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No Snow, No Problem: 5 Canadian March Break Destinations
March 7, 2024 4 Minute Read
March Break has traditionally involved skiing for many Canadians. But warm weather and a lack of snow in many of Canada’s top ski spots have made for suboptimal conditions this season.
Don’t despair. Canada has plenty of great hotels, restaurants and winter experiences for those looking to elevate their March Break.
“There is so much to do across the country, regardless of ski conditions,” says CBRE Hotels Director Nicole Nguyen. “With a bit of preparation, planning and a taste for adventure, there’s no reason why you can’t have a spring break to remember.”
Snow or no snow, here are five ideas on where to stay, where to eat and what to do this March Break.
Whitehorse, Yukon
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, Whitehorse is the place to go. Nestled between mountains and the Yukon River, the Yukon capital has a rich First Nations heritage.
It’s also a popular destination for one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular shows: the Northern Lights. For the best odds of catching Aurora Borealis – expected to be at its strongest intensity in over a decade – be up between 10 pm and 3 am on a clear moonless night. Get the full experience by staying at one of Northern Lights Resort & Spa’s Aurora Glass Chalets or at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, where you can take in the show while soaking in Yukon’s only hot springs.
Or try your hand as a dog musher. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon outing or a two-week expedition, an adrenaline-packed dogsledding adventure will take your Whitehorse trip to a whole different level.
Jasper, Alberta
Rocky Mountain hotels don’t get much more luxurious than the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Located on a 700-acre property along the crystal-clear Beauvert Lake, the venerable resort includes chalet-style guest rooms, suites and log cabins. In-house restaurants offer seasonal menus and curated wine lists. If you’re around during the weekend, have Orso Trattoria’s Afternoon Tea. Revel in stunning views of the Rockies while sipping on a hot tea.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge offers an array of activities, including a golf simulator, heated outdoor pool and winter activity centre. It’s also worth venturing out into the town of Jasper and the surrounding areas. Sign up for guided ice climbing, stargaze at the Jasper Planetarium or chow down on the best local cuisine with a food tour.
Ottawa
Attracting over 7 million visitors a year, Canada’s capital boasts 29 museums, a number of historic sites and a calendar full of festivals. If you’re planning a visit to Ottawa this March, pop by the Ottawa StoryTellers Signature Series (February 25 to April 18), the Vanier Museopark Sugar Festival (March 13 to 15 and 18 to 24) or the International Film Festival of Ottawa (March 13 to 24).
Get some rest at reSTAYS, a boutique hotel in downtown Ottawa. Sit back and enjoy a movie in the private cinema, catch the sunset at the SkyLounge, or organize a friendly billiards competition in the games room. And if you’re looking for a unique dinner experience, grab tickets for Canada’s longest running dinner musical, Oh Canada Eh?. The show features performances of Canadian musical hits by characters such as a Mountie and a hockey player, accompanied by a live band. Prepare yourself for some serious laughter.
Montreal
Montreal celebrates its 199th St. Patrick’s Day Parade this year. Established in 1824, the three-hour parade on March 17 features hundreds of floats and performers. It is the second oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in North America, after New York City’s.
Grab a pint of Guinness at one of downtown Montreal’s Irish pubs, such as Hurley's and McKibbin's. Then continue the celebrations at the newly opened McLean’s Public House, where you and your friends can share a 10-litre beer tower or try the mouth-watering chana masala. Wrap up the day at the Warwick Le Crystal, a boutique hotel located steps away from the St. Patrick’s festivities.
Halifax
For crisp ocean air and outdoor adventures, Halifax makes a great March Break destination. Families can choose from a long list of kid-friendly activities, including year-round skating at the Emera Oval and meeting Gus the 101-year-old Gopher Tortoise at the Museum of Natural History.
Love birds can grab a bite at Prelude, a pop-up restaurant by Scotian Heritage Foods. The experience includes a changing four-course tasting menu using local, seasonal ingredients. Make reservations as seats are limited.
Stay at Canada’s first Moxy Hotel, offering a modern twist on the traditional hospitality experience. Instead of checking in at a front desk, you’ll be greeted with a signature cocktail at the bar. Guests have access to vibrant game lounges and a 24/7 Grab and Go section for late-night cravings. The best part? Even your furry friends can tag along at this pet-friendly hotel.
Snow or no snow, families need places to go and Canada’s hospitality sector is ready to deliver experiences of a lifetime!
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