Uncovering Academy Road: A Winnipeg Neighborhood
Every time I walk down Academy Road, its charm and mix of shops catch my eye. From grabbing coffee at a cozy cafe, looking through books in small stores, or just enjoying the pretty views, there’s always something new to see.
But Academy Road isn’t just shops and food. It’s also full of history, with old houses along tree-filled streets telling stories of Winnipeg’s past.
Join me on a quick look at this lovely area, finding some hidden spots and sharing simple tips along the way. Let’s go!
Best Time to Visit Academy Road in Winnipeg
The best time to visit Academy Road in Winnipeg depends on what you want to do. For shopping, weekends during the day (10 am–5 pm) are busy but offer the most stores open.
For nightlife, evenings (after 7 pm) on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays are the liveliest, with bars and restaurants bustling.
Things to Do at Academy Road in Winnipeg
1. Shopping
If you’re into shopping, this street’s got you covered. It’s like a blend of big-name stores and cozy local spots, perfect for finding unique treasures.
Let me give you the lowdown. First up, there’s Mad About Style Boutique, where you’ll find the latest trends in women’s fashion, handpicked with love.
And don’t miss out on Margot + Maude; their collection of women’s clothing and accessories is a local favorite. You might just fall in love with something special there.
There’s a whole bunch of other cool shops along the road too, from home decor spots to art galleries.
2. Dining
Another thing you can do at Academy Road is dine. There are a bunch of popular spots for every craving!
You simply can’t miss Pizzeria Gusto for delicious pizzas, all made with the freshest ingredients. And if you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, Fusion Grill is a must-try for some Asian and European flavors.
Now, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you absolutely have to swing by Jenna Rae Cakes. Their treats are not just delicious; they’re Instagram-worthy works of art!
3. Strolling and People-Watching
Academy Road is perfect for a leisurely day out, just strolling along and taking in the sights and sounds. The street’s got these beautiful trees lining the sidewalks, creating this cozy vibe that’s hard to beat.
And if you need a breather, there are plenty of benches scattered around where you can just kick back and relax for a bit. It’s also prime real estate for people-watching, which is always entertaining.
Where to Eat Near Academy Road in Winnipeg
1. Fusion Grill
It’s worth coming to Fusion Grill just for their White Truffle Perogies alone. This dish features tender perogies stuffed with duck sausage, swimming in a dreamy walnut cream sauce.
And for the main course, you can’t go wrong with their Grilled Praire Grass-Fed Beef. It’s juicy beef with caramelized onion butter and is served alongside some mouthwatering ricotta mushroom ravioli in a creamy, sweet garlic sauce.
And to top it all off, they drizzle it with a rich demi-glace that ties everything together beautifully.
2. Meal Set Bistro
Meal Set Bistro has this charming vibe and serves up some seriously tasty French-inspired dishes using local, seasonal goodies. If you’re asking me what’s the crowd favorite here, let me tell you about their top picks.
First, their go-to poke bowl called THE ATL. It’s a delicious mix of salmon, tuna, avocado, and a bunch of other goodies like edamame, sweet corn, and crunchy wonton chips.
They drizzle it all with this spicy mayo and sweet soy sauce that’s just divine.
And if you’re more into sushi burritos, try their THE ACADEMY. It’s packed with spicy salmon, spicy tuna, crab mix, and all the fixings like avocado, cucumber, and wakame.
They top it off with this killer combo of spicy house sauce, sweet soy, and crunchy tempura crumbs.
3. Pizzeria Gusto
If you’re craving some top-notch pizza, go to Pizzeria Gusto. It’s a local legend here, and it has been hailed as one of the best spots to eat in all of Canada!
What sets them apart is their wood-fired oven, straight from Italy. They’re cooking those pies in a Valoriani wood-burning oven, handcrafted by people who’ve been at it for generations in Tuscany.
That oven gives their Wood-Fired Pizza this incredible taste and texture that you won’t find anywhere else.
4. Jenna Rae Cakes
Jenna Rae Cakes is perfect for anyone who loves treats.
They’ve got this amazing array of freshly baked goodies, such as cupcakes, macaroons, cookie sandwiches, and specialty chocolates. They also make custom cakes that are edible works of art, perfect for any celebration.
And if you’re wondering what to get, go for their Regular Cookie Sandwiches.
It’s this perfect combo of soft, chewy cookies sandwiched together with their heavenly buttercream and all sorts of homemade fillings. It’s basically happiness in dessert form.
While you’re there, don’t forget to check out their gift items and baking supplies. Yes, they offer that too!
You might just find the perfect little something for yourself or that friend who’s always whipping up something delicious in the kitchen.
Where to Stay Near Academy Road in Winnipeg
1. Fairmont Winnipeg
Fairmont Winnipeg is like the cream of the crop when it comes to hotels in our city. Super fancy, but not stuffy.
They’ve got like 340 cozy rooms and suites, all decked out with classy decor and killer views of downtown.
Plus, their dining experience is on point! You can treat your taste buds at their top-notch restaurants and bars; they’ve got something to satisfy every craving.
As for the amenities, you can have access to a full-on fitness center to burn off those extra poutine calories, and there’s even an indoor saltwater pool for a relaxing dip.
2. Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites
Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites is your go-to cozy spot if you’re flying in or out of Winnipeg International Airport (YWG). Super convenient!
You won’t have to worry about missing your flight with their complimentary airport shuttle.
They’ve also got all the goodies you need — a sweet indoor pool, a fitness center to keep those muscles moving, and even a restaurant right there if you’re feeling hungry.
Plus, the rooms are pretty spacious, and they hook you up with free WiFi, a fridge, and a microwave. It’s the kind of place that makes traveling a breeze.
Tips When You Visit the Academy Road in Winnipeg
1. Do your research.
Academy Road is a long road with a variety of businesses. Before you go, take some time to browse online and see what shops and restaurants pique your interest.
This will help you map out a plan for your visit and avoid missing out on hidden gems.
2. Consider parking.
There is limited street parking on Academy Road, and some businesses have their own parking lots. Be prepared to circle the block a few times, or consider taking public transportation or a rideshare service.
3. Dress comfortably.
Academy Road is a casual area. You’ll see people in everything from jeans and t-shirts to yoga pants and workout clothes.
Wear something that you feel comfortable walking around in.
4. Bring cash.
While many businesses accept credit cards, there are still a few mom-and-pop shops that are cash-only. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case.
5. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
Academy Road is a great place to wander around and explore. Don’t be afraid to take your time and browse the shops at your own pace.
There are also a number of cafes and restaurants along the road, so you can take a break and people-watch for a while.