The familiar sight of Roxy Lanes on Henderson Highway has disappeared from Winnipeg's landscape, leaving local bowlers and community members mourning the loss of their cherished gathering place. The demolition of the iconic bowling alley at 385 Henderson Highway marks the end of an era as the Manitoba Metis Federation prepares to develop new residential space on the property.
End of an Era for Winnipeg Bowlers
For decades, Roxy Lanes served as more than just a bowling alley—it was a community hub where friendships were forged and memories made. The building's demolition on November 26, 2025 came as a painful sight for regular patrons who had frequented the establishment for years. Many expressed their disappointment at losing what they described as an important social venue in the neighborhood.
Local bowler Michael Thompson shared his reaction to seeing the demolition in progress. "It's terrible to see it go," he told CTV News Winnipeg. "This place was more than just lanes and pins—it was where we celebrated birthdays, held league tournaments, and connected with friends. There's nothing quite like it left in this part of the city."
Transformation to Residential Space
The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) is proceeding with plans to convert the property into much-needed residential housing. The new development will address Winnipeg's growing demand for housing while providing the MMF with additional community space. While details about the specific type of residential units and project timeline remain limited, the organization has confirmed the property will be repurposed to serve the community in new ways.
The demolition comes at a time when Winnipeg, like many Canadian cities, faces increasing pressure to develop more housing options. The Henderson Highway location offers strategic value with its accessibility and existing infrastructure, making it an attractive site for residential development.
Community Reaction and Future Impact
Reactions from neighborhood residents have been mixed. While many acknowledge the need for additional housing in Winnipeg, some question whether the loss of community spaces like Roxy Lanes represents a broader trend affecting the city's social fabric.
"We understand the need for housing, but we're losing these community gathering places one by one," said Sarah Chen, who lived near the bowling alley for fifteen years. "These spaces are what make neighborhoods feel like communities. I hope whatever replaces Roxy Lanes will include some public amenity space where people can connect."
The demolition was documented by CTV News Winnipeg journalist Joseph Bernacki, who captured images of the work underway on November 26, 2025. His photographs show the former bowling alley in its final stages of being dismantled, with heavy machinery visible on the property where generations of Winnipeggers once enjoyed recreational activities.
As Winnipeg continues to evolve and grow, the transformation of Roxy Lanes represents both the city's pressing need for housing and the difficult trade-offs that come with urban development. The memory of the beloved bowling alley will live on in the stories and photographs of those who considered it their second home.
