Traveling to a destination during its peak season can offer some perks, but there are plenty of upsides to off-season travel, too. Low-season — and similarly, shoulder-season — travel often translates to lower prices and smaller crowds at popular attractions for visitors.
Ever wondered about the difference between shoulder season and off-season when you’re booking your vacation? Simply put, shoulder season typically refers to the spring or fall months between high season (in Canada, usually summer) and off-season (usually winter). But there are some outliers. For example, some areas, like ski towns, might experience their peak in winter.
Happily, both shoulder season and off-season can be more affordable than, and just as enjoyable as, peak seasons — if you know where to go. It’s time to explore some magical experiences you can enjoy Canada-wide when traveling at these times, and the below destinations are a great place to start.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
December – February
Calgary
In Calgary, lacing up skates isn’t just for pro hockey stars like the Calgary Flames. Why not live it up in a winter wonderland on local outdoor rinks, complete with hot chocolate? Don the blades at Barb Scott Park downtown or twirl around on Bowness Park’s frozen lagoon. Snowshoeing fans can head west to Kananaskis, which boasts picturesque trails amid the Rocky Mountains.
The Westin Calgary offers a swanky, pet-friendly downtown base with a 24-hour fitness studio and The Keg Steakhouse & Bar on-site.
Toronto
More winter fun awaits in Toronto. It’s a fantastic time of year to explore diverse cultural attractions, from the Hockey Hall of Fame — home to the legendary Stanley Cup — to the Royal Ontario Museum’s dinosaur fossils and international art exhibitions.
The nearby Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel welcomes guests with a heated indoor-outdoor pool overlooking Nathan Phillips Square, where holiday lights and public skating add to the good vibes.
Muskoka
Muskoka — two hours north of Toronto — is synonymous with “cottage country” summer getaways, but it brims with off-season appeal, too. At the lakeside JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, take advantage of the winter outdoor activities on offer, including snowshoeing, nature hikes and complimentary fat-tire bike rentals (which can be even more fun in the snow).
To warm up after a chilly day, enjoy a HydroSpa circuit or relaxation massage at HydroSpa Muskoka, or devour warming Italian dishes like Rigatoni Arrabiatta at Teca.
March – May
Vancouver
Spring brings dazzling cherry blossoms to Vancouver’s iconic Stanley Park during the shoulder season. On rainy days, head indoors and get a virtual thrill with the Flyover immersive flight simulation at Canada Place. Or attend a Vancouver Canucks hockey game at Rogers Arena as NHL playoff fever grows.
From Canada’s biggest Chinatown to Yaletown’s trendy streets, nearby dining options abound — load up on dim sum, prime rib and more.
Overlooking Coal Harbour and the North Shore Mountains, the upscale The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver has rejuvenating amenities galore. Get your heart pumping on the Seawall pathway via the complimentary BikeWESTIN program or guided RunWESTIN tour. Relax and soothe sore muscles in one of the cedar-barrel saunas next to the hotel’s outdoor pool.
In the spring, you can feast on a chilled seafood tower in the H Tasting Lounge’s Secret Garden Domes.
June – August
Mont-Tremblant
If you think ski resorts are just for winter, it’s time to dive into Mont-Tremblant in the summer off-season. Two hours northwest of Montreal, Quebec’s biggest ski resort is an active vacationer’s dream, with off-road ATV tours, canoeing on Lac Tremblant, Jet Ski rentals, rock climbing and zip lining.
For an extended vacation or work-from-anywhere trip, the Residence Inn by Marriott Mont Tremblant Manoir Labelle has got you covered. After a complimentary breakfast, get your fresh-air fix while hiking one of 11 local mountain trails. Alternatively, blow off steam at the hotel’s fitness center and pool.
In the evening, stroll through the colorful pedestrian village before indulging in authentic fondue at La Savoie or a bison burger with craft beer at Microbrasserie La Diable.
September – November
Kelowna, Okanagan Valley
In Kelowna, the Okanagan Valley’s largest city, there’s no need to whine during the shoulder season —because there’s plenty of British Columbia wine. Sip locally produced cabernet sauvignon and gewurztraminer at award-winning wineries like Mission Hill and Quails’ Gate.
For family-friendly fall fun, check out the fabled pumpkin patch at McMillan Farms or roam through the Kelowna Corn Maze.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort offers delightful stays with views of Okanagan Lake, organic facials and pedicures at Damara Day Spa, and exclusive private dining in The Cellar.
Halifax
On Canada’s Atlantic Coast, Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel welcomes guests with plenty of amenities. On-site, enjoy everything from spacious suites to golf simulators to Harbourstone Pourhouse’s honey-baked brie and seafood chowder.
You can view glorious fall foliage around the Nova Scotia capital in Shubie Park or along the Musquodoiboit Trailway. For history buffs, Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel is an easy stroll to must-sees like the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
Love independent films and documentaries? Circle the Atlantic International Film Festival (September) on your calendar. Even though it’s not high season, you’ll be in high spirits.
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