Winnipeg offers an impressive array of unique off-site venues perfect for hosting memorable large group events. Whether you're planning a gala dinner, cocktail reception, corporate meeting, or group activity, the city provides diverse options that range from historic sites steeped in heritage to modern spaces with panoramic views, and from sporty settings to cultural institutions. With venues capable of accommodating groups from 30 to 2,500 guests, Winnipeg has the perfect space for events of any scale.

From the grandeur of Canada Life Centre to the architectural beauty of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, from the historic charm of Lower Fort Garry to the natural beauty of FortWhyte Alive, Winnipeg's event venues offer something special for every occasion. This guide will help you navigate the city's outstanding event spaces and find the perfect venue to create lasting memories for your attendees.

Winnipeg's Largest Event Venues

For truly large-scale events, Winnipeg offers several impressive venues with substantial capacity. These spaces are ideal for major corporate events, galas, conferences, and large receptions.

Canada Life Centre

With a total facility size of 440,000 square feet and the ability to accommodate up to 2,500 guests for receptions or 1,700 for seated dinners, Canada Life Centre stands as Winnipeg's premier large-scale event venue. This state-of-the-art facility is home to the Winnipeg Jets and offers flexible event spaces that can be configured for everything from intimate gatherings to massive corporate functions. The venue's modern amenities, professional event staff, and central downtown location make it an ideal choice for high-profile events.

Canadian Mennonite University

Boasting 250,000 square feet of total facility space with a largest meeting room of 7,500 square feet, Canadian Mennonite University offers substantial capacity for large events. The venue can accommodate up to 750 guests for receptions or 450 for seated dinners, making it perfect for academic conferences, corporate meetings, and large social gatherings. The university's modern facilities combined with its peaceful campus setting provide an excellent environment for professional events.

Assiniboia Downs Gaming & Event Centre

With 45,500 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 24,000 square feet, Assiniboia Downs offers impressive capacity for large events. The venue can host up to 1,500 guests for receptions or 800 for seated dinners. The unique racetrack setting adds character to any event, and the facility's gaming amenities provide additional entertainment options for attendees.

Pro Tip: When planning large events, book well in advance—Winnipeg's premier venues are popular and often booked months ahead, especially during peak seasons like summer and the holiday period.

Historic & Cultural Venues

Winnipeg's rich history and cultural heritage are reflected in its many historic venues, which offer unique character and atmosphere for events.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

One of Winnipeg's most architecturally striking buildings, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights offers 27,546 square feet of event space with a largest meeting room of 12,305 square feet. The venue can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for receptions or 450 for seated dinners. Events held here benefit from the museum's stunning design, world-class exhibits, and inspiring atmosphere. The Tower of Hope provides a breathtaking backdrop for any gathering, and the museum's commitment to human rights creates a meaningful context for corporate social responsibility events and cultural celebrations.

Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site

Step back in time at Lower Fort Garry, Canada's oldest stone fur trading post still intact. With 5,316 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 1,632 square feet, this historic site can accommodate up to 200 guests for receptions or 80 for seated dinners. The fort's authentic 19th-century buildings and beautiful riverside setting create an unforgettable atmosphere for events. This venue is perfect for those seeking a unique, historically significant location that tells a story about Canada's past.

Fort Gibraltar

Located in St. Boniface, Fort Gibraltar offers 3,880 square feet of space with a largest meeting room of 2,400 square feet. The venue can host up to 180 guests for receptions or 140 for seated dinners. This reconstructed fur trading post provides an authentic historical setting that's perfect for themed events, cultural celebrations, and gatherings that want to connect with Manitoba's Métis heritage.

Le Musee de Saint-Boniface / St. Boniface Museum

This historic museum, housed in Winnipeg's oldest building, offers an intimate setting for smaller events. The venue can accommodate up to 70 guests, making it perfect for intimate receptions, small corporate gatherings, or cultural events. The museum's rich history and connection to Winnipeg's Francophone community add depth and meaning to any event held here.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Winnipeg's world-class museums and cultural institutions offer unique event spaces that combine functionality with inspiring surroundings.

Manitoba Museum

With 62,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 9,750 square feet, the Manitoba Museum offers substantial capacity for events. The venue can accommodate up to 1,500 guests for receptions or 500 for seated dinners. Events here benefit from the museum's fascinating exhibits, including world-class fossils, life-sized dioramas, and the Nonsuch ketch replica. The museum's diverse spaces allow for creative event configurations, and guests can explore exhibits during receptions.

Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq

The Winnipeg Art Gallery, home to the world's largest collection of contemporary Inuit art, offers 125,000 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 2,700 square feet. The venue can accommodate up to 300 guests for receptions or 200 for seated dinners. The gallery's stunning architecture, including the striking Qaumajuq building, provides a sophisticated backdrop for events. Art exhibitions can be incorporated into events, creating a unique cultural experience for attendees.

Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

Located at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, the Royal Aviation Museum offers a unique event space with 86 square feet of meeting room space and the ability to accommodate up to 500 guests for receptions or 160 for seated dinners. The museum's collection of historic aircraft provides an impressive backdrop for events, and the Observation Lounge offers views of the airport runways. This venue is perfect for aviation-themed events, corporate gatherings, and unique celebrations.

Children's Museum

With 33,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 2,050 square feet, the Children's Museum offers a playful and engaging setting for events. The venue can accommodate up to 180 guests for receptions or 150 for seated dinners. This space is perfect for family-friendly corporate events, team-building activities, and gatherings that want to incorporate interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences.

Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

This 3,000-square-foot venue offers a sports-themed setting perfect for athletic events, team celebrations, and corporate gatherings with a sports focus. The venue can accommodate up to 80 guests for both receptions and seated dinners, making it ideal for intimate gatherings that want to celebrate Manitoba's sporting heritage.

Performing Arts & Entertainment Venues

Winnipeg's performing arts venues offer elegant settings for events that combine entertainment with sophisticated atmosphere.

Centennial Concert Hall

With 53,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 16,000 square feet, Centennial Concert Hall offers impressive capacity for events. The venue can accommodate up to 1,500 guests for receptions or 1,000 for seated dinners. This elegant performing arts venue provides a sophisticated setting for galas, corporate events, and cultural celebrations. The hall's beautiful architecture and excellent acoustics make it perfect for events that include live performances.

The Metropolitan Entertainment Centre by Canad Inns

Offering 10,982 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 7,400 square feet, The Metropolitan can accommodate up to 999 guests for receptions or 580 for seated dinners. This modern entertainment venue combines functionality with style, making it perfect for corporate events, social gatherings, and celebrations that want both space and amenities.

Outdoor & Nature Venues

For events that want to connect with nature, Winnipeg offers several beautiful outdoor and nature-focused venues.

FortWhyte Alive

This 640-acre nature preserve offers 18,000 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 3,000 square feet. The venue can accommodate up to 140 guests for receptions or 110 for seated dinners. Events here benefit from the natural beauty of the prairie landscape, with opportunities for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and connection with nature. The venue's restaurant patio offers stunning views, especially during bird migration seasons.

Oak Hammock Marsh

With 8,640 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 2,650 square feet, Oak Hammock Marsh offers a unique natural setting for events. The venue can accommodate up to 250 guests for receptions or 120 for seated dinners. This wetland conservation area provides a peaceful, natural backdrop for events, with opportunities for bird watching and nature walks.

Journey to Churchill Exhibit at Assiniboine Park Zoo

This unique venue offers 8,570 square feet of space and can accommodate up to 250 guests for receptions or 80 for seated dinners. Events here provide the unforgettable experience of being surrounded by polar bears and other Arctic wildlife. The immersive exhibit creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that guests will remember long after the event ends.

Tundra Grill (Assiniboine Park Zoo)

With 4,300 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 800 square feet, Tundra Grill offers a more intimate zoo setting. The venue can accommodate up to 140 guests for receptions or 100 for seated dinners. This space combines dining with wildlife viewing, creating a memorable experience for attendees.

Sports & Recreation Venues

Winnipeg's sports venues offer dynamic settings for events that want to incorporate athletic energy and team spirit.

Princess Auto Stadium

Home to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Princess Auto Stadium offers 23,208 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 7,280 square feet. The venue can accommodate up to 400 guests for receptions or 350 for seated dinners. Events here benefit from the stadium's impressive facilities and the energy of a major sports venue. This is perfect for corporate events, team celebrations, and gatherings that want to incorporate sports themes.

Transcona Country Club

With 24,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 20,000 square feet, Transcona Country Club offers substantial capacity for events. The venue can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for receptions or 1,400 for seated dinners. This golf and country club setting provides an elegant, relaxed atmosphere perfect for corporate events, social gatherings, and celebrations.

Niakwa Country Club

Offering 5,481 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 2,835 square feet, Niakwa Country Club can accommodate up to 300 guests for receptions or 220 for seated dinners. This golf course setting provides a beautiful, upscale environment for events.

St. Boniface Golf Club

With 3,679 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 3,288 square feet, St. Boniface Golf Club can accommodate up to 250 guests for both receptions and seated dinners. This historic golf club offers an elegant setting with views of the golf course.

