Outdoor Winter Activities in Toronto

Are you ready to embrace the wonders of winter this season? Canadian winters are like nowhere else in the world, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking wonderland waiting to be explored. Ontario is filled with exhilarating winter activities, stunning scenery, and family-friendly adventures just waiting to be discovered.

One great perk for families is that kids 12 and under can ride GO Transit for free, making it easier to plan those winter getaways. Additionally, for just $10, you can purchase a One-Day Weekend Pass that provides unlimited travel on weekends and holidays. If you’re travelling during the week, consider the Weekday Group Pass for groups of 2 to 5 people, or opt for GO+WEGO Combo Tickets when in Niagara Falls, to explore even more attractions.

With GO Transit as your dependable travel partner, you can easily access some of the province's best winter escapes while enjoying the convenience of public transportation. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding, enjoy a day of ice skating, embark on a scenic snowshoeing trek, or experience the thrill of winter festivals, let’s dive into the top places where you can enjoy the snow, create lasting memories, and fully embrace the magic of Ontario's winter outdoors! Don’t forget to check out our tourism pages for ideas and inspiration in charming destinations like Burlington, Hamilton, Toronto, Barrie, and Niagara Falls. Your winter adventure awaits!

Outdoor winter activities for kids

Tobogganing spots in Burlington

Tobogganing is a fantastic winter activity for families, and Burlington offers several great spots to enjoy this thrilling pastime. One popular location is Brant Hills Park, located southwest of the tennis courts, where visitors can find rolling hills that provide exciting terrain. It's essential to stick to designated hills to ensure everyone's safety.

Central Park, situated on the hill northwest of the community garden, is another excellent spot, featuring gentle slopes that are ideal for younger children. This makes it a favourite among families looking for a fun day outdoors.

LaSalle Park, situated east of the parking lot, adds a beautiful scenic backdrop to the mix, allowing you to enjoy stunning views while tobogganing. After a thrilling ride down the hill, don’t forget to explore the park's scenic trails. As you prepare for a day of tobogganing, safety should always be a priority. Choose hills that are well-maintained and free of obstacles like trees or fences. Dressing in warm, waterproof clothing and wearing helmets, especially for younger kids, is essential. Always go down the hill feet first while sitting up straight, and keep a close eye on children to ensure they're following safety guidelines.

WildPlay Niagara Falls Zipline to the Falls

For an exhilarating outdoor winter adventure, the WildPlay Niagara Falls Zipline is a must-try! Experience the thrill of soaring over the iconic falls while enjoying breathtaking views of the frozen cascades and stunning winter scenery.

Operating year-round, this zipline lets you embrace the brisk winter air as you glide toward the roaring waters below. Be sure to dress warmly, as the winds near the falls can be pretty chilly! This thrilling activity is ideal for families seeking to bond and create lasting memories. After your ride, take a stroll along the scenic walking trails nearby to appreciate the winter beauty in more detail.

Nature Preserve at Friday Harbour

The Nature Preserve at Friday Harbour transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique chance to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. As you wander along the trails, watch for cardinals, rabbits, ducks, woodpeckers, and a variety of other birds thriving amidst the snowy landscape. Easily accessible from Barrie South GO and Innisfil Transit (via the ride-sharing application, Uber), this preserve allows you to immerse yourself in nature without the hassle of driving. Bundle up, bring your binoculars, and enjoy the serene beauty and quiet escape that the Nature Preserve has to offer this winter!

Niagara River Parkway

The Niagara River Parkway transforms into a breathtaking winter landscape, perfect for families seeking outdoor fun. With stunning views of the frozen river and the iconic falls, this scenic route offers excellent opportunities for activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even tobogganing at family-friendly spots.

Thanks to GO Transit's Kids GO Free initiative, children 12 and under can ride for free, making it easy to bring the whole family without transportation costs. Enjoy a relaxing ride to the parkway and spend more time creating winter memories together.

GO Skating

The Skate Escape at Friday Harbour

The Skate Escape will open in mid-January 2026 (weather permitting) and offer skate and equipment rentals for visitors to enjoy this fun winter activity. Guests can also indulge in a curated selection of sweet and savoury treats, sip handcrafted beverages, enjoy live entertainment, or cozy up in our warming lounges après skate.

Circle at the Centre Ice Rink

The Circle in Centre Ice Rink in Barrie is a fantastic spot for skating enthusiasts of all ages. Conveniently located just a short walk from the Allandale Waterfront GO Station, it’s an easily accessible destination for a fun family outing. As you glide across the ice, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the surrounding area, making your skating experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned skater, the rink provides a welcoming atmosphere to embrace the joys of winter. After your skate, don’t forget to check out the nearby restaurants for a warm drink to cap off your day!

Rotary Centennial Pond at Spencer Smith Park

The Rotary Centennial Pond in Spencer Smith Park, Burlington, is a must-visit winter destination for families looking to enjoy skating. This charming outdoor rink offers a well-maintained surface perfect for skaters of all ages. Whether you bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site, you’ll love the magical winter atmosphere illuminated by festive lights.

After a fun day on the ice, families can warm up with hot cocoa from nearby cafés, making it a delightful outing.

Pier 8 Skating Rink in Hamilton Waterfront

Pier 8 Skating Rink, situated along Hamilton's beautiful waterfront, is a must-visit for families this winter. This outdoor rink offers a stunning backdrop of the waterfront and city skyline, perfect for skaters of all levels. Skate rentals are available on-site, so you can easily join in the fun.

The lively atmosphere, often accompanied by music and seasonal decorations, makes for a memorable outing. After skating, take a stroll along the scenic waterfront trails. With GO Transit making travel to Pier 8 Skating Rink easy, it’s a fantastic destination for a family winter adventure!

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square is a must-do winter activity in Toronto. Nestled in the city’s downtown, this iconic outdoor rink offers the perfect backdrop for family photos, especially with the famous Toronto sign illuminating the scene.

The rink is well-maintained and invites skaters of all levels to enjoy the festive atmosphere. After gliding on the ice, warm up with a hot dog from one of the vendors on site.

Winter Skating at The Bentway

Experience a unique skating adventure at The Bentway in Toronto, located beneath the Gardiner Expressway. This sheltered rink allows you to enjoy winter fun protected from snowfall and strong winds.

Instead of just skating in circles, follow the winding ice path that twists and turns for a more exciting experience. Rentals are available on-site, and support chairs help beginners find their balance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ice.

After your skate, take in the vibrant atmosphere of The Bentway, often featuring art installations and community events.

Free outdoor winter activities

Who says you must stay inside during winter? Clearly, there’s no shortage of fun to be had, all without the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds. GO Transit provides easy access to a variety of free outdoor winter activities, making it the perfect time to bundle up and head out with family and friends. Plus, with the Kids GO Free initiative, you can take younger adventurers along for the ride without worrying about extra costs.

So why not embrace the winter wonderland and create memorable experiences this season? With the beauty of the Ontario outdoors at your fingertips, adventure awaits—just hop on a train or bus and let GO Transit lead the way!