One of the world’s most culturally diverse cities, Toronto is an exciting, albeit chilly, winter destination. Grab your snow boots and thermal layers and enjoy the city’s festive activities, from ice skating and Christmas markets to the Winterlicious food festival. Active travellers can hit the nearby ski slopes, while culture vultures can explore art galleries and hockey museums.
Who says winter has to be grey and dreary? With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve bundled up this winter to discover the must-see attractions in Toronto. Along with tips to help you navigate the city’s most magical winter spots, we’ve highlighted cosy hotels offering a warm place to retreat.
Winter Attractions in Toronto: Bloor-Yorkville
If you’re looking for a chance to go shopping while in Toronto, base yourself near Bloor-Yorkville. Once a hippie hangout, it’s now one of the most elegant shopping and dining areas in the city. In winter, the area is adorned with festive holiday decor perfect for selfie backdrops.
Tips for Visiting Bloor-Yorkville
- Explore the courtyards, alleyways and Victorian homes housing designer boutiques, antique shops and galleries.
- Warm up with a pint at The Oxley or visit the vintage second-floor lounge of The Pilot.
- Don’t miss Icefest, which boasts a display of incredible ice sculptures and ice carving demonstrations.
Best Hotels near Bloor-Yorkville
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto at Yorkville
Nestled in the heart of the historic Yorkville quarter, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto at Yorkville is home to elegant rooms with king-size beds, floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive city views. Upgrade to a Premier Room for a comfy sitting area or a Yorkville Suite for a living room, dining space and lounge area.
Enjoy refined French cuisine paired with one of the 350 wine labels at Cafe Boulud, find your zen in the yoga studio or book a pampering body treatment at the spa. You can also re-energize at the indoor pool or choose from a menu of shareable plates and craft cocktails at dlbar.
Nearby Attractions
- Royal Ontario Museum (750 metres)
- The Pilot (300 metres)
- CAA Theatre (650 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 487 – USD 3,357
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 60 Yorkville Avenue, Annex, Toronto, Canada
The Hazelton Hotel
The Hazelton Hotel is a treasured Toronto landmark and the city’s first 5-star luxury boutique hotel. The hotel’s signature ONE Restaurant is run by celebrity chef, Mark McEwan, while the lavish spa offers personalised treatments, a steam room and indoor saltwater pool.
The stylish Deluxe Rooms are designed for comfort with deep-soaking tubs, Juliet or walkout balconies and HDTVs, while Luxury King Rooms add separate sitting areas with two-seater sofas. Stay in the lavish Hazelton Suite for a windowed seating area and dining room.
Nearby Attractions
- Trattoria Nervosa (210 metres)
- Royal Ontario Museum (400 metres)
- Bata Shoe Museum (800 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 403 – USD 601
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: 118 Yorkville Avenue, Annex, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
Winter Attractions in Toronto: Royal Ontario Museum
The first thing you’ll notice about the Royal Ontario Museum is its striking Neo-Romanesque brick facade, but there’s much more to discover inside. Explore the museum’s permanent exhibits highlighting world cultures and natural history while enjoying a warm break from the chilly temperature outside.
Tips for Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum
- Don’t miss the stunning gem collection, the Bishop White Gallery of Chinese Art and dinosaur bones exhibit.
- The Dinosaurs, Bat Cave and Mummies exhibits are a favourite with visitors of all ages.
- Get hands-on with themed and interactive areas featuring touchable artefacts at the CIBC Discovery Gallery.
Best Hotels near the Royal Ontario Museum
InterContinental Toronto Yorkville
InterContinental Toronto Yorkville is an art-inspired boutique hotel within steps of the city’s trendy restaurants, shops and art galleries. Standard Rooms feature natural wood decor, king-size pillow-top beds, LCD TVs and Nespresso coffee machines. Need extra space? Stay in an Executive Suite for a separate living room and dining area.
Dine on international cuisine at the chic on-site Signatures Restaurant, then wind down with a cocktail at Proof Bar and Patio or swim in the lap pool. There’s also a sauna, private massage studio and fitness centre.
Nearby Attractions
- Gardiner Museum (280 metres)
- Queen’s Park (700 metres)
- Duke of York (270 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 339 – USD 585
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 220 Bloor Street West, Annex, Toronto, Canada
Windsor Arms Hotel
Dating back to 1927, Windsor Arms Hotel is an iconic Toronto hotel that has hosted both celebrities and royalty. Offering 21st-century comfort, it features a full-service spa with a salt pool and salt cave, as well as a 20,000-bottle wine cellar at its bar, The Gatsby. Don’t forget to experience traditional high tea at the French-style tea room or Sunday Brunch.
The 28 luxury suites come with Jacuzzis, butler services, 24-hour room service and musical instruments. Stay in a Junior Suite for two double beds and an acoustic guitar or upgrade to a Yorkville Suite for a separate living room and harp. The Windsor Suite is the most opulent with a fireplace, powder room and baby grand piano.
