Winnipeg winters are legendary for their brutal cold, but if you’ve ever visited Winnipeg in the winter months, you’ll know that the locals don’t let that stop them from having plenty of fun indoors and out. A Winnipeg winter may be chilly, but hey, it’s all about wearing the right clothes and getting out there and enjoying every minute, right? We’ve got the low-down on the best things to do over the next few months in the ‘Peg, so put on those extra layers and explore!

Ice Castles is coming to Winnipeg for the first time this winter, and looks to be amazing. These massive icicle sculpture castles will be built at The Forks, and visitors will be able to walk through and interact with these dazzling constructions.

Festival du Voyageur is a two-week festival that celebrates French culture of the fur-trapper era (runs February 17-26). Head to Fort Gibraltar to enjoy music and theatre arts, eat poutine and maple taffy, immerse yourself in the living history of the fort and its period-dressed interpreters, and enjoy classic winter activities such as ice-sculptures, slides, and snowshoeing.

When you spend an afternoon or evening at Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature the idea is to wear as little as possible in those freezing conditions, while dipping into the on site thermal pools. Getting a massage or delicious meal at the spa restaurant while you’re there is always a great idea too.

Go extreme tubing at Adrenaline Adventures, where it is all fun and very little effort. They provide the tubes, and a tow-rope to get you back up the hill after you glide down at speed (and boy do adults go down those hills fast, though kids as young as two can enjoy this). For extra thrills, head there after dark for evening tubing.

Check out the artistic architectural Warming Huts that are erected annually on the Red River Mutual Trail every year as part of an acclaimed international contest that attracts entrants from the world over. The huts stay in place for skating season, and are wonderful (as well as being highly Instagram worthy!).

Order up the best hot chocolate of your life at Constance Popp Choclatier, widely regarded as the best chocolate shop in the city so worth visiting at anytime really. Their spicy hot chocolate is a perfect pick-me-up on the coldest of days.

One of Canada’s most incredible dining events happens annually in Winnipeg, RAW:almond. This pop up restaurant happens in a tent on the frozen Red River in January (dates to be announced at time of writing) and brings Winnipeg’s greatest chefs together to create an unforgettable multi-course feast.

If all this has got you ready for a Winnipeg Winter experience, we’ve got absolutely beautiful and stylish accommodations that will make your trip extra special. Contact us to find out how we can meet your needs with our gorgeous Winnipeg suites.

Image by Flickr user AJ Batak, used under Creative Commons license.