1. Watch the northern lights from a research centre

Churchill

For those curious about the natural world, a learning vacation at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre combines an epic trip north with the opportunity to stay and learn within an operating research facility. Each learning vacation features a variety of activities such as dogsledding, a visit to the Itsanitaq Museum, local tours, snowshoeing, seminars and of course, plenty of time to view the northern lights from either the outdoor decks or the indoor aurora dome. What's more, all learning vacations include accommodations, food and local transportation.

2. Book a cozy accommodation in Riding Mountain National Park

Clear Lake, Riding Mountain National Park

Get closer to all the winter activities that Clear Lake Country - Riding Mountain National Park has to offer by booking an accommodation in or near the park. Some great options include oTENTiks (perfect for the adventurous), Lakehouse (perfect for couples), Arrowhead (perfect for families) and Riding Mountain House (perfect for everyone in-between).

3. Explore the city of Brandon

Brandon

Looking for an easy staycation this winter? The City of Brandon is home to an amazing array of restaurants (we highly recommend Tana Ethiopian Cuisine, The Dock on Princess and Sabor Latino), shopping (can't miss Lady of the Lake and Mainly Manitoba) as well as a variety of winter activities centred at Hanbury Hill. Located in Sir Winston Churchill Park, the hill offers two different runs depending on your skill and bravery level, as well as lighting for night tobogganing. Parents (or those who prefer the cozier side of winter) can hang out in the warm up gazebo on the hill.

4. Learn the ins-and-outs of ice fishing

Interested in ice fishing but don’t know where to start? Prairie Gal Fishing offers one-on-one ice fishing lessons to get you ready for the great season ahead. Lessons take place on either Lake Winnipeg or at FortWhyte Alive and include all electronics, gear and bait.

5. Find an oasis at South Beach Casino

Scanterbury

If you're more of an indoorsy person during the winter, South Beach Casino may be right up your alley. The hotel and casino offers an indoor heated pool (in a beautiful art deco setting), comfortable rooms, a fantastic restaurant and of course a wide variety of casino games.

6. Explore the province by cross-country ski

RM of Louise

Discover over 14 km of cross-country ski trails in Clearwater, Crystal City and Pilot Mound - all within the RM of Louise. Cross-country ski enthusiasts, this is your chance to get out and explore a new region of the province while doing what you love! If you work up an appetite on the trails, be sure to try a local restaurant like the incredible Clearwater Junction Restaurant.

7. Snowboard and ski at Mystery Mountain Winter Park

Thompson

Did you know that one of the most scenic ski hills in the province can be found in our northern region? Mystery Mountain Winter Park is also Manitoba’s most remote winter park, located 22 kilometres north of Thompson and is great for thrill-seeking downhill skiers. In addition to 18 ski runs, the winter park also features a half-pipe, a tobogganing area, and 25 kilometres of cross-country ski trails.

8. Slide down the hill at Valley View Tubing

MacGregor

Not too fond of skiing or snowboarding? Winter tubing is an option for those who may not be the most coordinated - but we warn you - this downhill activity is still extremely thrilling! Located 15 kms south of MacGregor in the Assiniboine River Valley, Valley View is a perfect day trip for families. The groomed run includes a tow rope system and tube rentals.

9. Feel the thrill of a dogsledding excursion

Richer

Good news - Harness Adventure Co. is officially back for another winter season! There are two exciting dogsledding experiences to choose from. Le “Vas-Vite” experience is a 2-hour excursion where you’ll get to know the dogs and embark on a 3 km run through the woods. The winter glamping and dogsled package takes the experience a step further with a dogsled ride to a secluded winterized tent where you can stay overnight and enjoy a breakfast delivery the following morning.

10. Snowmobile all winter long

Various

Long winters and lots of snow are a dream come true for snowmobilers. For those just starting to explore the province's many trails, here's our top 10 to check out this winter! Which will you try this year?