How Bruce Park Winnipeg Became Our Favorite Place to Unwind
Growing up, my family and I spent every weekend exploring new parks in Winnipeg, chasing after the perfect picnic spot or the most serene place to relax.
Those weekends were filled with laughter, frisbee games, and the best homemade sandwiches you could imagine.
Fast forward to now, and my quest for the ultimate green space hasn’t waned. So when I stumbled upon Bruce Park, it felt like I had uncovered a secret treasure trove of tranquility.
I guess you could say it was like finding the ideal frame in a family photo album—one that brought back all the warm and fuzzy feelings of my childhood.
Curious about why Bruce Park stole my heart? Let me share how this little slice of paradise became our favorite place to unwind and how it might just become yours, too.
About Bruce Park Winnipeg
Location: 1966 Portage Avenue
Website: http://www.winnipeg.ca/
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 – 11 am
Bruce Park is a beloved 13-acre green space that holds a special place in the hearts of locals, and its story is deeply intertwined with the city’s history.
Named after Peter Bruce, a Métis farmer who settled here in the 1850s, the park is more than just land—it’s a legacy. For generations, the Bruce family has called this place home, playing a significant role in shaping the community around them.
But here’s where it gets interesting: in 1933, this family made a remarkable gesture that changed the course of this space.
They decided to donate the land to the Municipality of St. James, but with one important condition: it had to remain a public green space forever. Thanks to their vision and generosity, we can still enjoy this beautiful park today, just as they intended.
Things to Do at Bruce Park Winnipeg
1. Stroll or jog along the A.W. Hanks Walkway.
At Bruce Park, you can take a leisurely stroll or go for a jog along the A.W. Hanks Walkway—a scenic paved path that winds through the area, offering some really nice views, particularly striking in the fall.
As you move along, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and the cheerful sounds of birds, all while soaking in the park’s peaceful atmosphere.
2. Relax in the beautiful formal flower gardens.
Another thing you can do here at Bruce Park is unwind amidst the stunning formal flower gardens. These meticulously arranged blooms offer a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances, especially during the peak of the blooming season.
It’s an ideal spot to sit back, relax, and savor the beauty of nature.
3. Observe wildlife in the grassland and forest areas.
For those who love nature, you’ll appreciate how the mix of grassland and forest areas creates a natural, almost wild ambiance that makes you forget you’re still in the city.
Here, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. You can keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this park home.
Birds flit through the trees, squirrels scurry across the ground, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a few other intriguing creatures.
A pro tip: to catch a better glimpse of the feathered residents, don’t forget to bring along a pair of binoculars.
4. Picnic on the grassy lawns.
Picnicking is a must-do at Bruce Park! In fact, it’s one of the best ways to soak up the park’s laid-back vibe.
Just pack a delicious spread, find a cozy spot on the grassy lawns—whether you prefer the shade of a tree or a sunlit patch—and enjoy a leisurely meal.
5. Visit the Bruce Park Cenotaph War Memorial.
Contact: +12049470559
Website: http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/sites/stjamescenotaph.shtml
A visit to the park wouldn’t be complete without paying respects at the Cenotaph War Memorial.
This solemn tribute, first erected in 1936 to honor local residents who lost their lives in World War I, has evolved over the years. It now serves as a reminder of those who served in multiple conflicts, including the brave Canadian peacekeepers.
6. Splash around in the wading pool during the summer.
During the warmer months, the wading pool at Bruce Park becomes a favorite hangout for kids looking to cool off and have some fun.
With its shallow water and gentle sprays, it’s the perfect spot for little ones to splash around safely while enjoying a refreshing break from the heat.
7. Burn off energy at the playground.
Bruce Park is a real haven for little adventures, with play structures that offer endless fun. Picture slides that whoosh them down with glee, swings that reach for the sky, climbing frames that challenge their agility, and sandboxes perfect for imaginative play.
Whether they’re scaling new heights or digging for treasure, there’s something to captivate every child’s interest.
8. Capture beautiful moments with photography.
If you’re into photography, Bruce Park is for you! From vibrant floral displays to peaceful landscapes and the occasional wildlife sighting, you’ll find plenty of great photo opportunities.
So, take your time wandering around; there’s a good chance you’ll stumble upon some truly picturesque scenes just waiting to be captured.
Where to Eat Near Bruce Park Winnipeg
1. Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar
— Media credit: gatherattheleaf
Location: 145 The Leaf Wy.
Website: https://www.gatherattheleaf.ca/
Contact: +12049277222
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 – 11 pm
Must-order menu items:
- Roasted Carrots
- Cold Smoked Arctic Char
- Smoked Pork Belly
Price range: $$ – average
It’s worth coming to Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar just for their Roasted Carrots alone. It’s affordable (which is always a plus!) and really justifies the quality of the food.
The carrots are tender and flavorful, with a tangy buttermilk dressing, grilled kale, salsa macha, and a hint of fresh dill. Oh, just thinking about it makes my mouth water again!
For seafood lovers out there, you can’t go wrong with their Cold Smoked Arctic Char. They get their fish fresh from Lake to Plate, and it comes with a delicious sauerkraut aioli, a new potato salad, and crispy Yukon potato chips.
2. JOEY Polo Park
— Media credit: JOEYRestaurants
Location: 635 St James St
Website: https://joeyrestaurants.com/location/joey-polo-park
Contact: +12043395639
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11 – 12 am
- Friday and Saturday: 11 – 1 am
Must-order menu items:
- Szechuan Tofu Lettuce Wraps
- Ahi Tuna Club
- Bollywood Butter Chicken
Price range: $$ – average
I love the atmosphere at JOEY Polo Park; it’s casual with comfortable seating and a lively bar area.
Whenever I’m here, I can’t resist their Ahi Tuna Club—it’s my go-to. It features grilled rare tuna with crispy bacon, sweet pepper relish, onion rings, and peanut kale greens.
And if you have a company, they also have this Szechuan Chicken Lettuce Wraps that’s good for sharing. They come with a sweet soy ginger glaze, crunchy peanuts, crispy wontons, and a spicy aioli that adds just the right kick.
3. K&S Island Grill
— Media credit: k_and_s_island_grill
Location: 2069 Portage Ave
Website: http://kandsislandgrill.com/
Contact: +12044155550
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 – 8 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11 – 9 pm
Must-order menu items:
- Jerk Chicken
- Curry Goat
- Chipotle Black Bean Veggie Burger
Price range: $$ – average
For Jamaican food cravings, I can’t recommend K&S Island Grill enough. Their Jerk Chicken is perfect for my liking—juicy, spicy, and perfectly grilled.
I usually pair it with steamed rice or rice and beans, then choose between plantain or festival dumplings for that extra touch of Caribbean flair.
But if you’re in the mood for something different, go for their Curry Goat. It’s a hearty, homemade stew with tender goat meat and potatoes, served with naan bread and your choice of side.
Trust me, it’s comfort food at its best!