Best Things To Do in Ontario this Winter

Ontario comes alive in winter with festive lights, holiday markets, and must-see seasonal attractions perfect for all ages. With the holiday season in full swing, GO Transit makes getting to your favourite celebrations simple and affordable. The $10 One-Day Weekend Pass gives you unlimited travel on weekends and holidays, making it easy to enjoy holiday outings. The Weekday Group Pass starting at $30 for two people, is ideal for groups of 2 to 5 planning festive gatherings during the week . Kids 12 and under ride free with Kids GO Free, and for Niagara Falls trips, the GO+WEGO Combo Ticket lets you easily connect to local transportation for popular winter festivities. Whether you are planning a family day out, a cozy holiday getaway, or looking to explore Ontario's top destinations during the season, GO Transit helps you enjoy the best of this special time of year. Let us guide you through some of the top holiday activities and attractions to explore this winter!

Winter Activities in Ontario

Ontario's cities and towns come alive with unique seasonal events and holiday shopping experiences. These local gems offer a perfect way to embrace the festive spirit and find one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones. Exploring these community hubs provides a chance to support local artisans, enjoy holiday lights and decorations, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere that defines this time of year. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with local culture and discover the distinct character of each destination throughout the holiday season.

A trip to downtown Burlington is a must during the holidays. The streets are adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, creating a picturesque atmosphere for a winter stroll. The unique shops and boutiques offer a wide variety of holiday gift options, from handmade crafts to stylish apparel. Find something special for everyone on your list while supporting local businesses. After shopping, warm up in one of the many charming cafes or restaurants that line the streets. Village Square with its cobblestone paths and European-inspired architecture, is especially magical during the holidays, turning into a festive wonderland.

For a truly enchanting market experience steeped in holiday cheer, visit The Holiday Market at Friday Harbour Resort. This beautiful resort just outside of Barrie, on the shores of Lake Simcoe, hosts an outdoor market on select dates from November 21 - December 28, 2025. that captures the essence of the festive season.

Stroll the twinkling Promenade, shop a curated selection of artisan and local vendors, and savour festive treats and warm beverages from charming chalet-style cabins. Capture memories with Santa and his elves, cozy up in themed warming lounges, and take in live entertainment, festive bites and beverages and seasonal décor under the glow of a 40-foot holiday tree. It is a perfect destination for a day trip or overnight stay, providing a scenic backdrop for your holiday shopping.

Take the GO Train to Barrie South GO Station, and then take Innisfil Transit (with the ride sharing application, Uber) to Friday Harbour. Just download the app and choose “Barrie South GO Station" as your pickup point and “Friday Harbour Resort” as the destination. And don’t forget, Barrie is the perfect backdrop for your holiday adventures. Check out more things to do in Barrie in the winter!

Ontario Winter Attractions

Step back in time or get lost in a world of lights and theatre. These winter attractions shine especially bright during the holiday season, offering unforgettable experiences that have become beloved traditions for families throughout Ontario. They provide a chance to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in festive stories, seasonal history, and dazzling displays. These destinations are not just attractions; they are institutions that have been sparking holiday joy and creating memories.

Experience a classic holiday celebration at Dundurn Castle’s Victorian Christmas in Hamilton from November 24, 2025- January 7, 2026. This magnificent historic home is decorated in the grand style of the 19th century, offering a glimpse into an old-fashioned Christmas. Costumed interpreters guide you through beautifully adorned rooms, sharing stories about the traditions and festivities of the era. In the kitchen, the scents of holiday baking fill the air, and visitors may even sample some period treats. It is an educational and festive outing that brings history to life, making it a magical holiday experience. Get there easily with GO Transit! Take the GO train to Burlington GO Station, then transfer to Burlington Transit or head to West Harbour GO Station and walk 25 minutes.

For those who love the performing arts, a show at Theatre Aquarius in Hamilton is a wonderful way to add some holiday sparkle to your winter evenings. This renowned theatre company presents a diverse range of productions, including special festive performances perfect for the season. Attending a live holiday show is a fantastic way to support the arts and enjoy an enchanting night out. With PRESTO Perks, you can save 15% off select performances from November 19 2025 – May 10, 2026 starting with Disney’s Frozen Broadway Musical.

Arrive in Hamilton by taking GO Transit to Hamilton GO Centre Station, and make a holiday evening of it with dinner at a nearby restaurant before the show, and check out the plenty of other things to do in Hamilton in the winter!

