winter travel destinations ontario

13 Best Places To Visit In Ontario During Winter

Ontario is a large province with many activities and attractions for all kinds of people. Whether you love spending your time in the confines of a city or being out and about in nature, you won’t go wrong with these places to visit in Ontario during winter.

The province turns into a winter wonderland packed with dozens of activities during the cold months. From skiing trails and outdoor rinks to Christmas markets and art galleries, deciding where to go in Ontario can be difficult. If you find yourself in that predicament, don’t worry any further. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the best places to visit in Ontario in winter. With this guide, you’ll be fully informed about your preferred winter getaways in Ontario .

How Cold Does Ontario Get In Winter?

No matter how one looks at it, winter in Ontario can get cold. Frozen lakes, beautiful frozen waterfalls and vast blankets of snow type of cold. Being the second-largest province in Canada, Ontario has a variety of climates, ranging from extremely cold to relatively mild.

The secret to managing the coldness of Ontario during the winter is to dress in layers. Walking outside, you may find yourself in temperatures of -30°C or lower (when taking wind chill into account), but the cities generally stay around 0°C. Hence, we Torontonians start crying the minute mercury goes below 0°C.

Multiple layers on your body help you quickly adjust to the temperature changes while going in and out of buildings.

What to pack for winter in Ontario

It is important to dress appropriately for the coldest months of the year to make the most of winter. Layering is essential for staying warm, and materials like wool and thermal fabrics are great choices.

Adding a high-performance winter coat and snow pants to your wardrobe is also advised for outdoor activities. You also want to cover your extremities, as gloves, a toque, balaclava, scarf, and thick wool/thermal socks should all be included in your winter wardrobe.

Lastly, winter boots should reach up to the calf to allow you to traverse the snow easily.

The Best Winter Destinations in Ontario

If you’re set on spending winter in Ontario, here are some of the best sites to visit in this wonderland. 

Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival-style mansion dating back to the turn of the 20th century, is one of Toronto’s most renowned tourist attractions.

It is a popular spot for TV filming, photoshoots, weddings, and special events, boasting the awe-inspiring architecture and stunning estate gardens. Every year, the estate is transformed into a winter wonderland with enchanting decorations and lights. For an even more magical experience, visitors can explore the castle and its century-old artifacts.

Toronto Christmas Market

The Toronto Christmas Market is one of the most highly-rated Christmas markets worldwide and is a must-see if you’re in Ontario during this period.

Every year, in November and December, the market is held in the Distillery Historic District. It offers many attractions, such as light canopies, cobblestone pathways, red-brick buildings, entertainers, and a 50-foot-high, fully adorned Christmas tree.

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, souvenirs, stocking stuffers, clothes, handmade jewelry, or even a festive atmosphere, the Toronto Christmas Market has something for everyone. There are a variety of specialty shops selling an array of items, from postcards to pottery, and you can even indulge in some sweet treats from Eva’s Chimney Cakes or Brick Street Bakery.

To top it all off, nothing beats a cup of hot mulled wine or hot chocolate in the wintery weather! Trust us!

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, one of North America’s most famous landmarks, draws in millions of visitors annually. This natural wonder sits on the Canada-US border by the Niagara River and is a great visit all year round. However, the falls turn into a peaceful paradise without crowds in the winter — which is why I recommend visiting around this time.

Pathways boasting trees covered in snow, chunks of floating ice, and 50-meter cascades await here. If lady luck is on your side, you may see frozen parts of the falls. 

You can also enjoy 360-degree views from the Skylon Tower or on a 12-minute scenic helicopter flight above the falls. The former even features a revolving restaurant that ensures you enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery with delicious cuisine.

Stay until evening to enjoy the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, where 8 km of the Niagara Parkway is lit up. This spectacle is especially mesmerizing in winter as the falls reflect the rainbow lighting.

Blue Mountain

Blue Mountain is easily one of Ontario’s best places to go in winter. This winter wonderland is a treasure trove for anyone who loves winter sports. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, tubing, and the like are all offered.

I recommend going to the wondrous Blue Village to make the most of your visit. There are 42 tracks and 16 chairlifts, and lessons and gear rentals to help you take on the slopes. Once here, be sure to skate at the Woodview Mountaintop to enjoy panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment.

Don’t fret if you aren’t a fan of adrenaline-filled winter activities — there are plenty of relaxing things to do in the town. Take in waterfront views and misty air while strolling through Sunset View Park. As an alternative, I recommend visiting a spa and enjoying serenity as the most capable hands pamper you. Since I consider the resort one of the top places to visit near Toronto in winter, I recommend you visit as part of a day trip from Toronto .

Rideau Canal Skateway

Rideau Canal Skateway is considered one of the quintessential winter places to visit in Ontario. Every winter season, this UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts thousands of visitors ready to put their feet to use. 

Once the canal has frozen over, it takes shape as the world’s largest skating rink, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The 7,8-kilometer-long rink offers you 165,621 m² of ice to skate on.

Tie your skates and glide around downtown Ottawa for the best stretch of the rink. Skaters here zoom past many of the iconic landmarks uniquely entrenched in Canadian history. Perhaps my favourite part of the downtown section of the canal is the opportunity to enjoy some delicacies from one of the kiosks here.

No winter trip is complete without a visit to the nation’s capital. During winter, the trees, buildings, streets, and everything in between get covered in fluffy white snow that makes for landscapes just begging to be photographed.

Not only does Ottawa look good during winter, but it also offers many Ontario winter activities . That is, of course, in addition to the marvellous Rideau Canal Skateway.

Top of the list is the Ottawa Winterlude *, a festival with something for everyone. For two weeks, attendants participate in ski racing, ice sculpting competitions, dancing parties and more.

Another activity you can’t miss is the Gatineau Loppet, a cross-country ski event with several races. Annually, over 2,000 skiers participate — and you can join in on the fun as anyone can register for it. Set up on the sides and watch the racers zoom down the slopes if you aren’t ready to compete in the competition.

*The Ottawa Winterlude has been cancelled for 2022, but keep an eye on their website for any changes.

Another city destination to consider as one of the places to visit in winter in Ontario is Kingston . It’s a student city on the Lake Ontario shore renowned for its beautiful scenery and limestone buildings.

Start your Kingston exploration with a stroll around Lake Ontario Park, which boasts scenic lake views. For more adventurous outdoor fun, opt for Frontenac Provincial Park, a haven of trails winding through a lush forest.

Afterwards, visit old Kingston to fill up some of the best coffee and food the city offers. Stroll the snow-covered streets admiring the landscape with a coffee in hand.

During the Christmas season, you’ll find dozens of Christmas markets selling everything from baked delicacies and light displays to gifts. For the other months, I recommend skating at Springer Market Square.

Kingston is also the gateway to the “Thousand Islands,” an archipelago with myriad outdoor activities.

With good reason, Toronto is arguably Canada’s most popular tourist destination. It has a plethora of Ontario winter attractions in addition to the splendour on offer in the summer.

Many people come to Toronto for the Christmas markets, with the Distillery District being the most famous. During the festive period, raid these markets for spectacular gifts, ride a Ferris wheel, and get serenaded by local performers.

If you’re visiting after the Christmas decorations have been taken down, don’t worry, you won’t be left out to dry. The first stop should be Nathan Phillips Square, where you can skate in a rink with live DJs often around. Glide across the ice underneath brightly lit archways with the iconic Toronto sign in the background.

There are also some landmarks to stop at, the first being Casa Loma. The gothic mansion looks straight out of a fairytale and is even more majestic when the light displays are brought to life.

Secondly, visit the iconic CN Tower and stop at the observation deck or the restaurant. Once here, you’re spoiled with 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. If you’re brave enough, people-watch those on the ground through the tower’s glass floor.

The Niagara Escarpment, museums and art galleries, a skiing center and hiking trails — that’s what Burlington has to offer . This city is one of the nicest places to visit in Ontario in winter, with a good selection of indoor and outdoor fun.

In the outdoors, shred the slopes while snowboarding or skiing at the Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Center or take to the snow on a toboggan. Try snowshoeing through a part of the Bruce Trail for something less serious. During the hike, you’ll see plenty of greenery and awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Afterwards, replenish your energy at one of the bars, restaurants, and cafés driving the booming culinary scene.

Plenty of engaging activities await indoors if you aren’t down for some frosty outdoor fun. The first stops should be the ECHO Leahy Center or Ireland House Museum for any history buff interested in the city’s history. Check out over 1,000 ceramics from national artists at the Art Gallery of Burlington for the art enthusiast.

When it comes to natural beauty in winter, there may not be a city in Ontario that compares to Hamilton. This small town is home to over 100 waterfalls, all of which are worth chasing. They make for fantastic photo ops and are also a marvel.

Besides Niagara Falls, Hamilton is the best place to visit in Ontario for frozen cascades. Often, the waterfalls here freeze solid and create a mesmerizing palette of snow whites and pale blues with stone backgrounds. 

If you’d like to enjoy this fantasy-like phenomenon, it’s best to visit around January. Some of the more popular cascades here are Tiffany Falls, Webster Falls, and Felker’s Falls.

Unlike the more popular cities of Ottawa and Toronto, Hamilton’s downtown area isn’t too lively. However, it boasts incredible light display decorations during the festive season, with a large Christmas tree as the show’s star.

Kitchener isn’t high on most people’s destination bucket lists for Ontario, which is what makes it a great getaway in my eyes. Despite its small-town vibe, there are a lot of fun things to do in Kitchener during the cold months.

At the top of the list is skating, skating, and skating. Okay, I may exaggerate a little, but the town has over 30 outdoor skating rinks, including those in neighbouring Waterloo. The one at Waterloo Public Square is arguably the most popular among these rinks.

If skating isn’t your thing, take to the slopes for more winter sports. The Chicopee Ski Club is most people’s go-to, with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing all waiting for you. You can opt for Chicopee Tube Park for some kid-friendly tubing for families. McLennan Park is a great alternative spot if you find Chicopee too crowded. 

Once you’ve had your fair share of fun, take in scenic snow-covered natural greenery and landscapes at the Huron Natural Area.

Indoors, you can enjoy a few interactive exhibitions at TheMuseum — they rotate every few months, so I can’t recommend any specific one. If museums don’t pique your interest, marvel at contemporary artwork by local and international artists at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery (closed on Mondays).

West of Kitchener, you’ll find the quaint city of Stratford , which is most famous for being Justin Bieber’s hometown. Pop sensation aside, the city is another good place to visit in Ontario during winter.

Firstly, make your way to River Valley Winter Tube Slide and tube slide down one of eight lanes. Alternatively, you can move over snow on foot while snowshoeing, hiking, or trekking on various trails in Stratford. This can be done at the beautiful Wildwood Conservation Area and the Avon River Trail.

For a trail of a different kind, take a walk on the Chocolate Trail, that’s famous among those with a sweet tooth. This stretch of road is sprinkled with various chocolate stores selling some of Stratford’s best chocolates. Grab a bite at the Stratford Slow Food Market for more filling food between 10:00 and 13:00.

The Stratford Winterfest is probably the city’s most famous event. This fantastic festival is a real winter wonderland, with ice carving competitions, fat biking, sledding, and igloo building on offer. It’s incredible fun for the entire family and shouldn’t be missed.

Algonquin Provincial Park

A national park should always be part of any travel itinerary for nature lovers. Ontario doesn’t disappoint in that regard, with Algonquin Provincial Park a quintessential visit for enjoying the province’s natural beauty.

The park has a network of trails varying in difficulty and length, so bring your snowshoes and get ready for a scenic hike amongst snow-covered trees. There are also some ski trails if you’d rather slide your way around the park, with the Fen Lake Ski Trail among the popular choices.

For the adrenaline junkies, you can explore the vegetation atop a snowmobile on the Bon Echo Loop. With 200 km of pathways and diners scattered around the area, you can make this a frosty full-day escape.

Matthews Maple Syrup

Canada is renowned for its sweet Maple Syrup. You will always find a bottle of that golden elixir in our place.

During the winter months, frozen maple taffy is a must-have and Matthews Maple Syrup is the place to experience it. At Matthews Maple Syrup’s sugar shack, guests have the opportunity to learn about maple syrup production and observe maple syrup being poured onto the snow to create frozen taffy.

As spring approaches and the weather warms up, visitors can gain further insight into maple syrup production and watch how sap is collected from maple trees and transformed into maple syrup.

Huntsville and Muskoka

Muskoka and the town of Huntsville are some of the most incredible places to see in Ontario during winter. It spoils visitors with many winter activities while surrounded by beautiful trees draped in snow.

In Hunstville, you can go back to when dogs were the chosen method for sledding. The trusted husky team will take you on a winter journey through the winter wonderland in Muskoka.

If you’d rather rely on your own two feet, go ahead and cover some of the skiing trails in Muskoka. For anyone who wants to go beyond the surface, grab your snowshoes and venture deeper into the backcountry.

Some outdoor skating rinks are begging to be shredded, offering excellent skating through a snow-covered forest.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Visiting the Bruce Peninsula National Park in winter is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The park is surrounded by Lake Huron, offering a peaceful environment to explore on foot or cross-country skis. You can admire the majestic icicles, snow-covered trees, and cozy cabins for rent for longer stays. For those who enjoy winter activities, there are plenty of trails to explore. Pack some books and warm clothes, and you will have a memorable winter experience!

Lake Nipissing

If you’re a Canadian or have been in the country for a while, you know how popular the sport of ice fishing is. Every year, millions of people carve holes and wait with bated breath (no pun intended) to catch a big one.

For this activity, Lake Nipissing is easily one of the top places to visit in Ontario. Create a hole on top of the frozen lake, get out your rod and wait. While the cold may be an obstacle, it will be worth the amount of joy of catching a fish.

Once you’ve caught one, get back into your cabin and start working on your meal. You can sink your teeth into it or enjoy a stroll outside while admiring the lake’s landscape. Tip: Since you may be outside for a long time, layer up for the best warmth.

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is the place to go if you’re looking to experience nature and its unique winter landscapes.

This park is the perfect winter getaway with its scenic hiking trails, lookouts, and stunning rock formations. For a truly unforgettable experience, take the 1.3 km Spillway Trail and weave through vertical rock walls, frozen canyons, and caves while admiring the snow-covered trees and valley from the lookout point.

To avoid crowds, it’s best to plan your trip during the off-season and reserve a permit in advance if visiting in peak season, as parking is limited. Despite being close to Toronto, you won’t be the only one there, but it will still be a peaceful and memorable visit.

Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve

The Torrance Barrens Conservation Area is ideal for sky-gazing, with its notably clear night sky, unobstructed horizon, and a limited number of trees. On a clear night, visitors to the Dark Sky Preserve can observe the Milky Way, satellites, and perhaps even shooting stars!

Final Thoughts: Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter

Ontario is a massive province with many big and small towns and cities, parks, and natural attractions. Each place has a unique profile that offers myriad winter activities in Ontario for anyone willing to brave the cold. From tubing with family and zooming down the slopes to marvelling at local art and skating outdoors, there’s no shortage of fun here.

Pack your warmest items and prepare for an incredible winter wonderland. Whether you go to Ottawa, Hamilton, the Blue Mountains, or any other destinations here, you’re in for a fulfilling, frosty time.

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21 Bucketlist Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter 2023

Are you looking for the top places to visit in Ontario in winter?

When the days get shorter and the air colder, it’s pretty easy to feel the need to escape for a vacation. It’s all too easy to overlook an Ontario winter getaway, opting to escape the cold by heading to the sunny south.

But we’re here to convince you that there are so many great places to see in Ontario in winter. Ontario winters are beautiful, full of adventure and part of the true Canadian experience.

We found our money could take us further, plans were less stressful, and we could really appreciate some of the best places to visit in Ontario in the wintertime.

Bucketlist Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter

We’re here to help you pick out your next Ontario winter getaway spot with a list of our favourite places to explore in our home province of Ontario.

From sipping ice wine in Niagara on the Lake to boarding the Polar Bear Express in Cochrane, both southern and northern Ontario offer some of the best places to see in all of Canada when it’s winter.

Nothing says winter in Ontario like a trip to the nation’s capital. Ottawa is a beautiful city to explore during any season, but it really comes alive during wintertime.

Between snowy sites of the Parliament buildings, skating on the Rideau Canal, and catching the action of the city’s winter festivals, what’s not to love about Ottawa in the winter.

What to Do in Ottawa

When visiting Ottawa in the winter, be sure to lace up your skates and head to the world-famous Rideau Canal. The canal turns into a 7.8 km skating rink during the winter months, making it the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink.

And if you happen to visit during the first three weeks of February, you’ll be just in time for Ottawa’s Winterlude Festival.

This citywide festival celebrates all things winter with a variety of fun activities and events, including ice sculpture competitions, a winter triathlon, live music performances, street food and much more.

✅ Skate on the Rideau Canal ✅ Experience the Winterlude Festival

Where to Stay in Ottawa

There are plenty of great places to stay in a city the size and caliber of Ottawa. Downtown accommodations will give you access to some of the best things to do in the city, while hotels in the surrounding neighbourhoods will offer quieter streets and cheaper rates.

📍 Fairmont Chateau Laurier – To get the full Ottawa experience, we recommend staying in one of the historic hotels downtown, like the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Laurier right on the Rideau Canal.

➡️ Relax in luxury at Fairmont Chateau Laurier

2. Blue Mountains

Located two hours from Toronto, Blue Mountains is a popular winter getaway in Ontario for plenty of good reasons. This mountain town is home to Ontario’s largest ski resort, as well as a variety of spas, shops, restaurants and cafes in the quaint village of Blue Mountain.

What to Do in Blue Mountains

Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder or love to hit the slopes in an inflatable tube, Blue Mountain Resort is a great place to be in the winter. With ski 40 trails, 5 terrain parks and over 40 snowtubing lanes, Blue Mountain Ski Resort is the largest and most popular ski resort in Ontario.

And if you’re looking for a way to relax after your day on the slopes, Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain is definitely worth checking out. We’ve personally experienced the hot and cold treatments that Scandinave is known for and recommend it to anyone and everyone. It was absolutely incredible.

✅ Hit the slopes at Blue Mountain Resort ✅ Unwind at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain

Where to Stay in Blue Mountains

There are plenty of great places to stay in Blue Mountains, but we highly recommend booking a stay in the Blue Mountain Ski Village. This village offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy hotels to luxury condos, all within walking distance of the ski resort.

📍 The Westin Trillium House Blue Mountain – Stay in luxury at The Westin’s waterfront property, located steps away from the ski hills and the buzz of Blue Mountain Village.

➡️ Retreat at The Westin Trillium House Blue Mountain

3. Muskoka, Ontario

One of Canada’s most beloved winter getaways has to be Muskoka, Ontario. This region is known for its stunning scenery, and winter is no exception.

Muskoka offers visitors incredible snowshoeing opportunities, picturesque frozen lakeside views, and a plethora of outdoor activities to keep you warm in the winter months.

What To Do in Muskoka During Winter

Muskoka is home to plenty of outdoor adventures that make it one of the top places to go during winter in Ontario. The area is known for its great snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, as well as dog sledding tours!

Muskoka is also home to a number of picturesque waterfalls, including Bracebridge Falls, High Falls, and Rosseau Falls.

One of Muskoka’s top tourist attractions is Arrowhead Provincial Park. Skating on the ice rink that lines the park’s circular island is one of the best things to do in Muskoka, drawing in tourists all winter long.

If the outdoors isn’t your style, don’t worry – Muskoka also has plenty of great spots to explore indoors. Visit local towns and markets or hit up one of the local craft breweries that scatter the region.

✅ Skate on Arrowhead Provincial Park’s Ice Skating Trail ✅ Book a dog sledding experience

Where To Stay in Muskoka During Winter

Muskoka is full of cozy cabins, winter wonderlands, and resort-style accommodations that make it the perfect winter escape.

📍 JW Marriott The Rosseau Resort and Spa – For a luxurious and relaxing Ontario winter resort for families or couples, we recommend JW Marriott The Rosseau Resort and Spa.

➡️ Book your stay at JW Marriott The Rosseau Resort and Spa

4. Algonquin Provincial Park

This iconic Ontario Provincial Park is a top place to visit in Ontario in winter for anyone looking to experience Ontario’s wilderness at its finest. With over 7,600 square kilometers of wilderness to discover, Algonquin Park is a true winter wonderland.

Algonquin Park is also an incredible place to spot wildlife, like moose, bear, wolves, otters and birds.

What to Do in Algonquin Park

There are endless outdoor things to do in Algonquin Park in winter. One of the best ways to experience this park is by going on a winter camping trip. Tent camping or yurt camping is available within the park.

If winter camping isn’t your thing, consider a winter hike, snowshoeing, fat biking, cross-country skiing, or skating on the park’s outdoor rink. There are tons of trails to explore in this vast park, with various access points around its perimeter.

✅ Camp in a yurt ✅ Explore Algonquin Park’s wilderness trails

Where to Stay in Algonquin Provincial Park

When it comes to winter camping in Algonquin Provincial Park, there are two main options: front-country campsites and yurts, and backcountry camping.

📍 Algonquin Provincial Park – Front-country sites and yurts are available all year round at Mew Lake Campground. Backcountry camping requires hiking, skiing, snowshoeing or dogsledding to your site.

➡️ Reserve your campsite at Algonquin Park

5. Downtown Toronto

Downtown Toronto is a great place to experience the winter season with literally endless activities and top attractions to choose from.

But it’s also safe to say that Toronto offer so much to do beyond the well-known tourist attractions, and winter is a great time to see a different side of the city.

What To Do in Downtown Toronto

Aside from some of the top tourist attractions in Toronto, like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, or the Hockey Hall of Fame, Ontario’s capital city offers some uniquely winter activities that are worth checking out.

Consider spending an evening at the popular outdoor skating at Nathan Phillip’s Square, shopping at the Toronto Christmas Market (in November and December) or taking part in one of Toronto’s winter festivals.

If you’ve never explored the unique downtown neighbourhoods of Toronto, like Cabbagetown, Chinatown, Distillery District and Greektown, consider adding one of these to your next visit.

Toronto also has amazing shopping districts, like Yonge Street, Bloor Street West, Queen Street West, Kensington Market, and so on. Here you’ll find tons of unique shops, including high-end retailers, eclectic vintage thrift shops , one-of-a-kind boutiques, and popular name brands.

There’s so much to discover in Ontario’s capital city that doesn’t cost much more than the price of the drive to Toronto and making sure you’re well fed.

✅ Skate at Nathan Phillip’s Square ✅ Walk the city streets or cozy up at a restaurant downtown

Where to Stay in Downtown Toronto

There are endless accommodation options in Downtown Toronto, so finding the right fit for your getaway is guaranteed.

📍 Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto – We suggest staying at the Delta Hotels by Marriott if you’re looking to relax and be centrally located at the Toronto Harbourfront.

➡️ Book your stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto

6. Sault Ste Marie

This charming city is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its stunning lake views, rich history, and abundance of outdoor winter activities, Sault Ste Marie is a great place to spend a winter getaway in Ontario.

Located at a unique connecting point of Lake Superior, Lake Huron and the Georgian Bay, as well as at an international boarder with the USA, Sault Ste Marie is an intriguing northern Ontario city for many reasons.

What to Do in Sault Ste Marie

There are plenty of things to do outdoors in and around “the Soo” (as locals call it), especially when the city becomes a winter wonderland.

For a truly winter experience, try ice fishing in a nearby lake, Nordic skiing on the 45 km of groomed trails at Hiawatha Highlands, or visit Searchmont Ski Resort for a day of skiing and snowboarding.

If you’re really adventurous, head over to the Lake Superior waterfront in search of one of the lake’s majestic ice caves: Alona Bay Ice Cave, Coppermine Point Ice Cave, Gross Cap Conservation Area Ice cave, Hibbard Bay Ice Cave. Just be sure to take safety very seriously. These ice caves are nothing to take lightly!

For something a bit more low-key, take an outdoor stroll along the waterfront or explore the downtown core for boutiques, galleries and restaurants.

✅ Hit the slopes at Searchmont Ski Resort ✅ Check out the Lake Superior ice caves

Where to Stay in Sault Ste Marie

With a few luxurious accommodations as well as some budget-friendly choices, there’s a cozy place to stay for all budgets in Sault Ste Marie.

📍 Quattro Hotel & Conference Centre – This 3-star hotel with indoor pool and free breakfast receives excellent reviews and high customer satisfaction.

➡️ Book your stay at Quattro Hotel & Conference Centre

This northern Ontario city is a true winter paradise. With its world-famous science centre, unique mining landmarks, and a plethora of outdoor winter activities to do, Sudbury is the perfect place to spend a winter weekend.

What to Do in Sudbury

A visit to Sudbury wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Science North. This interactive science centre is northern Ontario’s most popular tourist attraction and is perfect for kids and adults alike.

