The new Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport Hotel, a 7 minutes drive from Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and open since October 2022, is owned by Long Plain First Nation, located on Treaty One Territory on Long Plain Madison Reserve, Winnipeg‘s first urban reserve. The hotel is part of the Wyndham Garden group, being the first Indigenous-owned hotel under that brand. It’s managed by long-established Sparrow Hotels.
Thoughtful design celebrating Indigenous culture and a tranquil colour scheme inspired by the Earth makes guests feel welcome. The 132-room hotel features a unique curvature not seen in a typical hotel block as a reflection of the circle of life. Space for natural light is prominent throughout the building which was designed to greet the sun with an east-facing main entrance, a common theme among Indigenous traditions and cultures.
Smudging and pipe ceremonies are welcome, with spaces built to fire code keeping these important traditions front of mind. Unique pieces of Indigenous art grace each room, many of them created by Garry Meeches on the 4th floor, Cyril Assiniboine on the 3rd floor, and Linus Woods on the 2nd floor, whom are all Long Plain artists. Near each elevator, there is a massive focal piece.
A designated room can be used as a Knowledge Keepers’ gathering room by Elders staying at the hotel. The property also features a pool and fitness area as well as a souvenir shop, offering jewellery and dream catchers by Long Plains First Nation artists. The hotel offers bilingual service in English and Ojibway, with wayfinding signs throughout the hotel reflecting this too. At the dining room at Manoomin restaurant (translates to wild rice), Manitoba ingredients take centre stage. The earth-inspired menu by Executive Chef Jennifer Ballantyne of the Opaskwayak Cree Nation offers numerous dishes highlighting bison, berries, grains, granola, seeds and pickerel.
The Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport is conveniently located to many Winnipeg sights. CF Polo Park shopping centre and shopping on St. James is only blocks away, while a visit to Assiniboine Park & Zoo is a quick 10-minute drive. Downtown, only 15 minutes away, is the hub for top attractions such as The Forks, Manitoba Museum, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Exchange District, Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq and much more.
Further information can be found at Wyndham Garden Winnipeg Airport and with Travel Manitoba.