Winter in Vaughan is a season of warmth, creativity and connection. With direct access to and from Toronto, this vibrant city offers everything families need for a three-day escape filled with wonder and togetherness.

Arrive mid-morning and check into a comfortable hotel near Vaughan’s downtown core. Once unpacked, step outside to explore the city’s winter charm.

Thornhill is home to the Uplands Golf & Ski Club where families can ski, snowboard or enjoy the popular toboggan hill. A perfect start to your getaway. For a cozy change of pace, visit Promenade Mall featuring over 150 shops, seasonal pop-ups, holiday markets and light displays that make shopping feel festive and fun.

As evening settles, discover the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, the city’s downtown core, filled with walkable streets, murals and cafés and an illuminating holiday lights experience. Head to 100 New Park Place to see the 114-foot tree with over 70,000 glittering lights – a must-see moment for the holiday season.

For food and fun in one place, continue the evening with playful options like Bowls and Blasters entertainment centre, complete with bowling alleys, bumper cars, laser tag and more!

Wake up ready for a of pure excitement. Get your adventure started indoors at Reptilia Zoo, home to more than 250 species of reptiles from around the world, or bounce and climb together at Sky Zone Vaughan. Keep the excitement going at Putting Edge Vaughan for glow-in-the-dark mini-golf or DP Lazer Maze, where teamwork and laughter win the day.

Dinner awaits at 3 Mariachis Mexican Restaurant, a local favourite where colourful décor, lively energy and sizzling fajitas fill the evening with flavour and smiles. End your day sharing dessert and stories before heading back to your hotel.

Finish your day at Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest, where millions of lights, skating rinks, rides and seasonal performances transform the park into a glowing celebration of winter joy. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa, while you take in all the festive magic WinterFest has to offer!

Your final morning begins with calm inspiration. Visit the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in the historic  Kleinburg Village, where cedar-clad galleries showcase masterpieces by the Group of Seven and striking contemporary Indigenous works and rotating exhibitions that celebrate Canadian creativity. Guests can even join a morning Artful Yoga class for a restorative experience surrounded by nature and art.

Afterward, enjoy brunch at Cabin Café at the McMichael for comforting classics or try Italian-inspired dishes at Belsito Trattoria. The friendly atmosphere makes it easy to linger and create memories. Before you go, stop in to the nearby Woodbridge holiday market to pick up artisan gifts and local treats – the perfect way to carry a piece of Vaughan home.

As you leave, the city’s warmth and winter charm will stay with you, inviting you to return and discover more.

With sparkling lights, family adventures and moments of quiet beauty, Vaughan transforms winter into a season to remember.

Plan your winter getaway at visitvaughan.ca and start your own three-day story filled with light, laughter and connection.

As you explore all that Vaughan has to offer, don’t forget to tag us at #VisitVaughan and follow us on Instagram at @visitvaughan!