Festive city nights, snowy trails and cozy places to eat from Sudbury to Temiskaming Shores and Sault Ste. Marie
The holidays look a little different in Northern Ontario.
One day might mean twinkling lights, a festive market and dinner before a show. Another could start on a snowmobile trail or frozen lake and end over a steaming bowl of soup, locally brewed beer or something sweet from a neighbourhood café.
From Sudbury to Temiskaming Shores and Sault Ste. Marie, winter is as much about what you do outside as where you gather, eat and warm up afterward.
Jump ahead:
- Make a Holiday Night of It in Sudbury
- Come for the Winter Adventure in Temiskaming Shores
- Make It a Winter City Break in Sault Ste. Marie
Make a Holiday Night of It in Sudbury
For a holiday outing with a little bit of everything, Northern Ontario’s largest city, Sudbury, makes it easy to turn an ordinary winter afternoon into a full evening of seasonal fun. Browse a holiday market, wander beneath twinkling lights, sip something warming and discover a new dinner spot. Moreover, with live theatre and a lively local food scene on the itinerary, there’s plenty of reason to bundle up and head downtown.
See Sudbury in the Holiday Spirit
Start your holiday outing with a little seasonal shopping. The Downtown Sudbury Holiday Market is a great place to browse local vendors, discover handmade treasures and pick up thoughtful gifts while soaking up the festive atmosphere. From unique finds to edible treats, shopping locally makes ticking names off your Christmas list a little more rewarding.
Once you’ve explored the market, trade the busy shopping scene for some fresh air at Kivi Park. The popular outdoor recreation destination offers a chance to embrace Sudbury’s northern landscape, and its seasonal Christmas in the Park celebration brings festive activities to the grounds on December 5 and 6. Check the event details before visiting to see what’s planned and make the most of your winter adventure!
Prefer your holiday magic with a soundtrack? Make time for YES Theatre’s production of Disney’s Frozen, running November 5 to December 13. Catch the beloved story on stage, sing along to familiar favourites and enjoy a little theatrical escapism before heading out for dinner. After all, a night of holiday fun deserves a memorable finale.
Sip Your Way Through the Season
After browsing the market or enjoying some time outdoors, warm up with a well-earned drink. Sudbury has plenty of options for a festive pit stop, whether you’re craving a coffee and a pastry during the day or something a little stronger as the evening unfolds.
For a caffeine fix, add local favourites such as Salute Coffee Company (pair it up with an apple cinnamon croissant), or Kuppajo Espresso Bar to your holiday wish list.
Alternatively, Pinchman’s Café & Artisan Bakery, Café Oui or Twiggs Coffee Roasters are top notch for a sweet treat. Pinchman’s is particularly worth considering if a slice of pie sounds like the perfect companion to your afternoon coffee. Moreover, stopping at an independent café offers a chance to support local businesses while taking a break from the holiday rush.
When the morning turns to afternoon, head to Crosscut Distillery for craft spirits and a taste of Sudbury’s local beverage scene. Keep an eye out for seasonal events and holiday markets if you’re hoping to pair your visit with some last-minute gift shopping. Last year they had “boozy ornaments”— the perfect cheeky stocking stuffer! Plus don’t sleep on their selection of holiday spirits like their Cloves Optional Holiday Spirit to add to your nog or their Candy Cane Vodka.
Alternatively, make your way to Wander Food & Wine in downtown Sudbury. With wines by the glass, curated flights, cocktails and small plates, it’s an inviting choice for a relaxed pre-dinner drink and some shared plates! Cozy up with a few bottles for the table as you watch the snow fly out the front window and dive into savoury delights like maple bacon squash skewers and Parmesan churros.
Try Somewhere New for Dinner
Now that you’ve shopped, explored and raised a glass, it’s time to settle in for dinner. Fortunately, Sudbury’s dining scene offers plenty of reasons to make a night of it, particularly if you’re looking to try somewhere new.