Don’t miss the chance for a photo-op at the Big Nickel and head seven stories below ground for an underground tour at Dynamic Earth.

For outdoor adventures, strap on your skates and hit Ramsey Lake’s outdoor skating path. This 1.5km path is one of the best and most unique outdoor rinks in Ontario.

If you’re looking for a winter hike, head to Laurentian Conservation Area where you’ll find over 30 kilometres of trails to explore, or bring the Group of Seven art to life at Onaping Falls outside the city.

✅ Visit Science North & Dynamic Earth ✅ Go skating on Ramsey Lake

Where to Stay in Sudbury

There are plenty of great places to stay in Sudbury, but we recommend the Hilton Garden Inn Sudbury.

📍 Hilton Garden Inn Sudbury – This hotel is located close to Adanac Ski Hill and offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and indoor pool and fitness centre.

➡️ Book your stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Sudbury!

8. Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is a fantastic winter destination in Ontario for those looking to experience the rugged beauty of northern Canada.

With its snowy Nor’wester mountains to inspire winter thrill-seekers, and long winter season for winter tourism businesses, Thunder Bay is quite the hotspot in the winter months.

What to Do in Thunder Bay During Winter

If you’re looking for a place to pick your toes into ice climbing, or a spot to check the box on dog sledding, Thunder Bay might be right up your alley. And Thunder Bay’s winter creativity doesn’t stop there.

Skiing and snowboarding? Check. Ice Fishing? Yep. Even ice racing and snowkiting? This city has it all when it comes to outdoor winter activities.

And of course, a trip to Thunder Bay wouldn’t be complete without at least a selfie in front of the Sleeping Giant, or better yet, a hike to the peak for spectacular lookouts over Lake Superior.

Finally, a visit to Kakabeka Falls (Ontario’s second largest waterfall after Niagara Falls) will round out your trip to Thunder Bay, one of Ontario’s best northern cities in the winter.

✅ Explore Sleeping Giant Provincial Park ✅ Visit the towering Kakabeka Falls

Where to Stay in Thunder Bay

A city the size of Thunder Bay has quite a few great places to stay.

📍 The Courthouse Hotel – We recommend checking out The Courthouse Hotel, a beautiful historic building with modern luxurious decor.

➡️ Book your stay at The Courthouse Hotel

9. North Bay

Take a winter retreat to laidback North Bay, located on the serene Lake Nipissing. Embracing its Northeastern Ontario roots, North Bay offers plenty of outdoor activities and attractions for winter travelers.

It’s also a great base camp for exploring the nearby communities or going on hunting, fishing or camping excursions. Known as the “gateway to the north”, North Bay promises a relaxed lifestyle characteristic of the north, but is located only a few short hours from Toronto.

What to Do in North Bay in Winter

If you’re looking for a relaxing place to enjoy the Canadian outdoors in winter, North Bay is a great place to start.

Skiers and snowboarders can explore the slopes of Laurentian Ski Hill, while those looking for a peaceful hike will enjoy the 50+ km of groomed trails, perfect for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing when the snow falls.

Bring your skates and head over to one of the city’s outdoor rinks, or pack your fishing gear and head to the frozen Lake Nipissing for ice fishing. Don’t forget to visit Duchesnay Falls for an up-close view of one of Northeastern Ontario’s best waterfalls in winter snow.

And for an extra sweet outing, if you’re visiting North Bay during maple syrup tapping season in March, head to nearby Powassan for their annual Maple Syrup Festival.

✅ Walk along the icy shores of Lake Nipissing ✅ Visit the roaring Duchesnay Falls

Where to Stay in North Bay

Accommodations in North Bay range from rustic cabin rentals, to classy hotels.

📍 Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites – We recommend the Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites in North Bay for its modern and comfortable accommodations and high satisfaction ratings.

➡️ Book your stay at Fairfield by Marriott

10. Bruce Peninsula

Located between Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, Bruce Peninsula is one of Ontario’s most beautiful destinations for a winter getaway.

The towns that line the Bruce Peninsula offer a unique Ontario outdoor experience of cliff trails, crystal blue coastlines and fascinating geological features. Snow often abounds on the Bruce Peninsula, making it one of Ontario’s most popular cottage destinations in the winter months.

What to Do on the Bruce Peninsula in Winter

Visiting the Bruce Peninsula in winter is one of the best ways to see the beautiful Georgian Bay coastline without having to contend with the summer crowds.

You can take a guided snowshoe tour to the icy Grotto cave in Bruce Peninsula National Park, or explore the Bruce Trail and its side trails.

If you venture on the trails on your own, keep safety at the forefront of your mind, as the sheer cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment are very unforgiving and all the more dangerous when covered in snow and ice.

Don’t forget to check out the incredible stargazing opportunities in the area, as the Bruce Peninsula is one of Ontario’s Dark Sky Preserves!

✅ Snowshoe to the icy Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park ✅ Stargaze in the Bruce Peninsula Dark Sky Preserve

Where to Stay on the Bruce Peninsula in Winter

While many of the accommodations that line the Bruce Peninsula are seasonal to the warmer months, there are still some fabulous B&Bs and cottages open all winter long.

📍 The Forest House B&B – The Forest House B&B – Adults Only in Tobermory is one such accommodation that is continually highly rated by guests.

➡️Book your stay at The Forest House B&B

11. Kawartha Lakes

The Kawartha Lakes is prime cottage country, with rolling hills, peaceful rivers and hundreds of lakes that are perfect for exploring by foot or by snowmobile.

It’s the perfect place to retreat for a week at a cottage or to explore as a day trip from Toronto.

What to Do in the Kawartha Lakes in Winter

The Kawarthas region offers all sorts of winter activities for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Book a cottage or stay in a unique country B&B surrounded by frozen-over lakes and wild forest.

Head into one of the many quaint towns such as Lindsay, Fenelon Falls and Bobcaygeon, or take a drive to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park to walk one of the park’s groomed trails.

The natural beauty of the Kawartha Lakes region is more than enough to qualify it as one of the best places to visit in Ontario in winter.

✅ Snowmobile through the Kawartha Lakes ✅ Explore the quaint towns in cottage country

Where to Stay in Kawartha Lakes

With a number of luxurious and rustic cottages alike, the Kawartha Lakes region has no lack of unique accommodations for rent.

📍 Burleigh Falls Inn – The quaint Burleigh Falls Inn is a prime example of what this area has to offer.

➡️ Book your stay at Burleigh Falls Inn

12. Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s winter wonderlands. With its snow-covered forests and icy waters, Killarney offers a unique outdoor experience for visitors looking to explore its rugged beauty during the colder months.

Camping in Killarney Provincial Park during the winter is a much different experience than during the summer months. During the winter, motorized vehicles are not permitted past the park office, meaning you’ll have to ski or snowshoe into your site, pulling your camping gear behind in a sled.

What to Do in Killarney Provincial Park

Making your way to your campsite isn’t the only time you’ll want to strap on your skis, because Killarney’s forested trails offer many spectacular trails to explore.

It’s rocky landscape is often featured in Canadian landscape photography, and if you’re skilled on the camera you’ll have the chance to capture some truly beautiful shots.

Campers can choose to rough it tent-style, or book a cozy yurt (soft-sided shelter) to keep warm at night. And before bed, be sure to check out the starry sky above, because Killarney was Ontario’s very first Dark Sky Preserve, and for good reason.

✅ Ski and snowshoe the park trails ✅ Appreciate the night sky from Canada’s first Dark Sky Preserve

Where To Stay in Killarney Provincial

Since Killarney Provincial Park offers winter camping, we recommend pitching a tent (if you’re brave!) or booking a yurt for your overnight accommodations in the area.

📍 Killarney Provincial Park

➡️ Make an Ontario Parks reservation here

13. Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls is an incredibly magical spot in the winter months, particularly during a snowfall when the falls are icy white.

Even though the popular Hornblower Cruises aren’t running during this time of year, there are still plenty of ways to experience Niagara Falls in its most beautiful form.

What to Do in Niagara Falls During Winter

Visitors to the area can explore the city on foot, taking a stroll in front of Table Rock Welcome Centre (offering up-close views of the falls) and Clifton Hill (the Entertainment District). A wintery walk around the area is guaranteed to give you some incredible views of the falls from different angles.

There are also several museums and attractions to explore in the area, such as Journey Behind the Falls, The Bird Kingdom and Niagara’s Fury.

✅ Take a wintery walk around Niagara Falls ✅ Explore attractions like Journey Behind the Falls and The Bird Kingdom

While Niagara Falls is in close proximity to most Ontario travelers, if you’re flying into Toronto, check out the best ways to get to Niagara Falls from Pearson International Airport.

Where To Stay in Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls is filled with hotels and holiday homes of all types.

📍 Sterling Inn & Spa – If you’re looking for a luxurious place to unwind, book a stay at Niagara Falls’ premiere boutique hotel, The Sterling Inn & Spa.

➡️ Book your stay at The Sterling Inn & Spa

Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is also home to one of the best indoor waterparks in North America! From waterslides to mini golf to a full list of programming activities throughout the day, Great Wolf Lodge is one of the best family getaways in Ontario in any season.

📍 Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls – Escape the cold with Great Wolf Lodge family resort this winter!

➡️ Book your stay at the Great Wolf Lodge

14. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake is a charming town located just minutes away from Niagara Falls.

This area offers its visitors an incredible winter getaway as they explore some of the best Niagara Region wineries, take carriage rides through the snow-covered streets, or simply cozy up in one of the many luxury inns and hotels that dot the area.

What to Do in Niagara on the Lake During Winter

Niagara on the Lake is a great option for those looking to escape to luxury-land and explore some of Ontario’s finest wine country. There are several wineries located across the region, as well as quaint shops offering local goods and products.

Booking a wine tour is one of the best ways to experience Niagara on the Lake, and is our recommended activity for this getaway.

In our recent trip to Niagara on the Lake we stopped at the Wayne Gretzky Estates to enjoy the busy outdoor ice rink and heated patio. It was filled with families enjoying the activities of this winery estate.

✅ Indulge with a wine tour ✅ Spend the night at a luxury boutique hotel & spa

Where To Stay in Niagara On the Lake

Niagara on the Lake has made a name for itself when it comes to boutique hotels, spa hotels, and vintage hotels.

📍 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa – While there are many highly-rated Niagara on the Lake hotels , 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa gets our recommendation for this one.

➡️ Book your stay at 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa

15. Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington

The Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington is a beautiful destination year round, and especially enjoyable in the dead of winter!

Not only is the lush Mediterranean Garden a breath of life in the cold season, but the outdoor holiday displays in Hendrie Gardens are a reason to visit in and of itself!

What to Do in Royal Botanical Gardens

Between late November and early January each winter, Hendrie Park is lit up with 1.5 km of festive lights, with treats and hot drinks, live entertainment, and an indoor train display through the gardens. This makes for a delightful way to spend winter evenings getting in the Christmas mood.

On the other hand, if you’re just looking for a great place to take the family for a day out, the Gardens staff host programs for all ages to explore the garden life even in the winter.

The marsh trails in Cootes Paradise on Lake Ontario also provide beautiful wintery sites to enjoy all season long.

✅ Visit Hendrie Park’s festive outdoor displays ✅ Relax in the lush indoor Mediterranean Garden

Where to Stay in Royal Botanical Gardens

For those looking to make the most of their time at the Royal Botanical Gardens, we suggest staying at the newly renovated Hampton Inn & Suites Burlington.

📍 Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Burlington

➡️ Book your stay at Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Burlington

16. Hamilton

Hamilton is one of Southern Ontario’s most thrilling and diverse cities when it comes to outdoor adventures. With over 150 waterfalls, a beautiful section of the Bruce Trail, the towering Niagara Escarpment, and a city brimming with life, Hamilton is definitely one of our favourite places to visit in Ontario in the winter.

What to Do in Hamilton in Winter

Hamilton is the perfect winter destination for those seeking outdoor adventure! Aside from taking a stroll along the trails in Cootes Paradise, we highly recommend visiting some of the frozen waterfalls that have made Hamilton the “waterfall capital of the world”.

And if you’re feeling up to trying your hand at a winter extreme sport, OneAxe Pursuits and The Alpine Club of Canada offer guided ice climbing tours of Tiffany Falls.

Outdoor skating at Pier 8 on Lake Ontario is another fun Hamilton winter pastime and the perfect way to take in the beautiful city skyline at night!

✅ Ice climbing at Tiffany Falls ✅ Outdoor skating at Pier 8 on Lake Ontario

Where to Stay in Hamilton

Downtown Hamilton has a number of excellent, reasonably priced chain hotels to choose from.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Hamilton – The Homewood Suites by Hilton offers spacious, well-appointed suites in a convenient downtown location, perfect for walking to many of the downtown shops and restaurants.

➡️ Book your stay at Homewood Suites by Hilton Hamilton

17. Orillia

Located on the shores of Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe, Orillia is a beautiful and vibrant city in central Ontario.

Orillia offers an exciting range of winter activities to make your winter vacation memorable. From ski hills to fat biking trails to ice fishing excursions, Orillia is a popular Ontario winter getaway destination for plenty of excellent reasons.

What to Do in Orillia During Winter

In winter, Orillia is a great place to enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Grab your skis and hit the slopes at one of the nearby ski resorts of Mount St. Louis Moonstone, Snow Valley or Horseshoe Resort.

If skiing isn’t your thing, take a snowmobile tour with Cottage Country Tours in nearby Severn and explore the area’s winter wonderland.

Or, cozy up in style at Fern Resort for an all-inclusive winter getaway, where you can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, outdoor ice skating on a 1.5 km trail, curling on the lake ice and lots more.

✅ Downhill ski or snowboard at one of Simcoe County’s ski hills ✅ Book an all-inclusive stay at Fern Resort on the lakefront

Where to Stay in Orillia

Nestled in Ontario’s cottage country, Orillia boasts a wide variety of accommodations, including lots of cottage rentals surrounding the city. For those looking for a relaxing hotel stay, we recommend Fern Resort, an all-inclusive resort on the lakefront in Orillia.

📍 Fern Resort

➡️ Book your stay at Fern Resort

Elora is a charming and quaint village located in Wellington County. Known for its limestone cliffs along Elora Gorge, as well as being a hub for outdoor adventures in every season, Elora is one of the best places to visit in Ontario during winter.

What to Do in Elora During Winter

In the winter months, Elora offers some pretty unique winter adventures. Ice climb with OneAxe Pursuits on a frozen Elora Gorge cliff, snowshoe the 1.5 km long Aboyne Trail or the Elora Cataract Trailway, or shop the boutiques that line this quaint tourist town.

Close off your night with a spa treatment at the renowned Elora Mill and Spa, and a gourmet dinner in the dining room lined with ceiling to floor windows overlooking the limestone gorge.

✅ Ice climbing with OneAxe Pursuits ✅ Treat yourself to the spa at Elora Mill and Spa

Where to Stay in Elora

When it comes to noteworthy accommodations in Elora, the historic Elora Mill Hotel is an obvious top pick. But this isn’t the only luxurious place to stay in Elora.

In fact, Inner Joy Getaways offers a unique, and rather intriguing, accommodation along the Grand River.

📍 Inner Joy Getaways – Stay in beautifully repurposed and refinished shipping containers transformed into themed suites. Each of these luxurious suites include a private hot tub and special touches reminiscent of the local areas.

➡️ Book your stay at Inner Joy Getaways

19. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is a stunning island in northern Lake Huron and the largest freshwater island in the world. Winter on Manitoulin includes some of the most spectacular snowscapes, with plenty of activities to make your Ontario winter vacation truly unique and unforgettable.

What to Do on Manitoulin Island in Winter

During the winter months, visitors to Manitoulin Island can enjoy a variety of activities such as snowshoeing, ice fishing, ice caving, skiing and snowmobiling.

The world-famous Cup & Saucer Trail is especially popular during the winter months, when you can take in beautiful snowy views of the island from the top of the Niagara Escarpment. Ice fishing is also a popular winter activity on the island’s inner lakes.

If you visit Manitoulin when the cold has frozen over Bridal Veil Falls, you might even be able to climb behind the falls to see its majestic ice cave. But be very cautious as this can be a high risk activity and safety should be of utmost importance.

For those looking for a unique nighttime experience, consider renting a stargazing cabin at Manitoulin Eco Park DarkSky Preseve, where, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!

✅ Snowshoeing the Cup & Saucer Trail ✅ Stargazing at Manitoulin Eco Park DarkSky Reserve

Where to Stay on Manitoulin Island

The most popular accommodation on Manitoulin Island the Manitoulin Island Hotel and Conference Centre, located in Little Current.

📍 Manitoulin Island Hotel and Conference Centre

➡️ Book your stay at Manitoulin Island Hotel and Conference Centre

20. Cochrane

Cochrane, Ontario is a snowmobiling town packed full of winter activities and winter travelers. It’s the launching point for tours to Moosonee on the James Bay and the starting point for Abitibi Canyon Loop, which features some of the furthest north groomed snowmobile trails in Ontario.

What to Do in Cochrane

If you love winter, you’ll love Cochrane! There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in the winter months, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

For a truly unique experience, visit Polar Bear Habitat where you can observe polar bears in their natural habitat.

Take a tour of the Abitibi Canyon Loop on a snowmobile for incredible views of the gorge and its surrounding areas.

Or, if you’re looking to head even further north, head on the Polar Bear Express Train to Moosonee on the James Bay!

✅ Go snowmobiling on Abitibi Canyon Loop ✅ Visit Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat

Where To Stay in Cochrane

Being a small, northern Ontario town, Cochrane has limited hotels. Our recommendation for where to stay in Cochrane is the Econo Lodge.

📍 Econo Lodge Cochrane

➡️ Book your stay at Econo Lodge Cochrane

21. Timmins

The small northern city of Timmins is known for its snowy winter landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities. Snowmobiling is very popular here, as it is one of Canada’s top snowmobiling regions.

Home to one of the largest airports in northern Ontario, Timmins is an easy flight in and out from Toronto. Better yet, if you’re up for a spectacular scenic drive, it’s about 3.5 hours due north of Sudbury through some of the finest Canadian Shield landscapes.

What to Do in Timmins

Timmins offers a wide range of activities for winter adventures, including snowmobiling, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails, ice fishing opportunities and much more. Mount Jamieson, the tallest tube park in Ontario, is also a perfect getaway spot for those looking for a thrill.

For something more tranquil, take a drive south to High Falls, where you can admire the spectacular waterfall and explore the surrounding trails.

✅ Visit Mount Jamieson, Ontario’s tallest tube park ✅ Head to High Falls waterfall

Where To Stay in Timmins

Timmins is home to a good number of chain hotels, offering guests some choice in where they want to stay.

📍 Best Western Premier Northwood Hotel – We recommend the Best Western Premier Northwood Hotel for its extremely positive reviews.

➡️ Book your stay at the Best Western Premier Northwood Hotel

Places in Ontario to Visit in Winter Map

We’ve included this map of Ontario to help give you an idea of where each of these bucketlist places to visit in Ontario are located.

Where is the Prettiest Place to Visit in Ontario?

There are so many pretty places to visit in Ontario, it’s hard to choose just one!

That said, there’s one place that always stands out for its pure natural beauty, and that’s the Muskoka Region. With its deep blue lakes and waterfalls, rugged Canadian Shield terrain and welcoming small towns, the Muskoka Region is truly beautiful in every season.

How to Get Around Ontario in the Winter

The best way to get around Ontario in the winter is by car. While public transportation is quite reliable within cities, winter weather is notorious for throwing off bus schedules and delaying flights.

On the other hand, if you don’t like driving in unpredictable winter weather, public transportation is likely best for you. If you’re visiting cities, you can usually rely on the city public transit system.

If you’re looking to see places outside of the city but don’t want to drive yourself, consider booking a tour with a reputable company.

💡 If you need recommendations for tour companies, send us an email at [email protected] and we’d be happy to help direct you!

Renting a Car in Ontario in Winter

If you’re planning on renting a car for your trip, we recommend doing so in advance as rental cars can go quickly during peak seasons or busy times of the week.

There are lots of reputable car rental companies in Ontario, but not every company services every city. To take the guess work out of renting a car, we recommend booking with Discover Cars.

Note: The standard age to rent a car in Ontario is 21 years old (exceptions may apply), and most rental companies charge a young driver fee to drivers under the age of 25.

➡️ Book a Rental Car

Need to Know: Driving in the Winter in Ontario

If you’re planning on driving in the winter, there are a few things you should know about winter driving in Ontario:

✅ First, always check the weather forecast and road conditions before you start driving. Winter weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always best to be prepared.

✅ Ontario 511 is an excellent resource for live road conditions

✅ Always make sure your car is equipped for winter driving. This means having a full tank of gas, extra windshield wiper fluid, a shovel and brush to clear snow off your car, and even gravel for traction in case you get stuck.

✅ Stock your vehicle with an emergency kit including food, water, extra clothes and blankets, matches, flares, and anything else you could need in case you get stranded.

✅ Always drive slowly and carefully in winter weather conditions. Highway pile ups and cars ditched in the side of the road are common sights during winter in Ontario.

What to Pack for a Visit in Ontario in Winter

When packing for a trip to during winter in Ontario, be sure to pack warm clothing, sturdy shoes or boots, and plenty of layers. The weather can range from mild to very cold, so you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for a range of temperatures.

And if you’re hiking, snowshoeing or skiing, you’ll likely find that you will work up a sweat and need to start shedding those heavy layers!

Think about what activities are offered in the place you will visit, and grab your gear before leaving home so that you can save on rentals. Skis, snowshoes, snowboards, and ice skates are fair game for winter travel.

Conclusion: Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter

There are so many amazing places to visit in Ontario in winter! Many small towns in Ontario come alive when the snow begins to fall with festivals, outdoor ice rinks, and sugar shacks to make these cold months beyond bearable and actually enjoyable.

From the far northern towns of Cochrane and Timmins to the frozen waterfalls of the Niagara Escarpment, Ontario is truly a beautiful and charming place to spend the winter months.

More from Everywhere Ontario

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Erie is the owner and author of Everywhere Ontario. She’s lived and traveled around Ontario for over 30 years, visiting small towns and big cities from the shores of Lake Erie to the crisp northern air of Hearst along the Trans-Canada Highway. She is passionate about maximizing fun and supporting local tourist businesses and is always looking to provide the best recommendations to her fellow Ontario travelers. Read more about Erie here .

Tiny Footsteps Travel

27 Epic Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter (2024)

Looking for the best places to visit in Ontario in winter? You’re in the right place. Winter in Ontario means a lot of exciting things to do that are unique to the colder months, when there’s snow and chilly weather.

As someone who’s grown up in Ontario, I’m no stranger to the unpredictable weather, but also the many beautiful places to visit in Ontario in winter. Not everyone in Ontario likes the snow, but in my opinion – the snow is beautiful, and it also means exciting activities like snowshoeing, skiing or snowboarding, ice skating on a frozen outdoor rink, winter hikes and many more.

When looking for places to visit in Ontario in winter, you might want to consider places that have a variety of indoor and outdoor things to do – so that in case the weather doesn’t cooperate, there’s still plenty to keep youbusy.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect Valentines Day getaway, or a family weekend vacation, we’re going to highlight the 21 best places to visit in Ontario in winter.

So, let’s jump in – places to visit in Ontario in winter!

What You Need to Know about Ontario in Winter

Here’s everything you need to know to be prepared for winter in Ontario

• As mentioned, the weather can be unpredictable in Ontario, at any time of the year. Prepare for days as cold as -20°C (-4°F), as well as days that go up to 10°C. Anything on this spectrum is possible in Ontario in winter.
• I wish I could tell you that Ontario was a winter wonderland throughout the whole winter, but that isn’t necessarily true . The snow tends to come and go throughout the winter, especially in Southern Ontario.
• The further north in Ontario you go, and the deeper into the winter (mid-January through February) the more likely you are to encounter snow.

Driving in the Snow

For those who aren’t used to snow, its important to know that driving in the snow requires you to drive slower and think ahead more.

Ensure that your car has proper winter tires. There are many days in the winter where locals avoid driving anywhere. Pay attention to the weather forecast and don’t drive anywhere during a snowstorm.

If you’re in the Toronto area don’t own a car, or don’t have one that you trust for long winter drives, then consider renting one from Discover Cars.

Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter

Now that you know about the weather and how to get around Ontario in winter, here are the places to put on your Ontario winter bucket list. Whether you live in Ontario or are visiting, these places will charm you and help you fall in love with winter

1. Blue Mountain Village

Blue Mountain Village is a quaint ski resort town right beside the ski slopes of Blue Mountain, outside Collingwood . You can visit the resort to do skiing, snowboarding or snow-tubing, or you can visit the village only – which is what we do, most of the time.

