As the calendar turns to January in Thunder Bay, winter is in full swing. The days are crisp and snowy, with average highs around –8°C (18°F) and nights dipping well below freezing. The holiday rush has settled, ushering in a peaceful New Year atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to slow down, recharge, and embrace the beauty of winter. At The Superior Inn Hotel & Conference Centre, we invite you to experience January’s magic with cozy comforts, friendly service, and activities to delight both leisure travelers and business guests. Whether you’re planning a family getaway to beat the winter blues or arriving for your first work trip of 2026, you’ll find a warm welcome (and plenty of hot coffee) waiting for you here.

Cozy Rooms for Chilly Nights

After a day out in the frosty air, nothing feels better than returning to a warm, comfortable room. The Superior Inn boasts 182 guest rooms thoughtfully designed for relaxation. Sink into plush pillow-top beds with fresh linens, and wake up to the aroma of in-room coffee brewing – a simple pleasure on a cold January morning. Each room is a toasty retreat from the winter chill. And if you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your stay (perhaps a romantic surprise or a special treat), consider one of our newly renovated Spa Suites. These premium suites feature king-size beds, inviting sitting areas, and even cozy fireplaces for those especially brisk nights. Imagine curling up by your own fireplace with a good book or a loved one as the snow falls softly outside – pure winter bliss!

We know that comfort means different things to different travelers. For some, it’s the serenity of a well-appointed room; for others, it’s the joy of having their four-legged family member along for the trip. Yes, The Superior Inn is proudly pet-friendly. You don’t have to leave your furry companion behind when you visit. We even offer special pet amenities (like cozy bowls and treats) to keep your pet just as happy as you are during your stay. Our goal is to make every guest feel right at home – including the canine kind! And throughout the hotel, you’ll notice homey touches that reflect the season. Don’t be surprised by a hint of winter decor in the lobby or the scent of hot chocolate and spiced coffee in the air. Little details like these all add up to a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes January feel extra cozy.

Indoor Winter Fun for Everyone

When January’s freezing temperatures or snowstorms keep you indoors, The Superior Inn turns downtime into fun time. Our indoor pool complex is a year-round hit – and it truly shines in the heart of winter. Under our bright atrium roof, you’ll find a tropical oasis where it’s summer no matter what the weather outside. Kids race toward our three-story waterslide with delight (and who could blame them?). Every twist and turn of the slide comes with squeals of laughter that echo through the pool area. Parents can watch the action from the deck or dive right in – after all, you’re never too old for a bit of waterpark excitement! If relaxation is more your style, ease into our whirlpool hot tub and let the warm, bubbling water soak away any chill in your bones. While winter winds howl outside, you can float, splash, and play in comfort – it’s the ultimate cure for cabin fever.

Families especially treasure these indoor amenities. It’s not always easy to keep everyone entertained during the deep winter months, but here the weather never disrupts your plans. You can spend hours swimming, sliding, and giggling together without ever leaving the hotel. And when it’s time to dry off, our convenient poolside rooms make the transition from splash time to quiet time a breeze – just steps from pool to door. Looking to make your stay even more memorable for the little ones? Check out our unique theme suites decked out in kid-friendly décor. From pirate adventures to princess retreats, these rooms turn a night at the hotel into a mini-vacation all on its own. This January, fun and relaxation go hand-in-hand at The Superior Inn’s indoor paradise.

For guests who like to stay active, don’t forget we also have a fully equipped fitness centre on site. If your New Year’s resolution is to keep up with your workout routine, we’ve got you covered. Our gym features modern equipment for cardio and strength training, and it’s open early in the morning through late evening to fit your schedule. So, you can get that energizing workout in before a day of meetings or after a day of exploring – no excuses, even on the road!

