by Turo
posted on March 24, 2025
Life in Toronto doesn’t slow down when the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall. The city comes alive with twinkling lights and excitement, and the crisp winter air makes a warm drink taste even better. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a cozy spot to relax, you’ll find it all right here.
With fewer crowds and a fresh dusting of snow, winter is one of the best times to explore. Here are five of the top things to do in Toronto during winter to help you plan an amazing winter getaway!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square
- Winter fun on the Toronto Islands
- The Distillery District’s Light Festival
- Frozen waterfalls at Hamilton’s Dundas Peak
- Indoor attractions around Toronto
- FAQs about visiting Toronto in winter
- Hit the road and see the top attractions in Toronto
What to do in Toronto: winter activities you won’t want to miss
If you’re wondering what to do in Toronto during the winter, there’s no shortage of great options. Here are five winter activities around the city to help you make the most of your trip.
Ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Skating at Nathan Phillips Square is a winter tradition in Toronto. It’s a must-visit for right in front of Toronto City Hall, with the city skyline and the CN Tower in the background and the Toronto sign glowing beside the rink.
Why it’s great
This downtown rink is free if you bring your own skates, and the open-air setting makes it a scenic place to glide. Music plays throughout the day, and at night, the rink lights up for a festive winter vibe.
Practical tips
The rink is open from late November through March, with skate rentals available on-site. Mornings are the quietest, while evenings and weekends get busy. It’s an outdoor rink, so dress warmly.
How to get there
Nathan Phillips Square is in the heart of Downtown Toronto. If you’re flying into Toronto Pearson International Airport or Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Turo offers convenient airport delivery so you can pick up your bags and jump right into your Toronto rental car.
Winter fun on the Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are a quiet, snow-covered escape just minutes from the city. With frozen shorelines, scenic trails, and unbeatable views of Toronto, it’s a peaceful spot for winter sports, photography, and exploration.
Why it’s great
Winter on the islands feels completely different from the city – no crowds, just open spaces and great views. The trails are perfect for snowshoeing or crosscountry skiing next to the frozen harbour.
Practical tips
The ferry runs year-round, but schedules are reduced in winter, so check the timetable before heading out. Since most island businesses close for the winter season, bring snacks and drinks.
How to get there
The ferry to the Toronto Islands leaves from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Parking is limited, so a compact or midsize car makes things a bit easier. Choose something sporty from Nissan or Toyota and admire your perfect parking spot as the ferry pulls away!
The Distillery District’s Light Festival
Every year, the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District transform into a glowing outdoor art gallery. The Toronto Light Festival makes winter the perfect season to stroll this historic area with a warm drink in hand.
Why it’s great
The festival features massive art installations from local and international artists. Since it’s held in the Distillery District, you’re surrounded by great restaurants, cafés, and shops to explore along the way.
Practical tips
The Light Festival is free to visit and runs from January to early March. The area is pedestrian-only, and weekends draw the most crowds.
How to get there
Located just east of downtown Toronto, the Distillery District is easy to reach by car. With multiple EV charging stations nearby, it’s a great spot to charge up your electric vehicle or Tesla as you check out the installations.
Frozen waterfalls at Hamilton’s Dundas Peak
Just outside Toronto in Hamilton, Ontario, the snow-covered trails of Dundas Peak lead to dramatic views of Tews Falls and Webster’s Falls. It’s a great spot for a winter hike, where you can walk around natural ice sculptures.
Why it’s great
This is one of the best winter hikes near Toronto, with panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment. The frozen waterfalls make great photo ops, and on clear days, you can see all the way to Lake Ontario.
Practical tips
The trails can be icy and slippery, so wear waterproof boots and traction aids for safe hiking. The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid crowds.
How to get there
Dundas Peak is about an hour’s drive from Toronto. Book a spacious SUV or minivan with Turo and for all the room you need for your luggage, winter gear and the whole family!
Indoor attractions around Toronto
Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, an underground aquarium, or a massive indoor market, you’ll find so many great places in Toronto to take a break from the cold and experience something new!
Why it’s great
Toronto has something for everyone – from the exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum to the underwater wonders at Ripley’s Aquarium. The St. Lawrence Market and the Art Gallery of Ontario are also not to be missed.
Practical tips
Most attractions are open year-round, but weekends can be busy. Buying tickets in advance helps you skip the lines, and weekdays are usually quieter.
How to get there
These attractions are spread around the city, but driving a luxury car makes crossing town more comfortable. Make your rental car in Toronto a BMW or a Porsche and the trip between winter activities will be just as special as your stops!
FAQs about visiting Toronto in winter
Where is Toronto?
Toronto is Canada’s largest city, nestled on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. It’s easily accessible via Toronto Pearson Airport, which offers direct flights from major cities worldwide, as well as Toronto City Centre Airport, conveniently located downtown.
Book your rental car with Turo and explore Toronto on your own schedule. Whether you need a compact car for city driving or an SUV for winter road trips, choose from a wide selection of vehicles with flexible pickup, drop-off, and delivery options.
What month is coldest in Toronto?
With average temperatures ranging from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), January is usually the coldest month in Toronto. Snow is common, but the city is well-equipped to handle winter weather.
What to do in Toronto in winter time?
No matter what you’re looking for from a winter road trip, you’ll find it in Toronto! Go ice skating, explore winter light festivals, or take a day trip to hike around frozen waterfalls. If you prefer to stay toasty and warm inside, museums, aquariums, and markets are great indoor options.
How are winter road conditions in Toronto
Toronto’s major roads and highways are regularly plowed and salted, but residential streets can be icy after heavy snowfall. If you’re driving, a vehicle with all-wheel drive will give you extra traction and stability.
What’s the best type of car for a Toronto winter road trip?
For city driving, a compact car makes parking and dealing with traffic easy. If you’re heading out for a day trip to Hamilton or beyond, an SUV or AWD vehicle is best for handling snowy roads. Your Turo vehicle will come with winter tires that meet local regulations, so you can drive with confidence in any conditions.
Hit the road and see the top attractions in Toronto
Whether you’re skating downtown, hiking to frozen waterfalls, or exploring the city’s best indoor attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in Toronto in the winter
Rent a car in Toronto with Turo and make the most of your trip. With flexible pickup, drop-off, and delivery options, you can find the perfect vehicle for your Toronto winter road trip!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this Montreal day trip into reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just a lover of travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