Every year, Blue Mountain Village turns into a festive lit up winter wonderland during the holiday season. They al excellent job with their light displays which are up from December through early January. There’s an outdoor stage in the village where a big celebration on New Year’s Eve is held (and broadcasted on TV) every year.

If you visit later in winter after the holiday lights are taken town, Blue Mountain Village is still a great place to visit in winter.

I always enjoy walking around the village, which is lined with restaurants, cafés, stores where you can find Canadian souvenirs . There are also some designer places to shop such as Hatley, and Colombia.

Nearby in Blue Mountain, you can also go ice skating on the Woodview Mountaintop Skating trail , which is especially gorgeous when lit up at night.

While you’re in the area, consider visiting Scandinave Spa – the perfect place to rejuvenate Nordic-style with with outdoor hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms.

Blue Mountain Village can be visited in a day, but I’ve stayed overnight here before, and it gives you more time to enjoy the full extent of the nearby activities.

Grab your spot at the Blue Mountain Village Resort here

2. Stratford

Stratford is known for its famous Stratford Festival in the summertime where Shakespearian plays are performed in multiple theatres downtown. However, Stratford is a great to visit in the winter as well, either for a day trip or a whole weekend.

Stratford’s history dates back to 1832 and as a result there are plenty of gorgeous Victorian buildings downtown, such as the Stratford City Hall and the Perth County Courthouse . You can also find craft breweries and distilleries, lots of shopping, and great food.

Make your downtown extra fun by doing the S tratford Chocolate Trail which is a self-guided tour downtown of the historical sights, and allows you to find all the best chocolate!

In addition to the varied chocolate scene, Stratford has a foodie scene with over 20 restaurants to choose from in the downtown core. So whether you’re craving Asian fusion, Italian, or Mexican, you’ll be able to find something that suits your tastes. (Be sure to make reservations on a weekend.)

Stratford has some great outdoor activities too. You can go ice skating at the Stratford Museum, or try snowshoeing at River Valley.

3. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park is located along the Niagara Escarpment, which is known for its rocky cliffs that overlook Lake Superior. Its surrounded by several charming tourist towns , such as Lion’s Head, Wiarton and Tobermory.

One of the most stunning attractions in the Bruce Peninsula is the Grotto (one of the most scenic sights in Canada, and visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year.) In the winter, you can visit the Grotto with much fewer crowds and without having to reserve a parking spot like you do in the summer.

In winter, its popular to snowshoe to the Grotto from the main parking lot. Its about a 30-40 minute snowshoe hike from the parking lot to the main cave.

Aside from visiting the Grotto in Winter, there are several winter trails that you could take in the national park to enjoy the wintery scenery.

Good to Know: The closest town to the Grotto is Tobermory, which is a tourist hotspot in the summer. While most of the restaurants in Tobermory are closed during the winter, there are a few that remain open, such Pharos , the Pricness Hotel Restaurant, and the Tobermory Brewing Company . Read my post on great (family-friendly) places to stay in Tobermory . A nearby touristy town is Owen Sound, about 1 hour away, with more accommodation options in the winter months.

4. Kingston

The historic city of Kingston is culturally, pretty significant in Ontario. Its known for the following interesting facts:

• Its the “limestone city” as many of the downtown heritage buildings are made of limestone.
• being the old capital of Canada for a few years in 1841 before Ottawa took over
• The hometown of Canada’s first prime minister, and the Tragically Hip lead singer.

Needless to say, a winter visit to Kingston allows you to soak of some of Canada’s history and culture, and there are some fun outdoor winter activities as well.

In the historic downtown, check out the Spirit of John A. Canadian Pacific Railway , and take a St. George Cathedral, walk through Confederation Park, and Fort Frederick which is a historic military building.

One of the best things I did in Kingston was the Kingston haunted walk (offered year round), which allows you to explore the historic downtown , and learn about the history, including some spooky stories.

You can go skiing and snowshoeing on Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area, a 973-acre nature reserve just 15 minutes from downtown Kingston. You can rent equipment for winter spots at the Outdoor Centre in the park.

Book your Kingston winter accommodation here

5. Barrie Winterfest

Barrie Winterfest is one of the top winter festivals in Ontario, and a longtime community tradition. There are amazing snow and ice sculptures in the downtown area on the waterfront, and winter entertainment such as lumberjack and ice skating shows, and a polar plunge.

The dates for Barrie Winterfest 2024 are TBA, but it is typically held during the first weekend in February.

Other winter activities in Barrie include catching a Barrie Colt’s game, hiking on nearby trails or skiing at one of the nearby ski resorts, such as Mount St. Louis, Horseshoe Valley or Snow Valley.

The average daily temperature in January in Barrie (middle of winter, and a ) is a high of -3°C and a low of -12°C, so be sure to dress warmly. It can be especially chilly near the waterfront.

Barrie is located just 90 minutes from Toronto, and less than 2 hours from Algonquin Provincial Park , which makes it a good in-between of southern and northern Ontario.

6. Mono Cliff’s Provincial Park

Mono Cliff’s Provincial Park is a nature preserve 90 minutes from Toronto with hiking trails, great toboggan hills and as a bonus: a fantastic place to eat nearby.

In winter, Mono Cliffs turns into a winter wonderland with snow-covered evergreens, and lots of lookouts into the snowy terrain. Plus, its less popular from November to April, so you can enjoy the park with fewer crowds if you visit in winter.

I hike the Mono Cliff’s trails often, throughout the year. It has become very popular in recent years, and as of 2022, a daily vehicle pass is required. You can grab your pass at the Ontario Parks website here .

Before or after your hike, be sure to eat at the Mono Cliffs Inn , which is an just outside of the park. My husband and I have come here for many anniversaries and celebrations, and the food is excellent!

Pro tip: Be sure to make an advance reservation if you plan to eat at Mono Cliff’s Inn on a weekend, as it gets very busy!

7. A forest skating Trail

Skating trails have become very popular in Ontario in winter in recent years. Skating on a trail is generally more interesting than just doing circles around an arena, and forest skating trails in particular allow you to spend time in the wilderness as you’re doing it.

• Arrowhead Skating Trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park, a 1.3 km long loop through the Muskoka forest. Its also open at night from 6-9pm and lit with fire lights
• The Midhurst Skating Trail , takes you through scenery of trees, as well as old locomotives and other structures representing Simcoe County’ history. Just10 minutes from the heart of Barrie.

Ottawa , the capital of Canada, is a great place to learn about history and culture and Canada, and enjoy some awesome winter activities.

The Parliament buildings and historic downtown Ottawa are very pretty covered in snow, and there are a variety of winter sports, a winter festival, and 9 of the best museums in Canada if you want to escape the cold. It’s a great place to visit for adults, and for families .

There are numerous places to do some outdoor iceskating in Ottawa. The most popular is the Rideau Canal, which is a 202 km canal that links the Ottawa River to the St. Lawrence River. Its a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. You can rent skates, or bring your own.

There is also a skating trail in Gatineau Parc (which is just over the river from Ottawa, technically in Quebec) called Forest Lac de Loops.

If you need to escape the chilly outdoors, there are some fascinating museums in Ottawa to check out in the winter – Canada Museum of History, Canadian Museum of Nature and the Ottawa Art Gallery.

If you’re heading to Ottawa in winter, consider coming during Winterlude , Ottawa’s 3-week winter festival during the first few weeks of February each year. There are ice sculptures, a snow-playground for kids, as well as other special events suitable for families and date nights. In 2024, Ottawa’s Winterlude will be held from February 2nd to 14th.

Average temperatures in Ottawa fall to an average low of -14°C in January, so be sure to bundle up.

9. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a hotspot in the summertime, but its a great place to visit in the winter too. One of my favourite sites in the wintertime is seeing the Niagara Falls glowing different colours at night. In the winter, you don’t have to stay up to late to see it, as the sun sets by 5pm in January.

Niagara Falls hosts Winter Festival of Lights from November through to February each year, where there are lit up decorations throughout the town.

In the winter months, the volume of the falls might be a bit thinner as some of the water that flows to the falls is diverted to be turned into hydroelectric energy. You can visit the Niagara Falls Power Station to learn about the history of the falls being used for energy – lots to learn for both kids and adults.

In addition, Niagara Falls has a lot of family-friendly indoor activities, making it suitable for toddlers , kids and teens alike. There’s Bird Kingdom , the largest aviary in North America, a butterfly conservatory , and lots of indoor waterparks.

You can drive to Niagara Falls, but there are also lots of easy options for getting to Niagara Falls from Toronto.

10. Toronto

Toronto has a lot to do year round, and makes a great weekend winter getaway for couples as well as families . Toronto, despite its size, is one of the safest and most multicultural cities in the world.

You can visit Little Italy, Koreatown, or Little India at all times of the year and soak up world cultures. Consider celebrating Winter Solstice in the Kensington Market on the first day of winter. You can also do a food tour of the Kensington Market (Toronto’s foodie neighbourhood) which run year round.

Toronto has many special things to do in the winter, such as skating on the rink in front of Nathan Phillip’s Square, snowshoeing on the Toronto islands (where you can get a great view of the wintery Toronto skyline), some great toboggan hills and even a ski resort right in the city. Read my post about things to do in Toronto in winter.

In addition to lots of great outdoor winter activities, Toronto also has lots of fascinating museums to escape the cold, such as the Royal Ontario Museum (largest museum in Canada) and my personal favourite – the Bata Shoe Museum . Casa Loma, Toronto’s only castle, is also nice to visit in the winter when you can see the snow-topped castle towers.

Ride to the top of the CN Tower to see the snow-covered land from 1800 feet in the air. You can also dine at the 360 Restaurant, located at the top of the CN Tower. (You’ll need to make reservations in advance.)

In order to be centrally located and minimize time outside in the freezing cold, consider staying near Union Station which puts you within walking distance of the Nathan Phillip’s Square outdoor rink, and right near public transit to get anywhere in the city.

For central places to stay in Toronto’s downtown, read my post on the Best Hotels near Union Station.

11. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Park is the largest park in Ontario, and one of the oldest in Canada. Its terrain covers 7,000 squared kms of forests, lakes and trails. Its a haven for wildlife, such as moose, bear and birds.

While Algonquin is busiest during the fall season as people want to admire the colours of autumn, the thick blanket of snow and frozen lakes makes Algonquin gorgeous during the winter months too.

Algonquin Park is open all winter, although hours for facilities may vary between November and March. There are 8 different trails open in Algonquin during the winter months.

My personal favourite trail in Algonquin year-round is the Track and Tower (7.5 km loop) which gives you a scenic lookout of the lake, with islands and snowy atmosphere ahead. For a more easygoing trail, try the Spruce Bog (1.5 km loop.)

In addition to hiking, you can also go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing along any of the 8 maintained winter trails. Ski and snowshoe equipment can be rented from Algonquin Outfitters in Hunstville, just 30 minutes from the park.

Read my post on the best places to stay near Algonquin Park year-round.

12. Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is the 2nd largest city in Northern Ontario, with a population of just over 100k according to the 2021 census. Located at the head of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is known for being one of the best “outdoor cities” in Canada.

In the winter, there are activities such as hiking on nearby trails, skiing and snowshoeing, ice skating and even winter camping.

While you’re in Thunder Bay, be sure to visit Kakabeka Falls , the 2nd tallest waterfall in Ontario, which are a 30 minute drive from downtown. The falls are open year round.

In addition, there are some great indoor activities too – check out the Thunder Bay Museum , which has very interactive museums to teach you about the way of life of indigenous people and early settlers, or the Thunder Bay Art Gallery , which is free on Wednesdays.

I lived in Thunder Bay for one year and it happened to be the worst winter they’d had in 30 years! My car battery died more than once, and sometimes kids weren’t allowed to be outside for more than 10 minutes at a time to prevent frost bite. Bring an extra car battery, and lots of warm winter clothing if you head to Thunder Bay in the winter.

Pro Tip: While you’re in Thunder Bay, don’t forget to try a Persian (a local pastry) which is a strawberry flavoured donut. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, perfect way to warm up during a Thunder Bay winter!

13. Fire and Ice Festival in Bracebridge

The town of Bracebridge is famous for its annual Fire and Ice Festival , which is a unique winter carnival unlike any other in Ontario.

The main event of the festival is the large super snow slide on the main street, but there are also ice sculpting demonstrations, ice skating and snowshoeing, marshmallow roasting, frozen pond hockey and many other children’s activities, and to top it off – fireworks in the evening.

The dates for the 2024 Bracebridge Fire and Ice Festival are TBA, but the festival is usually held during the last weekend in January . Tickets for the 2024 Fire and Ice, when they go on sale, will be available for purchase on their website .

If you’re far from Bracebridge, then I’d recommend booking accommodation at the Wellington Inn , which offers free breakfast and is a short walk from the centre.

Good to Know: Parking downtown Bracebridge can fill up quickly during the festival, but there are shuttles offered throughout the day between 9am and 6:30pm to bring people to the heart of town where the festival is held. Shuttle information can be found on their website here.

14. Wärme Sauna in Tottenham

Wärme Sauna is the perfect few hour escape for couples in the GTA. Located on a private farm outside of a small town, Wärme Sauna has outdoor hot tub , massage table and sauna.

While you’re in Tottenham, eat a hearty breakfast at the Cedar Kitchen, or get a glimpse of the 1920s heritage steam train , South Simcoe Railway which has been used in movies and TV shows.

If you’re in town for dinner, I recommend eating at the Taste of Freedom Inn – just be sure to make a reservation during a weekend, as its very popular.

Wärme Sauna retreat can be a day, or overnight trip and can booked online.

15. Stay at a cabin in the snowy woods

Winter is the perfect time to stay in a cabin. I love the rustic house being warmed by the fire, and the snow falling outside.

Cabin on the 9 , located just outside of Orangeville, has to be the most romantic winter destinations in Ontario. You can also enjoy hiking or snowshoeing on the grounds, there’s a pond where you can go iceskating, provided its cold enough.

Heating the cabin with a wood fire gives the cabin a cozy feel when its cold outside.My husband and I spent a wintery Valentines Day weekend here and it was a magical weekend.

The owners of Cabin on the 9 are very committed to sustainability and eco-tourism, and you can also stay overnight or book a tour of Ketchum House , which is a fully sustainable house nearby.

While stying at Cabin on the 9, head into the town of Orangeville, which is known for its art scene and great food options. Locals will tell you its one of the best places to live and visit in Ontario, anytime of year. You can also enjoy winter hiking on Island Lake Conservation Area, nearby.

16. Nottawasaga Resort in Alliston

Nottawasaga Resort provides a snowy atmosphere in the winter. The restaurant, and indoor pool have large windows that look out onto the golf course which is often covered in a blanket of snow in the winter.

Aside from the large indoor pool, “the Nott” as its referred to by locals, has a hot tub, an archade, and an indoor jungle themed mini putt which is enjoyable for kids and adults. There are also spa treatments available on site.

We have stayed at the Nottawasaga Resort, and eaten many meals here. The food and service is great, and there are a number of winter activities to do nearby, including:

• Ski resorts in the Barrie area (Snow Valley, Horseshoe Valley, Mount St. Louis Moonstone)
• Hiking trails in the Alliston Area – The Beattie Pinery and the Gibson Hills (privately owned by generously open to the public)
• Toboggan hills – there’s a large one in the Treetops subdivision which is only 5 minutes away from the Nottawasaga Inn
• Ice skating at the Alliston recreation centre indoor arena, or at the outdoor Tottenham arena 20 minutes away (be sure to look up hours for public skating.)

The Nottawasaga Inn is a popular place in the winter months, as its often used by hockey teams. As you can tell, its very family-oriented. If you’re looking for a quieter, more secluded place to stay, then consider the Stevenson Farms Bed and Breakfast , which offers spa treatments and great service year-round for adults just outside of Alliston.

The community of New Tecumseth has several small-town Christmas events held every November and December

17. Kitchener-Waterloo

Kitchener and Waterloo (two different cities side by side) are located just 90 minutes west of Toronto. Being a ‘student town’ with two universities and one college in the area, there are a lot of fun things to do year round, and winter is no different.

A special winter festival, called Winterloo is held in late January. There are food markets, ice sculptures, and snow activities, and even sled dogs.

Bring your ice skates or rent them regardless of when you visit in winter, because there are 30+ skating rinks in Kitchener-Waterloo that are open from November to March, depending on weather.

For an adrenaline rush, you can go snow-tubing, skiing or snowboarding at Chicopee park, which is just 15 minutes outside of Kitchener. It has a 200 ft vertical drop , and plenty of beginner as well as more advanced hills.

I lived in Waterloo as a student, and one of my favourite thing to do in Waterloo year-round was to go see a movie at the Princess Cinemas, which are located in historic buildings downtown and play independent, international and Canadian films. Check what’s playing here .

Looking for another way to escape the cold indoors? Check out the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery , which has mostly contemporary works – both Canadian and international.

18. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake is a popular place to visit year-round, but in the wintertime they have their special Icewine Festival , which takes place over two weekends in January.

Held outdoors in the heritage downtown, the Ice Wine Festival features ice wines made from local wineries, as well as delicious gourmet finger foods from upscale local restaurants.

Ice wine is a special kind of dessert wine which is only produced in a few countries worldwide (Canada being one of them.) It has a fruity taste and is great to compliment a meal, or as a tasty dessert.

Of course, if you miss the Ice wine Festival, Niagara on the Lake is worth a visit anytime of the year. I have been in all seasons, and its a beautiful town to visit year round. Give yourself time to shop in the quaint downtown; there are many touristy and quaint shops, bakeries, restaurants and cafés.

You can also visit wineries in the area and do wine tastings and tours. To experience Niagara region in colder weather, head to the Ball’s Falls Conservation area for a winter hike and to see the majestic Ball’s Falls.

19. Creemore

Creemore is a small village nestled in hilly farmland area less than 2 hours north of Toronto. It has a quaint historic downtown with shopping, and is home to the smallest jail in North America , as well as the brewery for the popular Creemore Springs beer.

Being only 20 minutes to Blue Mountain, and 10 mins to Devil’s Glen (the tallest ski slope in Ontario) Creemore makes a quiet place to enjoy small town culture in winter, as well as lots of winter sports and activities nearby.

In addition to the Creemore Springs Brewery and the smallest jail, there are also a number of hiking trails just outside Creemore. The Bruce Trail is nearby. My personal favourite winter hike near Creemore though is the Creemore Nature Preserve (pictured above.) It has a variety of loops, ranging from easy to difficult.

The Creemore Springs Brewery in downtown Creemore offers the following tour options throughout the year:

• Small batch package – $10 – includes the tour and 1 5oz sample
• Fire Brewed package – $15 includes the tour and 4 5oz samples
• Copper package – $20 include the tour, 4 5oz samples and a 16oz collectors glass.

Tours at the Creemore Brewery typically take 20-30 minutes, and advance registrations are needed.

With the great winter hikes, ski slopes nearby, as well as the quaint downtown with the smallest jail and brewery, Creemore makes a fantastic weekend winter getaway in Ontario.

Stay in this bed and bed breakfast on farmland just outside Creemore

20. Vettä Nordic Spa

Nordic spas have become very popular in Canada throughout recent years, and Ontario is no exception. Visiting one of these nordic spas is a great thing to do in winter, because you can experience sitting in a hot tub while its cold outside, and warming up in the steam rooms and saunas.

Vettä Nordic Spa is a peaceful serene location in Horseshoe Valley where you can enjoy saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs in a snowy winter setting.

I have been to Vettä a few times, and one of my favourite things about it is that there is food and restaurant services on site. From their Finnish style restaurant, there are large dining room windows that give you a picturesque view of the surrounding snow-covered land.

Having the restaurants on site makes it easier to spend the day.

Vetta Nordic Spa is open from 9am to 9pm daily. If you want to book a massage during your visit, you should do this as soon in advance as possible.

Visits to Vettä can be done in advance; they can accommodate drop-ins if space allows.

22. Mount St. Louis Moonstone

Ontario has hundreds of ski resorts. While Blue Mountain, mentioned above, is the largest ski resort in Ontario, Mount St. Louis is known for having the largest beginner hill in Ontario.

Its a fantastic place to learn to ski, but there are also plenty of intermediate and advanced runs for those looking for more of a challenge.

Mount St. Louis Moonstone is located just outside of Barrie, which makes it central and accessible to those in Toronto, as well as from further north of Ontario. Mount St. Louis 11 chair lifts, and 38 slopes , varying in ability levels

There are lessons offered at Mount St. Louis for any ability level, from beginner to advance. There are also two different chalets, on site as well as a rental equipment shop.

23. Sudbury

Sudbury, located over 4 hours north of Toronto, is known for its cold winter temperatures, but also for being a picturesque winter Wonderland that draws nature lovers and photographers.

Sudbury is worth a visit in winter because its one of the best places in Ontario to go cross-country skiing. There are a hand full of different parks where you can go, and rentals are available on site at most of them too.

With 330 lakes in the Greater Sudbury Area, there are lots of places to go skating if its cold enough, but a few different rinks and trails through the forest too- try Ramsay Lake Skate Path, Kivi Park, or Nina’s Way Skate Path.

Families with children will enjoy a visit to Wagonwheel Ranch for Maple Taffy wagon rides and bonfires during the winter.

24. Orillia

There are lots of great things to do in Orillia year-round, and winter is no exception. Known as the Sunshine City, Orillia has plenty of great things to do outdoors in winter – skiing at nearby slops, trails for snowshoeing and ice skating.

There are 150 shops and 30 restaurants in the downtown core of Orillia, making it a great place for a stroll any time of the year. Visit the Orillia Arts District downtown to admire street art, and visit art galleries.

If you’re an art fan, you should also consider driving about an hour north of Orillia near a town called Magnetawan. There you’ll find Screaming Heads , which is free of charge and open in the winter. (Great for snowshoeing and appreciating rare, wacky art.)

If you’re looking to escape the cold in Orillia, step into history by taking a tour of the Leacock House, which was owned by a Canadian author, or visiting the Ontario Provincial Police Museum .

Although the Budweiser Stage in Toronto is closed during the winer, Orillia’s Casino Rama is open all year. It has a 5,000 seat concert venue, 9 restaurants, a spa and a hotel. Its basically your hotspot for (mainly adult) fun in Orillia anytime of the year.

Check out Glen Oro Farms to look into winter horseback riding, or luxury camping experiences in Orillia.

Elora is a small historic town northeast of Guelph (about 90 minutes from Toronto) known for its 1800s limestone architecture.

In the winter, Elora features a 20-metre man-made ice wall where you can do ice climbing. Offered by Axe Pursuits , its one of the few places in Southern Ontario where ice climbing is allowed.

If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, Elora Mills Hotel & Spa which overlooks the Grand River and the Elora Gorge. There are snow globes outdoors in the winter are cozy and stunning.

26. Owen Sound

Owen Sound is one of the most underrated places to visit in Ontario in winter. Owen Sound is in Grey County and there are a ton of waterfalls in the area. One of my favourites is Inglis Falls. Jones Falls and Hogg’s Falls are also breathtaking anytime of year.

If you’re in Owen Sound during December, check out the Festival of Northern Lights , which runs from November 18th until January 7th.

Owen Sound has a diverse foodie and art scene, and there are lots of great places to eat on the main street. One of my favourites was Sabitri’s, which serves Indian and Nepalese food. Check out the Tom Thompson Art Gallery downtown, to see this Group of Seven Member’s greatest works.

Just a 40 minute drive from Owen Sound is the Beaver Valley Nordic Ski Club which offers 8 kms of cross country ski and snowshoe trails.

27. Hamilton Winterfest

Last but not least, check out the city of Hamilton – just over an hour’s drive southwest of Toronto – in the winter. Due to its location on the lake and being south of Toronto, it often has milder weather in the winter compared to other Ontarian cities. The average high in January is -1°C and the low is -9°.

Hamilton hosts Winterfest every February. There are live performances, snow sculptures, games and family-friendly activities, as well as dozens of The 2024 dates will be from February 2nd-9th.

Things to Do in Winter in Ontario

Regardless of where you go in Ontario in winter, these kinds of activities are available close to most major cities and towns. Here are the things you can do in Ontario in winter, and where you can go to do them.

1. Go tobogganing

Tobogganing has a long history in Canada, and although mostly thought to be a kid’s activity – adults can certainly do it too. Tobogganing has cultural roots in Ontario, and in Canada – the word “toboggan” is derived from the French word , tabaganne , which is believed to have derived from the Algonquian word, tepagan.

You can do tobogganning anywhere in Ontario. There may be hills in the forest, in a subdivision, or park. Usually the best people to ask for the place to toboggan locally are people who live in the area – they’ll know where the best toboggan hills are.