Nearby Attractions
- Bloor-Yorkville (270 metres)
- Bar Reyna (350 metres)
- Hart House (800 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 403 – USD 1,767
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 8 St. Thomas Street, Bay Street Corridor, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
Winter Attractions in Toronto: Distillery Historic District
A hub for arts, culture, food and entertainment, the Distillery Historic District is a National Historic Site with Victorian-era architecture and cobblestone streets. Get a dose of culture at its theatres and galleries or attend one of the lively festivals on its action-packed events calendar.
Tips for Visiting the Distillery Historic District
- Browse more than 40 boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops selling unique fashion and artisanal treats.
- Get toasty with a coffee at Arvo Coffee or a bowl of ramen at Boku.
- Attend the annual Toronto Christmas Market to browse handicrafts, drink mulled wine and watch family-friendly entertainment.
Best Hotels near the Distillery Historic District
The Novotel Toronto Centre
The Novotel Toronto Centre is located in the heart of the St. Lawrence neighbourhood, offering newly renovated rooms with flat-screen TVs, pillow-top mattresses, mini fridges and coffee makers. Up to four guests can stay in the Superior Two Queen Beds, while Junior Suites add separate sitting areas and second flat-screen TVs.
In winter, you can take advantage of the indoor pool, hot tub and sauna. Breakfast is served in the stylish Cafe Nicole, which also offers lunch and dinner, while the elegant lobby bar is an inviting space to enjoy a nightcap.
Nearby Attractions
- Union Station (550 metres)
- Meridian Hall (300 metres)
- CN Tower (1.3 kilometres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 278 – USD 426
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 45 The Esplanade, Waterfront Communities – The Island, Toronto, Canada
The Broadview Hotel
The Broadview Hotel is a 127-year-old landmark that was transformed into a luxury boutique hotel. Chic rooms are fitted with rich linens, curated artwork, vinyl record players and mini bars with locally-sourced goods. The King Terrace adds an outdoor terrace and can be connected to make a family suite, while the romantic Dominion Suite boasts a deep-soaking bath and two walls of windows.
Dine on locally-sourced southern Ontario produce at The Civic or enjoy all-day dining options in the light-filled space at Broadview Bistro + Bar. Toast the sunset at The Rooftop, which pairs creative cocktails with Toronto skyline and Don River views from its 360-degree glass facade.
Nearby Attractions
- The Opera House (100 metres)
- Saulter Street Brewery (350 metres)
- Underpass Park (750 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 188 – USD 398
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 106 Broadview Avenue, South Riverdale, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
Winter Attractions in Toronto: The Bentway
Located under the Gardiner Expressway, The Bentway is a unique park next to the historic Fort York with a multi-use trail and outdoor performance space. In winter, ice skaters can glide across a 220-metre, figure-8 trail and enjoy the urban scenery.
Tips for Visiting The Bentway
- Browse the winter village, which offers hot chocolate, alcoholic beverages and warming stations.
- Fuel up with oat-based snacks at Quaker Lounge or enjoy hot and cold drinks at the skate-side Corona Apres Patio.
- Both kids and adults can sign up for free skate lessons.
Best Hotels near The Bentway
Thompson Toronto
Set in the ultra-cool King West Village neighbourhood, Thompson Toronto has one of the top rooftop pools in the world, according to Travel & Leisure. In winter you can enjoy the city skyline views from the chic Rooftop Lounge, while a sophisticated Lobby Bar features live entertainment and Thompson Diner is a favourite for its classic American dishes. Late-night revellers can enjoy cocktails at the lower-level Wildflower nightlife lounge.
The spacious sun-filled rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, heated marble bathroom floors and Plasma TVs. Couples can stay in a King Suite for a large soaking bathtub or enjoy luxury living in a Thompson Suite, which features a living room, dining room and kitchenette.
Nearby Attractions
- Belgian Moon Brewery (450 metres)
- Velvet Underground (700 metres)
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada (1.5 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 459 – USD 2,698
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 550 Wellington Street W, Waterfront Communities – The Island, Toronto, Canada
Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel
Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel is built into the Rogers Centre baseball stadium in the bustling downtown district. The rooms are some of the largest in Toronto, offering flat-screen TVs, writing desks and coffee makers. Some also boast city skyline or unobstructed stadium views. Watch a live game from the Field View rooms or book a One-Bedroom Suite for a separate living room.
Swim in the indoor pool or workout in the gym before enjoying a meal with stadium views at the lively on-site restaurant, Sportsnet Grill. If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, there’s an on-site Starbucks serving coffee, pastries and snacks.
Nearby Attractions
- Rogers Centre (37 metres)
- Roundhouse Park (550 metres)
- CN Tower (350 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 335 – USD 495
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: One Blue Jays Way, Waterfront Communities – The Island, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
Winter Attractions in Toronto: Kensington Market
A pedestrian-friendly, bohemian neighbourhood, Kensington Market is popular with artists and creative types who want to explore the vintage shops and art spaces. One of the most photographed spots in Toronto, it also boasts a variety of trendy bars, cafes and international restaurants.
