Ready to trade your cozy couch for snow-covered adventures and mouthwatering indulgences? Thunder Bay and Ontario’s Highlands invite you to spice up your winter with a perfect mix of frosty fun and culinary flair. Whether you’re shredding the slopes, gliding through serene trails, or tackling a fat bike in the snow, you’ll find plenty to nibble, sip, and savour when you’re done.
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Delicious Adventure in Thunder Bay
When it comes to non-stop adventure and non-stop epic eats, Thunder Bay has to be one of the best spots in Ontario to discover. With flights daily out of Toronto Pearson Airport and Billy Bishop, getting here has never been so easy but it sure is hard to leave.
Outdoor Adventures with an Edge
Thunder Bay offers a buffet of winter sports, from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to the adrenaline rush of snow kiting. So let’s get into it! Here are some of our fav spots in and around Thunder Bay to experience it all.
Snowshoeing + Cross Country Skiing
Where: Kamview Nordic Centre, 851 20th Side Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
When it comes to snowshoeing, you really can’t beat Kamview Nordic Centre. Snowshoe out to the North or South lookout through about 40 minutes of forest and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a sweat! Cross country skiiers can enjoy several kilometers of trails including a few lit up at night (until about 9:30pm) so you can experience the trails in a new way.
Once back at the Nordic Centre, we recommend you don’t leave quite yet! Cozy up with a hot chocolate, a bowl of chilli and one of their famous giant cookies. You will not regret it.
Fat Biking
Where: Trowbridge Forest Trail
Did you know Thunder Bay is often hailed as Canada’s Fat Biking Capital? Boasting 70 km of free trails in and around the city, it’s an incredible destination for a mid-winter cycling adventure.
For gear, head to Rollin’ Thunder in downtown Thunder Bay to rent a bike. If you have room in your vehicle or a bike rack, take it out to the Trowbridge Forest Trail.
This scenic forest is especially stunning in the winter, with snow-covered trees and meticulously groomed trails. It feels like a peaceful escape into nature, making it easy to forget you’re still in the city.
Skating
Where: Prince Arthur’s Landing, Sleeping Giant Pkwy, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Put on your skates and glide over to the harbourfront rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing for an unforgettable skating experience. For the ultimate atmosphere, we recommend going after dark when the rink is beautifully illuminated.
As you skate in loops, take in the breathtaking views of Lake Superior. When you’re ready for a break, cozy up by the fire pit at the heart of the rink to warm up and soak in the magical winter vibes.
Snow Kiting
Where: with the folks from Superior Kiteboarding
Kiteboarding meets the snow in this extreme sport! If you’re an adrenalaine junkie looking for a new adventure, this might just be for you. Get in touch with the folks at Superior Kiteboarding and you can be boarding across Thunder Bay’s optimally, early-to-freeze waterways on a board attached to a large kite (duh) and heading where the wind takes you. Admittedly, we haven’t tried this (yet) but it’s next on our Thunder Bay adventure list!
Après Adventure: Cheers to You
Where: Lakehead Beer Co., 206 Park Ave, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); Woodside Bar, 251 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map) or Barkeep, 15c St Paul St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
After all that excitement, Thunder Bay’s cozy watering holes await with open arms and frosty pints. Whether you’re into craft beer or stylish cocktails, this city’s après scene is all about raising a toast to winter’s thrills and chills.
After earning your winter warrior badge, it’s time to raise a glass. These downtown spots know how to keep the chill out and the fun in.
Head to Lakehead Beer Co. for a pint of craft perfection brewed with Thunder Bay pride. Whether you’re a hophead or a lager lover, their brews are bound to hit the spot and pair perfectly with your post-adventure tales. Doing just a few beers really well, grab a glass right from the bright tank and enjoy it alongside a Detroit-style pizza from Tomlin Subdivision in house.
If cocktails are more your style, swing by Woodside Bar, where cozy vibes meet a splash of trendy flair. Their creative cocktail list is a work of art, and the ambiance is just as inviting as their drinks. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a little longer. We recommend enjoying the Turn Back Thyme cocktail featuring herbs from on-site Three Seeds Corp. When you’re done, be sure to wander around Goods and Co. (the local artisan market that Woodside Bar calls home).