2. Go snow-tubing

Snow-tubing offers a substitute to downhill skiing and snowboarding, as well as tobogganing. Similar to tobogganing, you’re sliding down a slope. However, snow-tubing is usually offered at ski-resorts as a separate activity to snowboarding and skiing.

Snow-tubing is great fun for kids and adults, and it gives you the thrill of flying down the hill on the snow without needed to perfect for skiing or snowboard skills first.

You can buy a snow-tube and go down any regular toboggan hill, or for added fun, visit resorts like Blue Mountain or Horseshoe Valley which have great snow tubing slopes.

3. Go ice skating

You can go ice skating on a public skating rink, an ice skating trail, or in some cases, a frozen pond. There are both indoor and outdoor rinks throughout towns Ontario.

Depending on the municipality you’re in or visiting, look up their town recreation centre and you’ll be able to find information on the public rink, if there is one.

One of my favourite places to skate outdoors in winter is Toronto – Nathan Phillip’s Square and the Harbourfront Centre outdoor rink.

4. Cross country skiing

Cross country skiing is a low-impact activity, but still great exercise and often allows you to ‘get out in nature’ in the winter in Ontario. It can be done at many clubs and provincial parks around Ontario, or on private property.

One of the best places in Ontario to do cross country skiing are the Mono Nordic Ski Club outside Orangeville. It’s open 7 days a week, and you can either get an annual membership or just do a day pass. At only $10/day for kids 8+ and free for 7 and under, its certainly much more affordable than downhill skiing!

5. Snow-shoeing

Depending on where you go in Ontario, it might be easier to snowshoe than to do a winter hike. If a trail is well maintained/patted down, then you can simply hike in your boots. But if the snow is deep, then you might want to consider snow-shoeing instead of hiking.

Look up the trail conditions of the place you’re visiting to see what the conditions are like, to determine whether you should bring winter hiking boots or snowshoes. Snowshoes can be rented from many places, one of them being Nordic

Good to Know: These resorts near Toronto all offer equipment rentals for both cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Always check the weather conditions before you visit.

6. Downhill skiing or snowboarding

Downhill skiing and snowboarding are very popular winter sports in Ontario. I won’t lie, you can find bigger and more impressive hills if you go to Western Canada, to places like Banff or Vancouver . But Ontario has a lot of great ski resorts too.

Devil’s Glen is the tallest ski hill in Ontario, while Blue Mountain is the largest resort. One of my favourites, mentioned above, is Mount Saint Louis .

Either way, regardless of your level, you have your pick. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, check the website of the ski resort to see what lessons options they offer to beginners.

7. Visit a Nordic Spa

There’s something about visiting a nordic spa in winter. Sitting in a hot tub, warmed by the steamy water, outside while its cold is a relaxing sensation and worth experiencing.

There are a few nordic spas in Ontario which are very popular – my two personal favourites outdoor spas which I’ve been to many times are Vettä Nordic Spa in Orillia, and Scandinave Spa in Blue Mountain.

There is also a fantastic indoor nordic-style spa in Toronto called Othership

Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter: FAQs

Here are the most commonly asked questions about visiting Ontario in the winter , and the best places to visit during the winter months

How can I enjoy winter in Ontario?

You can enjoy winter in Ontario by getting out into nature and taking in the beauty. The scenery can be beautiful when its covered in snow. part in some snow sports – there are some easier ones like snowshoeing and cross country skiing, and if you’re up for more of a physical challenge – downhill skiing, snowboarding and ice skating.

Which province is best to visit in winter?

The best province to visit in winter depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy winter sports, then British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec are home to the largest and tallest ski resorts. If however, you want to explore historical and cultural cities then you might want to consider Quebec or Ontario.

Which Canadian cities worth visiting in winter?

Many cities in Canada are worth visiting in the wintertime. If the cold doesn’t bother you too much, head to Quebec City, Montreal, or Banff (not a city, but a very picturesque destination.) If you want as mild weather as possible, then consider Vancouver or Victoria – some of the warmest cities in Canada.

Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter: Conclusion

By now you know the best places to visit in Ontario in winter, and have an idea of some exciting things that happen around Ontario in winter. If you enjoy the snow and don’t mind the cold, then there are many places in Ontario that you can enjoy in the winter months.

Be prepared for snow anytime between the months of December and March , but to not get your hopes up too much if you’re in Southern Ontario (anywhere south of Orillia ) because there are some scattered days throughout the winter where there’s no snow at all; only slush or chilly weather.

Whether its a city, town, resort, national park or a spa, there are so many creative ways to enjoy winter in Ontario and make the best of the chilly season, and often, participate in activities that have deep cultural roots in Ontario and Canada too.

11 Unique Ontario Winter Getaways to Experience this Year

Check out this list of unique Ontario winter getaways. They’re sure to cure any case of feeling blue. Get outside and have fun!

This province is filled with fantastic places to see and things to do – from visiting our quaint small towns to hiking in o ur beautiful forests . This holds true from the heat of summer to the cold of winter.

The right Ontario winter getaway will help you get the most out of the coldest season of the year this year. So if you’re on the hunt for places to visit in Ontario in winter , we’ve put together this list of what we think are the best Ontario winter getaways around.

Ontario in winter is a special time, and one not to missed.

What You Should Bring on a Winter Getaway in Ontario

As the old Norwegian adage goes: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.” When you’re getting ready for your winter getaway in Ontario, packing the right clothing is the first step to a successful trip.

If you plan on doing some outdoor activities on your Ontario winter adventure, make sure you’re packing several layers. The most important step here is to ensure that your layers are made of materials other than cotton. Cotton gets damp and wet easily, so it makes you colder if you wear it in cold temperatures. Taking a winter vacation in Ontario means that you’ll likely be outside in the cold for a long period of time. This means packing layers that have wool, polyester or performance wicking materials.

Think about the type of Ontario winter getaway you’ll be taking, and make sure you pack the right coat and possibly snow pants If you’ll be snowboarding or tubing. More performance-oriented winter coats and snow pants are a must.

If you plan on spending more time indoors, then a stylish puffer jacket or streetwear coat is a better option. Whatever you bring, make sure it will keep you warm. You never know if you’ll need to spend a little extra time outside. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Make sure you pack a functional pair of winter gloves. Preferably ones with smartphone-friendly tips on their fingers. These types of gloves mean your hands can stay warm while you capture your Ontario winter getaway on your phone. You’ll also want to pack a toque and a scarf.

Other extras to help keep you warm are hand warmers. They’re a great option to throw in your boots or in your mittens. Some other useful items you might want to pack in the car can include a throw blanket, a magic carpet or a coffee thermos.

Last but not least, consider the best footwear for your trip. If you’re headed to a place with a lot of snow or outdoor activities, winter boots that reach up to your calf are best. Ankle boots may be stylish, but they aren’t very friendly on Ontario winter getaways with a lot of snow. You’ll definitely be happier with boots that go up higher on your legs.

The Best Time to Go on an Ontario Winter Getaway

When you’re planning your Ontario winter getaway, thinking about the right time to go is important. Your best bet is to arrange a trip during the less busy times of year. Places will be busier during school breaks. In Ontario, this means the winter break (mid-December to mid-January) and March Break (middle two weeks in March) will be busiest. If you can plan your winter getaway in Ontario outside of these times, you are good to go.

Beyond that, if it’s possible for you to visit some of these destinations during the week, that would be the best possible way to see them. While winter weekend getaways in Ontario are fun, they’re also far busier. Visiting places during the week is a great way to ensure a safe distance from yourself and other patrons. Nowadays, that is a really important factor to consider when you’re travelling safely.

Ontario Winter Getaway Ideas

1. Check out the Northern Lights

You don’t have to head to the Arctic Circle to see the Aurora Borealis. You can get up close and personal with the Northern Lights right here in Ontario. Make a weekend out of seeing this famous sight. You can rent one of many cute winter cabins in Ontario, or find an independent hotel or bed and breakfast and make a weekend of it.

2. Try your Hand at Ice Fishing

This centuries-old activity is a truly Canadian one to try out. All across the province, lake fishing huts pop up on frozen lakes as soon as we’ve had a few steady weeks of deep freezing. If you’re feeling a little stressed and are looking for an opportunity to find your zen, ice fishing is therapeutic. It truly makes for a unique Ontario winter getaway.

If you’re looking for a starting point, heading to Ice Fishing on Lake Scugog makes for a great option. You can arrange a trip from the shores of Port Perry, just an hour outside of Toronto. For an overnight getaway, try The Piano Inn in Port Perry, or for something more in nature, check out The Hive Centre and Stay .

3. Skate on a Forest Trail

Over the past few years, many ice skating trails in Ontario have opened up. You can find a few in various large cities, like Toronto’s trail at The Bentway or Brampton’s Gage Park Skating Trail . But if you’re looking for a great Ontario winter getaway, your best bet is to head to the forest.

There are several provincial parks in Ontario where you can skate through a forest. Arrowhead Provincial Park just outside of Huntsville is a great option. It has a scenic trail weaving through the forest, with its own on-site winery! If you’re there in the evening, scenic lights line the path, too. It can get pretty packed, especially on weekends. Consider visiting on a week day and staying at Deerhurst Resort.

Some other lesser-known yet excellent options are MacGregor Point Provincial Park’s Ice Trail and Kivi Park’s “Nina’s Way” in Sudbury. Both paths feature scenic skates through picturesque forested areas. On the perfect sunny winter day, a skate on these trails is a real treat.

4. Celebrate Winter in Canada’s Capital

Ottawa is one of the coldest capital cities in the world, which makes it the perfect place for an Ontario winter getaway. Lace up your skates to skate down the world’s largest skating rink on the Rideau Canal . Make sure you eat a famous Beaver Tail treat while you’re on the ice. If you find yourself in Ottawa later in the season, Winterlude is Ottawa’s winter festival. It takes place in February each year.

If you really want to top off this winter vacation in Ontario, plan a stay at the Chateau Laurier . It’s the most famous and historic hotel in Ottawa.

5. Stay at one of the Best Winter Resorts in Ontario

Just because the temperatures drop doesn’t mean that resorts lose their appeal in the winter. Some of the best places to visit in Ontario in winter are resorts. This is because resorts have everything you need right at your fingertips.

If you’re looking for options near Toronto, Hockley Valley Resort is a great option. They have several ski runs, a delicious restaurant and they’re situated right next door to a great winery. Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville is the gateway to Muskoka in the winter. Enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and more outdoor activities nearby. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa is also a great place to stay for skiing and outdoor activities in Haliburton County.

6. Try Dog Sledding

What was historically used as transportation in Arctic climes is now a popular activity. Dog sledding is a fun experience for the whole family. This Ontario winter getaway will take you to the Haliburton Highlands, where Winterdance Dogsled Tours operates. They are a well-regarded and highly rated company. You can book anything from a half- to multi-day trip. You can stay at either Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa or Deerhurst Resort , but Sir Sam’s is a lot closer.

7. Head to the Maple Syrup Capital of Ontario

Lanark County is the official capital of this tasty Canadian treat. Lanark County’s Maple Trail is home to many award-winning maple syrup producers. You can visit the sugar bushes (maple syrup farms) year round for maple products or meals. But the seasonal maple sugar camps are open from mid-February to mid-April. This is the time of the year when the syrup is being produced.

You’ll be delighted if you spend a few nights at the charming and historic Clyde Hall Bed and Breakfast . You could also rent out the Wheeler’s Maple Farmhouse for a few nights on your visit to Lanark county.

8. Go snow tubing on one of Ontario’s slopes

We all know about the great options Ontario presents for downhill skiing and snowboarding . But have you ever tried your hand at snow tubing before? This fun winter activity is a great Ontario winter getaway idea. It doesn’t require any pricey rental equipment or prior experience.

Some great hills to try your hand at snow tubing are Horseshoe Resort in Barrie, Loch Lomond Tubing Park in Thunder Bay and Hike’n Tube at Blue Mountain in The Blue Mountains .

9. Skate in Ontario’s Oldest Town Square

Kingston has been an important part of Ontario’s history for centuries. Its downtown area has been in use since the 1600s. Plus, the site of Springer Market Square was in the town plans from the late 1700’s. The modern day Market Square building and City Hall was built in the 1840’s. Despite a fire and the natural weight of aging, several parts of the structure are still intact from when it was built then.

Skating at Springer Market Square is free, and an iconic thing to do in downtown Kingston. Make it a weekend by staying at the Rosemount Inn or the Woodview Inn . Both inns offer so much historic charm and will be the cherry on top of your stay.

10. Try Your Hand at Winter Camping

This option requires a little more planning and preparedness than several other Ontario winter getaways on this list. Winter camping is a great getaway idea for people who love camping in the summer and are looking to up their camping game.

Winter camping requires a proper winter tent. It’s possible to use a summer-weather tent, but you’re more likely to run into problems keeping warm. Depending on if you’re in the backcountry or not, this can be very dangerous. A proper winter camping tent has an insulated stove built into it to warm up the inside of the tent and keep it warm.

If you want to try out this Ontario winter getaway, make sure you go with someone experienced. If gearing up for winter camping with a tent isn’t for you, there are some great rustic cabin options at provincial parks. If you’re curious about more information, Ontario Parks provides some great suggestions on their website .

There are also plenty of winter cabins in Ontario that are worth checking out.

11. Head to the Festival of Lights in Belleville

Belleville’s Festival of Lights happens from November to January each year. This year, this winter getaway in Ontario will be run as a driving event so you can safely keep your distance from others, and enjoy it with your family. The festival began as a memorial for a tragic accident in the Belleville area. Since the 1950’s, it’s been meant to appeal to the young crowds and the young at heart.

Stay in downtown Belleville or nearby in Kingston to make a weekend of it.

Picking the Ontario Winter Getaway That’s Right for You

This list of winter destinations in Ontario has a lot of variety. Many of these winter getaways in Ontario are perfect for a family vacation. Others are better suited for a romantic winter getaway for two, or for a trip with friends in your bubble.

Whichever getaway you choose, make sure you do some planning in advance. Nowadays, many activities require a pre-arranged reservation. This wasn’t always the case, but during the pandemic it’s an important way for businesses to track who is visiting.

Regardless of where you plan to spend your Ontario winter getaway, you will be sure to have a fantastic time in this wonderful province of ours.

Bri Mitchell is a travel writer and content creator from Toronto, Ontario. She loves to highlight all things nature, food, wellness, history and adventures in her work. Bri writes and shares her travel experiences from across Canada and beyond on Instagram and TikTok @brimitchelltravels, and in her articles for travelingmitch.com , Ultimate Ontario, and here on We Explore Canada.

Paula Schuck

Tuesday 24th of November 2020

YES to tubing! So much fun and it can be decent exercise. I have never been dog sledding in Ontario - only in Quebec. Loved it there and didn't even realize that was a thing here so much. Now I want to visit the Haliburton Highlands.

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12 Magical Places to Visit In Ontario in Winter

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: February 2, 2023  - Last updated: June 15, 2023

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There are so many beautiful places to visit in Ontario in winter.

There’s no shortage of places in Ontario offering incredible adventures during the winter. Whether you’re looking for snowshoeing trails to admire the gorgeous winter landscapes or something more adrenaline-filled to get your heart racing, you can find it in Ontario.

From soaking in outdoor spas after a day on the slopes to skating on the iconic Rideau Canal in Ottawa, these are the best places to visit in Ontario during winter for a getaway filled with adventure and relaxation.

Best Places to Visit In Ontario During Winter

#1. niagara falls.

Niagara Falls ’ unrivaled beauty can be enjoyed yearround, but it’s further accentuated over the winter months when the weather turns cold, and snow and ice paint it into a stunning palette of soft whites and pale blues.

Late January is the best bet for a chance of seeing the falls themselves completely frozen. The best part about coming during this time is that you’ll also have way fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

Witness the dazzling lights at the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights , a majestic display of over 3 million lights illuminating the night sky across Niagara Falls! The 2023 event runs from November 12th to February 20th.

Alternatively, the Niagara Ice Wine Festiva l is another great festival to time your trip with, as are the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

As for things to do anytime, enjoy the stunning “Behind the Falls” tour, where you get a chance to experience how powerful the waterfall is, or even take a helicopter ride over the falls.

You can also combine it with a trip to Niagara-on-the-lake, just half an hour away from the falls. During the winter, the victorian-home lined streets get lit up with magical lights that sparkle under the snow. It looks like a fairytale. These two destinations combined are among the best places to visit in winter in Canada.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls

Niagara falls should absolutely be top of your list of winter places to visit in Ontario. Make the most of your time there by choosing a top-rated hotel like Marriott On The Falls.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lora🇨🇦Outdoor Adventure Travel (@explorewithlora)

This stunning 4-star hotel is a perfect choice for your visit to Niagara Falls over winter, as it’s situated right next to the falls, and the spectacular views from your room will make your stay unforgettable! I stayed here in February, and watching the sunrise over the waterfall in the morning was such a beautiful memory.

The hotel also offers numerous other attractions and perks, such as an onsite restaurant and bar. The unique aesthetic of the hotel perfectly ties into its stunning location.

#2. Thunder Bay

If you want to truly embrace Canada’s northern climate, then make a trip to Thunder Bay in northern Ontario. It’s one of the most scenic locations in the province, known for the massive expanse of ice that coats the bay over the winter months in Ontario.

Activities over winter at Thunder Bay are numerous, but one of the most popular is ice fishing on the frozen lake. One of the most popular ice fishing hotspots at Thunder Bay is Lac des Mille Lacs near Upsala, and passionate fishers can even rent their own ice shack for the duration of their trip.

For something special, come during the annual Snowday on the Wanderfront . Featuring ice sculptures, live music, and a variety of winter activities – this is a great way to embrace winter.

Other activities that are unique to the Thunder Bay region include fat biking, skating, and skiing opportunities, groomed trails by snowmobile, and sleigh rides through this truly picturesque region. You may even get lucky and spot the northern lights here!

Spend some time enjoying long runs at Thunder Bay’s stunning collection of cross-country skiing parks.

The Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, with over 68 km of trails of varying difficulty, the more family-friendly Nordic Ski Club, and the picturesque Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park are a few parks that should be on your list!

Thunder Bay is not just a winter destination, but a city with a vibrant culture and history. The city is home to many museums and galleries, offering visitors the chance to explore the area’s rich heritage. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore.

Where to Stay In Thunder Bay?

If Thunder Bay sounds like a place you want to visit for your winter trip to Ontario, then you’ll want to make the most of the experience with a truly stunning hotel like the Delta Hotels by Marriott Thunder Bay .

This 4-star hotel is in the heart of Thunder Bay and offers several amenities, including a bar and restaurant. Plus, pets are allowed here!

#3. The Blue Mountains

With a huge selection of winter hiking trails and the opportunity for many winter sports, the   Blue Mountain s could be the perfect destination if you’re looking for an adventure-filled trip.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Ontario for the weekend if you’re living in Toronto, since it’s just two hours away – making it a perfect weekend road trip !

With over 42 tracks and 16 chairlifts, the blue mountains are among the top places for downhill skiing and snowboarding in Ontario and other winter sports like dog sledding, sleigh rides, and snow tubing.

Of course, there are plenty of relaxing activities as well. One of the best things to do in this area is spending the day at the  Scandinave Spa in Collingwood .

From eucalyptus steam rooms, thermal waterfalls, and massages, to a forest bathing trail, you can choose from a variety of spa services specializing in Scandinavian-styled saunas and baths that are sure to put you in a zen state.

It’s magical sitting in the outdoor hot tubs while the snow falls over you.

They also have a bistro nearby where you can indulge in delicious, healthy snacks while enjoying your spa break before winding down for the day.

Be sure to take some time to explore Blue Mountain Village. This pedestrian-only area is decorated with beautiful lights and is a great place to grab a bite at one of the many restaurants, food vendors, or pubs. Plus, Blue Mountain Village has events going on almost every week if you’re looking for a party.

The Blue Mountains are the ideal destination for anyone looking to make the most of Ontario during the winter months, and the massive selection of activities and stunning sights ensures that you’ll never have time to sit around wondering what to do next.

Where to Stay Near The Blue Mountains?

The Westin Trillium House hotel , located at the base of the Blue Mountain Ski Resort in the heart of the village, is an ideal place to stay.

Its central location makes it convenient for getting around, and the property allows pets as a bonus. The onsite café and grill are a popular choice among guests, and the hotel’s bar also attracts plenty of visitors to mingle with.

#4. Toronto

While summer is my favorite time to be in Toronto, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Toronto in winte r. Starting in November after the fall season , the city becomes alive with lights, events, and markets.

One of my favorite places to visit in Toronto in winter is the Toronto Christmas Market in the distillery district, which has been ranked one of the best in the world.

You can ride a Ferris wheel, drink mulled wine, and hear local performers sing Christmas tunes. It’s magical.

In winter, another must-visit place in Toronto is Nathan Phillips Square by the city hall. It’s the site for many of the city’s annual events and concerts. During the winter season, the large display fountain gets turned into a beautiful public skating rink, and often there is a live DJ!

Casa Loma is an iconic Toronto landmark, and during the winter, you can experience its magic on a spectacular holiday light tour. This year’s event runs from December 22nd – to January 31st, 2021.

Where to stay:  The Westin Harbour Castle  is located right on Lake Ontario, with select rooms boasting views of the lake and Toronto’s stunning city skyline. This 4-star hotel offers well-appointed, luxurious accommodations and facilities, including an indoor pool, roof-top tennis courts, and a fitness center.

#5. Hamilton

With over one hundred stunning waterfalls in the area, the opportunities for scenic winter hikes make Hamilton one of the best winter destinations in Ontario.

The most popular waterfalls to visit in Hamilton during the cold months include Tew Falls, Webster Falls, and Albion Falls; these can freeze completely solid when the weather falls cold enough. Tourism Hamilton even has a  waterfall guide  to help you find them!

The downtown area of Hamilton is also a great place to be during Christmas time, as it becomes fully decorated with Christmas trees and light displays, as well as hosting holiday-themed events.

Where to Stay in Hamilton?

Check out the 4-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Hamilton , which offers residents access to a 24-hour onsite fitness center and swimming pool and stunning décor and luxurious furnishings. Plus, it’s located in a prime location in Hamilton to make the most of everything this region offers.

Ottawa is one of Canada’s prettiest destinations year-round, especially in the wintertime when the city becomes blanketed in snow.

One of the best reasons to visit Ottawa in winter is to skate on the world-famous Rideau Canal.

Stretching 200 km from Kingston to Ottawa, this impressive engineering feat has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the world’s largest skating rink.

In winter, the Canal transforms into a 7.8 km long ice skating rink that offers stunning views of historic landmarks such as the Parliament Buildings, Dow’s Lake, and Carleton University. You’ll feel as if you’re skating through an enchanted city lined with the beautiful French-gothic architecture of Chateau Laurier. 

The best part? Using the Rideau Canal Skateway is completely free! If you don’t have a pair of skates, you can find plenty of rentals along the skateway. You can then warm up with a cup of coffee and the world-famous BeaverTails drizzled with maple syrup to get the true Canadian experience! 

The rink is usually open from January to early March, depending on the weather.

Ottawa is also home to Winterlude, a two-week-long festival of winter activities in February that showcases the country’s cultural and culinary talents.

Food and drinks, dance parties, performances by Canadian artists, ice carving competitions, and a large snow playground are some of the activities you’ll find at Winterlude.

Where to stay in Ottawa: It doesn’t get dreamier than the Fairmont Chateaux Laurier. This historic hotel is located in central Ottawa, adjacent to the Parliament Buildings and Rideau Canal.

Every room is classically furnished with a work desk and window overlooking the city. There’s also an indoor pool, health club, fitness center, and two restaurants that feature views of Parliament.

#7. Kingston

Next up on the list of the best places to visit in Ontario this winter is Kingston, a stunning city located directly on Lake Ontario that’s most well known for its spectacular sights and wintery scenes. It’s also the gateway to the thousand islands , a beautiful national park with more than 1,800 islands along the St. Lawrence River.

Some of the best things to do in Kingston include ice skating at Springer Market Square or visiting the plethora of Christmas markets hosted around the region every year, like the Kingston Holiday Market or the  All Things Christmas Sales . They also host an annual month-long festival in February called Feb Fest.

You can enjoy the wide variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, and cafes at any time of year in Kingston’s charming old town.

Where to Stay Near Kingston?

One of the top picks for accommodation in Kingston is the All-Suites Whitney Manor . This gorgeous property boasts several suites with spacious seating areas, a flat-screen TV, fireplace, and a full kitchen.

The marble bathroom offers a glass shower stall, and some units open out onto a private balcony or a patio for soaking in the winter views! It’s one of the most unique places to stay in Ontario.

#8. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the best places to visit in Ontario during the winter months, offering stunning natural beauty, stunning wildlife, and peaceful seclusion.

