Downtown can get hectic, and sometimes all I want is a hideaway for some peace and quiet. Thankfully, downtown Winnipeg offers countless places to do yoga, meditate, study, or just regroup. Here are some of my go-to spots!
Where can I meditate?
University of Winnipeg Meditation
515 Portage Avenue
If you’re a student at the University of Winnipeg, did you know that your school has a meditation room tucked away in Bryce Hall? Walk too fast, and you might miss it! The university offers come-and-go meditation sessions every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 to 1:30 pm. If you need to regroup from your busy schedule or just want to try out meditation, you’ll be welcomed.
Temple23 Meditation
502-62 Albert Street
Whether you are a beginner at meditation or just interested in a group experience, Temple23 in the Exchange District provides guided meditation for downtowners. Check out their website for more information.
Where can I get my yogi on?
Millennium Library Park
Behind the Millennium Library, 251 Donald Street
The Millennium Library Park is a great spot for downtowners to come and get their yoga stretches in! Classes usually run Monday to Friday from 12 to 1 pm. Visit the Downtown Biz website for details and an up-to-date schedule. These classes are free; just bring your yoga mat!
Yoga and meditation with Cian
930 Portage Avenue
Every Tuesday from 6 to 7 pm, Cian—a trained yogi—hosts a free yoga and meditation session for Winnipeggers of all levels of experience. The event is first come, first serve with only 20 spots available, so show up early to grab a spot!
My recommendation
If you’re not a fan of group classes, or just want to get your yogi on solo, downtown Winnipeg has beautiful parks where you can lay out your mat. One of my favourite quiet places is Stephen Juba Park, right waterfront in the Exchange district. If you are looking for a quieter yoga session, try going early in the morning.
Where can I find a few minutes of silence?
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to study or somewhere quiet to relax, downtown Winnipeg has got your back!
Millennium Library
251 Donald Street
A library is the most obvious place to look when craving a bit of silence, but the Millennium Library stands out among Winnipeg’s libraries. Spread on each side of a massive staircase, the study area is a designated “quiet zone.” At any point in the day, you’ll find people working in complete silence. This area is also beautiful, with simple design that won’t distract you from your work and enormous windows that stand from floor to ceiling. Natural light fills the area and it’s a wonderful place to find a few moments of peace.
Legislative Library
200 Vaughan Street
Winnipeg’s oldest library is also one of its quietest. Located just across from downtown landmark Hudson’s Bay, this library doesn’t usually come up when asking your study buddies, “Where should we study today?” Less people = less noise!
My recommendations
When I need a moment to get away from the noise, I find myself walking along the Red River! Winding through the city, it’s easy to access and a nice getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
And like any noisy city, Winnipeg seems to still during the 9 to 5 workday. If you want to go study at a quiet coffee shop or go for a walk without car horns as your soundtrack, try going while most people are at their desks.
You don’t have to run far to find a bit of zen. Tell us below: Where is your favourite place to find a moment of calm in downtown Winnipeg?