Breweries & Distilleries

Winnipeg's craft beverage scene offers unique, casual venues perfect for relaxed corporate events, team building, and social gatherings.

Torque Brewing Co.

With 16,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 350 square feet, Torque Brewing offers a casual, industrial setting perfect for relaxed events. The venue can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it ideal for smaller corporate gatherings, team-building events, and social celebrations that want to incorporate craft beer culture.

Devil May Care Brewing Company

Offering 4,500 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 4,000 square feet, Devil May Care can accommodate up to 100 guests. This brewery setting provides a casual, friendly atmosphere perfect for team events and social gatherings.

La Brasserie Nonsuch Brewing Co.

This brewery offers a unique setting for smaller events, perfect for casual corporate gatherings, team-building activities, and social celebrations that want to incorporate Winnipeg's craft beer culture.

Little Brown Jug Brewing Company

Another option in Winnipeg's craft beer scene, Little Brown Jug offers a casual venue perfect for relaxed events and social gatherings.

Capital K Distillery

This intimate distillery venue can accommodate up to 30 guests, making it perfect for small corporate gatherings, tastings, and intimate celebrations. The distillery setting offers a unique, sophisticated atmosphere.

Educational & University Venues

Winnipeg's educational institutions offer modern, professional event spaces with excellent amenities.

University of Manitoba

With 10,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 9,870 square feet, the University of Manitoba offers substantial capacity for events. The venue can accommodate up to 750 guests for receptions or 528 for seated dinners. The university's modern facilities and beautiful campus setting provide an excellent environment for academic conferences, corporate meetings, and large social gatherings.

The University of Winnipeg

Offering a largest meeting room of 5,700 square feet, The University of Winnipeg can accommodate up to 300 guests for receptions or 250 for seated dinners. The university's central downtown location and modern facilities make it convenient for events.

Unique & Specialty Venues

Winnipeg offers several unique venues that provide distinctive settings for memorable events.

Red River Exhibition Park

With 39,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 35,750 square feet, Red River Exhibition Park offers impressive capacity for large events. The venue can accommodate up to 700 guests for receptions or 400 for seated dinners. This multi-purpose facility is perfect for trade shows, large corporate events, and exhibitions.

Manitoba Hydro Place

This modern office building offers a largest meeting room of 4,500 square feet and can accommodate up to 600 guests for receptions or 350 for seated dinners. The building's LEED Platinum certification and modern design make it perfect for corporate events focused on sustainability and innovation.

Millennium Library

With 5,963 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 2,016 square feet, Millennium Library offers a unique setting for events. The venue can accommodate up to 80 guests for receptions or 60 for seated dinners. This modern library setting is perfect for literary events, academic gatherings, and intimate corporate meetings.

Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art

Offering 2,600 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 1,315 square feet, Plug In can accommodate up to 400 guests for receptions or 100 for seated dinners. This contemporary art space provides a sophisticated, creative atmosphere perfect for cultural events, art openings, and creative corporate gatherings.

Kitchen Sync

With 4,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 3,800 square feet, Kitchen Sync can accommodate up to 100 guests for receptions or 54 for seated dinners. This unique venue offers a culinary-focused setting perfect for food-related events, cooking classes, and intimate gatherings.

Piazza De Nardi

This venue can accommodate up to 120 guests for receptions or 80 for seated dinners, offering an intimate setting perfect for smaller corporate events and social gatherings.

Pineridge Hollow

With 4,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 768 square feet, Pineridge Hollow can accommodate up to 65 guests for receptions or 55 for seated dinners. This rustic, natural setting provides a charming atmosphere for intimate events.

Cultural & Community Venues

Winnipeg's diverse cultural community offers venues that celebrate the city's multicultural heritage.

Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain (CCFM)

With 10,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 6,210 square feet, CCFM can accommodate up to 554 guests for receptions or 420 for seated dinners. This venue celebrates Winnipeg's Francophone culture and is perfect for cultural events, community gatherings, and celebrations of French-Canadian heritage.

Centro Caboto Centre

Offering 9,490 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 5,200 square feet, Centro Caboto Centre can accommodate up to 400 guests for receptions or 350 for seated dinners. This Italian cultural centre provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for cultural celebrations, community events, and social gatherings.

Japanese Cultural Association of Manitoba, Inc.

With 7,000 square feet of total space and a largest meeting room of 3,400 square feet, this venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for receptions or 150 for seated dinners. The Japanese cultural setting provides a unique, elegant atmosphere for events.