Located three hours north of Toronto, the park spans over 7,500 square kilometers of dense forests, beautiful rivers, and numerous lakes. It’s also home to a wide variety of Canadian wildlife, including moose, deer, beavers, otters, and a variety of birds.

Be careful while driving on the road to the park, however, as animals will sometimes be on the road. I’ve seen bears on the side!

During the Ontario winter months, you can enjoy activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. If you want to stay longer than a day, there’s a number of cozy lodges to choose from, and winter camping is available in the backcountry if you’re feeling adventurous!

#9. Muskoka

Located two hours north of Toronto, Muskoka is one of the most popular places to go in the summer for a classic Canadian cabin weekend. However, during winter, the area is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered lakes, rolling hills and forests, and many activities and attractions.

During winter, visitors can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, there are plenty of snowmobiling trails and dog sledding tours available.

For those looking to relax, Muskoka is home to numerous spas and resorts, offering a variety of treatments and activities. There are also plenty of restaurants, pubs, and cafés to enjoy, as well as many art galleries and craft studios to explore.

#10. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Located on the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, the park offers spectacular views of Georgian Bay and its rugged shoreline. The park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including wolves, black bears, lynxes, and bald eagles.

Bruce Peninsula National Park is a popular summer destination given its proximity to the historic Georgian Bay. But Anybody who’s been to the grotto in the winter is familiar with the mesmerizing beauty you witness after reaching the grotto in Tobermory.

The park offers a variety of activities to enjoy during the winter months, such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are also many hiking trails to explore, offering stunning views of Georgian Bay.

The campgrounds in Bruce Peninsula National Park are still open during the winter months, offering visitors the chance to experience the park in a more intimate way.

The park also offers interpretive centers and guided hikes where visitors can learn more about the park’s history and wildlife.

#11. Arrowhead Provincial Park

Arrowhead Provincial Park is a great destination to visit in Ontario in winter. Located in the heart of Muskoka, this picturesque park offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventurers to families looking for a peaceful getaway.

During the winter months, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

One of the most popular attractions at Arrowhead Provincial Park is the skating trail. This winding trail takes visitors through the thick Muskoka forest, offering breathtaking views of frozen lakes and snow-covered forests. In addition to the skating trail, the park also offers a variety of other activities such as tobogganing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, snowshoe hares, and coyotes. For those looking to explore the park’s wildlife, interpretive centers and guided hikes are also available. Visitors can also explore the park’s historical sites, such as the Arrowhead Museum and the remains of an old logging camp.

In the winter months, Elora is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered streets and picturesque views of the frozen river.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as skating on the Elora Quarry, ice climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The Elora Gorge Conservation Area is also a great spot for winter hikes, offering stunning views of the frozen landscape. After a day outside, treat yourself to a spa treatment at the Elora Mill and Spa.

In addition to winter activities, Elora also boasts a variety of cultural attractions, including several art galleries, museums, and historic sites. The Wellington County Museum and Archives offers visitors a unique look into the region’s history and culture in the nearby village of Fergus. There’s also the Fergus Grand Theatre, which showcases live performances throughout the year.

Discover more things to in winter in Ontario

What to Pack For Ontario in Winter

If you’re planning a trip to Ontario this winter, make sure you pack warm clothes because the Ontario weather is no joke – it can be freezing! Temperatures in Ontario can potentially fall as low as -30 degrees Celsius, and that’s before adding in the bite of wind chill. Check out this Canada winter gear guide for more information about what to bring.

Fortunately, the temperatures in Ontario over winter are still bearable, owing to the region’s relatively low humidity. I recommend packing the below items if you want to make the most of the beautiful ice and snow displays.

• thermal base layers  over a shirt (I love  merino wool )
• A Fleece Sweater
• Regular pants with  snow pants  over them
• Parka  or equivalent snow jacket
• wool socks . I love  smart wool  because it’s light to pack but keeps you warm!
• Good waterproof winter boots. I love  Sorels!
• Warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf. I highly recommend a buff that you can pull up to cover your face. It’s one of my favorite winter accessories!

Ontario is one of these magical destinations that is unlike any other once the snow begins to fall, transforming the region into a winter wonderland that’s sure to capture the hearts of anyone who visits.

Hopefully, this list of the best places to visit in Ontario in winter has given you some ideas and inspiration about where to go!

Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Ontario is such a beautiful place! I’m amazed that there are so many lovely places there! I hope the natural spaces will stay protected, and may we help each other to preserve and conserve these! Cheers!

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• About Northern Ontario
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• Explore Indigenous Culture
• Group of Seven
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• Plan A Road Trip
• Plan Your Fall Trip
• Plan Your Summer Trip
• Plan Your Winter Trip
• Where to Eat
• Algoma Country
• Northeastern Ontario
• Sault Ste. Marie
• Sunset Country
• Superior Country
• Thunder Bay
• Motorcycle Touring
• Outdoor Adventures
• Snowmobiling

13 Stunning Ontario Winter Resorts You Need to Visit This Winter

There’s no need to hibernate in the winter. Ontario offers plentiful snowy adventures, from exciting downhill skiing to relaxing snowshoeing, as well as unique experiences like dogsledding and skating on natural ice. You don’t have to compromise on comfort to enjoy these activities, either. Choose from a range of accommodations across the province, including cozy log cabins, upscale resorts, mountainside chalets and more.

Find a romantic getaway with gourmet meals and quiet seclusion, or a family-friendly retreat that’s perfect for the March Break. The options are numerous, but we’ve pared down a list of some of the top resorts that offer a gateway to the best of wintertime in Ontario.

1. Stokely Creek Lodge

This Scandinavian-style cross-country ski resort is located 30 minutes north of Sault Ste. Marie in the Algoma Highlands. Stokely Creek Lodge is alluring in many ways. First and foremost, the resort attracts serious nordic skiers with over 100 km of groomed trails in a wilderness setting. It also features over 20 km of backcountry snowshoeing trails. All that activity builds up a serious appetite, and Stokely doesn’t disappoint, with gourmet meals served family-style with all-you-can-eat portions.

• While you’re visiting Algoma, be sure to check out Sault Ste. Marie , one of Northern Ontario’s most vibrant cities. Enjoy a locally brewed beer at Northern Superior ’s brewpub adjacent to the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Museum .
• The Clergue Park ice skating trail is another great downtown Sault Ste. Marie attraction.

2. Algonquin Log Cabin

You won’t find a cozier cabin than this one, located on the edge of Algonquin Provincial Park and three hours north of the GTA. Voyageur Quest offers a picture-perfect, off-grid log cabin with a massive stone fireplace that’s ideal for couples and families. The lodge serves homemade meals and offers access to great winter activities like cross-country skiing, dogsledding and snowshoeing.

• Between Huntsville and North Bay you’ll find plenty of winter adventures. Check out Arrowhead Provincial Park for some of the best cross-country skiing in Central Ontario and their unique ice skating trail through the forest. Remember to purchase your daily vehicle permit in advance online. 
• North Bay embraces its Lake Nipissing shoreline at all times of the year. You can rent an ice fishing hut and test your luck jigging for walleye on the lake’s big, frozen water. Rent from Reed’s Outdoor Adventures or take a guided tour with Bam’s Tours .

3. Deerhurst Resort

This upscale resort near Huntsville makes for a perfect getaway, offering access to a variety of winter adventures. Onsite you’ll find winter disc golf, fat biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating on an outdoor rink, kick-sledding and outdoor curling. If that’s not enough, Deerhurst is located a stone’s throw away from downhill skiing and snowboarding at Hidden Valley Highlands , a surprising lift-serviced area that’s aptly described as Ontario’s friendliest ski hill. The resort itself is renowned for its well-appointed accommodations and fine dining, made all the better by its beautiful location on the shore of Peninsula Lake.

• Deerhurst is located a short drive from Algonquin Provincial Park , which features trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
• While in Huntsville, check out Seven Main Cafe , located in the town’s oldest commercial space and serving locally roasted Muskoka Roastery Coffee .

4. Searchmont Resort

The “Mountains of the Midwest,” located about an hour’s drive north of Sault Ste. Marie, feature the highest vertical downhill ski runs in Ontario, with rugged terrain that’s perfect for intermediate to advanced alpine skiers. Recent upgrades have made Searchmont Resort more beginner- and family-friendly, too, with an improved learning area. While their slopeside accommodations are under renovation, The Water Tower Inn in nearby Sault Ste. Marie is a great alternative that will allow you to enjoy all Searchmont has to offer. Spend days on the slopes and evenings enjoying the onsite dining, swimming pool, outdoor hot tubs and luxe suites.

• While in Sault Ste. Marie be sure to make a stop for some authentic Italian cuisine at Giovanni’s Restaurant .
• Do you love cross-country skiing, too? Sault Ste. Marie boasts an excellent 40-km network of groomed trails at Hiawatha Highlands , only a 10-minute drive from downtown.

5. Minaki Yurt Adventures

Minaki Yurt Adventures ’ unique vacation rentals are located 45 km north of Kenora, in Northwestern Ontario. Four yurts and a tipi are available for small group rentals. The main attraction for winter guests to this off-the-radar retreat is excellent cross-country skiing, with 20 km of groomed trails. Larger groups can book the 2,800-square-foot Mee-nah-kee yurt, which features a kitchen, several bathrooms and space for up to 11.

• While you’re in Northwestern Ontario be sure to check out the interactive Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre in Kenora.
• The Lake of the Woods Brewing Company features a popular taproom in a reclaimed historic Kenora firehall.

6. Browns’ Clearwater West Lodge

Located near Atikokan, west of Thunder Bay, Browns’ Clearwater West Lodge offers the quintessential Canadian fishing lodge experience year-round. Rent a four-season cabin and try ice fishing on pristine freshwater lakes. The remote location is also a great way to escape the bustle of city life; immerse yourself in the outdoors on a snowshoe hike or simply enjoy the scenery.

• Nearby Quetico Provincial Park is open in the winter months for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and backcountry camping. The park maintains 15 km of trails at the Dawson Trail Campground.

7. Bellevue Valley Lodge

Looking for backcountry skiing you don’t have to travel outside of Ontario to enjoy? Look no further than Bellevue Valley Lodge in Goulais River, just north of Sault Ste. Marie. Your family or group can rent a chalet and book a guided backcountry ski adventure in rugged, snowy terrain—with the deepest powder in the province. Not quite up for backcountry skiing? No problem, snowshoeing is an easier way to experience this magnificent landscape.

• Trained interpretive guides from Forest the Canoe , another Goulais River-based tour provider, offer beginner-friendly snowshoe hikes throughout the Sault Ste. Marie area.
• The Canal District of Sault Ste. Marie offers easy winter adventures and great dining. Go for a winter hike on the trails at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site of Canada , and enjoy upscale dining and craft beers at the Mill Steakhouse and Wine Bar and Outspoken Brewing .

8. Beyond the Giant Nature Retreat

Experience the magic of winter on the Sibley Peninsula, just east of Thunder Bay. Beyond the Giant Nature Retreat offers cottage-style accommodations with easy access to the great skiing and snowshoeing trails of the iconic Sleeping Giant. Families and friends will enjoy private cabins on the frozen shore of Lake Superior, with a traditional sauna to warm up in after a hard day of playing outdoors.

• The Sleeping Giant Loppet is one of Ontario’s best cross-country ski events, with a variety of distances for all levels of skiers in the stunning hills of Northwestern Ontario.
• A trip to Northwestern Ontario wouldn’t be complete without great dining. Check out the Caribou Restaurant and Wine Bar in Thunder Bay for an upscale, locally inspired menu.

9. Canadian Ecology Centre

This unique facility near the town of Mattawa on Highway 17, east of North Bay, offers 32 cabins for year-round use. Visitors will be immersed in the stunning landscape that inspired the establishment of the Canadian Ecology Centre , with access to the Mattawa River and dozens of kilometres of ski and snowshoe trails. Cabins are equipped with kitchens so you can bring your own food and enjoy a quiet retreat with family and friends.

• Mattawa boasts a little-known downhill ski area that’s one of Ontario’s finest. Antoine Mountain features 630 vertical feet and 15 runs—including the longest alpine ski run in the province at 2.92 km.
• Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge , also in the Mattawa area, offers a similar winter experience with snowshoeing, kicksledding, tubing and a sauna.
• Additionally, the Mattawa River Resort offers 15 cabins on the shores of the historic Mattawa River—open year-round with a pet-friendly policy.

10. Fern Resort

This waterfront resort on Lake Couchiching, near Orillia, offers an easy winter getaway within a short drive from the GTA. Fern Resort provides inn- and cottage-style accommodations with meals. Winter activities include ice skating, tobogganing and snowshoeing. The resort is especially attractive to families, with kid-friendly packages available for the holidays, Family Day and March Break.

• Central Ontario is a snowbelt region with outstanding downhill skiing at several resorts, including Mount St. Louis Moonstone .
• One of Ontario’s finest networks of cross-country ski trails is located at Hardwood Hills , near Barrie. Experience pristine grooming and heart-pumping trails for classic and skate skiing techniques through varied terrain.

11. Great Spirit Lodge

Lake Temagami is a popular summer destination for paddlers. In the winter, this expansive body of water located an hour north of North Bay is a forgotten treasure. Great Spirit Lodge offers four heated cottages for winter use, providing weeklong rentals for families and winter enthusiasts. Try ice fishing or explore the frozen bays of Lake Temagami by ski or snowshoe for a unique perspective of one of Ontario’s greatest lakes.

• Looking for a more “hard core” winter adventure? Book a winter weekend getaway with Temagami Outfitting and try winter camping in the frozen wilderness with heated prospector tents, snowshoes and toboggans.

12. Sportsman’s Lodge Wilderness Resort

Located just east of Sudbury, this all-season wilderness resort on Kukagami Lake is gaining a reputation as a gateway to some of Ontario’s finest landscapes, including old-growth forests and pristine lakes. Set off on snowshoes to witness massive red and white pines and enjoy spectacular views of the starry night sky. The Sportsman’s Lodge Wilderness Resort offers guest rooms in their Main Lodge and Tower Building, as well as private cabins.

• Sudbury is an outstanding winter destination, with a plethora of adventure sports and family-friendly activities on offer. There are multiple cross-country ski areas within city limits, including Kivi Park , Laurentian Nordic Ski Club and Walden Cross Country .
• Need to spend a few hours warming up inside? Science North is a great destination for families, with a huge array of interactive exhibits that will keep you busy for an entire day.

13. Cedar Meadows Resort and Spa

Experience the vast snowy wonder of Canada’s boreal forest in Timmins. Cedar Meadows Resort and Spa offers a surprisingly luxe experience in Northern Ontario, with suite and chalet accommodations, and gourmet meals. Go on one of the daily wildlife tours they offer through the snow-covered, 100-acre wildlife park for the chance to see bison, elk and fallow deer. Enjoy a Nordic spa experience, alternating hot and cold baths in a relaxing outdoor setting.

• Northerners take winter seriously, and you’ll find one of Ontario’s most vibrant cross-country ski clubs in Timmins. Porcupine Ski Runners maintains over 25 km of ski and snowshoe trails for all levels of winter enthusiasts.

Book a Stay and Play in Ontario’s Winter Wonderland

Don’t wait until the snow is on the ground—now is the time to plan your winter adventure. Choose from accommodations with rustic charm or luxurious amenities, in remote or highly accessible locations. No matter where you go, you’ll be able to make the most of the snow and ice and have a wintry experience to remember.

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Conor Mihell is an award-winning environmental and adventure travel writer based in Sault Ste. Marie. Read his work in the Globe and Mail, Explore, Cottage Life, Canoe & Kayak, ON Nature, and other magazines and newspapers. He's been a sea kayak guide on Lake Superior for close to 20 years, and has paddled from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay. 

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Best winter destinations in Ontario for a cozy weekend

Ah, winter in Ontario. The longest season. The shortest days. It’s where you have to don several layers before setting foot outside and where you almost forget what t-shirt weather feels like. Don’t fret! There are actually so many great reasons to enjoy this season. Across the province, many towns are embracing winter. So bundle up and get ready to explore the best winter destinations in Ontario.

Enjoy winter outdoors in Kingston

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NOTE: Travel is not recommended at this time. These posts are here to serve as inspiration when we can explore again. Hey there – this post likely contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase from them. This helps me earn a few dollars to run this website.

Even if the winter season isn’t your thing, there’s a certain je ne sais quoi about bundling up and enjoying a lovely winter activity while the snow is coming down around you. Plus, who doesn’t love getting cozy by a warm fire with a hot toddy or mulled wine?

This round-up of best winter weekend getaways in Ontario gives you nine destinations for winter inspiration with recommendations on where to stay, where to eat, where to get a drink and where to Fika. Fika can be a verb, right?

What is Fika? Well, Fika is partly a coffee break and partly a state of mind. Fika is the Swedish concept of slowing down, appreciating the things you have and enjoying time with friends and family. So I tried to find the best places for you to Fika in each wintery destination.

Winter in Ontario can be fun; there are lots of winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, skating, sledding and much more! That’s why each of these places to visit in Ontario in winter has an example of an outdoor activity that you absolutely must do!

Winter weekend getaway to Kingston

Kingston is located in Eastern Ontario along the northern shores of the mouth of the St. Lawrence River. It was the country’s first capital city before Canada even became Canada. And because of that, it’s filled with gorgeous historical buildings. It’s also a university town, meaning there are some trendy spots to enjoy a bite to eat. Kingston knows that winters are long, so they throw an exciting festival every year, FebFest, making it the perfect winter destination in Ontario for a cozy weekend getaway.

The best way to enjoy the outdoors in Kingston is by experiencing it in Frontenac Provincial Park . In the summer, this 5,355-hectare park is great for backcountry camping, canoeing and hiking. In the winter, the park becomes a cold-weather haven. You can try winter camping if you’re adventurous enough. Or strap on some snowshoes and hit the trails. There’s also cross-country skiing on 11 km of track-set trails.

Fika is all about enjoying a hot drink and cake and spending time with friends. Get that cozy feel-good feeling at Sipps Coffee and Dessert Bar . This café is just steps from City Hall and has a homey vibe. Plus, they have a weekly tradition called Cinnamon Bun Fridays! Who doesn’t love that! Perfect for Fika!

Finding the best place to eat is hard in Kingston; there is a plethora of tasty spots for some delicious warm food for your winter travels. But Atomica Kitchen is where it’s at. Their swanky vibe and their out-of-this-world delicious menu will win you over. While they are known for their cocktails, their shareable plates and pizzas are So. Much. Yum! I had their butternut squash ravioli and thought I died and went to heaven. Perfect comfort food for a cold winter’s night.

If there’s any bar that screams winter cabin, then it’s Red House . This stone-and-beam rustic bar and kitchen has a lengthy drinks menu. They even have their own ale and a whole page dedicated to whiskey. A must-visit for any winter wanderer.

At only a five-minute walk from downtown Kingston, the Rosemount Inn and Spa is the go-to place for a winter getaway in Ontario. This historic 11-room boutique hotel has a modern twist, with all the amenities you might expect from a large hotel and more. They even have a spa, offering massages, facials and wraps, to warm you up from the frosty weather.

Kingston knows that its winters are long. So instead of sitting and waiting for spring, they throw a month-long celebration of the longest season: Feb Fest. This event takes over the downtown with ice skating, ice sculptures, snow slides, hockey classics, and even a polar plunge! They even bring in special guests like ice skater extraordinaire Kurt Browning. And you can’t miss tasting a delicious Beaver Tail!

RELATED: Enjoy a winter weekend in Kingston, Ontario

Winter weekend getaway to Kitchener

This tech hub is actually a winter paradise. Did you know Kitchener’s original name was Berlin? Yup! So Kitchener really embraces its German heritage with events like Oktoberfest and Christkindl Market. Plus, its geographic location makes this a top contender on the list of best winter weekend trip ideas in Ontario. Kitchener is only an hour or so from Toronto, so if you only have a day, this city is great, but make sure to come back and check out all the other places the Kitchener-Waterloo Region has to offer!

There really is nothing like tobogganing. For kids, it’s a blast, for adults is like a blast from the past. You can have all sorts of fun at the Chicopee Tube Park . Winter is their bread and butter. On Saturdays, they have Saturday Late Night Tubing, where you can speed down the hill under the city lights. After you’ve had your fun on the slopes, you can warm up in the log Chalet Café.

Show and Tell Coffee is a warm and comfortable spot to get your coffee and cake for well-deserved Fika. They serve rare and seasonal coffees from roasters around the globe. I tried their lavender latte, and it was the bomb dot com.

All aboard the cozy train; next stop: Grand Trunk Saloon . This restaurant is all about food for the soul, with classics like chicken and waffles, Jambalaya, and burgers. But they also have one-of-a-kind dishes, like frog legs!  

Time for a nightcap? Then the Lokal has you covered. The modern and crisp cocktail bar has a drink menu longer than my arm. They create pretty much everything and have nearly every liquor known to man. Plus, it’s inside a hotel, so when you’re all “warmed up,” you can just head upstairs!

The Walper is an icon to downtown Kitchener. The hotel dates back to 1893, but don’t worry, it’s been renovated into a classic/modern look that just screams sophistication. Each room has a similar vibe but different décor. Plus, The Walper rooms are stocked with amenities that you’ll definitely write home about.

You’ve heard of Germany’s Christmas Markets, but have you heard of Kitchener’s Christkindl Market ? Canada’s original Christkindl Market celebrated everything we love about German-style markets, mulled wine, beautiful wooden booths, Christmas décor and more. There’s even ice skating, a candlelight procession, and opening ceremonies from the Christkind angel.

It’s held over the first weekend in December, so don’t miss it!

RELATED: Check out these incredible Grey County Waterfalls in Winter

Winter weekend getaway to Blue Mountain Village

Blue Mountain Village has been the ideal place to enjoy winter in Ontario for as long as I can remember. It’s a ski village that is comparable to Whistler, BC or Mont Tremblant, Quebec, but more accessible for those of us that live in southern Ontario. Plus, Blue Mountain Village really knows how to throw a party. They’ve got events going on almost every week. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, then hit the slopes. If that’s not your thing, there are so many other winter activities, plus cozy places to curl up and get warm. These reasons are why Blue Mountain Village makes the list of best winter weekend trip ideas in Ontario.

Blue Mountain Village is known for its slopes. The Blue Mountain Resort has all kinds of downhill adventures. Strap on skis or a snowboard of hop on a toboggan and try out its 43 runs. There’s even mountain top skating, snowshoe trails and the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster. Get all your gear rentals, lift passes and lessons right here.

Any café that has “Royal Majesty” in the name and makes Smores hot chocolate get’s my vote in the best place for Fika! The Royal Majesty Espresso Bar Bakery in Blue Mountain Village checks both of those boxes. Plus, they are licensed, so you bet they have Bailey’s and coffee.

Get yourself some fresh craft beer and a tasty meal in Northwinds Brew Pub , a lodge-style brewery in the heart of Blue Mountain. Their menu has just about everything for you to walk away satisfied. The views of the slopes aren’t half bad either!

Twist Kitchen and Cocktails has all the glitz and glamour you would expect from a cocktail lounge, including the impressive drinks menu. They just did a big revamp in early 2019, It now has this retro but modern vibe to it, perfect for a cocktail after hitting the slopes.

What’s better than relaxing in a homey room with a fireplace after a day skiing? Nothing. At Westin Trillium House , you’ll find the comfort dial turned up to the max with signature amenities and views of Georgian Bay or the ski hill. It’s located right in Blue Mountain Village, giving you easy access to the pedestrian-only village. And when you’re ready to warm up even more, they’ve got a heated outdoor pool. Can I get a heck ya!

Blumination Dream Trail – Every winter from December to March, you can take a stroll through Blue Mountain Village’s Blumination Dream Trail . This one-kilometre walk leads you through spectacular lights and interactive displays. Nothing short of magical!  

Winter weekend getaway to Alton

Alton is the smallest town on this list, but it definitely packs a punch as one of the best winter destinations in Ontario for a cozy weekend. This little village is located in the municipality of Caledon and is known for the old mills and historic charm. During winter, the town gets together for a fun weekend called the Fire and Ice Festival, that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Just 20 minutes north of town is the prestigious Hockey Valley Resort , where you can ski or snowboard to your heart’s content. The Resort offers seven runs ranging from beginner to double black diamond. While it’s a smaller ski hill, it offers many of the same amenities as a larger one, like chair lifts, a magic carpet lift for beginners, rentals, private lessons, and more. Enjoy their Ski Café or sip on cocktails at Babbo, the wine and bar patio and watch the winter lovers do their thing.  

