Winter in Winnipeg! There’s nothing quite like it. Snow and cold are facts of life here, but in true Winnipegger style, we learn to love it. Waking up to the beauty of a fresh, pristine snowfall can feel like being in another world. To outsiders, Winnipeg winters can seem intimidating. But for those of us who make our home here, it’s just one more thing we love about our great city.

Still, it pays to have a plan to keep your family occupied and happy whenever the deep chill sets in. You can’t stop the winter, but you can enjoy it! Below, you’ll find just a few ideas to make the most of the season.

Explore the Frozen Outdoors

Spring will be here before you know it, so grab your coat, hat, and scarf and head outside. Whether you want a peaceful afternoon hiking through a snow-covered trail or the excitement of a friendly game of shinny, the list of outdoor activities is endless. 

Winter in Winnipeg can be so enjoyable that new residents come here because of it – not in spite of it! Here are five more reasons to consider moving to Winnipeg.

Ice Skating

When it comes to the great outdoors, it’s hard to beat the thrill of ice skating. Once again, Winnipeg delivers so many options to choose from. Assiniboine Park is a popular destination where you can glide on the frozen pond in the heart of nature. Nothing compares to skating under the stars at night through a dazzling light display. A pop-up patio and shelter are available whenever you need a break or to warm up.

You’ll also find other outdoor skating rinks sprinkled throughout the city:

• The Forks, 63 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg 
• St. Vital Park, 190 River Rd, Winnipeg 
• Kildonan Park, 2015 Main St, Winnipeg 
• Transcona Centennial Square, 135 Regent Ave W, Winnipeg 

What happens if the weather gets too cold for your liking, but you still want to lace up your skates? Just head over to one of Winnipeg’s many recreational centres and indoor skating arenas for an afternoon of winter fun – minus the windchill!

• Keith Bodley Arena, 165 Sansome Ave, Winnipeg 
• Gateway Recreation Centre, 1717 Gateway Rd, Winnipeg 
• Seven Oaks Arena, 745 Kingsbury Ave, Winnipeg 

Are you looking for an entirely different experience? Consider a visit to Wheelies Family Roller Centre. Instead of ice skating, you’ll wheel around the arena on rollerblades (or roller skates, if you’re old school.) True, we may be cheating a little. Wheelies isn’t specific to winter. But it is a great way to get out of the cold and a fun way to exercise any day of the year!

Tobogganing

Can anything match the thrill of racing down a snow-covered hill on a crazy carpet or sled? Tobogganing is the quintessential childhood winter activity, and you’ll find plenty of places to partake in Winnipeg.

Assiniboine Park is not just for skating! There’s also an exciting toboggan hill near the Riley Family Duck Pond and the Nature Playground, a must-have winter experience for all Winnipeg residents and visitors. If Assiniboine Park is not on your agenda, there are still many other incredible places to go racing down a frosty hill:

• Crescent Drive Park, 781 Crescent Dr, Winnipeg 
• Kings Park, 198 Kings Dr, Winnipeg 
• Fraser’s Grove Park, 85 Frasers Grove, Winnipeg 
• Westview Park, 1501 King Edward St, Winnipeg 
• FortWhyte Alive, 1961 McCreary Rd, Winnipeg 
• Arctic Glacier Winter Park, Winnipeg 

Downhill or Cross Country Skiing

For thrill-seekers, the downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing near Winnipeg may be just up your alley! It might surprise you that we have some outstanding ski hills in or near the city. What better way to get away for an exciting, adventure-filled weekend? Here are a few places to keep in mind.

• Asessippi Ski Area & Resort, Provincial Trunk Hwy 83, Inglis
• SpringHill Winter Sports Park, 65036 Oasis Rd, Winnipeg 
• Holiday Mountain Resort, 12 Later Way, La Riviere

As a prairie province, Manitoba offers exceptional cross-country skiing resorts. Glide through the snow and take in the sights and sounds of an unspoilt winter wonderland. Here are a few of the best places you’ll find in or near Winnipeg.

• Windsor Park Nordic Centre, 10 Des Meurons St, Winnipeg 
• La Barriere Park, 4403 Waverley St, La Salle
• Birds Hill Provincial Park, Oakbank
• Beaudry Provincial Park, Springstein

Thinking about buying a home in Winnipeg? You can browse our featured listings right here.

Stay Warm Survival Tactics for Winnipeg Winters

Most winter days in the city are brisk and sunny, perfectly pleasant to be out and about when bundled adequately for the weather. However, we will see the occasional day when the mercury dips to frigid temperatures, making cold weather activities less appealing for some.

But take heart! There are still many fun ways to enjoy a snowy afternoon while staying warm and cozy. Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Plan a board game party. Pizza, hot chocolate, and sitting around playing with friends and family – what better way to while away the cold spell?
• Have a potluck. Nothing brings people together like good food and good company! A potluck allows you to dazzle your tastebuds with something new without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Stockpile your pantry and freezer. On the other hand, if you enjoy cooking, why not spend a frigid afternoon preparing your favourite comfort foods? For added fun, invite a fellow culinary enthusiast for some quality time together. Any leftovers can be frozen and enjoyed at another time.
• Visit a museum. Winnipeg is full of art and culture, as evidenced by more than 40 museums and countless art galleries. You can stay warm and spend time with your family exploring the city’s heritage.

With a little creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, you can find unlimited ways to have fun and enjoy this snowy season. The laughter, excitement, and memories will last forever!

Affordability, convenience, and non-stop adventure are just a few reasons people are making their home in Winnipeg. Should you consider joining them? Reach out to us at info@goodfellowrealty.com or call 204-224-2551 to find out more.