Introduction
Close to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities, Broadway-Assiniboine is a lively and pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood in downtown Winnipeg. The area is popular with young professionals and is bordered by Portage Avenue to the north, Cornish Avenue to the south, Maryland Street to the west, and the Assiniboine River and Colony Street to the east.
Lifestyle
One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Winnipeg, Broadway-Assiniboine was originally developed as an exclusive community by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 1870s. Over time, residents moved out to higher-end properties in Armstrong Point, as multi-unit and apartment buildings moved into Broadway-Assiniboine. Today, the area is home to many young professionals who are drawn to the affordable rents and proximity to downtown for both work and play.
The Vibe
A densely populated urban neighbourhood, Broadway-Assiniboine offers residents a lively mix of nearby shops, restaurants, and night life. The largely single, young population can take advantage of formal dining at renowned Italian restaurant, Amici, or escape the hustle and bustle with a stroll through Bonnycastle Park and along the Assiniboine Riverwalk, taking in the views of the Manitoba Legislative building or visiting the market at The Forks.
Meet the Neighbours
With ample rental properties and walking distance from downtown employment and socializing spots, it's no surprise this community draws a large number of young professionals. As of the 2006 census, just over 40 per cent of residents were between the ages of 20 and 34, one-person households accounted for more than 65 per cent of the population, and more than 55 per cent of residents had never been married.
In the Area
There's lots to do in and around this bustling neighbourhood. Stroll along the Assiniboine Riverwalk, which extends from underneath the Esplanade Riel to the foot of the Manitoba legislature, and can be accessed via Bonnycastle Park. At the historic Fort Garry Hotel, pamper yourself at the TEN Spa or enjoy drinks and live jazz at the Palm Lounge. Portage Place Shopping Centre is less than a 15-minute walk away.
8.1 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Located south of Portage Avenue, the neighbourhood has evolved into an important east-west thoroughfare. Forty-one percent of Broadway-Assiniboine residents claim walking as their primary form of transport (2006 census). There are 13 bus stops, serviced by Winnipeg Transit routes 1, 2, 29, 34, 43, and 99 – among others – but public transportation in the neighbourhood is considered not very convenient. Luckily many amenities are within a one-kilometre walking distance.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Lower property values and a predominantly renters-only real estate market may appeal to younger demographics or those not looking to invest time and money into a detached house, but for families or those looking for more space, the area doesn't provide many options. High-density living, however, gives residents here access to affordable rents and ample urban amenities are in close range.
Dollars & Sense
According to the 2006 Statistics Canada census, the average household income in Broadway-Assiniboine was considerably lower than the Winnipeg city-wide average, but luckily for residents the area also boasts affordable rents and low transportation costs for people who can walk to work downtown. Proximity to both fast food and fine dining, residents can choose to spend as little or as much as they want here.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Fort Garry Hotel
A Winnipeg landmark, this luxurious hotel is also a national historic site. Relax in the TEN Spa, swim in the pool, enjoy live jazz in the Palm Lounge, or escape into an elegant guest room.
more infoBonnycastle Park
Named for the Winnipeg family behind Harlequin Romance publishing, this downtown park boasts an amphitheatre, flower beds, picturesque paths, and ornamental fountain. Access the Assiniboine Riverwalk here to connect to the Forks and the Legislature.
more infoAmici Restaurant
Rated one of the top 40 restaurants in Canada, Amici Restaurant has been serving high-quality northern Italian cuisine in a fine-dining environment since 1986. For a more casual meal, visit Bombolini at the same address.
more infoManitoba Legislative Building
Made from Manitoba Tyndall limestone and topped with the iconic Golden Boy by French sculptor Georges Gardet, this is one impressive building. And the 30 acres of lawns and formal gardens aren't bad either.
more infoDalnavert Museum
Constructed in 1895, Dalnavert was the family home of Sir Hugh John Macdonald, son of Canada's first prime minister. Closed in 2013, this historical building is set to reopen to the public in 2015.
more infoWinnipeg Convention Centre
Undergoing substantial renovations, by 2016 this will be the fourth largest publicly-owned Convention Centre in Canada. Plans include a massive exhibition space, dramatic ballroom, street level plaza, and City View Room with floor-to-ceiling windows.
more info