Warning: A visit to Assiniboia Downs in Winnipeg may lead to a love for horse racing!
When my relatives visited Winnipeg last weekend, they were eager for something unique to experience. So, I suggested Assiniboia Downs—none of them had been to a horse race before, and I knew it would be a blast.
We arrived just in time for the first race. The kids were fascinated by the horses, and the adults were excited to try their luck at betting.
My uncle decided to place a bet on a horse named “Midnight Mischief,” purely because he liked the name.
Turns out “Midnight Mischief” ended up winning the race! We cheered and laughed, and my uncle was convinced he had a knack for picking winners.
But Assiniboia Downs isn’t just about the races; it’s about the laughter, thrills, and making memories with loved ones.
So, if you’re looking for a unique weekend outing, give it a try; you might discover a new favorite pastime—or at least a great story to share!
About Assiniboia Downs
— Media credit: assiniboiadowns
Location: 3975 Portage Ave
Contact: 204 885 3330
Website: https://www.asdowns.com/
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 – 1 am
Admission: Free
Nestled in the suburb of St. James-Assiniboia, this horse racing track has been a staple in the Winnipeg community since 1958, taking over from the old Polo Park Racetrack.
From May to September, you can immerse yourself in the thrill of live thoroughbred racing, an experience that never fails to get the adrenaline pumping.
And if you’re a racing enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the year-round simulcast racing from major tracks worldwide.
But there’s more to Assiniboia Downs than just the races. They’ve created a casino-like vibe, especially in the Club West Gaming Lounge, which is packed with 140 Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs).
Plus, the lounge is open every day except Christmas, ensuring there’s always something to keep you entertained.
Now, here’s the cherry on top: It has that family-friendly environment. During race season, many afternoons are transformed into free family fun days.
Imagine pony rides, a petting farm, and inflatable gyms for the kids—it’s a blast for everyone involved.
Things to Do at Assiniboia Downs
1. Catch a live horse race.
— Media credit: assiniboiadowns
You’ve got to catch a live horse race at Assiniboia Downs! There’s nothing quite like the buzz of thoroughbred racing.
Here, jockeys urging their horses to give it their all, the thunder of hooves pounding the track, and the crowd going wild with every turn. It’s a real adrenaline rush!
They usually have races most days during the season, either in the afternoons or evenings. It’s a good idea to check the Assiniboia Downs website or give them a call to get the exact schedule.
And guess what? General admission is free, so you can just show up and soak up all the excitement without spending a dime.
Now, if you’re feeling a bit lucky, why not try your hand at betting? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, they’ve got a range of options.
You can start simple with win-place-show bets, or, if you’re up for a challenge, dive into the more complex wagers. Trust me, it adds a whole new layer of fun to the races!
2. Try your luck at the Club West Gaming Lounge.
— Media credit: assiniboiadowns
Club West Gaming Lounge is like a mini-Vegas right here in Winnipeg! With 140 Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs), you can dive into all sorts of games, from slots to video poker.
Who knows? You might hit the jackpot!
The lounge is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., so you’ve got loads of time to give it a go and see if Lady Luck is on your side.
Just a heads-up, though—it’s for adults only, so you need to make sure you have your ID with you and be aware of the local gambling rules.
3. Take the kids to a family fun day.
— Media credit: assiniboiadowns
For a fun day out with the kids, Assiniboia Downs does offer family fun days on certain afternoons. These events are packed with activities that will keep them entertained for hours.
They can cuddle and feed adorable animals at the petting zoo or hop on pony rides that’ll make them feel like real cowboys and cowgirls for a day.
And if that’s not enough, they can jump around in bouncy castles too and get their faces painted with colorful designs. Sometimes, there’s even live entertainment to add to the excitement.
Here’s a little tip: keep an eye on their website or social media for the next family fun day. That way, you can plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the action.
4. Enjoy a meal at the Club West Restaurant and Lounge.
— Media credit: assiniboiadowns
The Club West Restaurant and Lounge is a great spot perched above the racetrack, offering a delightful dining experience with panoramic views of the thundering horses below.
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely pre-race lunch or a celebratory dinner afterward, you’re covered with its mix of classic Canadian dishes and innovative creations by the chefs. There’s something for every palate here!
Pro tip: making a reservation is a smart move, especially on race days or if you’re bringing a big group. You wouldn’t want to miss out on the best seat in the house, right?
5. Attend a special event.
— Media credit: assiniboiadowns
Assiniboia Downs doesn’t just focus on horse racing, though that’s a big draw. They host all kinds of special events throughout the year, too.
You can catch a live music concert with some of your favorite artists. They also have trade shows that feature a variety of products and services, which is pretty cool if you love discovering new things.
And if you’re planning something special, like a corporate event or a private party, this is a fantastic venue. I’d recommend keeping an eye on their website so you don’t miss out on any upcoming events.