For a lively meal built around sharing, head to Mazi by Kouzzina. The restaurant puts Mediterranean-inspired food, crafted cocktails and the pleasure of gathering around the table at the heart of the experience. Bring your favourite people, order a few dishes to share and enjoy a meal that feels like a celebration in its own right. Try the lamb ragu or black cod to really ring in the season!
Alternatively, consider Dando Parlour for another local dining option. Whether you’re planning a date night, catching up with friends or simply looking for an excuse to get out of the house, adding a new restaurant to your holiday plans makes the evening feel special.
Of course, you don’t have to squeeze everything into one outing. Pair dinner with a performance of Frozen, plan a separate evening around the downtown holiday market or save a winter walk at Kivi Park for a day when you have more time to explore.
However you arrange your itinerary, Sudbury makes it easy to combine holiday shopping, outdoor adventure and local flavours into a winter getaway with a little something for everyone.
Come for the Winter Adventure. Stay for Something Delicious in Temiskaming Shores
In Temiskaming Shores, some of the best winter days start outside and end around a table. This Northern Ontario destination serves up plenty of ways to embrace the season, from snowmobiling through snowy forests to gliding across the trails on cross-country skis.
Moreover, with Lake Temiskaming providing a spectacular backdrop, there’s no shortage of reasons to bundle up and get outside. Just remember to leave room in your itinerary for the food. After all, a day in the snow deserves a delicious finish.
Head Out Into Winter
If you’re looking for a winter getaway with a little adventure, Temiskaming Shores delivers. Snowmobilers can explore nearly 600 kilometres of locally maintained trails, with connections to Ontario’s broader trail network. Expect a mix of forest scenery, open farmland and winding routes that show off the region’s northern landscape. Check current trail conditions and permit requirements before setting out, then make a plan for a warming stop along the way.
Prefer to spend your time on the water? Lake Temiskaming offers opportunities for ice fishing when conditions permit. There’s something wonderfully Northern Ontario about settling in for a quiet morning on the ice, hoping for a catch while the winter landscape stretches out around you. However, always check local ice conditions and safety guidance before heading onto the lake.
Cross-country skiers can swap the snowmobile for a quieter adventure at Temiskaming Nordic Ski Club. With ski trails winding through the surrounding landscape, it’s an appealing way to spend a winter morning while working up an appetite for lunch. Alternatively, slow the pace with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Cajo Sleigh Rides, where the gentle rhythm of the horses and the crunch of snow underfoot (or hoof!) offer a different way to experience the season. Be sure to check availability and book ahead.
Make Village Noel Part of the Trip
If your visit falls in November, plan around Village Noël Temiskaming, taking place November 19–21, in New Liskeard. This festive celebration brings the spirit of a traditional New France Christmas village to Northeastern Ontario, complete with artisans, craftspeople, food vendors, music and cultural programming.
Expect a chance to browse locally made gifts, discover regional flavours and enjoy a little festive atmosphere before the main holiday rush begins. Moreover, the event offers a wonderful opportunity to support makers and small businesses from Northeastern Ontario and Northwestern Quebec. Pick up something special for your holiday table, find a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates locally made goods or simply follow the enticing aromas towards your next snack.
This year, there’s a whole host of programming to look forward to including birch bark canoe demos, visits from Saint Nick and crafts for kids alongside vendors like The Wine Place, Belle Vallée Farms and Polar Berries Inc. among others!
Village Noël also makes an excellent excuse to turn a quick visit into a longer getaway. Spend the morning exploring the region, head to the Christmas village in the afternoon and finish the day with a comforting meal. Now that’s a holiday itinerary worth bundling up for.
Warm Up Over Something Delicious
After a morning on the snowmobile trails or a few hours outdoors, make your way to 28 on the Lake in New Liskeard. With its lakeside setting, it’s a natural place to pause during a winter adventure. Snowmobilers may be able to access the restaurant from the lake when conditions and access arrangements permit (check in advance), making it an appealing stop to build into a day on the trails.
