Visit Fort Garry: A Real-Life Hallmark Movie Hotel
If you’ve ever dreamed of getting swept away in a Hallmark holiday movie romance, now is your chance. We’re proud to say the historic Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre is the filming location of Hallmark’s “A Suite Holiday Romance,” starring Jessy Schram and Dominic Sherwood. Our hotel was chosen for its opulent interiors, gorgeous lighting, and timeless magnetism, where guests and film stars can lose themselves in grand architecture and old-world elegance. The Fort Garry Hotel is where movie magic meets real-life romance — and you can book a stay with us to experience a Hallmark-worthy holiday of your own.
Filmed at Fort Garry: A Peek Behind the Scenes
It’s easy to see why Fort Garry was chosen as the setting for a Hallmark holiday love story. Every corner of our Winnipeg icon looks ready for its close-up. In the film, you’ll spot the Oval Room Brasserie, where rich wood, golden light, and a stunning domed ceiling create the perfect backdrop for a holiday meet-cute. Also shown in the movie, the elegant banisters of the grand staircase catch the glow of the lights, and the check-in desk stands warm and welcoming.
Even when the cameras aren’t rolling, Fort Garry’s blend of historic grandeur and modern comfort gives every stay a cinematic quality. It’s the kind of place where couples linger over breakfast in the grand dining room or wander hand-in-hand beneath chandeliers that have witnessed generations of love stories.
Come stroll through the elegant hallways and imagine film crews setting up shots for festive balls and long-awaited reunions. When night falls, picture yourself as part of the story: snowflakes swirling outside, soft piano notes drifting from the lounge, and a sense of magic that comes from being someplace special.
Why Fort Garry Is the Top Choice for Romantic Hotels in Winnipeg
Just steps from the city’s most picturesque winter scenes, Fort Garry is the heart of a romantic getaway in Manitoba, where couples can live out a Hallmark romance of their own. Unwind together at Ten Spa, our award-winning retreat. Follow it up with dinner at Vida Cucina Italia, where you’ll enjoy authentic Italian cuisine reimagined with modern culinary artistry. End the day cozied up in one of our beautifully restored suites, where vintage touches meet modern luxury.
You can also choose to indulge in our exclusive romance package. In addition to enjoying the hotel’s charming, historic atmosphere, you and your loved one will stay in luxury overnight accommodations while sipping sparkling wine and nibbling chocolate-dipped strawberries. In the morning, enjoy breakfast for two in the Oval Room Brasserie.
Romance here doesn’t stop at the hotel doors. With our downtown Winnipeg location, Fort Garry puts you within easy reach of riverside walks, carriage rides, and winter festivals that sparkle under a dusting of snow.
Discover Winnipeg’s Other Hallmark Filming Locations
While the Fort Garry Hotel may be the star of “A Suite Holiday Romance,” there are dozens of other Hallmark movies filmed in Winnipeg. Canada is a popular filming location for Hallmark movies, with most being shot around Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto, and Ottawa. But Winnipeg’s blend of historic charm, snowy streets, and welcoming community has made it a favourite destination for movie crews — and Fort Garry is an ideal home base for exploring local filming spots.
- Start your “movie trail” right at Fort Garry with a warm and decadent breakfast at the Oval Room Brasserie.
- Next, step outside and take a short walk to the Exchange District. With its cobblestone streets and vintage architecture, this neighbourhood has doubled as countless small-town main streets in Hallmark and Lifetime films. It’s easy to picture fairy lights strung between the buildings or a spontaneous snowball fight breaking out in front of a café.
- Then, head north to Garden City Collegiate. The school’s classic design has appeared in several productions — proof that Hallmark’s signature magic can happen anywhere.
- For a snack break straight out of a meet-cute, stop by Hildegard’s Bakery — spotted in 2024’s “Following Yonder Star” — for fresh pastries, bread, pizza and cozy Scandinavian vibes. Or, grab a table at Chino’s Bistro, known for its wood-fired pizzas and warm, welcoming energy. This local spot became the fictional Landover Tavern in “Autumn on Apple Hill.”
When your day winds down, head back to Fort Garry. As you pass under the chandeliers or look out at the glittering city lights, you’ll understand why filmmakers keep coming back.
Create Your Own Hallmark-Worthy Winter Getaway
If watching Hallmark movies makes you want to grab a scarf and disappear into a snow-globe town, Winnipeg is the place to go. With twinkling lights, horse-drawn sleighs and soft snowfall that seems to arrive right on cue, our city is the perfect place for a romantic getaway in Manitoba.
When To Visit
The magic starts in late November, when the first flakes fall and the city begins to dazzle with holiday decor. Through January and February, Winnipeg is alive with seasonal events, skating trails, and cozy indoor escapes. Visit in December, especially to experience the festivals: think light displays, Christmas markets, and that crisp, storybook air.
Local Tip: Winnipeg is walkable in winter, especially around downtown and The Forks. Most attractions are within easy reach of the Fort Garry Hotel, and many of the city’s scenic spots are connected by pedestrian pathways kept clear throughout the season.
Romantic Things To See and Do
Looking for the best romantic winter activities in Manitoba? Ask our concierge for recommendations and check out these favourite local things to do:
- Skate at The Forks: Glide hand-in-hand along one of the world’s longest natural skating trails, with warming huts and hot chocolate stops along the way.
- Assiniboine Park: Take a romantic walk through frosted gardens or lace up for an afternoon skate beneath the lights.
- Sleigh Rides & Light Festivals: Experience the glow of the Canad Inns Winter Wonderland drive-through light show, or book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered trails.
- Cozy Cocoa Stops: Embark on your own mini hot-chocolate crawl through downtown’s cutest cafés.
Tips for Planning Your Stay
Book Early
The holiday season is one of the busiest times at Fort Garry, so secure your room and meal reservations and Ten Spa appointments well in advance. These experiences fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during special events.
Check Back for Special Packages
Keep an eye out for Hallmark-inspired exclusive packages or film location tours that highlight Winnipeg’s starring role in “A Suite Holiday Romance” and other productions shot across the city.
Whether you’re a movie lover or just looking for a romantic getaway in Manitoba, let the Fort Garry Hotel be the backdrop. The clink of glasses, the scent of cedar, the warmth that cuts through the cold — linger and watch the city lights blur into something that feels like falling in love.
Reserve your stay and live your holiday love story at the Fort Garry Hallmark movie hotel.