Winter Wonder in Chatham-Kent

The new year is underway and we understand that some days, there may not seem like enough coffee in the world to get through the day!  Grab your warm clothes and a fresh perspective, or take advantage of our many indoor activities as we blast away those winter blues with these suggestions. 

Get some fresh air with the family

• Strap on your winter boots, snowshoes, or cross-country skis and hit the trails. 
• Pick up your toboggan and head to a local hill, like Watson Park in Ridgetown, Ferguson Park in Thamesville or Kingston Park in Chatham.
• Build a snowman, enjoy a frozen pond to skate on (be sure it's safe and you aren't trespassing!) or take a walk through the various communities in Chatham-Kent and rediscover CK. 

Spend some time discovering outdoor activities

• When the ice is safe, head out to Mitchell's Bay, Rondeau Bay or the Thames River for some ice fishing. 
• Grab your binoculars or camera and see what winter birds you can find as you hike through Rondeau Provincial Park or check out Wheatley Provincial Park. 
  

Enjoy indoor fun 

• From indoor playgrounds and trampoline parks to bowling and axe throwing or even the movies, Chatham-Kent is home to many great indoor options when there isn't enough snow to enjoy traditional winter fun or if being out in the snow just isn't your thing. 
• Check out our many entertainment options for these suggestions and more!

Skip the leftovers and order in 

• Now is a great time to pick up takeout and just stay warm inside, while supporting our local businesses or warm up after a day out in the cold and pick up hot chocolate and your favourite treats available on the Bakery Trail. 
• Tired of leftovers or trying to figure out what you want to cook? Choose from the many varieties of take-out options available across Chatham-Kent from restaurants that offer take-out service.  

Enjoy locally crafted brews 

• We know you are longing to sit on a patio with friends and good craft beer. For now, bring it home and check out the options on our Kegs and Corks trail or enjoy onsite indoors.
  
• A great selection awaits at Bayside Brewing Co. in Erieau, Red Barn Brewing Co. in Blenheim, at Sons of Kent Brewing Co. in Chatham and at Glasstown Brewing Co. in Wallaceburg. 
• If beer isn't your beverage of choice, Early Acres Estate Winery has a great variety of wines for any occasion. 

Winter Wellness 

• Why not grab your favourite pals and reconnect this winter. With great spots like TJ Stables to enjoy winter horse back riding, you'll definitely find time to unwind and reconnect with nature in a way you've never imagined. 
• If being inside and cozy is more your thing, we highly recommend a stay with friends at our renowned boutique hotel, Retro Suites Hotel, combined with a bit of creativity. This winter they've teamed up with Dare to Declare  where you will also create your own vision board. Make those dreams (visions) a reality, as you walk through this unique program. 
• Looking for something more rustic but with modern and chiq flair? Why not book a night or two at Willow Barrel Retreat in Erieau. Take a break from a fast-paced city experience and enjoy the luxurious amenities of their unique cottages. With winding trails for walking or even snowshoeing, and boutique shopping in the nearby town of Blenheim, just minutes away, there is so much to take in! 
• Take a moment to stop and enjoy some of the beautiful local barn quilts located throughout Chatham-Kent. These barn quilts are large painted replicas of fabric quilt blocks installed on barns or mounted posts in public places that highlight the history of our local community.

We've outlined just some of the things to do when you #VisitCK, but be sure to come and discover on your own. Follow #SeeYouinCK on Facebook and Instagram for more great places to visit and ways to spend your days in Chatham-Kent.

We can't wait to #SeeYouinCK!