Winnipeg hostels are clean, convenient, safe and cheap

Winnipeg hostels welcome all ages and are right downtown, close to everything.

There are two hostels in Winnipeg, and either one compares well to hostels I’ve stayed at and enjoyed elsewhere in the world.

Same city central location, same basic but functional and clean furnishings and décor, same warm welcome from hosts proud to share their local knowledge, and the same interesting encounters with travelers of all ages (priceless!).

Hostelling International Winnipeg Downtowner – almost like going back to college!

When I first saw the Downtowner's minimalist rooms, I thought I was in one of those dreams where you’re back in university (and about to flunk math).

Except my old shared dorm room was a lot smaller and the furniture was way more beaten up.

Recently renovated and painted throughout, the Downtowner is just a short walk from theatres, restaurants, museums, the MTS Centre, shopping and a 10-minute bus ride away from The Forks.

Dorm rooms and basic but comfortable private motel-style rooms with ensuite and two double beds, or family rooms (comfortably large enough for four) and also ensuite.

Shared kitchen, coin laundry, games room/lounge/TV room and outdoor garden/patio.

Free parking, lockers and Wi-Fi. They also offer some programming, such as group trips to Churchill.

The Lo Bistro was also recently renovated and has a funky ’50s-’60s ambiance, serving 100-mile fare including vegetarian, vegan, fish, chicken and bison burgers.

The cosy Lo Pub caters to a mixed crowd of students and downtown workers and residents, with DJs and local up-and-coming bands on weekends hosted by owner Jack Jonasson, a musician himself.

The Downtowner caters mostly to students, backpackers and families in either English or French, but gives a warm welcome to any budget-minded visitor.

Single in a dorm-style room is $29/night; a family room is $79/night. Special rates for groups, students and for longer stays.

Hostelling International Winnipeg Downtowner, 330 Kennedy Street, Winnipeg. (204) 943-5581.

Guest House International – a Winnipeg hostel in a Victorian mansion

Close to downtown and a short walk to The Forks, Guest House International has dorm-style, single and double rooms, a shared kitchen, a games room, barbecue, laundry facilities, Internet access and bicycle rentals.

It’s in an inner city neighbourhood that is OK during the day, but less safe at night, and it’s not a good idea to go out alone after dark (this is true for all of downtown Winnipeg).

Pets are welcome at Guest House International. About $25 to $60 per night.

Guest House International, 168 Maryland Street, Winnipeg. (204) 772-1272.