7 Ways to Chill Out and Have Fun: A Guide to Niagara-on-the-Lake in February and early March

Mittened hands holding mug of love

Winter in Niagara-on-the-Lake is like a cozy, romantic movie scene with a touch of adventure. What better place to chill out and have fun?

While most people might think of this quaint town as a summer hotspot, there’s something magical about its off-season vibe. 

In February and early March, when the air’s crisp and the snow has dusted the vineyards and Old Town’s historic streets, you’ll discover a quieter, more intimate side to this charming town. Whether you’re a wine lover, foodie or outdoor adventurer, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers plenty of cool things to do when temperatures dip.

1. Sip Your Way Through Wine Country (with a Warm Twist)
Niagara-on-the-Lake is famous for its vineyards, and in the winter, they’re even more enchanting. Wineries here are open year-round, and they have a unique way of celebrating the cold—icewine! 

Glass of ice wine

If you’ve never tried icewine or missed the Icewine Festival in January, you’re in for a treat. It’s made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine, resulting in a sweet, syrupy nectar that pairs perfectly with the chill. Several local wineries, such as Pillitteri Estates WineryJackson-Triggs and Konzelmann Estate Winery, offer special icewine tastings during the winter months.

But it’s not just about the wine. Many wineries also host cozy fireside experiences, where you can sip on their best reds or whites while warming up by a crackling fire. Keep an eye out for seasonal events, like winter wine tours or tasting flights, where you can taste exclusive blends and learn about the art of winemaking from the experts. It’s the perfect way to get into the spirit of the season (and a bit tipsy, too!).

Tip: Bundle up before heading out—Niagara’s winters can get pretty brisk, and you’ll want to be comfortable as you stroll through vineyard grounds.

2. Tobogganing at Fort George and Simcoe Park
When it comes to classic winter fun, tobogganing takes the top spot! Picture yourself racing down a hill on a toboggan or snow sled, laughing all the way. It’s a great way to embrace your inner child and enjoy the winter magic.

Fort George and Simcoe Park are two prime spots for this nostalgic winter activity. At Fort George, the historic fort grounds provide a lovely backdrop for tobogganing, with sweeping views of the Niagara River. And just a short walk away, Simcoe Park offers another fun slope for those looking for a little winter action. The best part? It’s completely free, and the memories you make will last long after you’ve warmed up with a cup of hot chocolate.

Tip: Bring some extra layers for padding—nothing worse than a cold backside!

Ice skates

3. Ice-Skating at Local Rinks
For those who prefer a more graceful way to enjoy the cold, ice-skating is another fantastic winter activity in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Glide around with your better half, friends or family, or enjoy a quiet, solo skate surrounded by the peaceful winter scenery.

Check out the ice rinks in the Monet-inspired Gardens across from the Pillar & Post in Old Town or at the Wayne Gretzky Estates in Virgil. Both outdoor rinks are great spots for skating under the twinkling lights, whether you’re practising your triple axels or just enjoying a leisurely spin.

Indoor skating venues are located at the Meridian Credit Union Arena and Centennial Arena, both of which are in Virgil.

Tip: You’re strongly advised to bring your own skates, however skate rentals are available at the Wayne Gretzky Estates rink if you forget yours!

4. Cozy Up at a Boutique Café or Bakery
After all that outdoor fun, you need a place to unwind. Luckily, Niagara-on-the-Lake is filled with adorable cafés and bakeries, perfect for a cozy afternoon. Head to Balzac’s Coffee Roasters for a delicious brew in a chic, historic setting, or pop into The Budapest Bakeshop or The Soko Bakery Café for gourmet treats that’ll have your taste buds singing.

For something extra sweet, don’t miss the Maple Leaf Fudge shop or Craig’s Cookies, where you can indulge in handcrafted creations that promise to melt away any lingering winter chill—a must-try when you’re craving something indulgent.

Tip: Many local shops have limited winter hours, so it’s a good idea to check online or give them a quick call before you head out!

Middle-age couple

5. Romantic Winter Getaway
If you’re looking to make the most of a weekend getaway, say in celebration of Valentine’s Day, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. 