Once inside, settle in and order something comforting. A bowl of French onion soup is particularly appealing after spending hours in the cold, with its rich broth and cheesy topping offering the sort of warmth that makes you forget about your frosty fingers. For a hearty pick me up, try the Dan’s Northern Smoked Meat — a smoked-in-house beef brisket! Moreover, the chance to transition from a day on the lake to a relaxed meal is part of what makes a winter escape here so satisfying.
For a different sort of warm-up, head to The Lavender Fox Tea Room in nearby Cobalt. Located inside a historic mining headframe, this whimsical tea room serves specialty teas, coffee, house-made desserts and savoury bites. It’s an especially lovely stop when you want to slow down after a morning of skiing or exploring the region’s historic communities.
They’re also leaning into the season with special events, including holiday Afternoon Tea on November 22, December 6 and December 13, along with a Cozy Date Night on November 14 featuring winter cocktails, sharing plates and non-alcoholic options. Reservations are required, so be sure to book ahead if you want to make one part of your getaway.
Keep an eye out for seasonal treats, too. A gingerbread tea latte, Earl Grey hot chocolate, cranberry white chocolate scones and peppermint brownies would make excellent additions to a winter outing when available. Pair your drink with a sweet treat, browse the tea shop for gifts and bring home a little something to make your own kitchen feel more festive. However, check the current menu before visiting, as seasonal offerings may change.
When the weather calls for something heartier, Patsy’s Fresh Food is another name to keep on your radar. This family-run Temiskaming Shores favourite serves up homemade soups, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads and seasonal take-home dinners, all prepared in small batches. From comforting classics like French onion and cabbage roll soup to dishes with a creative twist, there’s always something delicious on the menu. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or picking up dinner after a chilly outdoor adventure, expect fresh flavours and a warm dose of Northern hospitality. Check current offerings and opening hours when planning your visit.
For a relaxed evening, consider Whiskeyjack Beer Company in Haileybury. This local microbrewery pairs handcrafted beer with a food menu, making it a good option for winding down after a day outdoors. Ask about the current taps and menu when you arrive, then settle in with a local brew and a satisfying meal. After all, a winter adventure deserves a proper toast.
You can also add Dida’s and La Donna House to your list. Feast On® certified Dida’s celebrates local ingredients with dishes like its holiday-inspired pork tenderloin, seasoned with traditional tourtière spices and served over local potato purée with cranberry balsamic glaze, roasted root vegetables and buttery pastry. It’s a creative take on a French-Canadian holiday classic. LaDonna House will have a special holiday drink menu you can’t miss! Be sure to check current menus, seasonal specials and holiday programming at both stops as you plan your visit.
Build a Winter Day Around the Table
However you spend the day — snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing or exploring Village Noël — leave room for something delicious along the way. In Temiskaming Shores, warming up over a local meal, seasonal treat or hot drink is all part of the winter adventure.
Make It a Winter City Break in Sault Ste. Marie
If your ideal winter getaway involves a little outdoor adventure followed by something delicious, Sault Ste. Marie deserves a spot on your Northern Ontario travel list. Spend the morning skating along the waterfront, exploring snowy forest trails or racing down a ski hill.
Then, swap your snow-covered boots for a cozy café, a steaming bowl of pho or a dinner worth lingering over. Moreover, with local markets, live hockey and plenty of ways to fill an evening, the Sault proves that winter city breaks can be every bit as fun as a sunny escape. You just need a slightly warmer jacket.
Get Outside for a Winter Adventure
First thing’s first: get out there and enjoy that fresh Northern Ontario air. Downtown, Clergue Park offers a scenic setting for a winter skating trail along the waterfront. Alternatively, the Downtown Plaza rink makes it easy to squeeze in a few laps between shopping stops and cozy café bites.
