So, you’ve decided to visit Canada during winter or the rainy season. Bold move. Very bold. While most people run toward sunshine, you’ve chosen a country where the weather can slap you in the face with snow, drizzle or temperatures so cold your eyelashes freeze together. Respect.
But here’s the good news. Canada in winter and rain is not a punishment. It’s actually glorious, magical and filled with activities that make you feel like you’re inside a cosy film montage or a dramatic nature documentary depending on the day.
So grab your warmest coat, your fluffiest socks and maybe a hot drink to emotionally support you because here are the top 10 activities to enjoy when Canada decides to get wet, snowy or both.
1. Ice Skating on Outdoor Rinks
❄️ Whether you’re gliding gracefully or moving like a baby deer on stilts, skating is a Canadian classic.
Cities like Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal turn their public rinks into winter wonderlands that feel straight out of a snow globe.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Bring gloves. Falling is not a question, it’s a timeline.
2. Warm Up Inside a Museum or Gallery
🏛️ When the weather outside says “no” your local museum says “come in, darling”.
Canada has phenomenal museums that can entertain you for hours while you defrost.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Try the Royal Ontario Museum, Vancouver Art Gallery or the Canadian Museum of History for a perfect indoor break.
3. Enjoy a Steamy Meal of Poutine
🍟 Rain or snow is the perfect excuse to indulge in Canada’s favourite comfort food.
Fries, gravy and cheese curds come together in a warm, gooey hug for your soul.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Pair it with a hot chocolate and you will be unstoppable.
4. Explore Indoor Markets and Food Halls
🥐 Rainy days are ideal for wandering through places like Granville Island in Vancouver or St. Lawrence Market in Toronto.
You can eat, shop and hide from unpredictable weather like a sophisticated squirrel.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Always say yes to pastries. It’s practically the law.
5. Take a Scenic Winter Train Ride
🚂 Staying warm while watching snowy landscapes pass by your window is peak travel joy.
Via Rail journeys through the Rockies or across the prairies feel like living inside a Christmas card.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Bring snacks and a camera. The views are ridiculous.
6. Visit Indoor Hot Springs or Outdoor Ones if You’re Brave
💧 Winter soaking is magical and slightly mad.
The Banff Upper Hot Springs are steaming pools surrounded by icy mountains and the contrast is unforgettable.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Wear a hat even in the water. Trust me.
7. Hit Up a Cosy Café and Pretend You’re Writing a Novel
☕ Canada has an excellent café culture and rainy weather is the perfect reason to settle in with a latte.
Sit by the window, watch the snow fall and contemplate your main character moment.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Try a maple latte or London fog for maximum Canadian vibes.
8. Go Indoor Rock Climbing or Trampoline Jumping
🧗♀️ If the weather traps you indoors, use it as an excuse to get active.
Climbing gyms and trampoline parks are everywhere and they’re far more fun than staring sadly at the rain.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Perfect for families or anyone who wants to pretend they’re athletic.
9. Experience a Winter Festival
🎉 Canada takes winter seriously and celebrates it with festivals full of lights, sculptures and snacks.
Check out Winterlude in Ottawa, Carnaval de Québec or the Toronto Light Festival.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Dress like a walking duvet. Fashion can wait.
10. Build a Snowman or Have a Snowball Fight
☃️ Yes, it’s childish. Yes, you should absolutely do it.
Building a snowman or launching a perfectly crafted snowball is pure winter bliss.
💡 Cold Weather Tip: Waterproof gloves are life savers unless you enjoy cold fingers and regret.
✨ Final Frosty Thoughts:
Canada in winter and rain is a cosy wonderland if you know what to do. Instead of hiding indoors and questioning your life choices, embrace the magic, the warmth, the steamed-up windows and the excuse to eat your bodyweight in comfort food.
Whether you’re skating under twinkly lights, soaking in hot springs, exploring markets or mastering the art of winter layering, you’ll discover a version of Canada that’s charming, dramatic and absolutely unforgettable.
So stay warm, stay curious and when in doubt, grab another hot drink. It solves everything.
