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Guide: 10 of the Best Ontario Towns & Cities For a Winter Getaway

Published by To Do Canada On January 15, 2026 Leave a response

Booking a winter getaway in Ontario could include a huge array of fun. Whether you’re more of the adventurous type, an outdoors person, someone who likes to find the local shops, or someone who enjoys all of the above, there is a destination on this list for you.

We’ve included Ontario’s smaller towns, cities, and some of the quintessential winter-in-Ontario-experiences.

Many of these destinations are close to Ontario parks who operate skating rinks, groom ski hills, or offer rentals for skiing and snowshoeing. Plus, each of these winter cities or towns have their own locally operated recreational facilities.

 

One of the major highlights to visiting any of these Ontario winter destinations are the various festivals and carnivals. Ontario’s winter festivals celebrate everything from the weather and snow to the recreation and sports, the arts and culture, or food and culinary scenes.

Haliburton

Winter at Haliburton Sculpture Forest

Haliburton Sculpture Forest

Haliburton is a centre of arts and culture, outdoor recreation, and winter adventures. The town, actually quite central to the Ontario Highlands, is also central to some of the province’s major or most popular parks! This means your getaway can include both winter adventures around Haliburton, and right in town. Plan around these activities, the winter events in Haliburton, or the accommodation options! Either way, a winter getaway in Haliburton promises a fun time for all ages.

  • Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve can be the hub for your winter fun – enjoy guided snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice climbing, explore the Wolf Centre and even stay overnight at this spectacular destination.
  • Wander the enchanting Haliburton Sculpture Forest, where art meets nature in a snowy wonderland. Discover mesmerizing sculptures by global artists along pristine trails, ideal for snowshoeing or walking. Magic awaits in the Haliburton Highlands!
 
  • Explore the serene Head Lake and Drag Lake Trails, perfect for a tranquil winter stroll in Haliburton village. Hike the Skyline Park Lookout Trail (196 Skyline Park Road) for breathtaking panoramic views of the town, village, and Head Lake.
  • The Haliburton Highlands Museum offers a way to spend some time indoors and away from the winter weather! Explore the local history through the gallery of artifacts, memorabilia, and more.
  • Get a mix of indoor and outdoor activities from the winter events taking place around the county: Hike Haliburton Winter Edition (February 7 to 8, 2026), or Dorset’s Snowball Winter Carnival (February 13-14, 2026).
  • The Haliburton County lines are surrounded by two provincial parks: Algonquin to the north, and Kawartha Lakes to the south. Both parks operate a skating rink, while Algonquin also provides over 60km of cross-country ski trails! Enjoy a quieter and possibly less crowded experience on skis with the smaller Silent Lake, home to over 30km of ski trails. The gates to Algonquin are about 115km from Haliburton, the Kawartha Lakes 80km, and Silent Lake about 48km.
  • Sir Sam’s Ski Hill, about 17km north of town, offers scenic Highland skiing over the shores of Eagle Lake.
  • Stay within the town of Haliburton with options like Arching Pines Bed & Breakfast, the 23 Maple B&B, the Silver Maple Motel, or the Lakeview Motel & Resort. Outside of town are several lakeside resorts around the Highlands.
  • The many lakes of the Haliburton Highlands are popular ice fishing destinations, with hut and equipment rentals available from a variety of locations (which also offer accommodations): Buttermilk Falls Resort on Boshkung Lake, the Sandy Lane Resort on Halls Lake Resort, the Ogopogo Resort on Mountain Lake, or the Red Umbrella Inn on Twelve Mile Lake.

 

Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie sits on the banks of both the St. Marys River, and the eastern shores of Lake Superior. The more urban part of Sault Ste. Marie is on the riverbanks, while the parklands and rural areas are on the lake shores. Between these areas, the city has a ton to offer for a winter getaway between the great outdoors and northern Ontario wilderness, to the activities and events in town.