Arriving on a Saturday? Be sure to check out the Soo Market while you’re in town just next door! Whether you’re gracefully gliding across the ice or clinging to the boards like they owe you money, it’s a quintessential Canadian winter activity. Check local rink updates before heading out, since Mother Nature gets the final say on opening dates and ice conditions.
For a longer outdoor adventure, head to Hiawatha Highlands, where an extensive network of cross-country ski trails winds through the snowy forest. It’s a great way to get your heart pumping, enjoy the scenery and earn whatever you decide to eat afterwards. Prefer your winter sports with a little more downhill momentum? Drive to Searchmont Resort for skiing and snowboarding. With its northern location and substantial elevation, Searchmont is a favourite for winter sports enthusiasts who like their cold weather with a side of adrenaline.
Whichever adventure you choose, there’s only one rule: leave enough energy for the good stuff afterwards. Namely, the food.
Warm Up with Something Delicious
After a few hours in the snow, a good meal can feel like a reward for simply remembering to wear mittens. Fortunately, Sault Ste. Marie has plenty of local spots to help you refuel.
For a quick and satisfying lunch, stop at Georgie’s Shawarma for Syrian favourites, including shawarma wraps, falafel and hummus. It’s a tasty option when you’re hungry enough to consider eating your own ski gloves but still have an afternoon of exploring ahead. Plus the colourful yet cozy vibe makes for a burst of warmth on a chilly day.
If the temperature has you dreaming of something hot, head to Pho Max for a comforting bowl of Vietnamese pho. There’s something about steaming broth, tender noodles and fragrant herbs that makes a cold day considerably more manageable. Moreover, you can enjoy a proper sit-down meal without sacrificing half your afternoon to a lengthy dining experience.
For an evening meal with a little more occasion, book a table at Peace Restaurant. Its Asian-fusion cuisine and handcrafted cocktails make it a great option for turning a day in the snow into a night out. Bring your favourite people, order something new and make a toast to surviving another Canadian winter. Do not skip the Korean beef bao buns or the fried brussels in XO sauce (for real).
You can also keep Ernie’s on your list for a casual local stop where an ever-changing menu of locally-sourced ingredients is the name of the game. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed bite between activities or somewhere to recharge before heading back out, it’s more than worth checking the current menu and hours as you plan your visit.
Make a Night of It
Once the sun goes down, there’s no need to retreat to your hotel room and call it a night. Sault Ste. Marie has plenty of ways to keep the fun going, especially if your visit coincides with the holiday season. Book your trip around one of these fun and festive events to really round things out!
On November 7–8 and 14–15, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre hosts its annual Holiday Gift & Craft Show. Browse handmade gifts, jewellery, pottery, home décor and other finds from local vendors. It’s a great opportunity to support local makers while tackling your Christmas list before December arrives and everyone collectively loses their minds.
Sault Ste Marie’s Film Festival is also host to a number of fun holiday events this season including a Holiday Bizar on November 19 and two film screenings of holiday movies. Check out all the details on their website.
Prefer your evening entertainment with a little friendly rivalry? Catch a Soo Greyhounds hockey game at the GFL Memorial Gardens. Junior hockey is a classic Canadian winter outing, complete with plenty of cheering, fast-paced action and an excellent excuse to eat something from the concession stand. Check the home schedule before your trip and see if you can fit a game into your itinerary.
Find Your Northern Ontario Holiday
Winter in Northern Ontario comes with plenty of reasons to bundle up, get outside and work up an appetite. Whether you’re chasing twinkling lights in Sudbury, snowmobiling your way to French onion soup in Temiskaming Shores or squeezing in a ski day before dinner in Sault Ste. Marie, there’s a delicious adventure waiting around every corner.
Just remember to pack your warmest mittens, bring your appetite and leave room for seconds. Winter calories don’t count when you’re supporting local, right?
Local Gifts, Festive Flavours & Holiday Nights Out in Southwestern Ontario