Hearty Meals at Lake & Spruce Restaurant

All that swimming and winter fun can work up quite an appetite. Luckily, you won’t need to bundle up and brave the cold in search of food – Lake & Spruce Restaurant, our on-site dining spot, has you covered with delicious options from morning to night. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Lake & Spruce offers a welcoming space where comfort food takes center stage. In January, our chefs infuse the menu with seasonal flair to warm you from the inside out. Picture yourself savoring a steaming bowl of homemade soup or enjoying a plate of locally sourced Lake Superior fish on a chilly evening. Craving something classic and hearty after a day in the cold? Our famous crispy chicken wings or a charbroiled steak might hit the spot – the kind of satisfying fare that makes you momentarily forget the snow outside. And if you have a sweet tooth, ask about our dessert special of the week (there’s nothing like a warm berry crumble or chocolate treat to cap off a winter day!).

The atmosphere at Lake & Spruce is as inviting as the food. The dining room and adjoining Lake & Spruce Lounge are designed in a style that’s both modern and cozy, making it one of the most comfortable places to eat in Thunder Bay. Grab a booth or pull up a chair by the window; you’ll feel at ease whether you’re in a business suit after a day of meetings or in casual clothes after a swim. Families love the laid-back vibe (kids can enjoy their mac ’n’ cheese while parents unwind with a local craft beer or a glass of wine). And because the restaurant is just steps from your room, there’s no need to warm up the car or scrape ice off the windshield to go out for dinner – a tasty meal is always within easy reach on our property.

After dinner, feel free to stop by the Lake & Spruce Lounge for a nightcap or a hot evening drink. As January nights get colder, there’s something so satisfying about wrapping your hands around a mug of hot chocolate or a specialty coffee topped with a splash of Bailey’s. Sports fan? You’re in luck – our lounge features huge 75-inch TV screens, perfect for catching the hockey game or playoffs in high definition while you stay warm indoors. Cheer on your team, chat with fellow guests, or simply relax and watch the snowflakes dance outside the window. From a hearty breakfast to an evening cocktail, dining at The Superior Inn keeps you well-fed and content throughout your stay.

Explore Thunder Bay’s Winter Wonderland

Just because it’s the coldest month of the year doesn’t mean you can’t explore Thunder Bay – you’ll just balance outdoor adventures with plenty of cozy indoor time. The Superior Inn’s convenient location (just off Arthur Street West) puts you close to many of the city’s attractions, and our team is always ready with suggestions to help you make the most of a winter visit. January offers a mix of serene natural beauty and fun local activities. Here are a few ideas to inspire you during your stay:

• Hit the Slopes or Trails: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, take advantage of the snowy season. Local ski hills like Loch Lomond Ski Area are open for downhill skiing and snowboarding once the snowpack is thick (usually by January). Prefer cross-country? Kamview Nordic Centre offers groomed cross-country ski trails through peaceful forests. Snowshoeing is another great way to experience the landscape – try a trail at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park or a walk to see the frozen Kakabeka Falls, known as the “Niagara of the North,” in its winter splendor. Just bundle up and enjoy the crisp air and sparkling snow!
• Indoor Attractions: On days when the weather is too harsh, Thunder Bay has wonderful indoor attractions. Explore the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, the largest art gallery in Northern Ontario, which showcases contemporary Indigenous art and local works – a perfect cultural escape on a cold afternoon. Or delve into regional history at the Thunder Bay Museum, with three floors of exhibits ranging from the fur trade era to modern times. These venues are both engaging and family-friendly, offering a warm refuge from the cold while you learn something new. And let’s not forget simple pleasures: you can spend a cozy morning at a local coffee shop savoring a hot latte and a famous local Persian donut (a Thunder Bay specialty) while watching the snowfall.
• City Sights & Events: If you catch a clear day, head to Marina Park on the waterfront. A brisk walk will reward you with stunning views of Lake Superior’s ice-capped horizon and the Sleeping Giant formation silhouetted against the sky. The city often maintains a public skating rink at the waterfront in winter – skating outside with a view of the lake is a must-try if weather permits. January is also hockey season in Canada; consider catching a Thunder Bay hockey game at Fort William Gardens to experience local sports spirit. And while the major festivals are months away, keep an eye out for community events – for example, the city’s Winter FunDays (free family activities on Sundays) usually run through January and February. Our front desk staff will be happy to let you know what’s happening around town during your stay.

