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Portage and Main

4.6
·491k reviews·Winnipeg, Canada

Winnipeg's iconic crossroads, now open to pedestrians, offering a vibrant urban experience and a symbol of city reconnection.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier to explore

CrowdLow
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Portage and Main - Image 1

Portage and Main

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Winnipeg's iconic crossroads, now open to pedestrians, offering a vibrant urban experience and a symbol of city reconnection. Instagram+1

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The historic crossroads of Winnipeg, now accessible to pedestrians, symbolizing a new era for the city's heart. Instagram"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Embrace Pedestrian Access

Enjoy walking across the intersection, a historic change!

🌬️ Brace for the Wind

Known as one of North America's windiest corners, hold onto your hat!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Intersection

The Iconic Intersection

Portage Avenue and Main Street, Winnipeg

The historic crossroads of Winnipeg, now accessible to pedestrians, symbolizing a new era for the city's heart.

Instagram+1
3D Virtual Experience

3D Virtual Experience

Online

Explore the reopened Portage and Main virtually with an interactive 3D video game.

Instagram
Indigenous Publishing Hub

Indigenous Publishing Hub

HighWater Press / Portage & Main Press

Discover Manitoba's longest-standing publishing house, celebrating Indigenous voices and stories.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Pedestrian Access is Back!

After decades, Portage and Main is finally open to pedestrians! This historic intersection in Winnipeg is now a vibrant hub for foot traffic, offering a new way to experience the city center. Plan your visit to explore this revitalized landmark. Instagram+2

Navigating the Intersection

While pedestrian access has improved, the intersection can still be busy. Be aware of your surroundings and traffic, especially during peak hours. Consider visiting during off-peak times for a more relaxed experience. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, community events
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mon-Fri go see our girl Marcia ❤️ Head to #MainStPubPortage for all your favorite staff members, great specials, and good times 🍻🍔 #fyp #restaurant #mainstpub #Yum
@mainstpubportage
135K likes • 1.1M views

🚶‍♀️ Embrace Pedestrian Access

Enjoy walking across the intersection, a historic change! Instagram+2

🌬️ Brace for the Wind

Known as one of North America's windiest corners, hold onto your hat! Instagram

Replying to @Kat THAT birria quesadilla was INSANE🤯🔥#mukbang #eatingshow #asmr #foodreview #Foodie #letssmash #garciasmexicankitchen #mexicanfood #birria #portage #michigan #fyp #foryou
@letssmashhh
44.9K likes • 571.8K views
Portage and Main is the heart of Winnipeg’s downtown – much like Winnipeg is the heart and birthplace of our #RedRiverMétis Nation. Visit the link in our bio to read about your #RedRiverMétisGovernment embracing the City of Winnipeg’s plan to open Portage and Main allowing for foot traffic. #RedRiverMétis
manitobametisfederation
164 likes • 4.4K views

📚 Explore Local Publishing

Visit HighWater Press for unique Canadian and Indigenous literature. Instagram

🎮 Try the Virtual Game

Experience Portage and Main virtually with a fun 3D game. Instagram

Portage & Main is changing, and we want you to experience it firsthand! The work is happening, and MD Steele is leading the transformation. Chris Ritz, VP & Superintendent, walks us through the progress so far. Southwest Corner – Barriers are down, new traffic signal bases and streetlights are in, and sidewalks are starting to take shape. Southeast Corner – The loudest and most intense work zon...
mdsteeleconstruction
555 likes • 52.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Embrace Pedestrian Access

Enjoy walking across the intersection, a historic change! Instagram+2

🌬️ Brace for the Wind

Known as one of North America's windiest corners, hold onto your hat! Instagram

📚 Explore Local Publishing

Visit HighWater Press for unique Canadian and Indigenous literature. Instagram

🎮 Try the Virtual Game

Experience Portage and Main virtually with a fun 3D game. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Portage and Main is celebrated for its historic reopening to pedestrians, symbolizing a new era for Winnipeg's downtown. Visitors appreciate the ability to finally cross this iconic intersection and the vibrant urban energy it now fosters. Some note the intersection's windy reputation, a characteristic that adds to its unique charm.

What People Like

Historic pedestrian reopening
Vibrant urban hub
Symbolic city landmark

What People Dislike

Can be very windy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Portage and Main is located at the intersection of Portage Avenue and Main Street in downtown Winnipeg. It's easily accessible by public transit, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. Driving is also an option, though parking in the downtown area can be challenging. Instagram

Yes, since its reopening to pedestrians, it's now very easy and enjoyable to walk across the intersection and explore the surrounding downtown area. Instagram+2

Winnipeg Transit operates many routes that serve the downtown core. Check the Winnipeg Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information for buses heading to Portage and Main. Instagram

There are several parking garages and street parking options in the downtown Winnipeg area. However, availability and cost can vary, so it's advisable to research parking in advance. Instagram

Yes, Winnipeg has been improving its cycling infrastructure. There are bike lanes in the downtown area, and you can find bike racks for secure parking. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting the intersection of Portage and Main itself is free and open to the public. It's a public space. Instagram+1

As a public intersection, Portage and Main is generally accessible at all times. However, specific construction or event-related closures might occur, so it's good to check local advisories. Instagram+1

Entry to the public streets and sidewalks is free. If you plan to visit specific businesses or attractions around Portage and Main, they may have their own admission fees. Instagram

Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Weekend afternoons can be busier due to community events and local activity. Instagram