Neeginan Centre

Offering 10,000 square feet of total space with a largest meeting room of 5,600 square feet, Neeginan Centre can accommodate up to 550 guests for receptions or 350 for seated dinners. This Indigenous cultural centre provides a meaningful setting for events that want to honour and celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage.

La Maison Des Artistes Visuels Francophones

This venue can accommodate up to 70 guests, offering an intimate setting perfect for art-related events, cultural gatherings, and small corporate meetings that want to celebrate Francophone visual arts.

Planning Tips for Large Group Events in Winnipeg

Successfully planning a large group event in Winnipeg requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are essential tips to ensure your event is memorable and successful.

Book Early

Winnipeg's premier event venues are in high demand, especially during peak seasons. For large events, start planning and booking at least 6-12 months in advance. This gives you access to the best dates and allows time to coordinate all the details.

Consider Your Group Size

Match your venue to your actual group size. While it's tempting to book a larger space "just in case," oversized venues can make smaller groups feel lost. Conversely, booking a space that's too small creates discomfort and logistical challenges. Use the capacity information provided in this guide to find the right fit.

Think About Location

Consider your attendees' needs when choosing a location. Downtown venues like Canada Life Centre and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights offer easy access for out-of-town guests staying in hotels. Venues like FortWhyte Alive and Oak Hammock Marsh provide unique experiences but require transportation planning. Our Airbnb in Crescentwood offers convenient access to many downtown venues, making it an ideal base for event attendees.

Consider the Season

Winnipeg's climate varies dramatically between seasons. Outdoor venues like FortWhyte Alive and Oak Hammock Marsh are beautiful in summer but may not be suitable for winter events. Indoor venues provide year-round reliability, while some venues offer both indoor and outdoor options for flexibility.

Work with Local Vendors

Winnipeg has excellent local caterers, event planners, and service providers who understand the city's venues and can help ensure your event runs smoothly. Many venues have preferred vendor lists, but you can also work with independent local businesses to create a unique experience.

Plan for Transportation

For large events, consider transportation logistics. Some venues offer parking, while others may require valet services or shuttle arrangements. Winnipeg's transit system can be useful for getting attendees to and from events, especially for downtown venues.

Perfect Home Base: Our Airbnb in Crescentwood offers the perfect location for event attendees. With easy access to downtown venues, comfortable accommodations for groups, and proximity to restaurants and attractions, it's an ideal base for those attending or organizing events in Winnipeg.

Making Your Event Memorable

Winnipeg's unique venues offer more than just space—they provide atmosphere, character, and experiences that make events truly memorable. Whether you choose the architectural grandeur of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the historic charm of Lower Fort Garry, the natural beauty of FortWhyte Alive, or the modern sophistication of Canada Life Centre, your venue choice sets the tone for your entire event.

Consider incorporating Winnipeg's local culture into your event. Many venues can arrange for local performers, Indigenous cultural experiences, or tours of their facilities. The city's diverse culinary scene offers excellent catering options, and local breweries and distilleries can provide unique beverage experiences.

For event organizers and attendees visiting Winnipeg, our Airbnb in Crescentwood provides comfortable, convenient accommodations. Located in one of Winnipeg's most beautiful historic neighborhoods, it offers easy access to downtown venues while providing a peaceful retreat after busy event days. With space for groups and proximity to restaurants, attractions, and event venues, it's the perfect home base for your Winnipeg event experience.

Team Winnipeg Venues: Many of Winnipeg's premier event venues are members of Team Winnipeg, a collaborative network of venues, hotels, and service providers dedicated to making events in the city successful. Look for the heart icon when researching venues—it indicates Team Winnipeg membership and access to coordinated services.

Conclusion

Winnipeg offers an impressive diversity of event venues that can accommodate groups from 30 to 2,500 guests. From historic sites that tell Canada's story to modern facilities with cutting-edge amenities, from natural settings that connect with the prairie landscape to cultural institutions that celebrate diversity, the city provides venues that can make any event memorable.

Whether you're planning a corporate gala, a cultural celebration, a team-building retreat, or a large social gathering, Winnipeg has the perfect venue to meet your needs. The key is matching your event's goals, size, and atmosphere to the right space—and with so many outstanding options, you're sure to find the ideal venue for creating lasting memories for your attendees.

For those organizing or attending events in Winnipeg, our Airbnb in Crescentwood offers the perfect home base. With its convenient location, comfortable accommodations, and proximity to many of the city's premier event venues, it provides an ideal setting for your Winnipeg event experience. Whether you're hosting a small corporate meeting or attending a large gala, Winnipeg's unique venues and welcoming atmosphere will help make your event a success.