals, indie boutiques, and cafes. You can also explore side streets like Stradbrook and Scott, offering quieter routes lined with character homes.
Loop around Osborne Street to Roslyn Road to window shop your way past vintage stores, a record shop, and wellness spots. It’s a great way to explore, people-watch, and get your steps in while soaking up the Village’s charm.
If you’d like to request a safe walk or come across any situation that feels unsafe, contact one of their community ambassadors at (431) 557-4837.
Attend the Annual Village Music Fest
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Spread across six intimate venues, the Annual Village Music Fest is a free two-day festival held in June that features over 30 performers. Past acts include Kimmortal, the Dirty Catfish Brass Band, Jeremie and the Delicious Hounds, Mera, and Tinge.
Alongside the music, the fest also showcases live art installations and creative displays that highlight local and emerging artists. During the festival, you can dance on the street, sip beer on patios, check out our pop-up galleries, or just enjoy the vibe.
Participate in a community clean-up
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Every week, Osborne Village locals gather for a Sunday morning community clean-up (from 9 AM to 11 AM), and it’s more than just picking up litter. It’s a feel-good way to connect with neighbors, get some fresh air, and help beautify the area.
No experience or sign-up needed (just show up and pitch in), and all supplies are provided. You don’t have to be a resident either—you can just grab your family or friends and make it a fun activity or mini-outing for that awesome do-good feeling.
Check out Osborne Village’s epic nightlife
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Osborne Village is known for its thriving nightlife—it’s packed with cozy pubs, awesome patios, and live-music venues. The Toad in the Hole Pub remains a favorite for live soul nights and an amazing selection of over 160 whiskies from around the world!
Around the corner, the Osborne Taphouse (a BIPOC and Latinx 2XSLGBTQIA+ owned space) offers comfort food, craft cocktails, and local DJs. And if you’re looking for ’80s to ’90s music or weekly comedy nights, simply head over to The Underground Osborne.
Get inked by top-notch artists
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If you’re thinking of getting inked, Osborne Village is the place to do it—it’s home to several well-known studios, all within walking distance of each other. Golden Cicada is known for its clean lines, while Mark of Cain is famous for bold, detailed pieces.
Just down the street, Osborne Village Ink offers both tattoos and laser removal. And if you’re into a more alternative or artsy aesthetic, check out Witches Brew Tattoo or Soul Survivors Body Art—both offer unique styles and often spotlight guest artists.
Stay fit and active Osborne-style
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There are plenty of easy ways to stay fit around Osborne Village. You can hit up a spin or yoga class at a local gym, check out sports at the Winnipeg Winter Club, or have a session at the Squash Racquet Club.
In the colder months, the fun doesn’t stop—just head to the Assiniboine River trails right by the Osborne Bridge. You can lace up your skates or boots and follow the river all the way to The Forks Market!
Where to Eat in Osborne Village
Sous Sol
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Website: http://www.soussolosborne.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soussolwpg
Address: 22-222 Osborne St
Hours: Wed – Thurs: 5 PM – 12 AM
Fri – Sat: 5 PM – 1 AM
Contact: https://tableagent.com/winnipeg/sous-sol/
Tucked behind a discreet entrance, Sous Sol feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret dinner party, complete with Insta-worthy gothic candlelight and vintage decor. This spot is a favorite for date nights and adventurous foodie trips in the Village.
The unique menu leans French-Canadian—think duck, lamb, and bone marrow done beautifully—alongside a superb cocktail list. My personal recommendation (if you’re a meat lover) is the wild boar—probably the most tender boar I’ve ever had.
You can also swing by for $1.50 Oyster Thursdays or pop in late for the night owl menu after 10:30 PM.
The Roost on Corydon
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Website: https://theroostwpg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theroostwpg
Address: 651-A Corydon Ave
Hours: Mon – Thurs, Sun: 4 PM – 12 AM
Fri – Sat: 4 PM – 2 AM
Contact: (204) 414-9313
The Roost on Corydon is known for its top-tier cocktails, seasonal small plates, and rotating vegan-friendly dishes.
My go-to order here is their famous Beef Tartare, topped with an egg yolk and served with espresso aioli and herb cream cheese—delish! Runner-ups include burgers, steamed buns, and their amazing ice cream cake.
I love that the place itself is a vibe, with indoor booths (perfect for introverts) and a breezy rooftop patio. Just note that reservations way in advance are a smart move (especially on weekends) since the place fills up fast.
Crumb Queen/Andy’s Lunch
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Website: https://www.crumbqueen.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crumbqueen
Address: 166 Osborne St Unit 2
Hours: Wed – Sat: 10 AM – 3 PM
Contact: [email protected]
A true local favorite, Crumb Queen/Andy’s Lunch is part bakery, part pasta lunch spot—and all delicious.
Mornings are for flaky Danish, buttery croissants, chewy cookies, and the crown jewel: their legendary honey crullers. These airy, choux-based doughnuts became a pandemic-era sensation and still sell out fast, so come early to have your pick.
From 11 AM, the counter switches to house-made pastas, soups, sandwiches, and golden arancini that change weekly. Sweet and savory in one spot? Yes, please!
Where to Stay near Osborne Village
The Fort Garry Hotel
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Website: https://www.fortgarryhotel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fortgarryhotel/
Address: 222 Broadway
Hours: Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 11 AM
Contact: +1 888-855-4599
Since 1913, the Fort Garry Hotel has been a Winnipeg landmark, offering a mix of vintage elegance and modern comfort. It’s only a 3-minute drive from Osborne Village, plus a short walk from The Forks and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
Their Standard Rooms offer a comfy double bed dressed in Italian linens and a down duvet, plus a 46-inch flat screen TV and even a Nespresso machine. For a lovely bath, you can enjoy their plush robes and towels, and fancy L’Occitane products.
Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at the Oval Room Brasserie and end it with a self-care day at Ten Spa (after strolling around the Village). Or, you can catch a show every Friday and Saturday at Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club in the hotel’s Club Room.
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
True to its name, The Inn at the Forks is only a 4-minute walk away from the iconic Forks Market and just a 7-minute drive away from Osborne Village.
You’ll find modern and cozy suites with flat-screen TVs, plush beds, and Bose speakers—not a bad way to relax after exploring the Village. You could also request rooms that feature fireplaces and waterfront views.
For a more tailored stay, book one of their curated themed packages. The Spa for Two includes luxury treatments at Riverstone Spa, while the Romance package is perfect for couples—think bubbly and chocolate-dipped strawberries (ooh la la!).
Hampton Inn by Hilton Winnipeg Downtown
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ywgwghx-hampton-inn-winnipeg-downtown/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamptoninn.winnipegdowntown/
Address: 330 York Ave
Hours: Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 11 AM
Contact: (204) 942-0101
Hampton Inn is a great home base for exploring local spots like Osborne Village and the Forks, or catching a ballet or symphony show. Why? All of these venues are only a few minutes’ drive away!
I love their modern rooms, which feature 55-inch TVs with streaming, free WiFi, in-room fridges and microwaves, and immaculate beds. Add a hot breakfast buffet every morning, and you might never want to leave.
After a day of shopping, sip a cocktail or local brew at Tivoli Cafe. But if you’re looking to get fit, break a sweat at the fitness center (open 24/7), or try the on-site sports simulator.