Next up, heading to Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival, adding holiday magic to the already breathtaking landscape. This spectacular event from November 15, 2025 - January 4, 2026,  transforms Niagara Falls into a dazzling winter wonderland bathed in millions of sparkling holiday lights and enchanting seasonal displays. Guests can walk through the 8-kilometre route, winding through Niagara Parks, Dufferin Islands, and the surrounding tourist districts, all decorated for the holidays. The illuminations create a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. This event has become an annual holiday tradition for many families and is a must-see during the festive season. With regular GO train service to Niagara Falls GO Station and GO+WEGO Combo Tickets, you can travel to the falls comfortably for a memorable winter celebration. And the fun doesn’t have to stop here. Check out all the winter things to do in Niagara!

Fun Things to do in the Winter

Beyond the major festivals, Ontario is filled with unique seasonal events and natural holiday wonders that shine brightest in the colder months. These activities offer a special way to connect with the spirit of the season. They encourage you to bundle up, get outside, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of winter while celebrating the festive and fun atmosphere. From illuminated garden trails to holiday light displays, these experiences provide a different perspective on the province’s landscapes during the holiday season and winter.

Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) welcomes visitors to its Winter Wonders holiday event, a magical indoor and outdoor experience that lights up the season from November 27 to January 4. Stroll along festive pathways with enchanting displays that highlight the gardens’ natural beauty amid holiday lights. The seasonal music, all-new artisan craft market, and interactive installations create an immersive, joyful holiday atmosphere.

This is the ideal setting for a winter walk, whether for a romantic evening or a memorable family outing. The RBG is located a short bus ride from Burlington GO Station. And don’t forget to show your PRESTO card for 15% off General Adult Admission! Separate admission applies to the Winter Wonders event. Looking for more winter things to do while you’re in Burlington? Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a perfect winter day in Burlington itinerary!

While the Winter Festival of Lights adds to the festive scene, the Niagara Falls nightly illumination is a spectacular sight. Each evening, Niagara Falls is transformed with a rainbow of colours, creating an unforgettable visual display against the winter sky. The powerful rush of the water combined with vibrant lights offers a truly awe-inspiring holiday experience. Seeing the falls surrounded by ice and snow adds even more magic to this natural wonder. Winter is a quieter, more peaceful time to visit and take in the grandeur and festive glow of Niagara Falls.

Best Tourist Attractions in the Winter

Toronto's iconic landmarks offer some of the most memorable winter experiences in the province, especially during the holiday season. These attractions blend historic charm with seasonal cheer, drawing visitors from near and far for festive outings. The city’s bustling streets take on a cozy and celebratory atmosphere throughout the holidays, making it an ideal destination for seasonal fun. GO Transit’s extensive network makes it easy to get to the centre of the action for all your holiday plans, without the hassle of driving or parking.

The Distillery Winter Village, open November 13 to January 4 in Toronto is a hallmark of the holiday season. The historic Distillery District, with its cobblestone streets and Victorian industrial architecture, transforms into a magical winter village. A towering Christmas tree stands at the heart of the celebrations, surrounded by vendor cabins, enchanting light displays, and cozy fire pits. Enjoy browsing for unique holiday gifts from local artisans, indulging in seasonal foods and drinks, and soaking in live entertainment. This joyful and festive atmosphere makes it one of the most popular destinations for holiday fun in the city.

No visit to Toronto in the winter is complete without a trip to the St. Lawrence Market, which takes on a special charm during the holiday months. It is a bustling hub where you can find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked treats, and a wide array of gourmet foods—perfect for your holiday gatherings. The historic South Market building provides a warm and lively refuge from the winter chill, filled with the sights, sounds, and aromas of the season. Whether you are picking up ingredients for a festive meal or searching for unique gifts, the market is sure to add some holiday cheer to your visit.

For sports fans, a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame is an essential winter activity and a great way to spend a holiday outing. Celebrate Canada’s national pastime by exploring the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world. Get up close to the Stanley Cup, test your shooting and goaltending skills, and learn about legendary players and stories from the game’s history. And don’t forget to check out an all new feature film, “Little Big Shot” which combines CGI and hockey history to deliver a memorable experience for hockey fans of all ages. Without a doubt, the Hockey Hall of Fame offers a warm way to celebrate winter indoors. And everyone can save 20% off Regular Admission rates when you show your PRESTO card! Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, it is accessible via Union Station, a hub for GO Transit and a convenient starting point for holiday sightseeing. And the fun doesn’t have to stop here; there are plenty more options for things to do in the winter in Toronto!

Ontario’s holiday season is filled with memorable markets, sparkling light shows, and festive attractions that are perfect for exploring. GO Transit makes travel easy and affordable with a range of fare options, including the $10 One-Day Weekend Pass, Weekday Group Pass, Kids GO Free, and the GO+WEGO Combo Ticket for sightseeing in Niagara Falls. Wherever your holiday and winter plans take you this winter, GO Transit connects you with the best of the season across the province—helping you make the most of every joyful moment!