 
  • Enjoy plenty of opportunities for winter recreation within Sault Ste. Marie, including skating at local outdoor rinks including the Art Jennings Speed Skating Oval and Clergue Park Skating Trail. Hiking or cross-country skiing opportunities abound along the main Hub Trail, or walks around downtown Sault, and the local heritage sites. The Hub Trail also connects to the Fort Creek Conservation Area on the north side of the city with several more trails to explore.
  • Hiawatha Highlands offers 50 km of cross-country ski trails, 14 km for snowshoeing, and fat biking amidst whispering pines and stunning winter scenery, welcoming all skill levels for classic and skate skiing adventures.

  • Between major events, and the smaller shows or events around Sault Ste. Marie this winter, there is something to do or celebrate almost every week during winter. The highlight of winter events in the city is the Bon Soo Winter Carnival, set to take place February 13-21, 2026. The festival features concerts, indoor and outdoor games or contests, culinary and dining events, and kids’ activities.
  • All it takes is a short drive outside of Soo City Limits to find more opportunities for recreation and snow activities. The Searchmont Resort is the closest ski resort to Soo, with about 45km between the two places. The resort offers scenic downhill skiing and snowboarding through the western edge of Ontario’s Highlands. The resort offers ski-in/ski-out lodge rooms and on-site dining.
  • A bit closer to the city, and on the shores of Lake Superior to the west, is the Shore Ridges Conservation Area. The park has two main multi-use trails open to hikers and cross-country skiers. Along with great trails, the park also offers some of the best local views of Lake Superior from atop an escarpment.
  • History and interesting stories about Sault Ste. Marie are found all around downtown and the St. Marys Riverbanks with the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, the Soo Locks on the River, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, The Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, and the general architecture of the neighbourhood.
  • Whether you’re spending time on a Sault Ste. Marie getaway inside or outside in the snow, a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate is a perfect way to start or end the day. Choose between top cafes like HOME Bakehouse & Café, Ernie’s Coffee Shop, the Queen’s Tarts, or Uncle Gino’s Café & Ristorante.
  • Stay in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie, downtown, and in waterfront locations with hotels like the Sleep Inn, Delta Hotels Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront, Holiday Inn Express, or the Days Inn. The smaller, local, or boutique hotels, are centred around Great Northern Road, a main street in Sault.

Huntsville

Huntsville, also known as the heart of the Muskoka Region, includes the town of Huntsville, as well as many other neighbouring communities and other small towns.

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Credit: Ontario Parks

Huntsville’s proximity to Arrowhead, one of Ontario’s bigger parks, means there are endless opportunities for winter recreation and adventures. And all the amenities in town provide all the relaxation and comfort you need for an overnight stay.

 
  • There are numerous opportunities for winter recreation alongside beautiful views all around Huntsville! Begin with adventures at Arrowhead Provincial Park where the park operates a skating rink, grooms ski trails, and offers equipment rentals for winter sports.
  • The skating trail at Arrowhead is open with the year’s Fire & Ice Nights also scheduled. These Friday and Saturday nights are ticketed skating events with reservations required to skate.
  • Cross-country ski trails wind all across the Huntsville region, with many more to explore outside of Arrowhead. These include trails around the Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve, or the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre.

 

 

Niagara-On-The-Lake

 

Welcome to the quieter, slower-paced, but exceptionally exciting vacation destination of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This lakeside town, part of the Niagara region, is to the north of the much busier and equally as exciting Niagara Falls. Niagara-on-the-Lake has everything for any type of holiday, including historic charm and sites to see, many ways to relax, a major winter festival, town trails, and more outdoor recreation.

  • The Niagara Ice Wine Festival takes over the entire region for two weeks each January. The festival, will feature an Ice Wine Village set up in Niagara-on-the-Lake, an Ice Gala in Niagara Falls, and the passes for tasting ice wine across the region’s wineries.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DEyFkfjO96Z/

