6 Hot Spots to Check Out this Winter

Looking for some winter inspiration outside of Toronto? Here are some suggestions to make the most of this snowy season.

1. Ice skating in Arrowhead Provincial Park. This park has been getting lots of attention lately, and for good reason. This 1.3 km trail provides the unique experience of gliding through the forest on a man-made ice track; no lake necessary. Bring the family, friends, or your significant other for a fairy tale skate in the woods. Entrance to the park is $16. 

Distance from Toronto: 2h30 mins

2. Wine tasting at the Niagara Icewine Festival. During the weekends of January 13-29th, the Niagara Icewine Festival is the perfect place to escape the bustle of the city. Learn the process of icewine making, tour the vineyards, and of course, try out some of Ontario’s best icewines. Just be sure to dress warm! 

Distance from Toronto: 1h20 mins

3. Celebrate your patriotism with the Kingston Canadian Film Festival. If you are looking to take in some culture (and stay warm this winter), this festival is for you. March 2-5, 2017, you will be able to enjoy the works of Canadian filmmakers from across the country. Feature length films and shorts from Canadians of all ages are displayed, with past notable submissions by David Cronenberg and Sarah Polley. 

Distance from Toronto: 2h10 mins

4. Test your skills on the slopes at Blue Mountain. Whether you prefer downhill or cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, or simply hanging out in the chalet with some hot chocolate, Blue Mountain has got you covered. Just two hours outside of the city, this popular destination offers some of Ontario’s best skiing. Not feeling the cold weather? Check out the Scandinave Spa for some relaxation. 

Distance from Toronto: 2h15 mins

5. Check out the Montréal en Lumière festival. From February 23 to March 11, 2017, this festival takes over the city to showcase the latest talent in music, art, and food. If you’re a foodie, music lover, or generally enjoy a good time, this festival will lift your spirits out of the darkness of winter. 

Distance from Toronto: 5h30 mins

6. Try out the world’s largest escape room. Escape the Diefenbunker is a great way to combine our nation’s history with a trendy activity. Larger than average, this escape room in Canada’s Cold War Museum utilizes its 100,000 square foot location to make hunting for clues a little more challenging. Running Thursday through Sunday evenings, this Ottawa escape room will provide your daily dose of Canadian history with a well-executed activity. Dress warmly, as the bunker is known to be cold. Some useful info: tour groups are 12 people at a time, admission is $30 each, and be sure to book in advance! This attraction fills up quickly.  

Distance from Toronto: 4h30 mins