Where else can you get warm drinks, delicious treats AND a beautiful art gallery to explore? Why, none other than the Alton Mill Honour Café located inside the Alton Mill Arts Centre. The Alton Mill, which dates back to the mid-1800s, survived a disastrous flooding but was then destroyed by a fire just 20 years later. Luckily, the mill was rebuilt! It now houses a respectable gallery and, of course, the café. What exceptional about this spot is that except on busy weekends, the café is self-serve on an honour system!

You can’t go to Alton without dining at Ray’s 3d Generation Bistro and Bakery . While the business has been family owned since 1966, it was a bakery since the 1930s. By the third generation, Chef Jason added on the casual fine dining restaurant. You’ll want to book ahead for this place as it’s tiny dining area is often very full! But it’s got a revolving chalkboard menu, packed with scrumptious dishes, like my personal favourite, the spicy sausage penne.

Plus, after your meal, you can pop into the bakery and grab some traditional favourites like butter tarts and chocolate chip cookies!

Sip on cocktails, wine or a brew at the Headwaters Restaurant located inside the Millcroft Inn and Spa . This is definitely a fancy place, so be sure to dress up, but they do offer a lounge menu. This historic mill overlooks a beautiful waterfall that is just stunning in the winter! They even have live music every Saturday from 7 to 11 pm.

The Millcroft Inn and Spa should be your first choice for a winter weekend getaway in Ontario. This historic mill has been renovated beautifully, and during the holiday season, they turn everything up a notch with gorgeous decorations and a magical snow-covered landscape. During the colder months, they offer a snowshoe adventure through the winter trails, and every Saturday, they have bonfires on the terrace. Fall asleep to the sound of the babbling brook and water spilling over the falls. Plus you can warm up by indulging in a spa treatment or relaxing in their year-round hot spring pools.

The cherry on top of an awesome winter weekend in Alton is the Fire and Ice Festival , a one-day magical experience of everything fire and ice held at the Alton Mill Arts Centre. From the pond hockey classic to skating on the pond, watching ice carvers work their craft, snow slides, guided forest walks, scrumptious treats and more, there’s something for everyone. But the best part is the incredible fire sculpture.

I’ll never forget the memory of watching a seemingly uninteresting giant egg be set on fire. As the layers of brush burned away, inside, a massive metal phoenix rose out, its wings extending as if it were to take flight. It was seriously like something out of Harry Potter. This festival is a must-experience for anyone looking for winter destinations in Ontario to visit.

RELATED: Best Ontario Parks to visit in the Winter

Winter weekend getaway to Elora

If small-town Ontario could be summed up by one place, it would be Elora. The charming downtown with one-of-a-kind shops, the river and natural areas, and the hospitality from the locals make you want to stay here forever. The town doesn’t hibernate; instead they dial it up with decorations, lights, wintery charm, so you’ll have to add this to your list of winter weekend getaways in Ontario.

A.J. Casson, one of the famous Group of Seven painters – called Elora “Ontario’s most beautiful village.” The town is located where the Irvine Creek meets the Grand River. There’s a gorgeous waterfall and a steep gorge to explore. Elora is one of the best places to visit in Ontario in winter.

Have you ever tried ice climbing? It’s like rock climbing, except with picks, warm clothes, and lots of ice. You can try it right here in Elora with One Axe Pursuits . This adventure company offers rock climbing, caving and zip lining in the summer. But when the weather turns, it’s time for ice climbing!

The experience is built for beginners and includes all the equipment.

I may have mentioned this a thousand times, but The Lost and Found Café has been my favourite spot in Elora since it opened a couple of years ago. The adorable décor and the delicious food make me want to hang out here all day.

It’s set in the beautiful Elora Mews, a limestone pedestrian market in Elora’s downtown. The Lost and Found Café offers incredible, mouth-watering sandwiches and delicious treats. They even have vegan options. My personal favourite is their featured lattes that change every month.

New in town is the Friendly Society , a “neighbourhood restaurant.” They’ve got a delicious menu with dishes like Canadian Whisky Maple Salmon, Butternut Squash Pasta and fancy grilled cheese. Plus, their chic decor and view overlooking the Grand River make this place the ideal spot to enjoy a warm winter meal.

The Elora Brewing Company is a rustic craft brewery and the talk of the town. From the incredible atmosphere to the rich flavours, this place an ideal location to warm up your spirits on a cold winter’s night.

Lady Friend, Three Fields and Elora Borealis are always on tap, but they also feature seasonal brews too. You can’t leave without digging into the menu! The crispy chicken bites, Three Fields Mussels and housemade pickles are crowd favourites.

Enjoy your winter weekend getaway in Ontario at the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa . Let me tell you, it is the epitome of luxury. There are 30 guest rooms and suites with absolutely jaw-dropping views overlooking the gorge. There are so many luxuries like fireplaces, walk-in showers, natural stone and wood, and so much more.

While you’re there, you have to visit the Stable Spa and let the natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere wash away your stress.

The Tooth of Time is a famous rock that sits precariously in the middle of the Grand River waterfall. You won’t want to miss the view of it in the wintertime. It’s a magical sight with the snow, ice and cold water. You can take in the view inside the Elora Mill restaurant, outside the historic Elora Mill building or from the brand-new pedestrian bridge that connects Victoria Street to Mill Street.

RELATED: Enjoy small-town charm in Elora, Ontario – the ultimate list of things to do in Elora

Winter weekend getaway to Huntsville

The Muskoka region is Ontario’s winter playground. From snowmobiling to ice fishing to skiing and snowshoeing, Huntsville and the surrounding area is perfect for anyone looking for winter destinations in Ontario.

Just 20 minutes north of Huntsville is Arrowhead Provincial Park , the ultimate winter adventure destination in Ontario. There are cross-country ski trails, snowshoe trails, frozen waterfalls, winter views of the Big Bend and a lovely skating trail through the forest.

Seven Main Café has everything you need to Fika – a warm, inviting place, freshly baked sweets, and delicious coffee and tea. Seven Main Café is located in the oldest existing commercial building in Huntsville and offers a tonne of other merchandise like jams, giftware and take-home treats.

Is there anything cozier than a seasonal meal inside a log cabin? I don’t think so. Well, 3 Guys and a Stove in Huntsville checks that box. Their homey aesthetic pairs perfectly with their delicious seasonal food. Think slow-roasted beef brisket stew, mushroom risotto and slow-roasted lamb shank. Ah, my mouth is just watering thinking about it.

In the summer, you might want to sit on a patio for a delicious brew, but in the winter, the cozier the place, the better. Huntsville Brewhouse is a batch-brewing facility for the Lake of Bays Brewing Co. They’ve got a wicked menu and a long list of beer on tap. They also make cocktails with Ontario-based spirits.

Grab a bunch of your gal-pals and get cozy in this cabin just outside of Huntsville. The Wolegib Modern waterfront Retreat in Muskoka sleeps eight, has three bedrooms, four baths, and is just an all-out GEM. It’s located right on the Muskoka River across from a conservation area, which gives the feeling of total isolation.

View this post on Instagram Fire and Ice Festival takes snow tubing to a whole new level! ?❄️ . . . #fireandicefestival #visitthebridge #bracebridge #muskoka #discoverontario A post shared by Fire and Ice Festival (@fireandicebracebridge) on Dec 30, 2019 at 6:32am PST

Just 30 minutes south of Huntsville is Bracebridge, the location for an epic winter event: the Fire and Ice Festival . The whole town turns into a winter wonderland with snow tubing right on the main street, public skating, Crokicurl, Ice Sculptures, maple taffy, campfires, buskers, and so much more. 

Related: Top Things to do in Muskoka in Winter

Winter weekend getaway to Hamilton

Hamilton is a really interesting city. Not only are there hip places to hang out that make you feel right in the middle of everything, but within the city limits, there are hundreds of waterfalls and green spaces that give you the feeling that you’re in the middle of nowhere. Hamilton sits both on top of and below the Niagara escapement and it makes for a perfect place to visit in Ontario in winter.

Exploring frozen waterfalls sounds like something out of a Disney movie, but you can do it right here in Hamilton. There are hundreds to choose from, but the best ones to visit in winter are Tiffany Falls, Sherman Falls, Webster Falls and Albion Falls. To see the waterfalls frozen, you’re going to want to visit when the temperatures have been quite cold for several days in a row to give the moving water time to freeze.

Mulberry Street Coffeehouse is a beautiful coffee shop in downtown Hamilton. They’ve got a long list of delicious coffees and sweet treats like cakes, cookies, seasonal donuts and fun treats called Hello Dolly.

Hamilton is a large city with so many restaurant options, but the Brux House Craft Beer & Kitchen jumped out at me. It’s warm and rustic interior pairs so well with its seasonal palette. Dishes like the Bloomin’ Brussels, Pan Seared Steelhead Trout, and Duck Confit are enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

There’s something nice about simple, classic design, and Grain & Grit Beer Co . has it. They are dog-friendly, release new brews every month, and is just a fun place to hang out. Two winter beers on tap are the Winter White Stout and the Sweater Weather Stout.

The Barracks Inn is a boutique hotel located in Ancaster, just a few minutes outside of Hamilton. The 19th century stone building has kept all of its antique charm but has upgrades all of its amenities, like plush white sheets and luxurious bathrooms. I can’t get over the enormous stone fireplaces!

View this post on Instagram #arcticfox in all their winter glory at @rbgcanada — a stellar collaboration with @tanismacarthur, proudly supported by @fabriclandontario A post shared by Hamilton Winterfest (@hamiltonwinterfest) on Dec 3, 2019 at 11:13am PST

Hamilton Winterfest has been running for over 40 years in the city. It’s celebrated for the first two weeks in February with over 75 activities city-wide. From concerts to tournaments to pop up and skating, there’s something for everyone during this mid-winter festival.

RELATED: 52 day trips from Toronto for every traveller

Winter weekend getaway to Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the most enchanting town during the winter. The historic downtown all lit up with winter lights and snow give that Hallmark-movie-feeling. While Niagara-on-the-Lake is a popular spot in the summer, in the wintertime, the town turns it up a notch. Seriously, the whole town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has this hygge thing down pat. I mean, the well-appointed streets and gorgeous lights, who wouldn’t want to stay here forever?

Lace-up your skates and take to the ice at Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery . Enjoy this favourite winter activity just like famous hockey player Wayne Gretzky. The outdoor ice rink in the middle of the estate is open when the weather cooperates from December to March. You can skate up a storm or relax at the heated Whisky bar, where you can try the collection of wine, beer and spirits made locally. They have a winter cocktail menu with drinks like a Spiced Ginger Toddy, Rusty Skate and Mulled Beer.

The Pie Plate is located in an old house with an apartment that you can stay in upstairs. But it’s the bakery that you’re going to want to come here for. Situated in Virgil, a smaller town outside Niagara-on-the-Lake, this sweet bakery/ restaurant seems to have it all. They’re famous for their thin-crust pizzas and tasty sweet treats made from recipes passed down from the owner’s grandmother.

Bistro Six One sits right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Their cozy atmosphere and delicious cuisine make this a top place to eat in the town. I mean, what’s more winter than French onion soup? Or how about rainbow trout or mushroom ravioli? But what makes Bistro Six One stand out is their wood fire pizza.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for its wine, so, while you’re enjoying a winter weekend getaway here, make sure to stop into a few. Peller Estates and Jackson Triggs are the more well-known ones. But it’s worth checking out Two Sisters Vineyards , a fun and fancy vineyard just south of Niagara-on-the-Lake. They have Wine and Cheese Nights throughout the week, and Wine Wednesdays. Two sisters started the vineyard, which produces premium reds – Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

There are hundreds (seriously!) of B&Bs in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Each one has its own story and lovely atmosphere. Because of that I couldn’t recommend one over the other, just yet. Have a look at the map below to see what best suits your needs for a stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake:

Icewine is something that is truly Canadian. I mean sure, the dessert wine was developed in Germany, but Canadian Icewine is something more. It must be the fact that we have winter six months of the year. Icewine is made from grapes that were frozen while still on the vine. Making icewine is pretty tricky, which means there are limited quantities of icewine in the world. Except in Canada, where we are the largest producer of Icewine in the World, which is why we have a whole festival dedicated to it in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The Icewine Festival is celebrated over three weekends in January, starting with the annual gala for icewine producers, followed by a two-weekend extravaganza. Niagara-on-the-Lake’s downtown transforms into an Icewine wonderland with culinary creations, music, shopping, ice sculptures and, of course, sampling the Icewine!

Winter weekend getaway to Ottawa

Ottawa is one of the coldest capital cities in the world. But instead of hiding indoors, we embrace that fact! Winter in Ottawa can be a real treat, especially when the Rideau Canal freezes over! From all the Christmas lights and decorations to the winter activities during Winterlude, Ottawa rounds out the list of winter destinations in Ontario for a cozy weekend.

View this post on Instagram Stunning sunset on the Rideau Canal Skateway! ? Have you ever been for a night skate? . ? @bennguyen8 #MyOttawa #Ottawa #DiscoverON #ExploreCanada #Winterlude A post shared by Ottawa Tourism (@ottawatourism) on Feb 16, 2019 at 12:15pm PST

The most wintery thing to do in Ottawa is to don your skates and head out on the Rideau Canal . From January to about early March, the river freezes over, creating the world’s largest skating rink. The 7.8-kilometre skateway sees about 20,000 people per day since even the locals use it to get to work and school. It is completely free to access the Rideau Canal Skateway, and it’s even lit at night. Along the Skateway, there are warm-up areas as well as vendors selling warm food, like poutine and Beavertails.

Byward Café is fairly well-known, as it sits at the front of the Byward Market. They’ve got all sorts of tasty treats and delicious coffee in a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to warm up after a long skate!

Arctic Char, Charcuterie, Wild Boar, and so much more. The Oz Kafe in the Byward Market has a one-of-a-kind menu. Inside this restaurant, you’ll find stone walls, thick wood beams, and a warm ambience, making it the perfect winter spot to eat!

Lowertown Brewery is a new addition to the craft brew market in Ottawa. The Lowertown Brewery is located in the Byward Market and serves up comfort food and pre-prohibition cocktails as well as whatever is on tap. They’ve got at least nine in-house beers plus cider and wine. Plus, they have this cozy vibe going on with beautiful big windows, wood tables and an arcade area!

Stay in a jail, without doing the crime at HI Ottawa Jail Hostel . Yup, that right, you can stay in this 150-year old former jail. They’ve got stone walls, iron doors and former solitary confinement cells. Don’t worry, you’re free to leave when you want. They’ve got a historic double cell (the former solitary confinement area), double jail cell (host to the white-collar criminals), a private cell with two bunk beds, and an authentic jail cell (only 3’ by 9’ with a single bed).

Learn about the jail’s captivating (and haunted) history with a jail tour every day at 11 am.

View this post on Instagram Winterlude has begun and the Crystal Garden in the ByWard Market is looking pretty sweet! ? Stop by this weekend for ice carving demos and come after dark to see the sculptures aglow! . ? @britifieddanesincanada #MyOttawa #DiscoverON #ExploreCanada #Winterlude #winter A post shared by Ottawa Tourism (@ottawatourism) on Feb 4, 2019 at 2:19pm PST

Celebrate everything there is to love about winter at Ottawa’s Winterlude , a two-week-long cold-weather festival. The free event offers ice sculptures, skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway, family fun activities at the Snowflake Kingdom and so much more. This festival makes braving the coldest capital worth it for a winter weekend in Ontario.

Now that you have several options for places to visit in Ontario in winter, you’re going to have to expand your suitcase to fit in all the warm winter gear you’ll need to take with you. The cold weather in Ontario is ~snow~ joke. Temperatures can easily get to -40 degrees Celsius with the wind chill. (Fun fact: Did you know that -40 is the same temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit? It’s that cold.)

The key to staying warm is layers and the right type of fabric. So here are the best things to pack for a winter weekend in Ontario:

• Merino wool thermal base layers . Keep that body heat inside with sweat-proof thermal base layers. The worst thing you can do is sweat in the winter since it will make you feel wet and then cold. That’s why wool base layers are so great. They whisk away that sweat and keep you dry and warm.
• Wool socks (with a bonus wool base layer). Again, wool is your best friend in winter. Double up with a base layer on your feet, then add in a thick warm sock over top.
• Warm snow boots . You’ll want waterproof and insulated snow boots to brave these Canadian winters.
• Fleece . Fleece is your friend in winter. It’s warm and comfortable, plus it can hold up against a little bit of water.
• Snow pants . When you’re out snowshoeing, skiing or even skating, you’ll want an extra warm layer between you and the cold, wet snow. Depending on your activity, you might want a light waterproof layer or warm puffy pants.
• Heavy (synthetic) down jacket with faux fur trim. Don’t mess around with winter and get yourself a warm insulated winter jacket. Down or synthetic down is best, but make sure you look for one with faux fur trim around the hood. You’d be surprised how well the trim will cut downwind on your face!
• Hat and mitts. Top off your outfit with a cozy hat on your head and warm, weatherproof mitts on your hand. Did you know? Your hand will stay warmer in mitts rather than gloves (the fingered ones) because of your own body heat?
• Hand/ Toe warmers . In case you can’t keep your hands and toes warm, or if you know you’re going to be out in the snow all day, then invest in some hand warmers and toe warmers. They are a lifesaver.
• Sunglasses. Snowblindness is a real thing. So prepare yourself by bring some polarized sunglasses!
• Crampons . Crampons are the easiest thing to throw in your bag. And they are so useful to get a little extra traction when you’re out on a hike.

RELATED: The ultimate road trip packing list (+ free checklist)

To recap here are the best places to have a cozy and adventure-filled winter weekend in Ontario:

• Kingston – for Feb fest
• Kitchener – for the Christkindl Market
• Blue Mountain Village – for the Blumination Dream Trail
• Alton – for the Fire and Ice Festival
• Elora – for the winter adventures
• Huntsville – for the snow-covered forests
• Hamilton – for the frozen waterfalls
• Niagara on the Lake – for the charm
• Ottawa – for Winterlude

Before you say “no thank you” to winter, be sure to check out these amazing winter destinations in Ontario for a cozy weekend. Get your Fika on, warm up by the fire or enjoy the magical winter wonderland outdoors. It’s the longest season in Canada, so might as well enjoy it!

Olivia Rutt

Olivia Rutt is the travel writer and photographer behind My Wandering Voyage, a travel website helping working millennials find time to travel. She shares insight in trip planning, travel inspiration and photography tips. Olivia hails from southern Ontario, Canada where she works in the media industry between travels. Follow Olivia on Instagram where she shares her travel photos, or catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter.

Further Reading...

What to Pack for Canada in Summer

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14+ Delightful Ontario Winter Getaways for this year

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Traveling always brings along happiness and new learnings, no matter what time of the year it is. There are times when you just feel like getting away from your routine life but you are not sure where to go, considering the weather conditions, especially during peak winters. Ontario welcomes you to a charming winter wonderland from cross country ski, romantic weekend getaway to festivities. So, here’s presenting the top Ontario winter getaways to embark on this year. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ontario Winter Getaways to explore this year

Blue Mountain Resort

Bayview wildwood resort.

• Hockley Valley Resort 
• Arrowhead Provincial Park 
• Algonquin Park 
• MacGregor Point Provincial Park 
• Manitoulin Island 
• Rideau Canal 
• Bon Echo Loop 
• Trent-Severn Waterway 
• Niagara Falls

Hamilton City

• Muskoka         

TOP WINTER GETAWAY RESORTS IN ONTARIO

For laid-back travelers, resorts offer all-in-one packages, promising something for every age group. Although there are several resorts in Ontario, three of them are more popular than the rest.

As the name suggests, Blue Mountain Resort Village Suites is located in a mountainous area – making it perfect for nature lovers. Passionate hikers should find it a joy to experiment with diverse trails. 

There is something for the novice, as well as for the experienced too. The strong-hearted may even try rock climbing and the high ropes. 

Other activities include Hummer tours, mountain tours, aquatic sports and events, etc. At the same time, sedate games, such as golf, tennis, etc., are also available. Suffice to say that you should have a fun-filled stay!

A wonderful pick for family vacations! The Bayview Wildwood Resort is an excellent choice for an amazing winter staycation.

You are welcome to choose accommodation close to the lakeside if you wish to enjoy breathtaking views all the time. Also, you have access to breakfast and dinner every day of your stay. 

For entertainment, the Resort offers horse-drawn wagon rides, evoking memories of the olden days. Ice fishing is also popular and the resort supplies the necessary equipment. Winter sports include tobogganing, skating, cross-country skiing, etc. 

However, if you prefer to stay at home, there is a games room, which is fitted with a billiards table, ping-pong table, etc. Finally, you may end a day of strenuous activities with a soak in a hot tub or a heated indoor pool. Saturdays offer more jazzy entertainment.

Hockley Valley Resort

Hockley Valley Resort is the best place to be if you are planning a winter wedding for self or for someone else in the family. The resort’s staff takes care of everything, making the event a memorable experience. Hockley Valley resort is also the place for arranging girlfriend getaways, corporate events, etc. 

The resort is quite popular among corporate companies as they can arrange for large-scale meetings, with a relaxed atmosphere. Spas, golf courses, on-site restaurants, etc., are all part of the package.

BEST PARKS IN ONTARIO FOR WINTER BREAKS

You would love to come back for more, once you experience the beauty that Ontario’s provincial parks have to offer!

Around 31 of them are open to visitors during the winter season. You may skate and ski to your heart’s content at these places. Even the trails are unique, delighting novices and experts alike! 

Additionally, you may opt to link up with other hikers and explore Ontario’s natural heritage in the wild countryside. The trips may prove highly thrilling or relaxing – take your choice! Of course, the staff at every park takes measures to ensure that every individual is safe and does not fall prey to any kind of hazard. 

Three well-known parks attract large numbers of visitors. 

Arrowhead Provincial Park

Located in the central region of Muskoka, this park is lush green with large trees and private camping sites. There is even a lake nearby, bordered by beaches filled with soft sand. No noisy motorboats ply on these waters, ensuring perfect tranquility. 

Whenever you feel adventurous, you may hit the hiking trails, which cover around 15 km of the surrounding area. One of them even leads to a sparkling waterfall. Along the way, you can view the ruins of olden-time homesteads. 

Whatever you chose to do, your stay should restore your energy and vitality, enabling you to return to your day-to-day life, full of vim and vigor!

Algonquin Park Ontario Winter Getaways

If you wish to comprehend the very essence of this park, you must travel on foot. In other words, you must use the diverse hiking trails. Alternatively, you may take recourse to a canoe to explore the numerous lakes spread across its interior. You will also get to admire plenty of rocky ridges and hills dotted with maple trees. 

If you wish something tamer, you may opt for setting up camp at any of several camping grounds. Other attractions of Algonquin Park include the Art Center, the Visitor Center and the Logging Museum. You may also educate yourself about the natural heritage of Ontario by attending various programs. 

Apart from these, you can spend some time listening to the program on wolf ecology – known as the Public Wolf Howl as you may learn to howl like this creature in the wild too! If you are lucky, you should be able to spot moose and winter birds too.

MacGregor Point Provincial Park

Bordering Lake Huron, this park boasts of marvelous ecological diversity, and that’s why they call it the all-season park. Covering around seven kilometers of area, it lies to the south of Port Elgin. 

The park is home to several migratory birds and carnivorous plants. This is because MacGregor Point comprises ponds, bogs, marshes and fens. 

If you are here during Thanksgiving, expect to have a splendid view of witches and forest creatures. Everything is so natural and delightful! The other attractions are the usual winter sports, such as skating, skiing, etc.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN ONTARIO IN WINTERS

Manitoulin island.

You will regret it, if you miss visiting this beautiful tourist spot – Manitoulin Island!

You may avail of the ferry services operating between Tobermory (300 km from Toronto ) and South Baymouth, and reach the Island within two hours. Astoundingly, the Island has over 100 lakes encompassed within its borders. Several of these lakes have small islands in their midst too! 

The water is fresh, and in fact, Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest sweet water island. It is dotted with rivers, lakes, shorelines, boreal forest, meadows, and escarpments across the island, prompting people to set up small settlements wherever comfortable. 

The populace maintains good harmony with Mother Nature and with God. 

The land is ideal for organic farming. Other occupations include trapping, hunting, aquaculture and perm culture. In fact, the hunting grounds are excellent and provide plenty of entertaining sport. 

The populace is very friendly and welcoming. Additionally, it ensures that the local culture seeps into the island’s artworks, entertainment, recreational activities and sporting events. It is no wonder that the locals refer to the Island as the Heart and Spirit of the Great Lakes of Canada.

Rideau Canal Ottawa winter weekend getaways

Ottawa itself is a glorious city. However, with the arrival of the Rideau Canal or the Ottawa Ice Skating Rink, its beauty has gone up several notches!

