Winter Wonderland: The Best Things to Do in Toronto This Season
There’s something enchanting about winter in Toronto. The city sparkles under a blanket of snow, the skyline glows against crisp, frosty skies, and cozy cafés invite you in from the chill. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, festive fun, or cultural escapes, here are the best ways to embrace winter in the city for 2026.
Outdoor Winter Fun
Skate at Nathan Phillips Square, where free skating parties & rentals bring winter vibes early in January.
Glide on the ice at The Bentway, a popular urban skating rink under the Gardiner.
Scenic Outdoor Adventures
Take a brisk walk along frozen beaches like Woodbine or the Scarborough Bluffs.
You can also hit classic toboggan runs with friends or family at the Riverdale Park East.
Seasonal Festivals & Events
Enjoy your time at events like the Toronto International Boat Show (Jan 17 -25) at Exhibition Place.
You can also see the DesignTO Festival which is the largest design festival with exhibits, interactive installations, talks, and tours across the city (late Jan to early Feb).
For the sports fans, catch live sports at Scotiabank Arena all month long.
Culture, Food & Indoor Activities
Winterlicious is a delicious way to beat the cold, from late January into February. A savour prix-fixe menus at hundreds of city restaurants.
There is also the Toronto Tea Festival (late Jan) where you can warm up with global teas and expert talks.
You can explore world-class exhibits at Museums such as the Royal Ontario Museum or Art Gallery of Ontario.
Experience optical illusions at the fun Museum of Illusions Toronto or take in historic views from the CN Tower or Casa Loma.
Cozy & Creative Experiences
Browse through books or attend talks at Toronto Reference Library.
Take a stroll through The Distillery Historic District and enjoy its charm of winter lights and architecture.