Where to Eat Near Assiniboia Downs
Chicken Chef
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Location: 3770 Portage Ave
Contact: 204 832 3900
Website: http://www.chickenchef.com/
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11 – 9 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11 – 11 pm
Must-order menu items:
- Chef’s Club Sandwich
- Southwest Chicken Burger
- Chef’s Salad
Price range: $$ – average
Chicken Chef is a beloved local chain known for its cozy, family-style meals. They’ve got a diverse menu, but one of the crowd favorites is the Chef’s Club Sandwich.
This dish features layers of chicken, bacon, and ham stacked high with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and melted cheddar, all nestled between three slices of toast. Perfect for a satisfying lunch!
But if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, the Southwest Chicken Burger brings the heat with bacon and chipotle ranch dressing, plus all the classic toppings like fresh lettuce, tomato, and cheddar cheese.
Denny’s
— Media credit: dennyscanada
Location: 4100 Portage Ave
Contact: 204 897 8999
Website: https://www.dennys.ca/locations/headingley/
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 – 12 am
Must-order menu items:
- T-bone Steak and Eggs
- Double Cheeseburger
- Spicy Brisket Melt
Price range: $$ – average
At Denny’s, you can’t go wrong with their classic diner vibe. They’ve got all your favorites—from hearty breakfast items available all day to classic sandwiches and juicy burgers.
It’s the kind of place where your cravings meet their match.
Now, if you’re hungry, I’d steer you toward the T-Bone Steak and Eggs.
It’s a solid 13 oz. steak, cooked just right, paired with two eggs, crispy hash browns, and your choice of toast. It’s like a mini-celebration on a plate!
But if you’re after something quick and tasty, their Double Cheeseburger is a winner too! You can choose from Canadian, Swiss, or aged white cheddar cheese, all piled high with fresh toppings on a brioche bun.
It’s a local favorite for a reason!
Salisbury House
— Media credit: salsmb.ca
Location: 3315 Portage Ave
Contact: 204 889 3156
Website: https://www.salisburyhouse.ca/
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 – 9 pm
Must-order menu items:
- Silver Salisbury Steak
- Silver Omelette & Beverages
- Chicken Caesar Wrap Platter
Price range: $$ – average
Salisbury House is one of those iconic Manitoba diners that just feels like home, you know? The kind of place where the comfort food is as warm as the service.
And get this—they’ve got a vintage bike hanging from the ceiling! It’s quite a conversation starter.
Now, when it comes to their best dishes, you’ve got to try the Silver Salisbury Steak.
It’s a 4 oz. patty made from 100% Manitoba fresh ground beef, topped with grilled onions, garlic mashed potatoes, gravy, and sautéed fresh veggies. Mouthwatering, right?
They also offer lighter food, like the Chicken Caesar Wrap Platter. It’s packed with seasoned chicken breast, crunchy romaine lettuce, natural Swiss cheese, juicy tomatoes, and a generous helping of Caesar dressing, all wrapped up in a tortilla.
It’s as delicious as it sounds and a bit easier on the waistline.
Where to Stay Near Assiniboia Downs
Best Western Plus Winnipeg West
— Media credit: bestwestern
Location: 4140 Portage Ave
Contact: 204 594 2200
Website: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.
Operating hours:
- Check-in time: 3 pm
- Check-out time: 11 am
Staying at the Best Western Plus Winnipeg West feels incredibly comfortable, thanks to its thoughtful amenities.
One of the highlights is the indoor saltwater pool, complete with a water slide, which is perfect whether you’re traveling with family or just looking for some fun. If you like to keep up with your fitness routine, you’ll appreciate the on-site fitness center too.
But what I really love about this place is the hot breakfast they serve every morning. It’s such a nice way to start the day, especially if you have a busy schedule ahead.
Plus, the rooms are equipped with mini-fridges, which are super convenient for storing snacks and refreshments. The spacious work desk is also a great feature if you need to get some work done during your stay.
Super 8 by Wyndham Winnipeg West
— Media credit: super8
Location: 3760 Portage Ave
Contact: 204 831 9800
Website: https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/winnipeg-manitoba/super-8-winnipeg-west
Operating hours:
- Check-in time: 3 pm
- Check-out time: 11 am
Another homey place to stay nearby is Super 8 by Wyndham Winnipeg West. As a local, I can vouch for its convenience and the range of amenities it offers.
To start with, you’ll have access to free Wi-Fi and a complimentary continental breakfast, which is always a nice way to begin your day. There’s also free parking, including spots for electric vehicles, making it super convenient if you’re driving around.
They haven’t forgotten the practical stuff either—they offer guest laundry facilities, a business center, and a fitness center, so you can keep up with your routine.
As per the rooms, they are really spacious and equipped with plush bedding, a 50-inch flat-screen HDTV, a microwave, a mini-refrigerator, and a coffee maker.
And if you’re planning a longer stay, they even have suites with kitchens, which will make you feel more at home.