Canadian winters can be long and dreary. Both visitors and locals have a hard time figuring out what to do in Ontario when the days get cold and short. It is even harder in 2020/21 with lockdowns and social distancing but there is still so much to do!
We always find a lot of great activities across the province both indoors and outdoors. It doesn’t matter if you prefer to stay warm or don’t mind getting cold because Ontario is full of fun for everyone! We put this list together to help you find a little excitement that will last until the weather warms up.
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Before We Get Started...
Disclaimer: Everything we have listed here about what to do in Ontario is current as of February 2021. With the COVID/lockdown situation in Ontario constantly changing, please visit each of the sites linked here for more information. Also, please check the government website for full details on travel restrictions. We only recommend these activities if they are safe, socially distanced, and legally allowed.
Go Skating
One of the best ways to get some exercise while staying socially distant is ice-skating. It is a great time to be even a passable (at best!) skater because ice isn’t as crowded so you can go at your own pace. If you are in Toronto like us, head to Nathan Phillips Square or The Bentway to glide to your heart’s content. Book far in advance because both limit the number of skaters until restrictions are lifted.
If you’re looking for what to do in Ontario this winter outside of the GTA there are still a lot of amazing skating options. There is Ottawa’s famous Rideau Canal Skateway, Muskoka’s Arrowhead Skate Trail, or Sudbury’s Skating Trail just to name a few! You can either bring your own skates or rent a pair either at the trails or nearby.
Hike/Snowshoe
If sliding on ice with knives strapped to your boots isn’t your thing you still have a lot of options. Winter in Ontario gives you the opportunity to get a whole new perspective on places you may have explored before. There are summer hiking hotspots like Tew’s Falls that are still breathtaking in winter with less crowds.
You should always check park availability ahead of time just in case you need a reservation. Some trails are smaller than others so they can only accommodate a small number while keeping social distancing in place. Bigger trails like Caledon’s Forks of the Credit, Port Elgin’s MacGregor Point, or Kakabeka Falls in Thunder Bay have lots of space to explore. They are also great options for a day hike if you’re nearby!
Find a Winter Cabin
There’s no better place to be after a day of hiking or skating than a wintery cottage. Get into some warm clothes, light the fire, and curl up with a hot chocolate (Bailey’s optional). A lot of “What to Do in Ontario” guides will agree that renting a cottage for a weekend getaway is top of the list!
The great thing about Ontario is the huge selection of cottages that are perfect for winter weather. Our favourite areas are the Muskokas, Parry Sound, Ottawa Valley, and Tobermory. Check out AirBnb or OntarioCottageRentals.com for a great selection. Bonus points if you can find one with an outdoor hot tub!
See the Northern Lights
If you want something unique while searching for what to do in Ontario then you need to plan carefully. Although there are lots of one-of-a-kind experiences across the province, nothing really compares to seeing the Northern Lights. The Aurora Borealis can be seen in Ontario from October to March as the nights get longer. There tends to be a lot of clouds in December and January so you may want to aim for November or February,
The Lights are also not visible everywhere in Ontario so you’ll need to pick your spot. One of the province’s hidden gems for Aurora-hunting is Manitoulin Island. You could also visit the Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve just outside of Gravenhurst. Just like Mount Fuji in Japan, you should plan to stay for at least 2 nights to have the best chance at seeing the Lights.
See a Frozen Wonder
We sometimes take for granted the fact that we have one of the natural wonders of the world in our backyard. Any time we have family visiting from overseas they always want to visit Niagara Falls. Even though the nearby area is full of tourist traps, the main attraction is worth revisiting once in a while.
The Falls are a whole different type of amazing in winter! It is especially great after it’s been cold and snowy for a while to get a postcard view. Niagara never fully freezes so you’ll still get to see the water rushing over but it will be framed by giant, natural ice sculptures. Be careful when walking around because mist from the Falls creates a thin layer of ice everywhere!
Walk Alpacas
I mean if you’re looking for what to do in Ontario this Winter how could you turn these fluffy animals down? S.A.M.Y.’s Farm near London, Ontario gives you the chance to bring a few alpacas along for a country walk. You can also book a night or two once travel opens up this year.
If you’re surprised to learn there are alpaca farms in Ontario then you should know there are actually a lot of them! You can also visit Kickin’ Back Ranch in Markdale, Eighth&Mud in Stoney Creek, or Old Mill in Colborne. Each farm restricts the number of daily guests so plan your alpaca adventure in advance.
What Will Your Ontario Adventure Be?
There is so much to do it’s hard to get it all down in one list! We wanted to give you some our favourite What to Do in Ontario winter activities. Keep an eye on the weather and travel restrictions before heading out to make sure you have the perfect day!
What are your favourite winter activities in Ontario? Let us know in the comments! In the meantime, don’t forget to subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get our New Post Roundup and savings on our favourite brands.
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