16 THINGS TO DO IN THE BAY OF QUINTE THIS WINTER
Winter in the Bay of Quinte is all about embracing the season, from getting outside for fresh air and snow-covered trails to staying warm with cozy indoor experiences. Skating rinks, ski hills, cafes, galleries, and local events all make the list, with 16 ways to make the most of the colder months.
Read time: 5 min
HIT THE SLOPES
Batawa Ski Hill, known as the small hill with big heart, has you covered for both day and night skiing. No gear? No problem. Ski and snowboard rentals are available, plus adaptive lessons with gear like outriggers and sit skis. Cozy outdoor fire pits and hot cocoa await for your après-ski once you’ve packed it in for the day.
Check their Facebook or Instagram for the latest lift and trail updates when planning your visit.
GO SKATING
Indoor Rinks
Outdoor Rinks (check weather and ice conditions before going)
HILLS AND THRILLS
Thrill seekers should make a trip to Belleville’s famous tobogganing hills at East Zwick’s Centennial Park and up by Highway 401 at the end of North Park Street. It’s worth the long trek up the hill for the ride down!
TAKE A HIKE
Winter is a perfect time to check out trails around the BoQ, with snow‑covered paths, frosted trees, and quiet landscapes that make familiar routes feel a little more magical. Lace up your winter boots or grab some snowshoes and explore spots like H.R. Frink Conservation Area, Potter’s Creek, or Presqu’ile Provincial Park, all transformed into a peaceful winter wonderland.
Dine in a Snowglobe
The Waterfront River Pub and Terrace has 10 snowglobes to choose from, with a couple of them accommodating larger groups of 8-10 (if you get cozy enough). Each snowglobe is equipped with heaters, warm blankets, string lights and a nostalgic collection of CDs.
The cost is $35 to book one, and it’s best to make a reservation in advance for this popular dining experience.
ICE FISHING
When the Bay of Quinte freezes over, it’s time to catch some Quinte gold (this is how anglers affectionately refer to our walleye). Safety first—visit ontario.ca/icefishing.
WINTER BIRDING
Bring your binoculars or your camera out to Presqu’ile Provincial Park in Brighton, where more than 330 species of birds have been recorded in this Ontario birding hotspot. Presqu’ile is an operating park year-round, so you will need to have an annual pass or buy a daily vehicle permit at the gate.
HOCKEY, EH?
Grab your favourite team jersey and get ready for a good ol’ hockey game, supporting one of our local teams!
ESCAPE ROOMS AND AXE THROWING
Book an escape room to test out your puzzle-solving skills and see how well your group really gets along under the pressure of a ticking clock. Or, channel your inner lumberjack and hurl an axe at a wooden target.
Get Crafty
As much as we love a good outdoor adventure, snowy days are also made for getting creative indoors. Paint pottery, fuse glass, or try a mix of other crafts to keep your hands busy and your imagination warm. Drop in for a session or join a class, and turn winter’s chill into cozy, hands-on fun.
CATCH A SHOW
Go to a concert, watch a play or see the latest blockbuster movies.
Gallery Hopping
The BoQ is bursting with talented artists, and we’re lucky to be able to admire their work at local galleries, many of which change their exhibits seasonally. Presqu’ile Waddling Arts Centre and These 4 Walls also offer regular workshops so you can create your own piece of art.
COZY CAFES
Warm up after spending some time outdoors with a hot chocolate, tea or coffee from a local cafe across the BoQ.
Use our Digital Discovery Map and click on the “Cozy Cafes” itinerary under Bay of Quinte Recommends at the top.
SEE WHAT'S BREWIN'
Meyers Creek Brewing Company is a small-batch craft brewery just outside downtown Belleville with beers that pay homage to the local community.
Signal Brewery sits on the Moira River in Corbyville, a neighbourhood in the north end of Belleville. The historic red brick building that was once the distillery for J.P. Wisers.
Signal has a full kitchen offering lunch and dinner, and both breweries often have live music.
A Day at the Museum(s)
Stay warm inside and learn something new at the museums across the region. Be sure to check their websites before visiting, as they often have special programming for families or travelling exhibits.
ATTEND A LOCAL EVENT
Downtown Belleville’s 22nd Annual Savour the Chill soup tasting contest is a highlight every winter. Get your spoon ready to taste soups from competing restaurants this year on February 21.
Check our events calendar linked below for more events every week, like live music, art shows, karaoke and open mic nights.