  • The Vintage Hotels Group operate a handful of beautiful accommodations in Niagara-on-the-Lake; these include the Pillar & Post, Queen’s Landing, The Moffat Inn, or the Prince of Wales Hotel. Plus, each hotel has different winter packages and offers, including the Icewine Lover’s Getaway, or the Fire & Ice Getaway. The Pillar & Post, and the Prince of Wales, both have on-site spas, too!
  • More spa experiences are available with Niagara-on-the-Lake’s 124 Queen Hotel & Spa, or the Brickwork Spa.
  • Those historic hotels listed above are among many interesting sites to see around Niagara-on-the-Lake. Use the local Museum’s self-guided walking tours to help guide you around the heritage and historic sites, including those from the War of 1812. Plus, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum is open year-round.
  • Those historic hotels provide even more for all visitors to the city: The Pillar & Post operate a public skating rink beside the hotel, complete with nighttime lighting, and the Outpost, an outdoor canteen.
  • Combine winter, wine, whiskey, and outdoor recreation with a visit to the area’s Wayne Gretzky Estates. This local winery, started by the Great One himself, fittingly has a backyard rink open to the public!

 

Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls on the river make for a major reason to visit the city of Niagara Falls over the winter months. The incredible views of the freezing or near-freezing waterfall are worth the trip alone, as the surrounding greenery is often coated in ice or snow. It all comes together to create true winter wonderland scenery. Beyond the falls are several more reasons for a visit this winter, including the indoor attractions, more views of the waterfalls, premier Fallsview dining opportunities, and dozens of hotel, motel, or resort options.

 
  • For those visiting Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, the rural Niagara regions, or all of the above, is the chance to celebrate the Niagara Ice Wine Festival. The festival will have events across Niagara, and the main Ice Gala in Niagara Falls.
  • There are a few different ways to view the incredible sights of the frozen or half-frozen-half-rushing Niagara Falls! Get an incredible view from the Journey Behind the Falls Tours, or those classic views from the Trans Canada Trail and Niagara River Parkway. Get up high to look out over the falls from the Skylon Tower; guests can reserve a visit to the Observation Deck, or the Revolving Restaurant.
  • When it comes to dining in Niagara Falls, there is truly an option for all tastes, ages, and preferences. A few of the premier or signature dining experiences include those at the Table Rock Bistro, Wine Bar, and Market, Weinkeller, Sky Fallsview Steakhouse, Morton’s Grille, or the Fallsview Grand Buffet in the Skylon Tower.
  • Take advantage of the many indoor family attractions in Niagara Falls on those colder winter vacation days. Visit Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, Bird Kingdom, the Niagara Parks Power Station (indoor and outdoor experiences), the Floral Showhouse, or the Butterfly Conservatory to spend some time in the warmth.
  • Niagara Falls’ Clifton Hill will also have many attractions open this winter. Get another excellent view over the Falls from the park’s Skywheel before spending time with the smaller attractions. The Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the most cost-effective way to see all the park has to offer.
  • Take in the slower, more relaxed winter fun around Niagara Falls with the city’s outdoor skating rinks, or the toboggan hills (Coronation Park, Fireman’s Park).
  • Take advantage of accommodation packages or offers from Niagara Falls hotels like Sheraton Fallsview or Crowne Plaza, Marriott on the Falls, or the Great Wolf Lodge.

 

Ottawa

There is no doubt that the capital city of Canada is a true winter getaway destination. Over the colder months, the city of Ottawa is prepared with several outdoor activities and the signature Rideau Canal skating experience. Plus, the winter months in Ottawa are busy with local events, winter festivals, and art festivals. And when all is explored in Ottawa, the Quebec city of Gatineau across the river as plenty more options for fun, relaxation, or adventure.

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Credit: Canadian Heritage

  • Experience winter magic in Canada’s Capital! Stroll Parliament Hill’s snowy grounds, capturing its beauty against a frosty backdrop. Explore the Capital Pathway Network, perfect for multiple visits.
  • Discover Central Experimental Farm’s winter charm! Stroll through the serene Ornamental Gardens or explore the Arboretum’s stunning trees and enjoy the winter interest features. You may even get a few ideas to make your garden sparkle in winter.

