East Kildonan in Winnipeg: Your Handbook to Eateries, Entertainment, and More
I spent many weekends exploring this lively area.
We had family dinners at cozy diners and watched movies at the local cinema. The sense of community here is also special – neighbors know each other by name and everyone has a favorite spot they love.
So, I thought, why not create a little handbook to show off all the great places to eat, things to do, and more in East Kildonan? It’s my way of sharing my love for this neighborhood and helping others find its hidden gems.
Let’s go!
Best Time to Visit East Kildonan in Winnipeg
The best time to visit East Kildonan depends on what you want to do. For warm weather, aim for the summer (June to August), perfect for enjoying outdoor fun at Kildonan Park.
But if you want fewer crowds and winter activities, January and February are great. You can enjoy ice skating or snowshoeing.
Things to Do at East Kildonan in Winnipeg
1. Explore Kildonan Park.
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Kildonan Park is one of the local favorites here.
You can spend hours wandering around, taking a stroll, or hopping on a bike along the winding paths that lead you through some beautiful greenery. There’s also a cool playground for kids to let loose and have some fun.
And if you’re up for a swim, the pool’s a great spot to beat the summer heat. Plus, there are plenty of picnic spots dotted around, so you can pack a lunch and make a day of it.
But here’s the kicker: They’ve got this awesome replica of a witch’s hut tucked away in the park. It’s kind of quirky and definitely worth a look!
2. Go golfing.
— Media credit: iamrushruger
Golfing is absolutely on the list if you’re looking for things to do here in East Kildonan. It has some great courses to choose from, catering to all levels of expertise.
If you want to soak up some history while hitting the links, Rossmere Golf Course is the spot to be. It’s been around since 1921, so you know it’s got some stories to tell.
And if you’re up for a challenge with some water hazards thrown in, the 9-hole course at Harbourview Park and Recreation Complex is a blast.
3. Shop at Kildonan Place.
Kildonan Place is the go-to spot for everything! You can shop at all the stores it has, grab a bite to eat at some awesome restaurants, and catch a flick at the cinema if you’re up for it.
Trust me, it’s the perfect place for some serious retail therapy and fun times!
Where to Eat Near East Kildonan in Winnipeg
1. Salisbury House (Henderson)
If you’re craving some good old Canadian comfort food, you’ve got to hit up Salisbury House on Henderson. Their classic that keeps us coming back for more is the Silver Salisbury Steak.
A massive 40-ounce patty of fresh Manitoba ground beef, smothered in grilled onions and their famous Sals chili meat sauce. And they don’t skimp on the sides either; you get shredded potatoes and coleslaw to round it all out.
But if you’re more into wraps, try their Crispy Chicken Wrap Platter. It’s a breaded chicken fillet, perfectly crispy, with gooey natural mozzarella cheese, lettuce, and tomato, all wrapped up snugly and served with their own fresh veggie dip.
2. Smitty’s Restaurant & Lounge – Winnipeg Garden City
Smitty’s Restaurant & Lounge over in Garden City is a solid spot with decent portions and reasonable prices that won’t make your wallet cry.
If it’s your first time here, I’d recommend you try their Roast Beef. It’s a local favorite for a reason: tender, slow-roasted beef served up with a side of zesty horseradish.
It’s also come up with creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, and those fresh veggies.
But if you’re more of a turkey fan, they offer that too.
Their Home-Style Turkey features a plate piled high with juicy roasted turkey, smothered in rich gravy, and accompanied by all the fixings: stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and more of those delicious seasonal veggies.
Where to Stay Near East Kildonan in Winnipeg
1. Fairmont Winnipeg
The Fairmont Winnipeg is the epitome of luxury in our city. It’s the crown jewel of downtown accommodations.
Here, there are over 340 plush rooms and suites just waiting for you with stunning city views, especially from the upper floors. You’ll be Instagramming those sunsets, for sure.
But wait, it gets better. They’ve got this rooftop pool and health facility featuring saltwater, which is a nice touch, and the view from up there is absolutely killer.
Plus, if you’re feeling like you need a little pampering, they’ve got spa services on deck, a fitness center to sweat out all those calories, and a concierge team ready to hook you up with whatever you need.
2. Best Western Premier Winnipeg East
Best Western Premier Winnipeg East is definitely one to consider if you’re looking for a cozy spot to crash near East Kildonan. It’s got that modern vibe going on (which is always a plus) and all the trimming you’d want in a hotel.
The moment you walk inside, you’ll be greeted by a lobby that’s fancy without being too stuffy. And the guest rooms are well-appointed and so comfy, like a warm hug after a long day of exploring.
They’ve also got this indoor pool and hot tub situation that’s just begging for a dip.
Plus, if you’re feeling like you need to work off all those poutine indulgences, they’ve got a 24/7 gym setup with all the gear you need to break a sweat. So whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, you can come here whenever you please.
3. Super 8 by Wyndham Winnipeg East MB
The Super 8 by Wyndham Winnipeg East MB is one of those no-frills joints that won’t break the bank.
They’re all about keeping things simple and clean, which is great if you’re just after a comfy bed and a clean room to crash in after a day of exploring the city.
You can expect the basics covered, like cozy beds and private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a TV for good measure. Plus, they’ve got breakfast covered too, nothing fancy but enough to get you fueled up for the day with some cereal, toast, fruit, and coffee.
Just a heads up, though: since it’s more on the budget-friendly side, you might not find all the bells and whistles you’d get at a fancier place.
So, if you’re big on things like laundry facilities or a business center, it’s worth giving them a call beforehand to double-check if they’ve got what you need.
Tips When You Visit East Kildonan in Winnipeg
1. Wear comfortable shoes.
There are a lot of trails in East Kildonan, so you’ll want to wear shoes that are comfortable for walking or hiking.
2. Bring sunscreen and bug spray.
Especially in the summer, the sun can be quite strong in Winnipeg. Be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the rays.
Bug spray is also a good idea, as there can be mosquitoes and other pests in the park.
3. Ask locals for recommendations.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite spots or recommendations. They can offer insider tips that guidebooks might overlook, making your visit even more memorable.
4. Stay safe and respectful.
Like in any neighborhood, it’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings and respectful of the local community. Keep your belongings secure and follow any posted guidelines or regulations.
5. Bring your camera.
Kildonan Park is a beautiful place, so be sure to bring your camera to capture all the sights.