The canal, and everything else linked to it, displays something of the Canadian heritage. When the canal came into being, the Canadian Government only looked upon it as a route for transferring war supplies. Using a slack water system, intelligent engineers constructed locks and dams. 

Although everything is as it was before, the Rideau Canal is no longer a military construction. Instead, it is a well-known tourist spot. Best of all, the locks are functioning well even today.

Tourists refer to it as the Rideau Waterway. There are several parks that permit people to put up camps. Visitors may go in for hiking and boating, and there are certain areas that are reserved for families. Find hotels in Ottawa Ontario

READ: More winter destinations in Canada

Bon Echo Loop

You should be able to see it easily if you travel to the Highlands in Ontario. The Loop is excellent for riding. It does not matter if you arrive early or late in the season. Conditions remain favorable throughout the year. 

The Loop’s design enables you to go through it in just one day, or even a couple of days. It all depends upon how enthusiastic you are! 

The loop displays high-quality access roads, rail lines (abandoned) and dense forests lining the lakeside.

One never-to-be-missed spot is the lookout high above Mazinaw Lake. The view from there is stupendous! The lake itself is the second deepest lake of Ontario. A rock rises out of the water, prompting people to go in for rock climbing. The extremely high escarpment is famous for its native pictographs.

Rice Lake is under the benevolent charge of the Rice Lake Tourist Association, which comprises local business owners, other hosts, restaurants and shops. With the aim to make Rice Lake a much-sought-after sightseeing spot, the Association has gone all out to offer entertainment in the form of hiking, agricultural fairs, fishing, exploration of historical towns, golfing, etc. 

Apart from this, the views of the surroundings are magnificent. As a result, many visitors insist on long driving tours. Many even take long treks in the forests and conservation areas. The place is a dream for cyclists, hikers and naturalists! 

Finally, the shops offer wonderful antiques and artwork.

Torrance Barrens

It refers to a conservation area, which in 1999, was declared as the very first Dark Sky Reserve. A permanent Reserve comprising 4,700 acres of wetlands, rocky ridges and badlands, the area offers a magnificent view of the night sky. It is also a glorious place for adventurous hiking. 

Torrance Barrens is also the region of the glacial lakes, such as Lake Nipissing and Lake Algonquin. You may also get lucky to spot rare birds, such as Cooper’s hawk and Eastern Bluebird, and Ontario’s rare lizard, the five-lined Skink, in the Barrens.

Trent-Severn Waterway

A National Historic Site, Trent-Severn Waterway comprises several other historic sites and national parks along its lengthy route. The Parks Canada office at Peterborough oversees everything to do with the Waterway. Parks Canada is an offshoot of Environment and Climate Changes Canada. 

This Waterway begins at the Bay of Quinte and ends at Port Severn. The route is wonderfully scenic, although winding in nature. You may have to have around two weeks of your time to complete the journey by boat, canoe or kayak, but of course, you have an option to use land transport if you wish to avoid traveling along the actual Waterway.

The Waterway is a link between Lake Huron and Lake Ontario. As you traverse the aquatic path, you can view the amazing lock stations. You can even watch the Big Chute Marine Railway in operation, and admire the beauty of several farm villages, cottage country sites, and lumbar towns, which enhance the charm of the area.

Winter Activities in Niagara Falls

If you thought that you could visit Niagara Falls only in the spring and summer, you are mistaken!

The area is worth a visit in the winter too, despite the drastic drop in the mercury. Thanks to the skillful arrangement of lights, Niagara Falls appears as a cascade of glittering and sparkling icicles. You could well believe that you were in Fairyland!

The Falls do not stop roaring even in the winter! Therefore, your walk along a pathway just parallel to the waterfall should prove to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Up close, the icicles seem to have acquired beautiful shapes of their own. They display Mother Nature’s artwork! 

To top it all, there is a wonderful display of fireworks too, every night. Best of all, you may take a ride in the Niagara Falls SkyWheel. Just settle down in a warm, enclosed gondola and hover over the splendid waterfall! You should find it an exhilarating experience.

Less than a couple of hours drive away from Toronto is the Niagara-on-the-Lake village . Belonging to the 19 th century, the village is as perfect as a picture postcard! 

If you are visiting Niagara Falls , you might pay a visit to this area too. In case you are present here in January, you will have the added joy of participating in the Ice Wine Festival too. Approximately 40 wineries initiate food-themed and wine-themed events throughout the month.

Find hotels and resort in Niagara falls for your winter break

If you have not had your fill of a frozen waterfall at Niagara, you might consider traveling to Hamilton. There are more than 100 waterfalls here, and all of them are frozen into bewitching ice sculptures during the cold season! 

In fact, they look like landscapes that Mother Nature has created! However, this is not all. You should be able to find something interesting in the arenas of shopping, history, outdoor adventures, culture, art and music, too. 

The highlight of Hamilton is the winter fest, various sponsors and a managing committee come together to host numerous entertaining events. Held during the months of January and February, the Fest comprises art exhibitions, displays of antique pieces, tours of colorful botanical gardens, performing artists putting up their own shows, night photography events, enjoyable musical concerts, etc.  

The Joys of Skating in Ontario from Muskoka to Ottawa

Ontario is a great place for the athletic/adventurous mindset too. You may skate and ski to your heart’s content here. For instance, though Muskoka is generally popular as a summer destination, it has plenty of sporting thrills to offer in the winter too. 

To illustrate, it boasts of four wonderful trails, which are excellent for ice-skating. The best amongst them is the Arrowhead Provincial Park trail, which covers an area of 1.4 km. It takes on a magical appearance during the nights, thanks to the hundreds of torches lighting up the trail! 

Additionally, the thick forests lining the trail take on mysterious and exciting hues in the darkness. The evergreen trees display boughs weighted down by snow. It is why the name of the trail – Fire & Ice – seems perfect for it!

Another thrill awaiting you in the Muskoka region is the Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh skating trail. The ice-covered pathway goes on for 1.2 kilometers. While there are acres of cranberry beds on one side, there are thick forests on the other. This indicates the presence of wineries nearby. Therefore, when you are through with your adventures for the day, you might make your way to one of them and request a refreshing glass of wine!

Apart from Muskoka, Ottawa also has great facilities to offer visitors. One of them is Chinguacousy Park. The ice skating rink here permits approximately 500 skaters to occupy its 2000-sq. meters space at any given time. 

The shape of the rink resembles that of a canal. Naturally, skaters find it easy to negotiate the natural bends in the trail, and show off their skills! In case, you prefer to be a watcher, rather than a skater, just settle down on any of the seats placed along the borders and relax! 

Cross Country Skiing in Ontario

Avid skiers make their way to Ontario during the winter, just to sample the beautiful cross-country experiences. The people in charge of the diverse trails maintain them wonderfully well throughout the winter. 

In case, you are inclined to tackle the more dangerous backcountry paths, you may do so safely, and with able guidance. Several resorts display ski trails beginning almost from their doorsteps!

The Niagara Escarpment offers the Highlands Nordic ski trails. They cover over 24 km, offering splendid views of the Georgian Bay. There are even separate lanes for sledding and tobogganing. 

If you wish to explore the slopes more than once, you might opt to stay at the Highlands Lodge. It has rentals, meeting rooms, a cafeteria, shops, etc.

We hope you enjoyed this list of winter getaways in Ontario, we highly recommend adding them to your Ontario itinerary.

Pin: Ontario winter weekend getaways to take this year

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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10 incredible winter weekend getaways in Ontario

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Once the snow falls, Ontario becomes the ultimate winter playground with no shortage of outdoor activities. From cozy winter camping to luxurious resorts , the province has tons of getaway destinations with winter trails and offerings to truly experience the season.

Here are 10 ideas for your next winter getaway.

Arrowhead Provincial Park

When it comes to the ultimate adventure destination,  Arrowhead Park  is a true winter playground. While it is best known for its popular  skating trail through the woods , you can also explore 28 km of groomed cross country ski trails and snowshoeing routes. The park also has cozy wood cabins you can stay in overnight.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arrowhead Provincial Park (@arrowheadprovpark)

Blue Mountain Resort

Blue Mountain Resort is one of the more popular ski destinations in the province, and it's no surprise why. With a variety of winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, Blue Mountain also has shops, restaurants, and luxurious accommodation options.

For some relaxation, head to the Scandinave Spa and indulge in their outdoor baths and hydrotherapy circuits.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ikon Pass (@ikonpass)

The Inn at Cobble Beach

Located in the town of Kemble in Grey County, The Inn at Cobble Beach is an amazing winter destination with more than 18 km of groomed winter trails that are ideal for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. There’s also an on-site skating rink, hot tub, and  The Spa at Cobble Beach .

Pinery Provincial Park

For a cold-weather escape, Pinery Provincial Park has it all: an expansive beach, skating, countless trails to explore, and heated accommodations to stay in overnight. 

The park boasts 38 km of trails for cross-country skiing and 5.3 km of packed trails you can hike or snowshoe along while taking in the beauty of glistening oak trees. If you don't have your own equipment, the park also rents out skis and snowshoes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by OUTLAW RV ADVENTURES CO. (@outlaw.rv.adventures)

MacGregor Point Provincial Park

MacGregor Point in Port Elgin's main attraction might be the ice skating trail , but the park also offers skiing, snowshoeing, and camping. 

MacGregor Point is also the yurt capital of Ontario Parks with  16 yurts available to book throughout the year . These accommodations sleep six people on two sets of double/single bunk beds and have electricity and BBQs.

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa offers convenient access to some of the region’s best outdoor activities, with spectacular views of Lake Rosseau. Located amidst the serene natural beauty of  Muskoka , the upscale resort has a year-round heated pool, fat bikes, and guided snowshoe walks.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Resorts of Ontario (@resortsofontario)

Deerhurst Resort

Deerhurst Resort sits on the shores of Peninsula Lake, just a short drive from downtown Huntsville. The property has an outdoor skating rink, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, winter disc golf, and an illuminated trail for late-night winter walks.

Bonus:  Hidden Valley Highland Ski Area is also just next door and the famous Arrowhead Ice-Skating Trail is minutes away.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Located in Eastern Ontario, Algonquin Provincial Park is the largest Ontario provincial park and is a beautiful winter destination with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Offering trails with scenic vistas for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, you can also go ice fishing on the park's frozen lake. There are also seven heated yurts to camp overnight in if you wish to extend your stay.

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Hockley Valley Resort

Located 45 minutes north of Toronto, Hockley Valley Resort is a fantastic ski destination with luxurious accommodations and onsite restaurants. 

The 300-acre property features 104 rooms and suites, 14 meeting rooms plus an 8,000-square-foot full-service spa, a winery , and indoor pools open throughout the season. The ski hill has 16 runs for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hockley Valley Resort (@hockleyvalleyresort)

Silent Lake Provincial Park

Silent Lake Provincial Park is a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of the Haliburton Highlands.

The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the winter, and for those looking to extend their stay, they have several heated roofed accommodations you can book for an incredible winter glamping experience. For skiers, there is over 25 km of groomed trails that wind through the forest and along the lake.

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Lake Superior | Destination Ontario

Experience the best of summer in Ontario

Soak in the summer vibes with sandy beaches, refreshing lakes and crackling campfires.

It’s the season for ice cream, cold drinks, barbeques and chilling on docks, patios and picnics. From epic fishing trips, scenic trails and outdoor fun to lively festivals and farmers’ markets, Ontario offers endless fun for day-trippers, travellers, families and friends.

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Prince Edward County

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St. Jacobs and Elmira

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Best Ontario Winter Getaways For Families

The Best Ontario Winter Getaways for Families are right on your doorstep. Embark on a journey to uncover Ontario’s most enchanting winter destinations, where family adventures and memorable moments await. 

As the snow blankets the landscapes, a world of exhilarating outdoor experiences and cozy indoor retreats opens up. Get ready to embrace the season’s beauty, indulge in heartwarming hospitality, and create cherished memories against the backdrop of Ontario’s winter wonderland.

Winter Getaways Ontario

Scroll through the links to check out family winter getaways in Ontario. 

• Niagara Falls 
• Winter Camping 
• Blue Mountain 
• Stratford 

Best Winter Getaways Ontario

Our province is brimming with wonderful spots to explore and exciting activities to enjoy. Whether you’re strolling through our charming little villages or trekking through our picturesque woodlands, there’s always something to do, no matter the season.

When it comes to winter in Ontario, finding the perfect getaway is your ticket to making the most of the chilly months ahead.

Ottawa 

Ottawa, being one of the world’s frostiest capital cities, serves as a perfect destination for an Ontario winter getaway full of outdoor activities. Strap on your skates and cruise down the Rideau Canal, renowned as the planet’s largest skating rink. While you’re there, be sure to indulge in a famous Beaver Tail treat. If your visit to Ottawa falls later in the season, don’t miss out on Winterlude, the city’s lively winter festival held annually in February.

Other Great Winter Activities in Ottawa

• Enjoy a Christmas Market:  Begin your winter journey at the  Marche de Noel Ottawa Christmas Market . Explore the enchanting Christmas lights, indulge in delightful warm holiday beverages and treats, and peruse more than 35 unique vendors. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with lively holiday tunes, watch the Christmas tree lighting, and get creative with a wreath-making workshop if you’re in the mood.
• Glide along a Scenic Canal:  Enjoy the thrill of skating on the world’s largest skating rink, the nearly 5-mile-long  Rideau Canal , with the backdrop of the majestic parliament buildings. Visiting the canal is free and available 24/7, with convenient skate rentals nearby. Don’t forget to take a break at Dow’s Lake or one of the nearby stands to savor the famous Beavertail pastry – especially delicious when topped with maple syrup. For more skating adventures, Ottawa boasts an impressive 250 skating rinks to explore during a single winter!
• Enjoy Winter Festivities:  Join the  Winterlude  celebrations! Winterlude is a comprehensive winter festival spanning most of February each year. Marvel at thrilling ice carving and snow sculpture competitions. You can let your imagination run wild in the giant Snowflake Kingdom snow playground. The sky is the limit. 

More great Ottawa Winter Activities

• Experience Enchanting Holiday Lights:  Ottawa awakens with vibrant light displays, including the captivating Parliament Hill. Visit Parliament Hill during the winter season to enjoy a captivating free 15-minute digital imagery show set to music, set against the stunning backdrop of Parliament Hill’s architecture, showcasing vivid Canadian landscapes and colorful lights.
• Relax at North America’s Largest Outdoor Spa:  For ultimate relaxation, visit  Nordik Spa-Nature , offering a truly unique winter spa experience. Picture yourself soaking in steaming hot springs nestled against a snowy hillside, surrounded by charming Nordic-style wooden buildings. Embrace the invigorating contrasts of heat and cold, enhancing your circulation and overall well-being. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating day in this winter wonderland.

For more Winter fun Activities in Ottawa Visit the  Ottawa Tourism website . 

Niagara Falls

In the winter months, Niagara Falls transforms into a breathtaking wonderland. The cascading waters become partially frozen, creating stunning ice formations. The surrounding area is adorned with sparkling icicles, and you can experience the magic of the falls illuminated by colorful lights during the annual Winter Festival of Lights. While it’s cold, the beauty of Niagara Falls in winter is truly enchanting.

Other Great Niagara Falls Winter Activities

• Fireworks Spectacular:  Witness the magic of Niagara Falls illuminated by dazzling fireworks displays. Throughout the winter season, the Falls come alive with vibrant bursts of color in the night sky, creating a truly enchanting spectacle.
• Strolls Along the River:  Bundle up and take leisurely strolls along the scenic Niagara River. The crisp winter air, coupled with the sound of the rushing water and the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape, make for a memorable and romantic experience.
• Dinner Overlooking the Falls:  Indulge in a culinary treat with a view to remember. Niagara Falls boasts a variety of restaurants and dining options that offer panoramic views of the falls. Enjoy a cozy dinner while gazing out at the illuminated cascades, creating a romantic and unforgettable dining experience.
• Winter Festival of Lights:  Explore the Niagara Parks Winter Festival of Lights, a dazzling display of over three million lights and enchanting illuminated installations that adorn the city’s parks, streets, and gardens. This magical spectacle adds a touch of wonder to your winter visit.
• Ice Wine Tasting:  Niagara is renowned for its ice wines. Visit local wineries for a unique tasting experience where you can sample these sweet, flavorful wines made from frozen grapes. It’s a delightful way to warm up and savor the flavors of the region.

For more fantastic Niagara Falls Winter Fun check out  13+ Fun Things to do in Niagara Falls Canada in Winter .

Winter Camping

 Winter camping in Ontario offers a unique and serene outdoor experience. With pristine snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and peaceful forests, it’s a chance to connect with nature in a whole new way.

Adventurers can enjoy activities like ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing during the day, then cozy up around a campfire beneath the starry winter skies at night. 

While it demands some extra preparation and gear, the tranquility and beauty of winter camping in Ontario make it a rewarding and unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Great Places to go Winter Camping in Ontario

Algonquin park.

Offering both frontcountry and backcountry winter camping options, Algonquin Park is a popular choice for winter adventurers. Explore trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking, and enjoy an outdoor skating rink at Mew Lake Campground.

Quetico Provincial Park

Located in northwestern Ontario, Quetico’s Dawson Trail Campground is open for winter camping. It provides access to cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing opportunities, with options to rent snowshoes and skis in nearby Thunder Bay.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Experience the wilderness of Bruce Peninsula National Park in winter. Camp in the Tamarack section of Cypress Lake Campground and enjoy winter hiking and snowshoeing on nearby trails.

Limberlost Forest

A vast natural oasis near Huntsville in Central Ontario, Limberlost Forest offers frontcountry camping and over 70 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.

Killarney Provincial Park

George Lake Campground in Killarney is stunning under a blanket of snow. Enjoy cross-country skiing and book frontcountry campsites or heated yurts for a unique winter camping experience.

Silent Lake Provincial Park

 Located south of Bancroft, Silent Lake offers groomed cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails, making it an excellent place for winter camping. Frontcountry campsites are available year-round.

Frontenac Provincial Park

This park, located north of Kingston, offers free beginner courses in winter camping through Friends of Frontenac Provincial Park. Plan an overnight trip to one of Frontenac’s interior campsites for a backcountry winter camping adventure.

MacGregor Point Provincial Park

Located on the shores of Lake Huron, MacGregor Point Provincial Park offers frontcountry winter camping opportunities. Enjoy activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on its scenic trails. Check out  Winter Camping in Ontario with Kids – MacGregor Point Provincial Park  to learn more. 

For more great winter camping spots in Ontario, check out  25+ Places to go Glamping in Ontario .

Blue Mountain Village

Nestled near Collingwood in the heart of central Ontario, you’ll find Blue Mountain. This is a gorgeous resort village that lures people seeking ski getaways or weekend retreats in cozy chalets. As winter blankets the landscape, this charming village transforms into a stunning holiday destination.  Blue Mountain Resort  is a fantastic place to enjoy a winter getaway. 

Here you will find snow-draped streets and buildings aglow with twinkling lights. Within this fun retreat, you’ll discover several different culinary delights, vibrant nightlife, and diverse shopping experiences. 

From convenient takeout to sushi bars and Greek eateries,  Blue Mountain Resort  offers a tempting array of dining options. This will ensure your stay is filled with delightful flavors from start to finish.

Great Winter Activities at Blue Mountain Village

• Skiing and Snowboarding:  Blue Mountain is all about  skiing  and snowboarding ! You can enjoy downhill skiing, cross country skiing, and several other winter sports. With over 40 trails and 365 acres to explore, you can ski or snowboard no matter your skill level. There are easy, difficult, and challenging slopes. Plus, you get fantastic views of Georgian Bay from the summit. If you’re new, they offer skiing lessons. It’s a great place for beginners and skilled skiers. 
• Visit the Chalet:  After hitting the slopes, warm up with a drink. The local brewery,  Northwinds , has a brewpub in the village, and it’s a cozy spot to relax.  Jojo’s Bar  offers an authentic après-ski experience, while  Rusty’s at Blue  is the place for lively music, dancing, and fun.
• Snowy Horseback Ride:  Experience a snowy adventure with a horseback ride at  Mountain View Stables . Bundle up and explore 180 acres of beautiful woodlands and pastures. You’ll ride along a guided trail that takes you through forests, and past streams. It offers stunning views of the snowy ski hills.

More Winter Fun at Blue Mountain

• Mountain Rollercoaster Ride:  For an exciting way to see the mountainside, take a thrilling ride on the  mountain rollercoaster . Glide down a mile of track at almost 25 miles per hour! You will be safely secured to the track. Zoom through snowy mountains, trees, and banked turns for a unique perspective of the mountain.
• Snowshoeing:  Enjoy the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape with  snowshoeing . Blue Mountain offers trails perfect for snowshoeing adventures, allowing you to explore the winter wonderland at a slower pace.
• Hockey:  Experience the quintessential Canadian winter sport of  hockey . You can find opportunities to play or watch hockey games at various spots in the area, adding a dash of Canadian culture to your winter getaway.
• Snow Tubing:  For some family-friendly fun, try  tubing  down the snowy hills at Blue Mountain. It’s a thrilling and safe activity that both kids and adults can enjoy, providing a different way to experience the winter wonderland.

​Check out more awesome things to do at  Blue Mountain Resort in the Winter . 

Stratford, Ontario, is the perfect winter escape for a family vacation in the great outdoors. Amidst its charming streets and historic theaters, you can discover a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. 

From ice skating on the Avon River to snowshoeing in the serene parks, there are plenty of 

activities to enjoy together. 

After a day of adventure, warm up with a cozy meal in one of the town’s delightful restaurants. It’s a winter getaway that offers both cultural charm and outdoor fun for the whole family.

• Take a Leisurely Walk:  Enjoy a peaceful winter stroll along the Avon River, including Tom Patterson Island and the Shakespearean Gardens. Warm up with hot drinks at Cafe Bouffon or Edison’s Cafe Bar on the main street. Don’t miss the Market Square’s charming European-inspired atmosphere with falling snow.
• Snowtubing Adventure:  Just a short drive away, River Valley Golf and Tube offers 90 minutes of snowtubing excitement. It’s all the fun of outdoor sports without the need for special skills!
• Discover Local History:  Visit the Stratford Perth Museum to explore its popular Justin Bieber exhibit and delve into the area’s rich history. Borrow snowshoes for a winter stroll along the museum’s scenic trails.
• Dazzling Light Display:  Experience the Lights on Stratford – Winter Festival of Lights. The downtown area turns into a winter wonderland, extending to the Stratford Festival area and Tom Patterson Island.
• Themed Trails:  Explore the city’s best offerings on themed trails. Check out the  Chocolate Trail ,  Bacon and Ale Trail ,   Sip and Savor Trail , and the  Christmas Trail . These trails are perfect for tastings, gifts, and holiday shopping, with suggested stops to enjoy along the way.

Other Fun Winter Activities in Ontario and Beyond

Ontario is a popular destination for winter adventures. This stunning province offers a wide range of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Toronto or venturing into the serene wilderness, there’s something for everyone. 

Put on your warm winter boots and get ready to explore some fun winter adventures in Ontario. 

• Downhill Skiing in Ontario:  Experience the thrill of downhill skiing at some of Ontario’s best resorts. Don’t miss the chance to hit the slopes at these top ski destinations. Check out the  Best Downhill Ski Resorts in Ontario  to plan your winter adventure.
• Family Ski Resorts in Canada:  Looking for family-friendly ski resorts in Canada? Discover the perfect destinations for your winter getaway. Explore the  Best Ski Resorts in Canada for Families  and make lasting memories with your loved ones.
• Snow Tubing Fun:  Get ready for an exciting snow tubing adventure in Ontario. Experience the thrill of zooming down snow-covered hills at these fantastic tubing spots. Find the  Best Places to go Snow Tubing in Ontario  and enjoy a day of winter fun.
• Family Winter Vacations in Canada:  Plan your family’s winter vacation in Canada and create unforgettable memories. Explore the top destinations that offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Discover the  Top 9 Family Winter Vacations in Canada  for an amazing winter escape.

In Ontario, families can embrace the crisp winter weather while creating lasting memories on a fun winter getaway. With so many winter trails and enchanting landscapes, Ontario is the perfect place for families to explore the great outdoors! 

Whether it’s skiing down slopes, tubing on snowy hills, or simply enjoying the serene winter ambiance, Ontario offers the ideal setting for a memorable family winter adventure. So get started planning your Ontario winter getaway. You won’t regret it. 

Want to stay in the know with all things local?  Don’t forget to join our locally focus Facebook group:   Parents Resource – Open to any parents in Peel and Halton Region

Can you help make this article better? If you have noticed an error, have additional information or would like to share a comment you can: E-mail us at   [email protected] Find us on Facebook :  The Exploring Family Find us on Instagram:   @The.Exploring.Family

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12 things one local wants you to know about Canada

Apr 11, 2024 • 6 min read

Canada is so vast that limiting your trip to one province or region is a good idea © Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

As a born-and-raised Canadian, I’m often surprised by how little people know about my country.