Tips for Visiting Kensington Market
- Shop for unique fashion in vintage clothing stores or pick up fresh ingredients at a local specialty grocer.
- Foodies can join a food tour of the area to learn about its culinary heritage and explore neighbouring Chinatown.
- Visit nearby Little Italy for authentic Italian dining and buzzing nightlife.
Best Hotels near Kensington Market
Hotel Ocho
An industrial-chic hotel, Hotel Ocho is located a few meters away from the Queen St and Sullivan St streetcar stops. The budget-friendly Standard Rooms come with flat-screen TVs, queen-size beds and heating, while Deluxe Suite Rooms boast king-size beds and sitting areas.
HotelsCombined guests praise the hotel’s main-floor bar, restaurant and lounge, which features an all-day dining menu, daily drink specials and over 50 brands of whisky. Don’t miss Mojito Mondays, Whisky Tuesdays and Pint Night Sundays.
Nearby Attractions
- Graffiti Alley (400 metres)
- Horseshoe Tavern (180 metres)
- Queen Street Warehouse (650 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 106 – USD 221
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 195 Spadina Avenue, Chinatown, Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Toronto, Canada
The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar
The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar is connected to The Rex, Toronto’s longest-running jazz club which has hosted some of the world’s finest musicians. Catch one of the 80 shows hosted on its action-packed monthly calendar or fuel up with classic pub-fare, such as homemade burgers, nachos and wings, at the on-site restaurant.
The down-to-earth hotel features cosy rooms with bamboo flooring, flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. The affordable Basic Single Rooms with one single-size bed are ideal for budget-conscious travellers, while couples might prefer the Large Room with a double-size bed and private bathroom.
Nearby Attractions
- Art Gallery of Ontario (650 metres)
- Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club Toronto (260 metres)
- Momofuku Noodle Bar (350 metres)
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 77 – USD 103
Guest Rating: 7.7
Address: 194 Queen Street West, Chinatown, Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
Winter Attractions in Toronto: Hockey Hall of Fame
A must-see for any sports fan, the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto houses the finest collection of hockey artefacts in the world. There are simulation games to practise your shooting and goalkeeping and themed exhibits showcasing the game’s greatest players.
Tips for Visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame
- Try goaltending and shooting against life-size animated versions of today’s top players.
- For a unique souvenir, have your photo taken with the iconic Stanley Cup.
- Don’t forget to browse the impressive selection of hockey-related merchandise and memorabilia in the on-site gift shop.
Best Hotels near the Hockey Hall of Fame
Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Fairmont Royal York Hotel offers modern downtown comfort, just minutes from the city’s top attractions. Fairmont Luxury Rooms boast work desks, Keurig coffee machines and flat-screen TVs, while Junior Suites add separate living rooms and king-size beds. Upgrade to a Fairmont Gold room for access to an 18th-floor private Lounge.
Discover Canadian dishes with a French twist at REIGN Restaurant + Bar + Bakery, then visit the swanky CLOCKWORK Champagne & Cocktails for a drink, kick back at the cosy Library Bar or catch a live game at Piper’s Pub. Unwind with a massage at the health club, which also features an indoor pool, gym and steam and sauna.
Nearby Attractions
- Hockey Hall of Fame (400 metres)
- Union Station (270 metres)
- Harbourfront Centre (1 kilometre)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 141 – USD 644
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: 100 Front Street West, Bay Street Corridor, Toronto, Canada
The Omni King Edward Hotel
Built in 1903, The Omni King Edward Hotel is Toronto’s first luxury hotel, exuding its old-world charm throughout its refined spaces. Get pampered at Mokara Spa or feel renewed at Qi Hair Salon, then visit Victoria Cafe for seasonal dishes or Consort Bar for signature cocktails. Don’t miss the popular Sunday Brunch or classic Afternoon Tea.
Save money by staying in a Deluxe Room, which features an HDTV, Keurig coffee machine and Wi-Fi, or upgrade to a Premier Room for a separate sitting area. Royal Club Rooms have special access to the Royal Club Lounge and Royal Suites boast sunken living rooms, formal dining areas and fireplaces.
Nearby Attractions
- Nathan Phillips Square (800 metres)
- The Old Spaghetti Factory (450 metres)
- Toronto Eaton Centre (600 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 176 – USD 247
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 37 King Street East, Church – Yonge Corridor, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
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Experience a Winter Wonderland in Toronto
Grab a mug of hot chocolate and brave the chilly weather in Toronto this winter, because the city is full of exciting and festive activities. Base yourself at one of these top hotels near the city’s most popular winter attractions to enjoy on-site restaurants, pampering spas, chic bars and lavish suites.
Where do you want to stay in Toronto in winter? Let us know in the comments below.
