Exploring Ontario in Winter

When the holidays begin, Ontario becomes a winter wonderland. With many things to see and do, the province offers some of the most unique and exciting adventures that are fun for everyone in the family. Even though Canadian winters are frigid, they are special- allowing you to explore epic landscapes, rugged expeditions, and various festivals. Consider a few getaways that will enchant you this winter. 

Explore Niagara Falls
When the temperatures drop, Niagara Falls attracts fewer crowds; nevertheless, the excitement doesn’t stop. There’s a lot to explore in winter at Niagara. For starters, take in the magical surroundings around you as you gaze at the sparkling ice-coated trees and frozen waterfalls. You can also enjoy the Niagara Falls winter festival of lights, with over 3 million colourful light displays gracing the Niagara Parkway and tourist district. 

Niagara Falls also has a range of indoor activities. Warm up at the Cave of the Winds Pavilion, which is open all year round. In the winter, you’ll get a sneak peek at what Niagara Falls looked like in the past and its impact on the world. Additional enjoyable activities include visiting the Aquarium of Niagara and seeing tropical fish, and maybe even meeting a penguin or exploring the Castellani Art Museum. If you are in the mood for shopping, stop by the Fashion Outlets Niagara or explore Niagara’s wineries, breweries, and distilleries, which include various options for every taste.

Visit a Maple Syrup Farm
Learn more about Canada’s rich historical heritage by exploring a local maple syrup farm. Frozen maple syrup is a quintessential Canadian winter delicacy. Ontario has several farms worth exploring, allowing you to learn more about maple syrup production. Try creating a frozen maple syrup taffy by throwing maple in the snow and watching it freeze. The Pefferlaw Creek Farms is a local family farm close to Toronto, north of Uxbridge, Ontario. It is open to the public on weekends, offering guided tours and showcasing the process of maple syrup production firsthand.

Experience Dog Sledding
In the past, dog sledding was a major form of transportation across long, arduous snowy distances. Now, it’s a classic winter holiday activity, giving the young and old alike a chance to have an adventure. A few hours north of Toronto, you will come across several dog sled operators who will guide you to working with these animals and take you on guided expeditions.

The Kearney Dog Sled Races in Almaguin Highlands allow you to see teams competing. Family activities include live music, marketplace vendors, dog sled rides, and chainsaw carving exhibitions. For a closer alternative, consider the SugarDogs Adventure Company located outside Sundridge, Ontario. They offer customized tours for groups of up to 24 people per day. You’ll be able to drive your own dogsled and explore the highland forest on the western border of Algonquin Park.

Skate at Nathan Phillips Square
Skating at Nathan Phillips Square is one of Toronto’s most popular winter attractions. The rink has been an all-time favourite Toronto experience for almost 60 years. During the winter holidays, the skating rink is decorated with twinkly lights. Open from early December until March; skating enthusiasts can revel in the excitement with loved ones and friends. Skate sharpening services are available for those who already own a pair. Skates and helmets are also available for rent.

Go Tobogganing in Burlington
Winter revelry isn’t complete without playing in the snow. Tobogganing is a favorite Canadian winter past-time that makes winter enjoyable. Children will find tobogganing loads of fun compared to other activities like hiking. Several city-approved toboggan hills in Burlington, Ontario, provide a safe experience. Burlington’s favorite tobogganing spots include Nelson Park, Central Park Hill, Brant Hills Park, LaSalle Park, and Lowville Park. 

Attend a Winter Festival
The Stratford Winterfest began in 1998 as a one-day event and has expanded into three days of winter entertainment for everyone in the family. This year’s theme is Keep Calm and Freeze On. Beginning in February, the festival includes sledding, snow and ice carving competitions, igloo building, and much more. The family fiesta is perfect for young children to get out and explore the outdoors.

Try Ice Climbing in Haliburton
Ice climbing is gaining popularity as a winter sport, but hiking, skiing, and skating are still more popular. Haliburton has several ice climbing centers; it is approximately two and a half hours away from Toronto. The Medeba Adventure Learning Centre provides hands-on training, teaching all the necessary ice-climbing skills. You will get outfitted with the right equipment, including climbing harnesses, boots with attached crampons, and helmets. To learn more about packages and rates, visit yoursoutdoors.ca.

Shop at Kitchener’s Christkindl Market
You don’t have to visit Germany to enjoy a traditional holiday market. The Christkindl market has a rich heritage dating back to the 1500s in Germany. At the Christkindl Market in Kitchener, you will come across vendors selling traditional holiday handcrafted items. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or try sweet and savoury German-inspired treats along with live music and dance performances. You can also stop by the City Hall Rotunda to discover timeless artworks or glide in the outdoor ice-skating rink.  

Ontario has no shortage of winter activities for everyone in the family. If you are eager and willing to brave the cold, you will find a fun activity your family can enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Whether you choose to explore Niagara Falls or try ice climbing in Haliburton, you are in for an exciting winter experience of a lifetime!