For those who crave something a little different and ultra cool, Barkeep is the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed. With its laid-back charm and expertly crafted beverages, it’s the perfect spot to wind down and savour the glow of a day well spent. We’re kind of obsessed with their cocktail list which boasts unique ingredients, high quality spirits and event names that will put a smile on your lips!
Warm Up with Culinary Comfort
Where: Tomlin, 202 1/2 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); Thai Kitchen, 11 Cumberland St. S. Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); Dawson General Store, 3130 Dawson Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); Bight, 2201 Sleeping Giant Pkwy Unit 100, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Thunder Bay’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. After a day of snowy exploits, treat yourself to meals that warm your heart and excite your taste buds. From refined plates to quirky eateries, this city knows how to feed your winter cravings.
Hungry after your epic exploits? Check out these dining hot spots to warm up.
Tomlin is a farm-to-table restaurant, where every dish is crafted with meticulous care and creativity. From inventive small plates to perfectly executed mains, this is the place to treat yourself to a dining experience that feels like art on a plate. While the menu changes regularly with the seasons, they’re known for their Burger Nights and dishes like whitefish tempura, pork belly and cavatelli with carrot butter to name just a few.
In the mood for a little travel through food? Spice things up at Thai Kitchen, a local favourite known for its authentic flavours and bold, fragrant dishes. Whether you’re craving classic Pad Thai, spicy curries, or a rich Tom Yum soup, every bite will transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand without ever leaving Thunder Bay. On chilly days we’d give just about anything to crawl right into a bowl of their Tom Ka Gai— a tangy, coconut-based soup.
Looking for something that will hit the spot? Dawson General Store is an unexpected spot for your next meal but it’ll darn near knock those socks off. This cozy spot delivers hearty classics that warm the soul, from wholesome soups and stews to indulgent baked goods. It’s the perfect place to recharge after a day of exploring the city. However, their smash burger and meatball sandwiches really steal the show (note, the meatball sandwich is a Tuesday-only special). Made fresh in house, you will dream of both of these. Trust us.
Looking for dinner with a view? Bight Restaurant + Bar offers not only top-notch cuisine but also a stunning waterfront setting that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Pair your plate with a signature cocktail or glass of wine as you soak in the scenery of Thunder Bay’s marina.
If you opted for that skating earlier, this is the perfect spot to wind down afterwards as it’s right next to the rink. This time of year, we recommend sharing a few plates like their burrata topped with apricot jam and jalepenos on top of sourdough from Dawson General Store or their Shishito Peppers served alongside a Szechuan Chilli Oil— yum!
Still hungry for more? Thunder Bay is full of hidden culinary gems just waiting to be discovered. Check out our guide to the best places to eat in Thunder Bay.
Hot tip: Want to bring some of these tastes of Thunder Bay home with you? Check out Feast On® certified NOMAD in the Thunder Bay airport to grab Thunder Bay-made craft beer, hot sauce, gelato and more!
Winter Wonder in Ontario’s Highlands
Ontario’s Highlands is 2.5 hours east of Toronto and a half an hour west of Ottawa, encompassing the Ottawa Valley, Lanark County, Frontenac County, Hastings County, Lennox & Addington and Haliburton Highlands. These five mini adventures pack the punch with fun and deliciousness!
Calabogie Peaks, Cozy Cafes + Comfort Food in the Ottawa Valley
Where: Calabogie Peaks Resort, 30 Barrett Chute Rd, Calabogie, ON (View Map); Neat Café, 1715 Calabogie Rd, Burnstown, ON (View Map); Nomada Tacos, 205 Church St, Pembroke, ON (View Map); Somewhere Inn Calabogie, 5254 Calabogie Rd, Calabogie, ON (View Map)
Welcome to the Ottawa Valley, where adventure meets relaxation in perfect harmony. With the towering Calabogie Peaks Resort at its heart, this region invites thrill-seekers to conquer Ontario’s tallest slopes. When the snow settles, the après-ski scene will keep you warm and entertained with local eats, drinks, and cozy stays that redefine winter luxury. Plus, Who needs the Rockies when Calabogie Peaks Resort offers Ontario’s highest vertical drop? We’re talkin’ 238 metres of fresh pow. Feel the rush of crisp air as you carve your way down the slopes.
