Ice, ice, baby: These are the ‘coolest’ winter destinations in Canada

The land of snow, ice and creativity, Canada has practically mastered the art of surviving those cold winter months. Complete with chilly experiences that can only be had when the temperature falls below zero, there’s really no place quite like the Great North – and we’ve got receipts!

From frosty bars and frozen hotels, here are some of the most incredible winter destinations in the country.

You’ll want to see ’em all!

World’s Largest Snow Maze

Located just outside of Winnipeg in Saint Adolphe, Manitoba, you’ll find the World’s Largest Corn maze which was recognized by The Guinness Book in 2019.. With over 30,000 square feet of fun, guests can get lost for hours and then take a sleigh ride or lounge by the fire.

When:  Friday, January 26th, 2024 to mid-March (weather depending)
Where: 1351 Provincial Road 200, St. Adolphe, Manitoba

Hôtel de Glace

Built entirely of snow and ice, Canada’s Hotel de Glace is easily one of the most unique spots on this list. Here, guests are encouraged to stay overnight in beautifully crafted rooms, warm up at their Nordic-style spa, grab a drink at their icy bar or have a bite to eat.

When: January 4th, 2023
Where: 2280 Valcartier Boulevard Valcartier, QC

The Ice Bar at Lake Louise

Located at the iconic Chateau Lake Louise, the Fairmont has once again built THE “coolest” bar in the mountains. Built using blocks of solid ice, this one-of-a-kind destination is the perfect place to take a load off after a long day exploring Banff and will remain so until it melts away.

When:  Until mid-April (weather permitting)
Where: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB

The Den

Designed by snow architect, Clint Masse, The Den is a fine dining restaurant made of 500,000 pounds of snow. Described as a “beacon of beauty and comfort amidst a harsh and wild landscape,” guests can enjoy a 4-course meal made by an award-winning chef and incredible service.

When:  Friday, February 9th, 2024
Where: 1351 Provincial Road 200, St. Adolphe, Manitoba

Crystal Head Vodka Ice Bar Experience

Showcasing Dan Akroyd’s Crystal Head Vodka, this chilly experience welcomes visitors into a chilly room for boozy drinks, food and photo ops. Interested in checking it out? Head to the JW Marriott in Minett, Ontario.

When: Now open
When: 1050 Paignton House Rd, Minett, ON

Rideau Canal Skateway

The largest skating rink in the entire world, Ottawa’s Rideau Canal offers 7.8 kilometres (4.8 miles) of fun and should be on every Canadian’s must-do list. It’s open every year between January and late February or March (depending on the weather.)

When: Weather dependant (usually January to March)
Where: Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Ontario

And there you have it! The coolest destinations made of snow or ice in Canada. See you out there!