Photo: Canadian Destinations © Pexels / Esther
Lean in, not stay in. Winter in Canada is something to celebrate. It’s the season when the air turns crisp and the country feels freshly polished—river trails become ribbons of ice, ski hills hum with early-morning energy, and festival lights make even the coldest nights feel inviting. A great winter trip isn’t about braving the weather; it’s about letting the season set the agenda—skates first, hot chocolate later, and that satisfied glow that only comes from spending the day outside.
With more travellers eager to explore the snowy months, the travel experts at Radisson are highlighting a few favourite Canadian cities where winter shows up at its best—lively, welcoming, and full of reasons to linger.
1. Winnipeg
With a nickname like “Winterpeg,” it’s no wonder this city and winter are inseparable. With some of Western Canada’s largest winter festivals, visitors can enjoy music, dance, sculpture, and outdoor activities. Strap on skates and explore one of the world’s longest natural skating trails at The Forks, where paths stretch across the Assiniboine and Red Rivers. At FortWhyte Alive, explore 660 acres with tobogganing, snowshoeing, and even bison watching.
2. Calgary
For travellers looking for a fun winter festival, Chinook Blast has something for everyone with live music, sporting events, art installations, and markets. Thrill seekers can head to WinSport Canada Olympic Park for skiing, snowboarding, and a world-class halfpipe. Bowness Park offers skating, ice bikes, and cozy firepits—or try crokicurl, a fun blend of crokinole and curling.
3. Belleville
This city, rich with history, boasts 19th-century architecture and cobblestone streets. For a dive into the past, history lovers can follow self-guided walking tours to glimpse the city’s heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts can hit the slopes at Batawa Ski Hill or explore the trails of H.R. Frink Conservation Area, wandering through snowy forests and boardwalks.
4. Kelowna
Winter doesn’t put wineries on hold—many stay open for fireside tastings that pair local wines with snow-dusted vineyard views. Add in the Okanagan Winter Wine Festival and local winter markets, and you’ll quickly see why this place feels like you’re stepping into a movie. The area also features local trails and toboggan hills, while nearby Big White Ski Resort offers vast, varied terrain and night skiing. Prefer a hike? Knox Mountain Park is worth a visit with sweeping views of Okanagan Lake.
Consider skipping the beach this year and embracing a true-north winter trip instead. From Winnipeg’s festival energy and river skating to Calgary’s outdoor play, Belleville’s heritage charm, and Kelowna’s fireside pours and mountain views, these destinations prove that winter isn’t the off-season—it’s one of Canada’s best reasons to travel.
—NC
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