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Post-adventure, trade your ski boots for a seat at Neat Café, where live music and comfort food make for an après-ski like no other. Feeling indulgent? Grab one of their pizzas named after a famed celeb like the Jack White complete with tomato sauce, mozzarella, sausage, roasted garlic and red onion. Paired up with a beer from Whitewater Brewing Company or a signature cocktail (try the Hollerado)— it’s a no brainer.
If it’s a boost you need pre-ski, they have you covered too with a breakfast menu worth writing home about. Pair up a Canadiano (that’s espresso, hot water and maple syrup) with a breakfast cookie to go or the Neat Stacked Toast with tomato, fried egg, onions and more.
Stay the night at Somewhere Inn, where the vibe is chill, but the service is stellar. This cozy inn offers a Thermal Cycle where you can sauna, cold plunge, repeat like the Finns! Not into the cold? No worries. Kick back in the on-site wine bar with a glass of vino and a snack like tater tots, charcuterie or their smoked trout dip.
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Hungry again? We dig it! Sink your teeth into the drool-worthy creations at Nomada Tacos or toast to a day well spent with a craft beer at Whitewater Brewing Company. These are must-stops before heading home!
Hastings County: Snowshoe + Sweet Treats
Where: O’Hara Homestead Mill, 638 Mill Rd, Madoc, ON (View Map); Hidden Goldmine Bakery, 59 Durham St S, Madoc, ON (View Map); For the Halibut, 220 Hastings St N, Bancroft, ON (View Map); Wattle + Daub Café, 26b Station St, Bancroft, ON (View Map)
If winter serenity is what you’re after, Hastings County is your snowy sanctuary. From the historical charm of O’Hara Mill Homestead to the welcoming warmth of local eateries, this destination offers a magical mix of outdoor exploration and indulgent treats. It’s the perfect getaway to recharge your soul and your stomach.
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Strap on some snowshoes (bring your own) and explore the storybook setting of O’Hara Mill Homestead, where every step feels like you’re walking into a snow globe if the weather is right. Meant to depict what Hastings County would look like in the 1800s, it’s a beautiful spot to explore, boasting seven different trails that range from a few hundred feet to 2km.
After working up an appetite, pop into Hidden Goldmine Bakery for goodies so good you might want to hoard them. Known for their butter tarts, this should be on every foodie’s bucket list when making their way through Ontario!
Craving something savory? For the Halibut serves fish and chips so fresh they’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Featured in Cottage Life Magazine, this spot is known for their halibut poutine and other tasty eats!
For a little extra charm, swing by Wattle + Daub Café for homemade soups perfect for warming up after a chilly day outdoors. When you’re ready to hit the hay, Huntingdon House offers up a delightful stay that will make you feel right at home.
Lanark County: Spirited Trails and Sweet Escapes
Where: Beckwith Trails; C’est Tout Bakery & Bistro, 20 Beckwith St N, Smiths Falls, ON. (View Map); Top Shelf Distillers, 14 Warren Cres, Perth, ON (View Map); Black Tartan Kitchen, 132 Bridge St, Carleton Place, ON (View Map) ; Hummingbird Chocolate, 476 Ottawa St, Almonte, ON (View Map)
Lanark County is your gateway to winter tranquility and artisanal delights. Here, you can immerse yourself in the calm of the Beckwith Trails, then celebrate your efforts with handcrafted spirits and gourmet cuisine. Every moment in Lanark feels like a toast to winter’s simple joys.
Start your day with a visit to C’est Tout Bakery & Bistro. This spot offers bistro cuisine alongside fresh-made baked goods that will make your tongue do a little happy dance. Try their cubano with slow-roasted pork or ginger sesame noodle bowl for an invigorating pre-hike meal.
Take a trek through the Beckwith Trails, where snowshoeing feels less like exercise and more like meditation. No gear? No problem! Rentals are available from the Township of Beckwith. If skating is more your thing, try the 1km free skate trail that meanders through Beckwith Park (dependent on weather).
