March Break in Canada? Here’s where you should go

We’ve got scenic bike trails, mountains escapes, and an ice hotel on our experiences list—don’t miss these homespun destinations with March Break activities for everyone!

You might not be embarking on a sunny, tropical escape this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a rejuvenating outdoor adventure this March Break in Canada. Here are some amazing March Break getaway ideas so you can have a memorable (and much-needed!) staycation for 2021.

Quick note: Travel restrictions for Canadians are changing rapidly. It’s important to consult official guidance from the Government of Canada and the World Health Organization before booking or undertaking any type of travel.

When is March Break 2021 in Canada?

Easter Day lands on April 4, 2021, so for some school districts and provinces that means that their March Break and Easter holiday fall on the same weekend. For others, the Canadian spring break will be sometime in the middle of March this year.

*Individual school boards in any of the provinces/territories may differ in their dates. Always check with your local school for the latest information on your March Break days

It’s important to point out that some schools in Canada might not physically be open, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It doesn’t appear that it has affected whether or not there will be a March Break, but it’s important to check with your specific school district on the exact dates before making staycation plans.

March Break ideas: Make the most out of your staycation

March Break in Canada is everyone’s favourite time for a little rest and relaxation. It’s the first big holiday after the new year, and our March Break week is an opportunity to plan a big escape before the summer months.

With travel restrictions still in place, this is a chance explore our own backyard and support fellow Canadians. Our list of March Break activities covers different provinces across Canada, with the intention to promote travel within your home province or territory. Please check the links provided for each destination, so that you’re aware of their cancellation policies and plan for a flexible trip.

What to do this March Break in Canada

Whether you want to spend a day taking in the beautiful mountain scenery in Banff, welcome the Grey whales back to Tofino, or have a chilly-yet-romantic night at an ice hotel (literally), we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for March Break 2021 in Canada.

Spend time in nature in Banff

Banff is truly beautiful year-round, and a ride up the famous Banff Gondola will prove it to you. This world-renowned Canadian destination is usually crowded with international tourists, but the ongoing border closures make it perfect for Albertans to enjoy.

Banff is one of those perfect March Break vacation ideas that are truly fun for everyone. You can go skiing on Lake Louise, take a spring hike up Johnson Canyon, and spend your evening ordering into your room at the famous Fairmont Banff Springs.

Celebrate natural beauty at Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls remains to be one of the best places you can enjoy March Break in Ontario. Beyond catching a glimpse of this mesmerizing natural attraction, you can enjoy nature with a walk or bike ride on the Niagara River Recreation Trail or Niagara Glen. And if the weather’s a bit too chilly for your taste, perhaps renting a car and going for a family drive is in order?

If you are looking for possible hotel options (please check official guidance before any booking), your trip could easily consist of ordering food to your room at the wondrous Embassy Suites Fallsview (said to have the best view of the falls) before heading out into nature. You can also consider renting a cozy cottage in the area for a home-away-from-home vibe.

Hit the slopes at Asessippi Ski Resort

Manitoba isn’t known for its skiing, but that doesn’t mean that your March Break getaway can’t consist of hitting the slopes. Located roughly four hours away from Winnipeg, you’ll find Asessippi Ski Resort, where you can hop on a snowboard or throw on a pair of skis and ride the day away. While you’re in the area, you can also visit Asessippi Provincial Park or go on a snowshoeing adventure.

Outdoor activities like snowboarding and skiing are always a favourite for Canadians in the winter, so you’ll be pleased to know that a lot of your top ski resorts remain open this year. However, the resorts have some modified rules, including ones that all tickets, rentals, and lessons must be pre-booked online so they can adhere to visitor capacity. Make sure to check out the latest regulations on your local ski resort’s website before planning your trip.

Enjoy BC’s Sunshine Coast

Located just northwest of Vancouver, BC’s Sunshine Coast is one of the hidden gems in Canada and offers a ton of inspiration when it comes to March Break vacations. Explore the area in places like Gambier, Anvil, and Nelson Islands, and small towns like Gibsons and Sechelt.

This beautiful area of Canada is known for its exceptional views, delicious local food, (oysters and fish), and outdoor activities for any type of traveller. For active travellers, choice skiing can be found at Dakota Ridge, and the bike trails at Halfmoon Bay are breathtaking. But if you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, you can find yourself fishing on the coast or taking in the sunset at the beach.

Sleep in an ice hotel in Quebec

Hôtel de Glace is an unmissable Canadian winter experience in the town of Valcartier, Quebec. Located just a short drive from Quebec City, this is a hotel completely crafted out of ice and snow. So Canadian, right? All of the walls, furniture, and even the bar is made completely out of frozen water, and it is something else to behold. Enjoy the sparkling ice sculptures in the hotel while sipping on a signature cocktail during your stay.

This bucket list experience is still open for visitors (albeit with a few important restrictions) until mid-March. Those taking an earlier March Break could have the opportunity to visit this unique hotel. If you’re not able to visit in-person, you can take their 3D tour to get the feel for it.

Visit Paris in Canada

You might not be able to head to France, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some picturesque, Parisian-style sights. Inspired by France’s capital city (and sharing a name with a famous Paris hill), you’ll find Canada’s Eiffel Tower that’s found in none other than the town of Montmartre, Saskatchewan—or, at least, a 30-foot tall replica of the original one.

While seeing the Eiffel Tower won’t take the full day, there is the option to enjoy a walk in the Canadian Prairies in Kemoca Regional Park. For those missing the movie theatre, you can catch a COVID-friendly flick an hour away at the Moonlight Movies Drive-in in Pilot Butte.

Enjoy a bike trip in the Acadian Peninsula

On the northeast coast of New Brunswick, you’ll find the Acadian Peninsula. Those looking for scenic March Break activities will find a mix of rock and sand on the coastline, bike trails that weave through a picturesque landscape, and a truly Canadian food menu that’s itching to be tried.

Travellers headed to this area can explore the countryside by bike in Caraquet. After catching a mesmerizing sunset on one of the main beaches that dot the coastline, grab yourself a donair or delicious poutine for dinner. There are plenty of opportunities to hole up in a seaside cabin and enjoy your time in the area safely.

See Teacup Rock at Thunder Cove Beach

Thunder Cove Beach in Prince Edward Island is known for Teacup Rock. This Canadian wonder is a sandstone rock that’s shaped like a teacup (or a hippo or elephant, depending on who you ask) that sits at the edge of the water like welcome sign to Prince Edward Island’s coastline. You’ll find this unique little natural attraction on the shores of Darnley. 

While you’re spending some March Break vacation time exploring the coastline, consider wandering down to the Cape Tryon Lighthouse in French River. You can also take a hiking adventure to Cabot Beach Provincial Park, or opt for a mini road trip through the area for a little taste of the natural landscape.

Find great March Break deals

Looking for a COVID-friendly hotel for your next staycation? Skyscanner makes it easy to find the best March Break deals on hotels with our handy hotel search.

March Break in Canada FAQs

Discover where you can go

Read up on the latest travel restrictions and guidelines for Canadian travellers. Want to know when your favourite destination opens up again? Sign up for email notifications and you’ll be the first to know.

Want to read more?

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