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Winter in Toronto is not just a season—it’s a playground. The city transforms into a sparkling wonderland of ice, snow, and twinkling lights, where adventure awaits at every corner. Don’t hide from the cold—embrace it! Whether you’re gliding across an ice rink, sipping hot chocolate at a Christmas market, exploring frozen landscapes, or indulging in a cozy winter feast, Toronto in winter is a magical experience you won’t want to miss.
Bundle up, step outside, and get ready to make unforgettable memories. Toronto in winter is pure magic—get out, explore, and embrace the season like a true Canadian!
Step back in time at the Distillery District
Once home to the largest distillery in the world, the Distillery District is now one of Toronto’s most enchanting winter destinations. The cobblestone streets, historic Victorian buildings, and twinkling lights create the perfect setting for a festive day out.
- Before Christmas: The Toronto Christmas Market brings the holiday spirit to life with local crafts, festive treats, mulled wine, and live music. Ride the carousel, admire the giant Christmas tree, and don’t leave without trying the legendary hot chocolate from Soma Chocolatemaker.
- After the holidays: The magic continues with the Toronto Light Fest, where stunning art installations and thousands of lights turn the Distillery District into an outdoor gallery of glowing sculptures.
Get your skates on
Skating in Toronto is a must in winter, and the best part? Most outdoor rinks are completely free!
- Nathan Phillips Square: The ultimate Toronto winter experience. Skate in front of the giant 3D Toronto sign, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and historic City Hall.
- Harbourfront Centre Rink: Skate by the water, with stunning views of Lake Ontario on one side and the city skyline on the other. On Saturday nights, DJs spin live music, turning the rink into an outdoor dance party on ice.
- The Bentway Skate Trail: Glide along a 1.75 km skating path beneath the Gardiner Expressway—a unique and totally Toronto experience. Rentals, events, and free skating lessons are available.
Skate through a forest at Arrowhead Provincial Park
For the ultimate Canadian winter dream, head to Arrowhead Provincial Park and skate through a fairytale-like forest on a 1.3 km ice trail. On certain nights, the path is lined with flickering tiki torches, creating a magical Fire & Ice skating experience.
Prefer something quieter? Try the skating trail at MacGregor Point Provincial Park, which is just as scenic but less crowded. Both parks also offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing for even more winter fun.
Indulge at Winterlicious
If winter in Toronto wasn’t delicious enough, Winterlicious takes it to the next level. For two weeks in January and February, over 200 of the city’s top restaurants offer special prix fixe menus, giving you the perfect excuse to dine your way through Toronto’s incredible food scene—without breaking the bank.
Go to the beach (yes, really!)
Winter at the beach? Absolutely! Every year, the Winter Stations exhibition transforms the lifeguard towers at Woodbine Beach into interactive art installations by artists from around the world. Walk along the snowy boardwalk, admire the incredible creations, and when you’re done, warm up with coffee or a hearty brunch on Queen Street East.
Explore the great outdoors
Toronto is packed with green spaces—or in winter, white ones!
- High Park: Wander through snow-dusted trails, spot winter wildlife, or rent snowshoes from MEC for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Toronto Islands: Hop on the ferry for a peaceful winter escape. With its icy shoreline, snow-covered trees, and postcard-perfect views of the Toronto skyline, the Islands feel like a secret winter paradise. With fewer crowds than summer, you’ll have plenty of space to walk, snowshoe, or just take in the quiet beauty of the season.
Escape the cold in the PATH
Need a break from the winter chill? The PATH is Toronto’s massive underground city, with 30 km of tunnels connecting over 1,200 shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Some must-visit spots along the PATH:
- Brookfield Place: Stunning architecture and home to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
- Scotiabank Arena & Rogers Centre: Catch a Maple Leafs, Raptors, or Blue Jays game.
- CN Tower & Ripley’s Aquarium: Two of Toronto’s most famous attractions—no winter gear required!
- The Royal York Hotel: Where the King stays when he’s in town.
Navigating the PATH can be tricky, so grab a map or join a free walking tour with Tour Guys to discover its best-kept secrets.
Cover photo credit: © Destination Toronto
