Are you looking to spend part of your winter in a true winter wonderland? Heading to Canada during the wintertime is an astounding experience, and you're not going to want to miss out on the fun.
Be sure that you pack a warm jacket, thick gloves, and a cozy scarf because we have the best places to visit in Canada in the wintertime.
You'll find that Canadian winters can be frosty though, so be sure to bundle up. You will discover so many different kinds of events and activities for adrenaline junkies and families alike. Not to mention the vast beauty of Canada. It is truly, a gorgeous country.
Do we have you booking your trip yet?
Make sure to keep reading for our guide on the eleven beautiful places you must visit in Canada during the wintertime.
1. Niagara Falls, Ontario
When you think of Niagara Falls in Canada the first thing to come to mind is a tourist destination or a place to spend your honeymoon. Yet, did you know that Niagara Falls is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Canada especially during the wintertime?
Visitors find that Niagara Falls becomes a magical place in the winter. One obvious sight to see is the falls. You can even journey behind the falls to get an exciting and different perspective as you navigate the incredible cave-like portals.
There are also several festivals during the winter that you're going to want to check out if you're planning a trip to Niagara Falls.
The Festival of Lights is one of the most popular events that takes place during the wintertime. For thirty-eight years, the Festival of Lights has put on the largest free outdoor light show. It is something that you're not going to want to miss, and it is fun for all ages.
2. Whistler, British Columbia
If you're looking for fun winter vacations in Canada, you need to book a trip to Whistler. You'll find that Whistler is the most enjoyable spot for someone who is seeking adventure.
Considering it is home to Blackcomb, which is the largest ski resort in North America, you're going to want to remember to pack your ski gear. The mountain also offers snowshoeing, tobogganing, and ski jumping.
Make sure you check out the Olympic Park as well. The facility was built for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, and it is worth the trip to spend some time there. The park also offers youth lessons and camps for a variety of different sports. Join your kids for these activities, or relax in the fully licensed Day Lodge Cafe.
You might think that with all the winter sports, you can only visit Whistler when it is snowing. Yet, there are so many fun things to do on this side of Canada, even without snow, no matter what time of year you visit.
People have found rafting, hiking, bungee jumping, and even grabbing a beer to be some of the most fun things to do in Whistler.
3. Edmonton, Alberta
When looking for the best snowy places in Canada, you'll want to check out Edmonton. One thing you should know is that it can get extremely cold in this part of Canada. On some days, it can dip below -40 degrees celsius. Brrrrr!
There are plenty of things you can do in Edmonton, but again, make sure you are dressed appropriately. You'll want to go cross country skiing, tube down a hill, ice skating, snowshoeing, and so much more.
Since 2011, Edmonton has boasted its' Ice Castles in Hawrelak Park. These castles have been described time and time again as 'one of the most stunning experiences' many have had in their lives. Do not leave your camera at home.
4. Vancouver, British Columbia
One of the most delightful Canadian vacations is packing everyone up in the car and heading to Vancouver. A Canadian road trip is one that you will never forget.
Vancouver has whatever you're looking for, and it's a great way to get away from the snow during the wintertime as the temperatures are much milder in this part of Canada. The warm oceanic climate in Vancouver is due to the protection of the mountains and the warmth of the Pacific ocean currents. If you want to shop, eat, drink, relax, or even dance, you can do it all in Vancouver!
There are even some beautiful museums in Vancouver for you to spend your afternoon exploring. You can check out Science World, Vancouver Art Gallery, or Fort Langley National Historic Site to learn some interesting facts and expand your knowledge of Vancouver history.
And if you're a foodie, you will not be disappointed in Vancouver. The city is best known for it's fresh seafood and traditional rolling cart dim sum, but you can find absolutely every type of cuisine around almost any corner.
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Your winter vacation in Canada wouldn't be complete without a trip to Halifax. You'll find that it is one of the most breathtaking cities on the list, especially during the wintertime.
One of the best things to do here is strap on some skates and get out to the The Emera Oval, skating rink, which is equivalent to three NFL size hockey rinks. This is a great way to spend an afternoon, and it's free!
Ever heard of winter surfing? You can do that in Halifax as well. Although it may seem slightly bizarre to visit a beach in the winter, whether you surf or not, the sheer beauty of the Atlantic ocean waves crashing up against a frozen shore is truly magical. Some even say that a beach feels more peaceful in the wintertime.
Halifax is such a magnificent place in Canada that one trip could cause you to start packing your bags. Moving to Halifax is something that many people do after they visit this gorgeous city, and for a good reason.
6. Prince Edward Island
How about an island getaway for your winter vacation? When the snow falls on this breathtaking Atlantic province, new adventures are born.
