Background

The Forks Market: A Historic Hub of Commerce and Culture

Explore local crafts, diverse dining, and rich history at Winnipeg's vibrant Forks Market, a unique destination at the heart of the city.

4.6

Located at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers in Winnipeg, Manitoba, The Forks Market is a vibrant public space with a rich history spanning over 6,000 years. Once a meeting place for Indigenous peoples, a fur trade hub, and a railway center, it now houses a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

A brief summary to The Forks Market

  • 1 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, Downtown, Manitoba, R3C 4L8, CA
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Explore the upper level for unique, locally-made items, from books and candles to clothing and art.
  • Check out The Common for a selection of local craft beers and wines to pair with your meal from the food hall.
  • Take a walk along the riverwalk for scenic views of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers.
  • Visit the Travel Manitoba Visitor Information Centre for brochures, maps, and information about The Forks and other Manitoba attractions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Winnipeg Transit offers several routes to The Forks. Use the Navigo app or Winnipeg Transit's website to plan your trip. The BLUE rapid transit line stops directly outside The Forks on Main Street. From nearby stops like Union Station, Main Street, and Broadway, it's a short walk or bike ride to The Forks. A single fare is $3.

  • Walking

    The Forks is easily accessible on foot from downtown Winnipeg. From the intersection of Portage and Main, head south on Main Street. Turn left onto Forks Market Road. The Forks Market will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. Pedestrian and bicycle access is also available along the Riverwalk.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Winnipeg. A taxi from Winnipeg Airport to The Forks Market costs approximately $21-$26. From downtown, a short taxi or ride-share trip to The Forks will typically cost $15-$20. Be aware that rates may vary.

  • Parking

    Paid parking is available on-site at The Forks, with hourly rates. There are several parking lots managed by The Forks North Portage Corporation. Parking fees are approximately $2.90 per hour. Be aware that parking can be challenging during peak seasons and special events.

Unlock the Best of The Forks Market

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Forks Market

The Forks Market stands as a testament to Winnipeg's dynamic history, evolving from an ancient Indigenous gathering spot to a modern-day hub of commerce and culture. For thousands of years, the site served as a meeting place for Indigenous groups, who utilized the area for trade, fishing, and settlement. The Forks' strategic location at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers made it a vital transportation route and a rich source of food and resources. In the 18th and 19th centuries, European fur traders arrived, establishing forts and trading posts that transformed The Forks into a bustling center of the fur trade. The Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company both utilized the site to store and ship supplies and furs, further solidifying its importance as a commercial hub. As the fur trade declined in the late 19th century, The Forks transitioned into a railway center, with several railway companies establishing yards and infrastructure in the area. Many of the buildings still standing at The Forks today date from this era, including the former horse stables of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway and the Great Northern Railway, which now house The Forks Market. Today, The Forks Market offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. The market features a vibrant food hall with diverse dining options, as well as shops selling locally made crafts, souvenirs, and specialty items. Visitors can also explore the site's history at the nearby Forks National Historic Site or enjoy a stroll along the scenic riverwalk. The Forks hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and cultural celebrations.

Popular Experiences near The Forks Market

Popular Hotels near The Forks Market

Select Currency