Through all your adventures, The Superior Inn serves as your cozy base camp. Head out for snowshoeing or meetings by day, and know that a warm room (and maybe a hot tub soak) will be waiting when you return. We’re here to help you enjoy the best of Thunder Bay’s winter, whether you love the outdoors or prefer to stay snug inside. Just ask our team for recommendations – from the best spot to grab a steaming hot chocolate to directions to the nearest sledding hill, we’ve got you covered!

Business Travel Made Easy

January isn’t only for leisure – it’s also a time when business travel picks up again after the holidays. If you’re visiting Thunder Bay for work, training sessions, or kicking off new projects in the new year, The Superior Inn has everything you need to stay productive and comfortable. We haven’t missed a beat just because it’s winter; our meeting rooms and conference facilities are fully operational year-round for any seminars, workshops, or planning meetings you have in mind. With 12 flexible meeting spaces on site, we can host groups as small as 8 or as large as several hundred people, giving you plenty of options for any business gathering. Each venue is equipped with modern A/V technology and free high-speed Wi-Fi, so your presentations and video calls will run smoothly. Need any special setup or assistance? Our events team and on-site tech support are on standby to help, ensuring your focus stays on the task at hand.

Traveling in January can be challenging, but we try to make it as easy as possible for our business guests. If you’re flying into Thunder Bay, take advantage of our complimentary airport shuttle – no need to worry about renting a car or scraping ice off a windshield in the bitter cold. If you do drive, you’ll find ample free parking waiting for you, with plug-ins available for engine block heaters on those extremely frigid nights. Inside the hotel, you’ll find conveniences like a 24-hour business corner, and of course that reliable Wi-Fi extends to all guest rooms and common areas so you can work from anywhere. Need to squeeze in a workout to stay sharp? Our fitness center is there for you. And when the workday is done, you can unwind at Lake & Spruce Lounge or soak in the hot tub to melt away stress.

We also understand that business travelers appreciate the little things. Our front desk is staffed 24/7, so whether you need a late-night wake-up call, an extra blanket to make your room cozier, or tips on where to grab a quick bite before an early meeting, we’re here to assist. In this deep winter season, it’s often the small comforts and acts of hospitality that make the biggest difference. Expect to be greeted with genuine warmth at every turn – we truly aim to make you feel at home, even when you’re hard at work on the road.

Start 2026 with a Superior Stay

There’s a special calm about Thunder Bay in January. The rush of the holidays has passed, and the city settles into a gentler pace. It’s a time of new beginnings, cozy evenings, and winter landscapes that take your breath away. The Superior Inn Hotel & Conference Centre invites you to start 2026 off right by experiencing all of this in comfort and style. We strive to make every winter stay feel special – perhaps it’s the way our team remembers your name and asks how your day went, or the way a fresh pot of coffee is always ready to perk you up in the lobby each morning. Maybe it’s just the peace of mind knowing that while the winds may howl and snow may pile up outside, you’re snug, safe, and cared for within our walls.

If you’re planning a visit or local staycation this January, now is a great time to secure your room. The city’s summer crowds are long gone, and the ski-season rush will build later – meaning you can often enjoy a quieter, more intimate experience during the early winter. Browse our website or give our friendly reservations team a call to find the perfect room or suite for your needs. Traveling with family? Ask about our family winter packages or adjoining room options to make everyone comfortable. Have a special request, like a surprise amenity for someone’s birthday or dietary needs for your conference catering? Just let us know – we love going the extra mile to make your stay personalized and memorable.

When you stay with us at The Superior Inn this January, we’re here to turn the coldest part of the year into a season of warmth, fun, and connection. So pack your warmest sweater and come on over – we’ll have the coffee hot, the beds made, and the welcome mat outsuperiorinnhotel.com. Whether you’re joining us for a weekend winter escape with the kids, a romantic mid-winter retreat, or an important business trip, we promise to make your January 2026 truly Superior. We can’t wait to welcome you and share the cozy side of Thunder Bay this winter! Happy New Year and see you soon at The Superior Inn Hotel & Conference Centre.