Portage and Main
Winnipeg's iconic crossroads, now open to pedestrians, offering a vibrant urban experience and a symbol of city reconnection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
Portage and Main
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Winnipeg's iconic crossroads, now open to pedestrians, offering a vibrant urban experience and a symbol of city reconnection.
"The historic crossroads of Winnipeg, now accessible to pedestrians, symbolizing a new era for the city's heart. "
🚶♀️ 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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.
3D Virtual Experience
Online
Explore the reopened Portage and Main virtually with an interactive 3D video game.
Indigenous Publishing Hub
HighWater Press / Portage & Main Press
Discover Manitoba's longest-standing publishing house, celebrating Indigenous voices and stories.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pedestrian Access is Back!
Navigating the Intersection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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!
📚 Explore Local Publishing
Visit HighWater Press for unique Canadian and Indigenous literature.
🎮 Try the Virtual Game
Experience Portage and Main virtually with a fun 3D game.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 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!
📚 Explore Local Publishing
Visit HighWater Press for unique Canadian and Indigenous literature.
🎮 Try the Virtual Game
Experience Portage and Main virtually with a fun 3D game.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, since its reopening to pedestrians, it's now very easy and enjoyable to walk across the intersection and explore the surrounding downtown area.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the intersection of Portage and Main itself is free and open to the public. It's a public space.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Absolutely! The intersection is a significant landmark, and its recent pedestrian opening offers new photo opportunities. The city skyline also provides a great backdrop.
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.
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.
The atmosphere is dynamic, reflecting a busy urban center. With pedestrian access, it's becoming a more engaging and community-oriented space.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
Yes, there are numerous cafes and quick-service restaurants in the downtown area, perfect for a coffee break or a fast meal.
Locals often recommend places for specific dishes like birria quesadillas or Korean fried chicken, indicating a strong appreciation for diverse culinary offerings.
Exploring the diverse restaurants in the downtown area is recommended. Consider trying local favorites for Mexican, Korean, or pub-style food.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, Portage and Main is a central point in Winnipeg, offering a good vantage point to capture the urban landscape and city life.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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.
📚 Culture Enthusiasts
The area is also a hub for community events and rallies, offering insights into local activism and social movements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Reopening of Portage and Main
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.
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.
Winnipeg's Culinary Scene
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.
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.
Indigenous Voices in Publishing
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.
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.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit