The Exchange District is buzzing with local watering holes that range from upscale cocktail experiences to party-bar-style dancing to classic no-frills pubs. If you’re planning a night on the town, then you have a range of excellent establishments to choose from. Each venue brings its own unique personality, with some steeped in history and others at the forefront of innovation. The common thread is that all of these spots guarantee a good time, and they’re all within walking distance!
Here’s where to spend your next night out in the Exchange:
Commonwealth Winnipeg
Commonwealth Kitchen + Bar brings an upscale dining experience with dinner club energy to the Exchange District. In a stunning 1905 heritage building, you’ll find excellent cocktails, DJ nights, shareable plates, live music, and a multitude of special events. Their drink menu is full of classics with a twist – think torched rosemary Caesars and refreshing rosé sangria’s – and the atmosphere hits just the right note for the 25+ crowd looking for something a little more elevated. The event lineup is constantly changing, keeping things fresh, though they have their key weekly events that keep people coming back. Check out Therapy Fridays featuring throwback hits, or Vogue Saturdays for ’90s-’00s dance hits. If you’re celebrating a birthday, you can reserve a table and celebrate in style. Head to Commonwealth to catch up with friends over oysters or dance into the late night.
456 Main Street
Instagram: @commonwealthnightlife
Website: https://www.commonwealthwpg.com/
Darling Bar
Darling Bar is the Exchange District’s hidden speakeasy, offering a thoughtful and stylish evening experience. Walk down the stairs beside the VA Cafe and you’ll find a cozy bar space illuminated by candlelight. The drink menu is packed with personality, with every cocktail telling a story (try “My Old Flame” or “The Honey Bear”) and mocktails, wine, and beer rounding out the list. The back of the bar hosts a multi-purpose event space with a robust event schedule. You can catch anything from DJ sets to poetry readings to punk bands, depending on the day! In the summer, the rooftop patio opens, offering a brighter, open-air take on the classic Darling Bar experience. The Darling Bar is a versatile venue that strikes the perfect balance of heart, atmosphere, and handcrafted beverages.
171 McDermot Ave
Instagram: @darlingbarwpg
Website: https://www.darlingbar.ca/
King’s Head Pub
The King’s Head is a cornerstone of the Exchange District and a lively, welcoming pub with one of the largest beer selections in the city. Family-owned since 1987 and housed in a beautiful 1896 heritage building, The Kings Head is a go-to spot for generations of Winnipegers. With over 30 beers on tap, classic pub fare, and no cover charge, it’s an excellent spot for casual hangs and late-night fun. If you’re looking for low-key vibes, the main floor is where you’ll find seating, pool tables, and a chill atmosphere. Upstairs, the energy shifts with live music, DJ nights, and themed events that keep the dance floor moving. The patio buzzes in the summer, and their weeknight trivia draws a loyal crowd. Whether you’re in for a pint or ready to party, The King’s Head delivers a tried-and-true good time.
120 King Street
Instagram: @kingsheadwpg
Website: https://www.kingshead.ca/
Patent 5
Inside a converted 1890s stable, Patent 5 is a cozy, award-winning distillery that brings craft cocktails and timeless spirits to the Exchange District. Their tasting room honours the building’s history, featuring stained glass, reclaimed wood, and vintage pieces. It sets the scene for the expertly crafted drinks, made with spirits produced in-house. Expect seasonal cocktails that showcase their small-batch gin, vodka, and whiskey, like the Dill With It or Daiquiri Libré. Get these while you can, as their cocktail menu is seasonally refreshed, ensuring you’ll always find something new. The menu also features spirit flights, zero-proof options, and light bites. The atmosphere is relaxed but refined, perfect for sipping something special with friends. Patent 5 is a must-visit for cocktail and history lovers looking for a cozy, craft experience.
108 Alexander Ave
Instagram: @patent5distillery
Website: https://patent5.ca/
Select Start
Select Start is part bar, part arcade, and entirely unlike anywhere else in the city. This futuristic barcade is packed with vintage video games, an incredible interior design, a nostalgic energy, and Asian-inspired cocktails and sharing plates. Try the yuzu sour or lychee martini to quench your thirst, and don’t miss the spam fries or nori dog if you’re feeling peckish. Influenced by Japanese video game culture, the space was lovingly designed by Winnipeg’s own Fireside Design, who made each section of the barcade feel like its own world. Happy hour lets you game for free, or pay a cover charge to play all evening. It’s playful, stylish, and endlessly fun — the perfect outing for a spontaneous night out or group hang.
2nd floor, 110 Market Ave
Instagram: @selectstartwpg
Website: https://www.selectstartwpg.com/
The Palomino Club
The Palomino Club is a Winnipeg nightlife institution, first opening its doors in 1988. It’s got country roots and a high-energy party atmosphere, making it world-famous for a reason. It’s seen legends pass through its doors and has long been a favourite hangout for athletes, artists, and anyone looking for a good time. In 2016, it moved to its Exchange District location, and it has stayed true to its legacy, embracing an eclectic mix of music that includes country, classic rock, dance music, and pop anthems. Made famous by its ‘Booty Shaking Mondays’ event, it also hosts live music and multiple theme nights. With a large dance floor, multiple bars, and an enormous capacity, it’s a bumping spot for those looking to let loose. If you’re looking for a place with legacy, energy, and a dance floor that never quits, The Palomino Club has your night covered.
436 Main Street
Instagram: @palominoclub
Website: https://www.palominoclub.ca/
Wee Johnny’s Irish Pub
Wee Johnny’s Irish Pub is a cozy, unpretentious gem with deep roots and a lively spirit. Part authentic Irish pub, part comedy hub, it’s the kind of place where you can catch traditional Irish music one night and stand-up the next. Launched initially as Johnny G’s in 1987, the business now comprises two distinct entities under one roof. Upstairs, at Johnny G’s, you’ll find a greasy spoon-style diner complete with Winnipeg-famous burgers, shakes, and poutines! Downstairs at Wee Johnny’s, live music and performances keep you entertained, with open mic nights every Wednesday, Karaoke every Thursday, and booked comedy shows on weekends. The vibe is welcoming and down-to-earth, with good food, cold drinks, and a regular crowd. If you’re looking for a laid-back hangout with laughs, local talent, and a touch of Irish charm, Wee Johnny’s is your spot.
177 McDermot Ave
Instagram: @weejohnnyspubwpg
Website: https://johnnygs.ca/