In the winter, when you know that stepping outside might mean a blast of chilly wind and snow in your face, it can be tempting to pull the covers up over your head, stay in bed and hibernate – but how boring is that?

Along with the colder temperatures comes a lot of winter fun that you shouldn’t miss, so take a break this season to enjoy a staycation!

Enjoy Nature at its Most Serene

Mississauga has dozens of natural spaces to enjoy, including multiple conservation areas, and one of the best parts of visiting them is spotting the local wildlife. To really take advantage of this, start your day early so you can enjoy some peaceful time amongst nature before the trails get more heavily trafficked.

Bundle up and hit the boardwalk! One of the most beloved winter excursion destinations is the Rattray Marsh Conservation Area. While it’s known for its shale beaches in the summertime, the popular boardwalk offers dazzling views once the snow falls. This is a favourite spot of photographers, with a wealth of picture-perfect views.

While the boardwalk is perfect for a peaceful morning walk, if you’re looking for a more active option, rent some cross-country skis – or even showshoes – and check out Lake Aquitaine Trail.

Brunch and Views in Port Credit

After your wintery walk, head to the nearby village of Port Credit to enjoy the Lakeshore shopping, sightseeing, and of course – the snacks.

When you’re ready to eat, head to local favourite Maggie’s Dinner for a classic, diner-style brunch. If you’d prefer to grab and go, pick up a coffee and a pastry at Archtop Vinyl Café before continuing your stroll around the port. Music aficionados will appreciate the eclectic décor featuring vinyl album cover décor – and you might just grab a new record to take home while you’re there.

Make sure to visit some of the Port’s popular boutiques, from its many florists, to gift shops including Unique Gems Beauty, to home décor store Quaint and Paint, among many more.

Of course, no visit to Port Credit is complete without a waterfront walk and a photo in front of the iconic lighthouse – especially when it’s lit up for the holidays.  

Warm Up Inside with Some Family Fun

Every vacation – and staycation – needs some good, old-fashioned fun. Next up, head inside to warm up and have fun at some local attractions. There are plenty of options for a range of interests. Here are just a few:

  • When you can’t golf outside, do it inside at Back Nine indoor golf simulator.
  • Beat your friends at laser tag, mini-golf and arcade games, while basking in the glow of black lights at Glow Zone 360.
  • Travel back to the 70s for some retro roller-skating fun at Scooter’s Roller Palace.
  • Lean how to hit some bullseyes with the best at Bad Axe Throwing.
  • Earn tickets or bowl strikes at The Rec Room.

Level Up Your Staycation at a Mississauga Hotel

For a real vacation experience, treat yourself to a couple of nights in one of Mississauga’s luxurious hotels and enjoy amenities you just can’t get at home (like indoor heated pools, room service, world-class spas and of course, housekeepers.)

Bonus: It Pays to Stay in Mississauga, so when you book two (or more night) at a participating hotel, you’ll receive a free $100 VISA pre-paid card to spend on even more Mississauga staycation fun.

There’s lots more to explore in Mississauga this winter, so follow Visit Mississauga on Facebook and Instagram , or check-out the events calendar to see what’s going on while you are in town!