I’ve been asked what it’s like to live in an igloo. (For the record, I don’t; it rarely snows in Vancouver , which  I call home). About the best way to explore the entirety of  Canada in a one-week trip. (Since it’s the second-largest country in the world, this would be difficult.) I’ve heard it all.

Which is why I put together this list of things any traveler to Canada should know before their trip.

1. Canada is too big to see in one visit

Canada is big. Like, really big: we’re talking a landmass of nearly 10 million sq km (3.86 million sq miles). The country is home to the second-highest mountain peak in North America ( Mt Logan in Kluane National Park, Yukon ), not to mention the  world’s longest coastline, which meets three oceans: the Pacific, the Arctic and the Atlantic. 

With 10 provinces, three territories and six time zones, it’s safe to say that Canada is a country that offers endless experiences.

When thinking about visiting to Canada, I’d recommend pinpointing one province or territory to discover. From the lush green forests, coastal beaches and snow-capped ski hills of British Columbia to the vibrant and culturally diverse cities in Ontario to snow-and-ice-covered  Nunavut , each region has a unique landscape, culture and people. 

2. Despite being a bilingual country, not all Canadians speak French 

But we don’t all speak English, either. Canada is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world.

And while French and English are both official languages in Canada ( Québec is the only province where French is the sole official language), there are many regions where people only speak one of the two languages fluently. There are even some regions where neither language is spoken. 

Whatever language locals speak, signage and packaging around the country are typically in both English and French – a rule in place since the Official Languages Act came into force in 1969. 

3. Be prepared to hear unfamiliar words spoken in Canada

In Canada, we have our own special (English) words for everyday items. These are some common examples:

• Toque :   a knitted hat usually worn in winter
• Two-four :   a 24-pack of beer
• Pablum :   a common Canadian name for baby cereal
• Freezies :   ice pops
• Washroom :   bathroom or restroom
• Clicks :   used to refer to kilometers when driving
• Canadian tuxedo :   denim top and bottom 
• Tobogganing :   sledding in the snow

4. Canada uses the metric system

Canadians measure measured in kilometers, pump gas in liters and express weather forecasts in Celsius. While many other countries do the same, it’s a common assumption that Canada follows the same measurement system as our friendly neighbors to the south. This is a big one for visitors from the USA  who use the imperial measurement system. Get used to it.

5. It’s not always snowing in Canada

In a country with such vast geographical reach, the climate ranges substantially. For example, the west coast of British Columbia has a mild climate year-round. It doesn’t always snow during the winter months, and summer temperatures average 22 °C (or 71°F). 

If you go further north, the temperatures become more frigid: Nunavut sees an average temperature of −20°C (or −3°F) for the entire year. Much of the upper half of Canada only has two seasons, with short summers and long, cold winters with heavy snowfalls and icy temperatures. 

Wherever you plan to visit in Canada, be sure to check the climate averages before you go and pack for varied weather – especially on the West Coast, where it rains often.

6. Indigenous cultures are of great importance 

The First Nations, Métis and Inuit Indigenous Peoples are Canada’s first inhabitants. Canadians recognize and appreciate the importance of the rich and diverse Indigenous cultures, which form not only an essential part of our history but a vibrant part of contemporary Canadian culture today. 

Certain terms used to describe original habitants of the land elsewhere in the world may not be acceptable in Canada, so do your research before you arrive to ensure that you don’t use language that may be offensive.

In order to truly enjoy and appreciate Canada, consider adding Indigenous experiences in your travel plans. Indigenous-owned luxury lodges offer immersive cultural experiences; a multi-day guided paddle excursion is another option.  Go on hikes through the country’s most stunning, untouched landscapes while learning about the surroundings through a cultural lens. This different approach to your trip will surely leave a lasting impact.      

7. Prepare for over-politeness

The cliché of the courteous Canadian...is entirely accurate. In Canada, we say “sorry” a lot – and not just when we’ve done something wrong. Also, don’t be surprised if someone holds the door open for you or you receive a friendly “Hello!” from a stranger. 

In formal exchanges, “please” and “thank you” abound. Canadians are even courteous on the road, flashing a friendly wave when someone lets you in while changing lanes. Generally, Canadians are friendly and approachable – though there are always exceptions.

8. Be sure to sample Canadian cuisine

From poutine (fries topped with gravy and cheese curds) to beaver tails (hand-stretched fried-dough pastries topped with icing sugar; actual beavers are not an ingredient), Canada has siganture  tasty treats  that are a must-try.

Other Canadian specialties include bannock (a staple Indigenous bread) and butter tarts (a small pastry tart with a sweet filling).

Certain regions have specialties, too, such as lip-smacking lobster rolls in  Nova Scotia , mouthwatering Montréal bagels or the chocolatey Nanaimo bars of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. 

9. Always leave a tip

Whether dining in a restaurant or getting a new haircut, tipping is customary in Canada, to the tune of 18% of the total bill. Not tipping is considered rude, and people will often tip above the average if they find the service exceptional.

10. The legal drinking age varies across the country

In Alberta , Manitoba and Québec, the legal drinking age is 18, while in the rest of Canada, the legal age to purchase, possess and consume alcohol is 19. 

In some provinces, like British Columbia and Ontario, the government is responsible for the distribution and retail sale of alcoholic beverages. 

11. Respect wildlife

Whether it’s burly black bears and spawning salmon in British Columbia or playful foxes and perky piping plovers in Prince Edward Island , Canada is home to a thrilling range of flora and fauna .

Feeding wildlife is illegal, and there are laws that prevent people from admiring wild animals in close proximity. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when exploring nature. If you spot any creatures, keep your distance.

12. Canada is one of the safest destinations in the world

Canada is generally very safe. Strict gun-control laws obtain throughout the country, and crime rates are low. Overall, the police are trusted and respond to calls quickly. Yet despite the country’s reputation, it’s always best to keep your wits about you and proceed with caution, especially when walking through some neighborhoods at night.

This article was first published Aug 21, 2022 and updated Apr 11, 2024.

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10 Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in Canada (2024 Guide)

Image Credit: BGSmith, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 15, 2024 by Dogster Team

Canada is a beautiful country with stunning scenery and lovely people. Another aspect that makes the country great is its openness to accommodating pet-loving tourists. So, if you’re considering a trip to the Great White North with your pup, you may need help to find the perfect destination.

Lucky for you, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to round up the country’s ten best dog-friendly vacation hot spots. Read on to find out where you’ll be traveling next.

• The 10 Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in Canada
• 1. Vancouver, British Columbia

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Vancouver is one of the most beautiful and dog-friendly destinations in Canada. Its countless wide-open parks and winding trails make the city a dog owner’s dream destination.

Things to Do

There are several dog-friendly hiking trails in the Vancouver region. West Vancouver’s Cypress Falls Park is a beautiful hiking spot that winds through Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar forests with canyons and waterfalls. North Vancouver’s Skyline Trail is a steep mountain hike that awards hikers a view of the city from the top and a glimpse of a US Air Force jet crash from the 1950s.

Dogs are permitted in all of Vancouver’s parks but must be on a leash unless in a designated off-leash area. Check out the city of Vancouver’s website for a list of all the off-leash parks in the area.

Stanley Park, arguably Vancouver’s most scenic and well-visited public park, has a small, fully fenced-in off-leash dog area. When you’re done spending time there, you can visit the Off-Leash Dog Beach and the Burrard Street Bridge to let your pup explore the beach and the ocean. Then, take a beautiful walk around the seawall and enjoy views of the ocean and mountains.

Popular tourist destination spots like the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Granville Island allow well-behaved, on-leash dogs.

Where to Eat

Vancouver citizens love their dogs, so there is no shortage of dog-friendly patios to grab a bite. Uncle Abe’s on Main Street is a paradise for pups and has a weekly Yappy Hour, serving up special treats just for dogs. Also, Six Acres in Gastown has a fantastic patio for enjoying a couple of brews on a summer day.

Where to Stay

Some of the city’s most prestigious hotels are pet-friendly, including The Westin Bayshore, which allows up to two dogs for no extra charge. You can find many dog-friendly accommodations on VRBO if you prefer vacation rentals over hotels.

Camping spots must be reserved two months in advance, making spontaneous camping trips almost impossible for travelers. However, you can find free campsites a short drive from the city. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, a 30-minute drive from Vancouver, allows camping anywhere north of Brockton Point. This area is considered backcountry, so you need a Mount Seymour camping permit.

• 2. Banff, Alberta

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Banff National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream vacation, especially since your dogs can accompany you virtually everywhere.

Like Vancouver, the Banff area is surrounded by pet-friendly trails for all fitness levels. Marsh Loop or Fenland Trail are generally considered easy to tackle for a quick half-hour stroll. Both are easy to find from downtown Banff, so you don’t need a vehicle. For more adventurous hikers, the Lake Agnes Trail near Lake Louise provides a 7.4-kilometer out-and-back trail with a 435-meter elevation gain.

If your dog loves water, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard and hit the ice-blue lakes. We recommend getting to the rental company as early as possible since this is a popular activity, and the rentals are sold out quickly.

Banff has no shortage of excellent restaurants with fantastic patios. Wild Flour Bakery is a local favorite, serving fresh baguettes, croissants, hot soup, and coffee. They even make dog treats, so your pup doesn’t feel left out. Bear Street Tavern has a year-round courtyard patio that’s always open to doggies, making it a must for those winter vacations to Banff.

Many hotels in downtown Banff are pet-friendly, including Fox Hotel, but you can also stay at the condos at Hidden Ridge Resort. Even the prestigious castle that is the instantly recognizable Fairmont Banff Springs is pet-friendly.

Dogs are permitted on all campsites in the area, except for some backcountry campsites, due to wildlife concerns.

• 3. Kawartha Lakes, Ontario

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Just a few hours away from Toronto, the Kawartha Lakes area of Ontario is one of the country’s top cottage vacation destinations. The region is home to hundreds of lakes and rivers and is a dream for outdoor adventurers.

There are countless hiking trails to explore in the Kawartha Lakes region. The Ken Reid Conservation Area is a popular option, offering 12 interconnected pathways. Dogs must be on leashes on the trails but can be off-leash in the designated off-leash dog park.

The Kawartha Settlers’ Village is a pup-friendly historical site on 10 acres. It consists of a collection of historic buildings, homes, and artifacts. Please note that your dog will not be permitted inside the buildings. You can also check out the Old Dog Brewing Company if you’re a beer lover. Your pup can join you on the outdoor picnic tables while you taste-test the brewery’s hand-crafted beers.

There aren’t many dog-friendly places to eat in the area, but the ones available are fantastic. The Bobcaygeon Inn Restaurant serves classic pub fare and has a dog-friendly riverfront patio and private dock. 72 Bolton Sports Café is a sports bar with a pet-friendly outdoor patio.

The Days Inn and Suites by Wyndham Lindsay is an award-winning hotel close to many shops, pubs, and a beautiful waterway. It allows two pets up to 20 pounds. If you prefer to be on the water, check out the houseboats in the Kawartha Lakes area. However, be warned that there are pet fees for some houseboat companies, so factor that into your budget.

• 4. Mont Tremblant, Québec

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Mont Tremblant is part of the Laurentian Mountains northwest of Montreal. The year-round ski resort offers winter sports, golf courses, and a shopping village.

Mount Larose is an 11.3-kilometer trail near Montcalm. This challenging route can take four hours to finish, but the stunning view of the Laurentians and St. Lawrence River is more than worth it. Of course, your dog is allowed to tag along with you if they have the energy

The Panoramic Gondola is perfect for summer or fall visits. The gondola takes you to the summit, providing beautiful views of the Laurentians. Dogs are allowed in the Casino Express gondola during the summer. The pedestrian village is one of the best parts of Mont Tremblant. Many businesses are dog-friendly and have tasty treats ready for your pup if you ask.

La Maison de la Crêpe is a gourmet restaurant serving sweet and savory crêpes for every palette, and dogs are allowed on their small sidewalk patio. Restaurant Antipasto is a must for Italian food lovers. The restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine and allows customers with dogs to sit beside the pedestrian walkways at specific tables.

Some of the most prestigious hotels in Mont Tremblant are pet-friendly. This includes the Fairmont Tremblant and Le Westin Tremblant, which allow big dogs and two or more pets. Domaine Summum is a boutique hotel that allows pets to participate in all the amenities on the property, including hiking, swimming, and canoeing. They even provide dog-sitting services.

• 5. Whistler, British Columbia

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Whistler is a small town north of Vancouver, home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Many of its 11,000 residents own dogs, so there are plenty of things for you and your pup to do in the area.

Whistle Olympic Park is one of the most dog-friendly attractions on our list. It has over 40 kilometers of dog-friendly trails and a huge off-leash park. You can take your dog with you as you ski, snowshoe, or hike in the area. The “Arfa” Lake Dog Area on Lake Placid Road is great for playing fetch with your pup or swimming in the lake. It has off-leash areas and a sand pit for your little digger to dig to their heart’s content.

Whistler Village has everything you could ever want, from shopping to restaurants to entertainment. Dogs are allowed in the village as long as they’re leashed, and some shops also allow them.

Many restaurants with patios in Whistler allow dogs to sit alongside their owners outside. Some even have dog-friendly menus. Tapley’s Neighborhood Pub is a casual sports bar serving pub fare and tasty drinks. Their outdoor patio is dog-friendly.

Hunter Gather focuses on fresh dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Their sunny outdoor patio is pet-friendly.

Dog owners on a budget will appreciate the accommodations at the Listel Hotel Whistler or Pinnacle Hotel. For luxury dog-friendly accommodations, you can also try the skin-in, ski-out Fairmont Chateau Whistler or mountain lodging like Evolution.

For travelers who prefer to be in nature, check out the Yurts at Riverside Resort. They have several pet-friendly cabins and yurts.

• 6. Halifax, Nova Scotia

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Halifax is a fantastic vacation destination for dog owners on the country’s East Coast, thanks to its various recreational areas and stunning scenery.

Point Pleasant Park is one of Halifax’s best civic spaces. This large, forested park on the peninsula offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great place to run, bike, or walk with your dog. In addition, most of the park allows dogs to be off-leash.

The York Redoubt National Historic Site was constructed in the 1700s to protect Halifax Harbor. There’s a lot to learn here, and your dog can accompany you on a leash. There are plenty of off-leash parks in the area to let your pup run off steam, including Shubie Park, Irving Big Stop Bark Park, and Sandy Lake Park.

Salt Yard Social is a two-level waterfront restaurant with a variety of cuisines to suit your fancy. If you want to escape the sun, you and your pup can enjoy the nice shaded patio areas. Good Robot Brewing Company is another place to check out if you enjoy craft beers. The company hosts events throughout the year specifically for dog owners, including a grooming station and beer-flavored dog treats.

Many of the chain hotels in Halifax are pet-friendly, including the Best Western Plus Chocolate Lake Hotel, Comfort Inn Halifax , and the Coastal Inn Halifax Bayers Lake. We like The Prince George Hotel because it truly pampers its pet guests with a cozy blanket, biodegradable waste bags, bowls for food and water, and an information package highlighting the best dog-friendly places in the city.

For campers, Porters Lake Provincial Park has a great campground close to the city. Many campsites have direct lake access, and most are very private and well-spaced.

• 7. Robinsons, Newfoundland & Labrador

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Robinsons may be a small village, but it has plenty of activities for humans and their canine companions.

Robinsons is a much more relaxed vacation destination. You and your pup can stroll on deserted beaches, watch sunsets, and hike along the many cliffs in the area. Do not miss the famous Wells Farm Market, which has plenty of fresh vegetables to buy.

We weren’t pulling your leg when we said Robinsons is a small village. There are only a handful of places to grab a bite to eat, most of which don’t have websites. The Pirate’s Haven Restaurant makes delicious home-cooked meals like soups and fresh cod.

For the adventurous diner, you can try cod tongue or mousse pie. The restaurant has outdoor seating, but its website doesn’t explicitly state that it is pet-friendly. They offer takeout, which might be a better option since you can sit on the beach to enjoy your meal uninterrupted.

Despite being small, there are several pet-friendly accommodations in Robinsons. Pirate’s Haven Chalets & Adventures is ideal for active tourists since there is plenty of open space and walking trails to explore. They also have ATV rentals and scheduled ATV tours, though they are not dog-friendly activities.

You can also check out Pirate’s Haven ATV Friendly RV Park for a pet-friendly campground with picnic tables, firewood, and excellent Wi-Fi.

• 8. Toronto, Ontario

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With a population of 2.8 million people, Toronto is the largest city in Canada. With such a booming population, it only makes sense that there are plenty of dog owners among the city’s residents.

If you want to do something other than walk or hike, check out the Haunted Walk. The tour is available from April to December and is dog-friendly as long as your pup is leashed. Of course, if you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of opportunities in Toronto. Check out High Park, the city’s largest greenspace. There’s even a designated off-leash area for pups and several paths that allow dogs to run free.

If your dog loves water, consider booking a trip on Kajama. This 165-foot schooner allows passengers to take in stunning views of the Toronto skyline from Lake Ontario.

Toronto is a huge city with countless pet-friendly outdoor patios. Lobster Burger Bar has a fantastic drink and food menu consisting of burgers, seafood, tasty appetizers, and wagyu steaks. They even have a menu just for dogs . Café Landwer is a great all-day café for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Leashed dogs can sit on the patio outside and may even get a tasty treat or two from their server.

The Hair of the Dog Pub serves delicious comfort food and has a massive patio with seating in the sun and shade if you need to cool down.

Hotel X Toronto is a beautiful hotel with great amenities for you and your dog. Take advantage of their pet-sitting services to sneak away with your dog for the day and enjoy the heated rooftop pool at night. You’ll also receive dog beds, food bowls, and water bowls if needed for your stay.

The Kimpton Saint George Hotel welcomes all pets to stay with them. There are no limits on size, weight, or number of pets per room. There isn’t even a cleaning fee or deposit required. In addition, you’ll enjoy pet-friendly amenities like beds, treats, and pee pads.

• 9. Victoria, British Columbia

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Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and one of the most beautiful cities on our list. It’s a bucket list destination if you and your pup are avid adventure seekers.

There is no shortage of green space in Victoria to explore with your pup. If you love flowers and plants, add The Butchart Gardens to your to-do list. This 118-year-old internationally renowned garden has over a million visitors annually and has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada.

Dallas Road is the most iconic dog walk path in Victoria. You can start your journey at Clover Point and walk along the path toward the Ogden Point Breakwater. There’s an off-leash dog park along the way to let your pup run off some steam and make new friends.

Arbutus Cove Park offers an easy 1.6-km loop with a fantastic swimming spot. The beach is big enough for a game of fetch, and the entire park is off-leash. Then, you can hop on the Victoria Harbor Ferry to zip along the calm waters of the city’s inner harbor. You might even see marine animals like seals or whales.

Barb’s Place is a must-visit restaurant if you’re big on seafood. This seasonal food stand is at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you’ll see several quirky, colorful float homes and many other tasty culinary delights. Spinnakers Brewpub is the city’s first brewpub, offering tasty hand-crafted beer and a fresh menu. In addition, they have two fantastic patios that are more than welcoming to dogs.

Darcy’s Pub Downtown is a fabulous restaurant in Victoria’s historic downtown. It has a substantial outdoor patio for you and your pup to enjoy.

The locally owned Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites is one of the best places to stay with your pup. It provides amenities like towels, wipes, treats, dishes, blankets, and bedding. The Hotel Grand Pacific is another excellent option. For $50, it offers a Pampered Pooch Package that gives your pet a doggy bed, food, organic treats, and a disposable clean-up kit.

If you prefer camping, Goldstream Park has a great campground close to awesome hikes and walks .

• 10. St. Andrew’s, New Brunswick

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St. Andrew’s may be a small town that won’t take more than an hour to explore on foot, but you’ll want to give yourself a few days there to explore all the area has to offer with your pup.

Things To Do

Kingsbrae Garden is one of the top destinations in the area for dog owners. It’s home to over 50,000 perennials and many themed gardens. You can also take a gander at many garden animals, including alpacas, pygmy goats, and peacocks.

No visit to the area is complete without stopping at the beach in the southernmost part of town. This isn’t a stereotypical sandy beach, but it is more rugged and rocky. It offers stunning views of Passamaquoddy Bay and is a beautiful place to rest on a hot summer day.

The Gables Restaurant is a waterside eatery with a romantic setting perfect for date nights. Their pet-friendly outdoor tables provide a great view of the water. Char and Chowder focuses on locally sourced and seasonal food, offering menu items like seafood chowder and lobster rolls. In addition, it has a large outdoor seating area perfect for pups to tag along.

The historic Algonquin Resort is a luxurious hotel perfect for pet owners of all species. Guests of the dog variety are given treats at check-in, and there are many grassy areas around the resort for relief purposes.

The Woodhaven Country Lodge, on the shores of Passamaquoddy Bay, is the number one place to stay in the region. Its accommodations are child and pet-friendly and close to many attractions, such as the Bay Ferry, kayak tours, and King’s Landing.

There certainly is no shortage of fantastic dog-friendly vacation destinations in Canada. Whether you want to hike up mountains or window shop in idyllic locations, there’s a perfect Canadian vacation spot for you and your dog. Before you make any travel plans, contact the hotel and location tourism companies to confirm that they can accommodate you and your pet.

Safe travels!

Related Articles: 

• 10 Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in The US
• 12 Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the UK
• https://www.leavetown.com/en/magazine/top-10-dog-friendly-destinations-in-canada
• https://www.pbspettravel.co.uk/blog/the-best-dog-friendly-destinations-in-canada/
• https://glampinghub.com/blog/dog-friendly-vacations-canada/
• https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/dog-off-leash-areas.aspx
• https://lobsterburgerbar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/LBB-Dog-Patio.pdf

Featured Image Credit: BGSmith, Shutterstock

About the Author

Chantelle Fowler

Chantelle is passionate about two things in her life – writing and animals. She grew up on the prairies of Canada surrounded by animals and as an adult, she choose to share her home with five cats, two guinea pigs, and a bearded dragon. Chantelle, her husband, and their child take great pride in being great animal parents - the ones who spend a thousand dollars on wall-mounted cat shelves so that their cats can have an indoor jungle gym all year round. When Chantelle isn’t snuggling her cats on the couch or taking pictures of them being funny, she’s outside exploring in the Rocky Mountains, binging the same shows on Netflix over and over, and reading about whatever random topic pops into her brain. 

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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there – provided the destination is along a coastline or inland waterway. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to regions such as the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment – all rolled into one. Some luxury cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. And best of all, cruising means seeing the world conveniently after unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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Fly to These Popular European Destinations, Including the Happiest Country on Earth, With This Flight Sale — When to Book

Finnair is making it easier to hop across the Atlantic this fall and winter.

Courtesy of Finnair

Finnish airline Finnair is making it easier to hop across the Atlantic this fall and winter with a flight sale for travelers planning ahead.

The sale, which must be booked by June 11, is available for travel in November through February with prices starting as low as $440 roundtrip, the airline shared with Travel + Leisure . Finnair flies to Europe from six destinations in the United States: Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and Seattle.

“With the heat of summer approaching, we know our customers in the US are already dreaming of their winter wonderland getaways to Europe, so we are excited to be launching this new sale,” Pasi Kuusisto, Finnair’s general manager of North America, said in a statement shared with T+L. “Finnair’s flights provide an important connection between the US and key markets in Europe and Asia, allowing important business routes to thrive and giving holidaymakers access to far flung destinations, so we know the sale will be warmly welcomed.”

Travel to the happiest country on earth with roundtrip flights to Helsinki, the capital of Finland, starting at just $447 round trip, or fly to neighboring Tallinn, Estonia, starting at just $446 roundtrip. Flights to Riga, Latvia, start at just $440 roundtrip; flights to Vilnius, Lithuania, start at just $446 round trip; and flights to Warsaw, Poland, start at just $444 roundtrip as part of the sale. 

Travelers who want to head a bit further can fly to Delhi, India, starting at just $793 roundtrip with the sale. 

As part of the promotion, travel to Europe is valid from Nov. 5 to Dec. 10, and from Jan. 8, 2025, to Feb. 28, 2025. Tickets to Delhi are valid from Nov. 3 to Nov. 27, and from Jan. 8, 2025, to Feb. 28, 2025.

Finnair operates a fleet of mostly Airbuses along with Embraer 190 and ATR 72-500 aircraft, according to the carrier . The airline offers several ticket types from the “economy superlight” fare, which does not include a carry-on bag, to business class options complete with a lie-flat bed with mattress pad and Nordic-inspired meals on long-haul flights.

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