Portage and Main is a central location and often hosts or is near community gatherings and rallies. Keep an eye on local event listings for any special happenings. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can experience the historic intersection now open to pedestrians, explore the surrounding downtown Winnipeg area, and visit nearby attractions like HighWater Press. Instagram+2

Absolutely! The intersection is a significant landmark, and its recent pedestrian opening offers new photo opportunities. The city skyline also provides a great backdrop. Instagram+1

It's historically known as the 'windiest corner in North America' and is a central point in Winnipeg's urban landscape. Its reopening to pedestrians is a major civic development. Instagram+2

While specific markers might vary, the history of the intersection is deeply embedded in Winnipeg's development. The reopening itself is a significant historical event. Instagram+1

The atmosphere is dynamic, reflecting a busy urban center. With pedestrian access, it's becoming a more engaging and community-oriented space. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Downtown Winnipeg, including the area around Portage and Main, offers a diverse range of dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. TikTok+1

Winnipeg has a vibrant food scene with influences from various cultures. Popular choices include diverse ethnic cuisines like Mexican and Korean, as well as classic pub fare. TikTok+1

Yes, there are numerous cafes and quick-service restaurants in the downtown area, perfect for a coffee break or a fast meal. TikTok

Locals often recommend places for specific dishes like birria quesadillas or Korean fried chicken, indicating a strong appreciation for diverse culinary offerings. TikTok+1

Exploring the diverse restaurants in the downtown area is recommended. Consider trying local favorites for Mexican, Korean, or pub-style food. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The intersection itself, especially with the new pedestrian access, offers unique angles. The surrounding downtown architecture and city skyline also make for great shots. Instagram+1

Yes, Portage and Main is a central point in Winnipeg, offering a good vantage point to capture the urban landscape and city life. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Midday can be good for capturing the bustle of the intersection. Instagram

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, for commercial photography or drone usage, permits might be required. Always be mindful of private property. Instagram

The reopening to pedestrians is a unique historical moment, offering a chance to photograph the intersection in a way not possible for decades. The wind can also create dynamic photo moments. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Portage and Main itself is a historic intersection, the surrounding downtown Winnipeg area offers family-friendly activities. Consider visiting during daylight hours to explore the area safely. The novelty of walking across the intersection might be exciting for children. Instagram+1

Look for parks or interactive exhibits in the vicinity. Many restaurants in the downtown core are accommodating to families, offering diverse menus that can appeal to younger palates. Researching specific family-oriented attractions nearby will enhance your visit.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Portage and Main is a central and increasingly accessible point in Winnipeg, making it a good starting point for solo exploration. The reopening to pedestrians enhances the ability to discover the downtown area on foot. Instagram+1

Consider using the virtual 3D game to get acquainted with the area before you go. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, as is standard advice for any urban exploration. InstagramReddit

📚 Culture Enthusiasts

For those interested in culture, Portage and Main offers a unique blend. You can explore the historical significance of the intersection itself and visit HighWater Press, an Indigenous-led publisher, to engage with Canadian literature and diverse voices. Instagram+1

The area is also a hub for community events and rallies, offering insights into local activism and social movements. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Reopening of Portage and Main

For decades, the intersection of Portage Avenue and Main Street in Winnipeg was famously closed to pedestrian traffic, creating a physical and symbolic divide. This iconic crossroads, often dubbed the 'windiest corner in North America,' has undergone a significant transformation. In a move celebrated by many, the intersection has been reopened to pedestrians, allowing people to cross freely for the first time since 1979. Instagram+2

This reopening signifies a major shift in urban planning and community access for Winnipeg. It aims to reconnect the city's core, foster a more walkable downtown, and create a more vibrant public space. The construction and changes have been ongoing, with new traffic signals and sidewalks taking shape, promising a more integrated urban experience. Instagram

Travelers and locals alike can now experience this historic intersection in a new light, walking across the very spot that once represented a barrier. It's a chance to witness a piece of Winnipeg's history being rewritten and to enjoy the revitalized energy of the city's heart. Instagram

Winnipeg's Culinary Scene

Portage and Main is situated in downtown Winnipeg, an area brimming with diverse culinary experiences. From authentic Mexican birria quesadillas that have gone viral to delicious Korean fried chicken and bulgogi fries, the city offers a wide array of flavors. TikTok+1

Beyond these popular international cuisines, you'll find a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a quick bite from a food truck or a sit-down meal at a trendy eatery, downtown Winnipeg has something to satisfy every craving. Don't hesitate to explore the local recommendations for a true taste of the city. TikTok

Many TikTok creators highlight specific dishes and restaurants, showcasing the vibrant and accessible food scene. This user-generated content is a great resource for discovering hidden gems and popular spots that locals and visitors alike rave about. TikTok+1

Indigenous Voices in Publishing

HighWater Press, also known as Portage & Main Press, is a significant cultural institution based in Winnipeg. As Manitoba's longest-standing publishing house, it holds a special place in Canadian literature, proudly operating as a women-owned and Indigenous-led independent publisher. Instagram

Founded in 1967, the press has a deep commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and stories. Their work contributes to a richer understanding of Canadian history and contemporary issues, making them a vital part of the literary landscape. Instagram

Visiting or learning about HighWater Press offers a unique perspective on the cultural fabric of Winnipeg and Canada, highlighting the importance of diverse narratives in storytelling and publishing. Instagram

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