For a post-hike, snowshoe or skate pick-me-up, head to Top Shelf Distillers and sip spirits that will warm you from the inside out. Enjoy a tasting flight as you browse their on-site shop for the spirits of your choice to bring home! Aspiring and amateur mixologists will love their cocktail kits where as purists can grab bottles of handcrafted gins, whiskeys, liquors, moonshine and vodkas. Want something extra special? Sign up for their Ontario Moonshine Program and you’ll receive three mystery moonshines in micro-batch releases!
Ready for a feast? Black Tartan Kitchen serves elevated fare that’ll have you texting your foodie friends in jealousy. You’ll love the smoked trout rillettes, duck confit and more that find home on this menu. And don’t forget dessert!
Just 15 minutes away, Hummingbird Chocolate offer sweet treats so divine, they’re practically sinful. This bean to bar chocolate shop goes the extra mile, visiting farmers’ where they source their cacao and learning about the plant to make the optimal bars.
Haliburton Highlands: Ski, Spa, and Soak It All In
Where: Sir Sam’s Ski + Ride, 1054 Liswood Rd, Eagle Lake, ON (View Map); Haliburton Post House,1297 Kashagawigamog Lake Rd, Minden, ON (View Map); Heather Lodge, 14483 ON-35, Minden, ON (View Map); Boshkung Brewing, 20 Water St, Minden, ON (View Map); Castle Antiques & Café, 223 Highland St, Haliburton, ON (View Map); Abbey Gardens, 1012 Garden Gate Dr, Algonquin Highlands, ON (View Map)
Adventure meets luxury in the Haliburton Highlands, a destination tailor-made for ski lovers and spa seekers alike. Whether you’re flying down the slopes or unwinding in a warm spa, this region promises winter at its most indulgent.
Calling all ski bunnies and spa lovers! Sir Sam’s Ski + Ride combines downhill thrills with the ultimate chill – their spa is the perfect place to soak away your sore muscles. Extend your stay with a night (or a few nights) at Haliburton Post House or the rustic-meets-luxe Heather Lodge— both Feast On® certified.
At Haliburton Post House, the Winter Indulgence menu is a pre-fixed option allowing a choose-your-own adventure of epic eats. Think everything from fresh house-made sourdough bread with Kawartha butter to lobster ravioli, glazed pork belly and pistachio baked Alaska. We’re practically drooling on our keyboard as we type.
At Heather Lodge, cozy meets comfort with views of Twelve Mile Lake from the dining room. Grab a seat and indulge in a three or four course menu prepared with local goodness.
Looking for an outting? We love that! Even though staying cozied up at these accommodations sounds ideal, a little side quest never hurt anyone! Refuel with a craft beer from Boshkung Brewing or find hidden treasures at Castle Antiques. Don’t miss Abbey Gardens, a community hub where fresh food and friendly faces abound.
Lennox and Addington: Nostalgia in Nature
Where: Bon Echo Provincial Park, 16151 Hwy 41, Cloyne, ON K0H 1K0 (View Map); Addison’s, 11893 Hwy 41, Northbrook, ON (View Map) ; Finnigan’s General Store, 14222 Hwy 41, Cloyne, ON, ON (View Map)
Quaint, cozy, and irresistibly charming, Lennox and Addington is where winter nostalgia comes to life. From snowshoeing to exploring old-fashioned general stores, this region is a love letter to simpler, snow-filled times.
Lose yourself in the quiet beauty of Bon Echo Provincial Park, where camping is closed for the winter but folks are welcome to discover the beauty of the season. Hike, snowshoe or cross country ski (weather dependent) out to views of Mazinaw Rock- a 100 metre cliff towering over Big Gull Lake.
Afterward, cozy up at Addison’s, where comfort food meets small-town charm, or pop into Finnigan’s General Store for unique finds and friendly vibes. This region’s laid-back charm is the perfect way to unwind and reconnect with the magic of winter.
Enjoy the Escape
Whether you choose Thunder Bay or Ontario’s Highlands these two winter getaways boast adventure for you and your taste buds!