  • Winterlude is Ottawa’s premier winter celebration and festival. Visit the city anytime between January 30 and February 16, 2026, to partake in the festival’s activities. Each weekend, the festival will feature outdoor, free, and family-friendly winter activities across the city.
  • Celebrate more arts and pop culture through the Banff Film Festival’s World Tour Ottawa edition or Big Bang Festival.
  • There are dozens of community ice rinks around the city, including one of the world’s most famous skating areas at the Rideau Canal with nearly 8km of canal length to skate. Also nearby is the refrigerated surface of the Rink of Dreams- a great option for when the temperatures are too mild for natural surfaces.
  • Plus, there are skating trails all throughout the rural areas around Ottawa. These include the Icelynd Skating Trails, River Oak Estates, or the Little Penguin Trail and the Touraine Golf Club.
  • Gatineau Park, across the River from Ottawa, has some of the best cross-country skiing in North America with over 200km of groomed trails. More cross-country ski trails are groomed to the south of Ottawa courtesy of the Mooney’s Bay Ski Centre (Terry Fox Athletic Facility) who also provide rentals. Get the best of Ottawa’s local ski trails from Britannia Park on the scenic banks of the Ottawa River.
 
  • Of course, there are plenty of museums, including seven national museums (National Gallery of Canada, Canadian Museum of History, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canadian Museum of Nature, Canadian War Museum) to fill a week if you want to getaway from the cold.
  • In order to fuel up before the winter fun, or nourish yourself afterwards, head to Ottawa’s Centretown or Parliament areas where a vast majority of the local eateries are located.
  • The winter events, recreation, or sightseeing may create a need for some relaxation. Fortunately, there are several places to do so in Ottawa including the Koena Spa, Nordik Spa-Nature, or the Strathmere Country Retreat.

 

Blue Mountain

There are many obvious reasons which make Ontario’s Blue Mountain region a wonderful winter destination. These include the large resort village amenities, the premier downhill sports, and the many additional activities around the resort. Plus, there are some not-so-obvious reasons to plan a trip here this winter, including the spa experiences, additional winter recreation, a second ski hill, and the events which pop up every week.

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Credit: Blue Mountain

  • The Blue Mountain Resort has a winter sport or activity for every age and athletic level. Enjoy a day on the hills with skiing, snowboarding, tubing, or sledding, or take to the trails with a more relaxed day of cross-country skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing.
  • Off the trails and off the main hill are even more choices for winter fun like outdoor ice skating, the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, the Canopy Climb Net Adventure, axe throwing, or activities at the aquatic centre.
  • The resort village is home to two spas to counter those days spent outside: take a soak at Blue Mountain’s iwa Spa, or Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain.
  • Thornbury and Craigleith sit on the lake’s shores and a short drive from the resort village. Craigleith is also home to a second ski hill in Craigleith where the park has space for alpine sports as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
 
  • Events pop up weekly in the Blue Mountain Village. This includes live music events, parties on the hill, après ski events, and Blue Mountain’s big Pride event.
  • When it comes to food, dining, and drink options, Blue Mountain village has it all! This includes casual eateries and cafes, pubs or breweries, upscale dining, and a candy store.
  • For those in need of overnight accommodations while visiting Blue Mountain, there are several options like various vacation condo rentals, lodge rooms, or hotel rooms. Plus, Blue Mountain has different stay and play or ski packages to help you save a bit on the cost of your trip.
  • Additionally, Thornbury and Craigleith are both home to more accommodations including lakefront rooms or cabins, historic manors or bed and breakfasts, and adorable inns or boutique hotels.

 

North Bay

A winter getaway to North Bay on the shores of Lake Nipissing could centre around a number of local attractions and events. First up are the winter celebrations taking place in North Bay which aim to celebrate many different parts of the local culture. The second reason is actually many reasons: visit North Bay for winter recreation, and for winter recreation of almost any type!

