Osborne Village, Winnipeg

Beyond the Assiniboine River, Osborne Village is one of Winnipeg’s most dynamic and densely populated neighborhoods. Bordered by the Assiniboine River to the north and west, Harkness Station to the east, and the Osborne Underpass to the south, this eclectic area blends historical roots with boho charm and creative energy.

Osborne Village is named after Osborne Street, itself honoring Lieutenant Colonel William Osborne Smith, Winnipeg’s first military commander. The neighborhood emerged from the Fort Rouge district, annexed in 1882 with just 150 residents, and grew as a suburb after the Parkline streetcar began running in 1891. Key bridges like the Osborne Street Bridge (1882), Maryland (1894), and Main Street (1897) boosted connectivity, while the Osborne Bridge-now adorned with public art-and the Midtown Bridge (1955) further shaped access and identity.

By the early 20th century, Roslyn Road became home to Winnipeg’s elite, with grand mansions lining the street. Elsewhere in the neighborhood, middle-class housing, high-rise riverfront apartments, and key institutions like the Victoria Hospital and Fort Rouge Park (formerly Assiniboine Park) marked the evolution of a mixed urban landscape.

In modern times, Osborne Village has remained a hotspot for culture, nightlife, and community debates. In 2011–2012, locals rallied to preserve neighborhood staples like Movie Village and Vi-Ann restaurant from being displaced by a Shoppers Drug Mart expansion-an episode that highlighted the area's strong sense of identity and grassroots activism.

Today, Osborne Village is a haven for artists and musicians, buzzing with indie boutiques, vinyl record stores, yoga studios, and live music venues. The Gas Station Arts Centre hosts theatre and comedy, while The Toad in the Hole Pub boasts over 160 whiskies, offering cozy vibes with a global twist. On the sweeter side, Baked Expectations serves up Winnipeg’s legendary shmoo torte, drenched in caramel and nostalgia.