Picture this: a cozy bed and breakfast or cottage, perhaps a couple’s massage at a local spa, and then a quiet evening sipping wine by the fire. Don’t forget to book that romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through Old Town.

Tip: Book early, as these romantic getaways are popular, especially around Valentine’s Day, when the town feels extra magical.

6. Take a Scenic Drive or Winter Photography Tour
The town and surrounding area are nothing short of picturesque in the winter, making it an ideal destination for photography. Whether it’s the rolling vineyards against a backdrop of snow, the historic architecture, a chance wildlife encounter or misty views of the Niagara River, there are endless photo ops. Grab your camera and go for a scenic drive around town, taking in the beauty of the wintry landscape. 

Tip: Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting for winter photos, with soft, golden hues that make everything look like a postcard.

Woman getting a facial

7. Warm Up with a Spa Day
If the idea of spending a day relaxing indoors sounds more appealing than braving the cold, why not treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day? 

Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to a variety of luxurious spas that offer a range of services perfect for relaxing after a busy day of exploration. Whether you’re into facials, hot stone massages or just need to unwind in a warm pool or sauna, you’ll find plenty of options to melt away the winter stress.

Many spas also offer special winter packages. A spa day is the perfect way to recharge for more adventures around town.

Tip: Be sure to book your treatments ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting over a weekend, as spots can fill up quickly.

Final Thoughts:
Niagara-on-the-Lake in February and early March is the perfect combination of cozy charm and winter adventure. Whether you’re sipping wine, zooming down a toboggan hill, skating across a frozen rink, or indulging in some relaxation, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. So grab your mittens, your warmest scarf and your sense of adventure—it’s time to discover the magic of Niagara-on-the-Lake in the winter months!


PLANNING YOUR ESCAPE
Whatever the season, there’s always something happening in Niagara-on-the-Lake:
February Weekends: Chocolate and Cheese at Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake
Until February 28: Tunnel of Light at Inniskillin Wines Niagara Estate
Until March 1: Bright Nights at The Lakeview Wine Co. 
Until March 5: Trivia Winter League at The Exchange Brewery
Through March 20: Instructors Group Show at Niagara Pumphouse Art Centre
February 6: Valentine’s Dot Paint Workshop at The Exchange Brewery
February 7: The Undercovers Present–Romance Reimagined
February 8: Valentine’s Wine Glass Painting & Tasting Class at Konzelmann Estate Winery
February 13: Valentine’s Day Card Making Workshop at The Exchange Brewery
February 14: Valentine’s Speakeasy at Amo Estate Winery
February 15: LMT Connection at Amo Estate Winery
February 15: Valentine’s Dinner at Reif Estate Winery
February 16: Wine Tasting & Canvas Paint Experience at Konzelman Estate Winery
February 22: Masterpiece of the Heart at Amo Estate Winery
February 22: Six Hands Star Chef Dinner at Stratus x Pharmacii
February 24: Famous and Infamous at Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
February 27: Heart Ravioli Pasta Class at Amo Estate Winery
April 9–December 21: Shaw Festival 2025
June 7 & 8: Second Annual NOTL Studio Tour
July 1: Canada Day

HELPFUL TIPS
Lost & Found: Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information. 

Drive Safely: As part of Niagara Region’s Vision Zero program, automated speed enforcement cameras have been installed in school zones. Please pay attention to the speed limits posted throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake as more cameras are planned.

Metered Parking: General information on metered parking in Niagara-on-the-Lake is found here. Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts feature complimentary on-site parking for guests and are happy to advise you on where to park for free in and around Old Town.

Accessible Parking: Several accessible parking spaces are located throughout the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, both on the street and in municipal parking lots. 

All vehicles parking in the accessible zone must display an original and current accessible permit. Any vehicle found parked in an accessible zone without the valid accessible permit will be ticketed. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has approved the use of accessible parking permits in the following areas only:

  • Designated accessible zones/spaces; and
  • At any meter free of charge, including municipal lots governed by pay-and-display parking meters. In these locations, a pay-and-display permit is not required if the vehicle is displaying a valid accessible permit.