  • The winter festivals in North Bay celebrate the season, local culture and history, and art. Join the city in February for Le Carnaval des Compagnons, or the Ice Follies festival.
  • Discover the thrill of kick-sledding and skijoring with Northbound Huskies! Embrace winter with your own dog or their trained huskies, strengthening bonds while adventuring outdoors.
  • The Lee Park Ice Skating Trail is a perfect place for a family skate, while there are several smaller community rinks throughout North Bay, as well as indoor rinks. And to take the fun onto the trails, head to the North Bay Nordic ski area, where the club provides groomed trails, ski rentals, and snowshoe rentals.
  • Enjoy a few more thrills with your outdoor recreation at the Laurentian Ski Hill, located within city limits.
  • The winter fun continues onto the frozen surface of Lake Nipissing with the Ice Follies Art Festival, plus numerous opportunities for ice fishing. Book rentals or trips with Lake Nipissing Outfitters or Lake Nipissing Ice Fishing Charters to make the trip a bit easier.
  • Don your ice cleats or skid-proof winter boots, and head to Duchesnay Falls. Endless cascades, icy formations, and rushing waters offer a serene escape just minutes from downtown.
  • Get a taste of the local dining scene in North Bay via Main Street or Algonquin Avenue. These areas have a ton of variety in terms of cuisine types, restaurant atmosphere, and international dining options.
  • In the winter, the Nipissing waterfront can be calm, peaceful, and beautiful. Appreciate the waterfront through accommodations like the Glen Garry Motel & Cottages, Finch Beach Resort, or the Best Western North Bay.

Stratford

Stratford, located about halfway between Kitchener and the Lake Huron shores, is known across Ontario and Canada for a few different reasons. First and foremost is the local chocolate industry! Stratford is home to a great number of local chocolatiers, as well as breweries, restaurants, cafes, casual spots, and upscale restaurants. Secondly, Stratford has also put itself on the map as a premier art destination in Ontario- whether that be for the art around town, local shows and venues, or annual festivals. No matter the reasons you choose to visit Stratford this winter, the small southern Ontario city has something for everyone.

 
  • Get your winter walks in a few different ways around Stratford. One of the most unique winter walks is Stratford’s Chocolate Trail, which takes you to each of Stratford’s chocolatiers and bakeries. For a more natural hiking or walking experience, head to Stratford’s multi-use TJ Dolan Trail. And to get a sense of why Stratford is the artistic capital of Ontario, take a self-guided tour of the many public pieces to see.
  • Experience Stratford’s enchanting winter celebration, Lights on Stratford, with artistic, immersive, and interactive displays. Explore self-guided light tours through scenic parks, historic downtown, and the Avon River Valley, shining brightly until mid January.
  • The Stratford-Perth Museum is a multi-purpose winter attraction with indoor exhibits, walking trails, and an outdoor rink. Don’t miss out on the bigger winter adventures available with the River Valley Snow Tubing.
  • Winterfest takes over Stratford’s Upper Queens Park with a full schedule of family-friendly activities, both indoors and outdoors.
  • There are many different types of accommodation options across Stratford, including a large number of B&Bs. Some of these bed and breakfasts are located in the heart of town, while others are outside of Stratford in the rural areas. Also in downtown Stratford are a number of historic inns and boutique hotels that have you close to the dining and shopping.
  • And aside from chocolate, there are several amazing local dining opportunities around Stratford as there are hotels or B&Bs. Eerie and Ontario Streets intersect, and are where much of this local dining is located, such as Mercer, The Parlour Inn Restaurant, Noodle Zone, Braai House, or Elizabeth.

 

Midland and Penetanguishene

These sister towns on the Georgian Bay are located considerably close to one another, so, visiting one location this winter could easily include visiting both Midland and Penetaguishene. Each location has its own charm, reasons to visit, and attractions, while both towns are perfect basecamps for adventures within the nearby Provincial Park.

  • Explore hidden areas of Wye Marsh on a snowshoe adventure, uncovering animal tracks and winter mysteries. Enjoy a fireside snack with hot chocolate or tea before returning to the Visitors’ Centre.
  • Celebrate winter’s magic at Discovery Harbour’s Mid-Winter Social during Family Day weekend! Enjoy snowshoeing, wagon rides, tubing, crafts, historical demos, face painting, bannock roasting, and an escape room. Don’t miss Winterama, Ontario’s oldest winter carnival, celebrating community, heritage, and outdoor fun! Perfect for families and friends.
  • Find more winter fun closer to Peneteng and right in Midland with the Mountainview Ski Centre. The park offers trails and rentals for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
 

 

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