If you're looking for a bit of action on your vacation, you're going to love fat biking on Prince Edward Island. Fat Biking is essentially mountain biking, yet it is specifically for the wintertime because your bike is equipped with oversized tires that are perfect to get around the snow in.
Don't forget about snowmobiling! Lots of people spend hours riding on their snowmobiles on Prince Edward Island. That's because they get lots of enjoyment out of gliding over the snow.
One of the number one things you're going to want to do when spending time on Prince Edward Island is to take pictures. There are plenty of photo opportunities of beautiful scenery, sunsets, sunrises, and so much more that you'll need to capture it all.
7. Newfoundland
Are you looking for a vacation that you can have fun yet still get your work done? Newfoundland is a great place for some work, a ton of relaxation, and plenty of fun.
Once you're down with work there are a ton of winter events and activities to enjoy.
Something that you will want to do in Newfoundland is taking a ride down the zipline. The North Atlantic Ziplines are a great way to get a marvellous view of the coastline. You'll find that there are ten different ziplines, which means you get to see Newfoundland from plenty of different perspectives.
Another way to spend your time is by cracking open the ice and catching some fish. You should work with a guide to help you though, as safety is a priority while ice fishing. A guide will know where the safest locations are and will be equipped with all of the necessary tools required for this unique experience.
8. Toronto, Ontario
There's never a bad time to visit Toronto. The city is a perfect balance of nature and architecture. There are so many different types of winter activities in Toronto that you won't know what to add to your list first.
A good place to start is Winterlicious. The event is where over 200 restaurants participate in serving signature three course meals for a fixed price. Speaking of food, there is so much cultural diversity in this city, you can enjoy authentic flavours from all over the world, without leaving Toronto.
Besides eating the most delicious food, the shopping is Toronto is fantastic. Whether you are a bargain hunter or a bougie person, the city has is all.
9. Calgary, Alberta
Are you looking for a city that looks like it is ahead of its time? Booking your vacation to Calgary will have you in awe when you check out the architecture. Many of the buildings look like they're from the future, and they look even better in the winter.
One place you will need to check out in the winter is the hot springs. Have you ever imagined taking a swim when there was snow on the ground, and you could see your breath? If so, the hot springs are for you!
These hot springs are located at Banff National Park, and it is worth making the trip to take a dip. Soaking in the hot springs is a relaxing way to spend your vacation in Calgary, especially during the winter.
You can also participate in other winter sports in Calgary too! If you like cross country skiing, ice fishing, tubing, or anything else, chances are you will find it all in Calgary.
10. Winnipeg, Manitoba
If you're looking to get lots of fresh air during your winter vacation, Winnipeg is the place to go.
One of the most relaxing places that you will want to check out in Winnipeg is Therma. Therma is a Scandanavian open-air spa that has everything you could ever think of to relax.
Whether you would prefer a hot bath, cold bath, trip to the sauna, exfoliation room, or to spend time in their relaxation areas, you can do that. Therma is a great place to spend your time in Winnipeg, even in the winter.
After you're done relaxing, you're going to want to check out The Forks in Winnipeg. The Forks has everything you can ever imagine from dining options, shopping, hotel accommodations, as well as entertainment. You'll want to spend hours or even days here exploring everything that there is to offer.
You'll certainly have to try some of their dining options as there are plenty to choose from. If you're in the mood for breakfast, hamburgers, fish and chips, Greek, or even dessert, they have you covered.
11. Canmore, Alberta
The last place on our list might be one of the most gorgeous places to explore during the wintertime. Canmore has so many magnificent views that begin to amplify when the snow begins to fall.
Something that you will want to do when visiting Canmore is to explore the caves. You'll find that no matter how cold it is outside caves are always going to be the same temperature. That makes it an awesome activity for the winter!
Exploring caves is fun because you never know what you're going to find throughout the many twists and turns. You'll see different cave formations, rocky passages, and sometimes even ancient bones.
Another thing you will want to do during your trip to Canmore is dog sled. For some people, this is a once in a lifetime chance. Make sure you don't pass it up.
Dog sledding is an unforgettable experience, and you're going to love it while a pack of wolf like dogs pull you over the snow. You'll see how smart and well mannered these dogs are and how they can get you from one place to another.
A Must See Breathtaking Places in Canada During Winter Season
What is stopping you from booking a trip to Canada in the wintertime? There are so many wondrous places to visit in Canada in the wintertime that you're going to have a difficult time planning your itinerary.
Whether you're looking for beautiful sights or fun activities, Canada has it all, even during the winter.
Now that you're ready to plan your trip to Canada, you're going to need insurance. You can get a free quote from Insurdinary for travel insurance, life insurance, home insurance, and so much more!
