Exploring Toronto in winter might not be on anyone’s wish list; after all, many dread the Canadian winter. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean the city stagnates in hibernation; Toronto is a social and cultural melting pot for people from all corners of the globe. Proudly Canadian, it has a dynamic and ever-growing list of things to see and do. The city has more to offer than anyone can digest in a single weekend outing. If you, like many, doubted what’s there to explore this season, here are a few activities you can top off your bucket list this holiday.
Skate
If you doubt your skating skills or want to hone them, you can always test them out in the heart of downtown’s Nathan Philips Square. Considered one of Toronto’s most iconic winter spots, the rink at Nathan Philips Square transitions into a winter wonderland and becomes a beehive of activity. Designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, the rink officially opened in 1965. The rectangular pool transitions to a reflecting pool in the summer and an ice-skating rink in the winter. It is spanned by three concrete arches. Surrounded by Toronto’s glittering skyline, it is the ideal spot to glide with family and friends as you take in your surroundings or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate afterward.
Explore the Winter Village
The Distillery Winter Village is one of the best places to get into the holiday groove. Here, you will see revellers shopping, warming up with a hot drink, and taking photos with the gigantic Christmas tree on display. There are also several charming food cabins dishing up some delicious cuisine from various countries around the world, like Mexican churros, Jamaican jerk cuisine, and Ukrainian perogies, among many others. If you feel cold, there are several stalls to sidetrack you from all the shopping; grab mulled wine or hot cocoa at one of the patios and continue your spree or stop by a fire pit or a local bar to warm up.
Visit Niagara Falls
When the temperatures drop, Niagara Falls attracts fewer crowds; nevertheless, the excitement doesn’t stop here. 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, which includes over three 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 winter, you’ll get a sneak peek at what Niagara Falls looked like in the past. If you are in the mood for shopping, stop by the Clifton Hill entertainment district home to several attractions like the Bird Kingdom which is the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary, or explore one of Niagara’s several wineries, breweries, and distilleries.
Attend the Casa Loma Holiday Light Display
Each holiday season, the Casa Loma castle is adorned with holiday decorations featuring a gigantic 40-foot Christmas tree lit in different colours. The castle provides an exciting opportunity for the young and old alike to enjoy activities like visiting Santa’s workshop, engaging in different arts and crafts, and meeting with various mascots. The castle’s holiday lights tour allows visitors to stroll through its brilliantly lit grounds and enjoy live musical performances.
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. 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.
As the cooler weather kicks in, Toronto still maintains its hubbub of activity along with the vibrancy and diversity it’s always known for. So why don’t you take advantage of the few activities above to explore Toronto this winter, whether you are a lifelong resident or just visiting for the first time?
Aaron Levinson | Contributing Writer
