‘Tis the season for lake effect snow, Home Alone marathons, and making winter memories. With schools soon out for the year and holiday office hours in effect, winter break moves faster than the weather radar.

So, if you’re still undecided on a seasonal itinerary for the whole family, perhaps our list of transit-accessible activities can inspire some fun and festive ideas.

For the hockey fans

If you can’t make it to Ottawa this year to catch a World Juniors hockey game, experience the thrill of a Toronto Marlies or Niagara IceDogs game rinkside instead. Plus, PRESTO card holders can save on tickets with PRESTO Perks!

While you’re in the city, check out the Hockey Hall of Fame, located just a short walk from Union Station, and enjoy interactive games, NHL artifacts, and the original Stanley Cup. Save 20 per cent off regular admission rates when you show your PRESTO card.

Then, why not show off your own moves on the ice? Lace up your skates (or rent-a-skate) for a leisure skate or casual game of shinny at one of the region’s many rinks.

Here are just a few that are transit-accessible:

• Nathan Philips Square presents an iconic backdrop for many picturesque skating pics in Toronto and is conveniently located within walking distance to the Eaton Centre and Union Station.
• The outdoor ice rink at Markham Civic Centre is just a quick ride from Unionville GO Station. Don’t forget take advantage of One Fare to transfer to York Region Transit (YRT) for free!
• Glide on over to the east end to the Centennial Ice Rink, less than 20 minutes by bus from Eglinton GO Station.
• Take in lakefront views at the Outdoor Skating Rink at Pier 8, located within walking distance of West Harbour GO in Hamilton.
• For the ice averse, check out Roller Express at Union Station, an indoor roller rink featuring free skate rentals, lessons, and social events. Union Winter rink is open until Feb. 2, but will be closed on Dec. 24, 25, and 26, 2024.

For the NYE enthusiasts

Ring in the New Year before your little ones’ bedtime at the Toronto Zoo’s Noon Year’s Eve Bash on Dec. 31. Admission includes interactive games, dancing, and exciting prizes. Show your PRESTO card at the gates and save 20 per cent off general admission.

Did someone say Niagara Falls? Whether you’re looking to take part in the countdown to New Year’s Day or just making it a day trip to Niagara Falls, be sure to bundle up for the Winter Festival of Lights, on now until Jan. 5. Visit the Niagara Falls Tourism website for their beautiful fireworks display schedule, and remember that $10 Weekend Passes with GO Transit include travel on Saturday, Sunday and Holidays.

Laugh your way into 2025 at the New Year's Eve Comedy Extravaganza at Massey Hall, hosted by Bruce McCulloch and top Canadian comedians. PRESTO cardholders can also enjoy a 30 per cent discount with code NYEPRESTO at checkout.

A friendly reminder to GO Transit and UP Express customers: After 7 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2024, you can travel to and from your New Year's celebrations for free. Learn more here.

For the light chasers

Be dazzled by a magical, illuminated trail at the Holiday Nights of Lights: Reimagined, located just across the street from the Newmarket GO Bus Terminal at Upper Canada Mall. The exhibit is on until Jan. 4, and is stroller, wheelchair, and pet friendly (on select dates). Save online with PRESTO Perks when you use PRESTO20 at checkout and save 20 per cent on admission on Thursdays and Sundays or use code PRESTO15 at checkout and save 15 per cent on admission on Fridays and Saturdays.

Ride the Lakeshore West train to Burlington and enjoy the Festival of Lights at Spencer Smith Park from Nov. 29 – Jan. 8, or experience the magic of the season at Royal Botanical Garden’s “Winter Wonders” display, from Dec. 5 – Jan. 5.

Experience the extraordinary at Illuminarium in Toronto. This immersive cinematic experience pairs cutting edge visual, audio and projection technology to transport you to a new world! With PRESTO PERKS, you can enjoy 15 per cent savings online or in-person with code PRESTO15 on admission to “Lite Brite: Worlds of Wonder,” “Space: A Journey to the Moon & Beyond” and “Journey to Oz.” Please be prepared to show your PRESTO card upon entry.

No matter where the season takes you, planning your winter activities and travel ahead of time, with more time, is a good strategy to avoid disappointment or last-minute stress.

Here’s to embracing the magic of the season and creating lasting memories with your loved ones this winter.