Churchill for All Ages & Seasons

Lights, ice, aurora!

For most of us, the chance to witness the aurora is just a bucket-list wish involving costly travel to the Arctic Circle—and then not always getting the big reward. However, in 2024, the lights were visible unusually far south, with people reporting stunning sightings across southern England on multiple occasions. Featuring a kaleidoscope of reds, greens, purples, and blues, and a rare STEVE phenomenon putting on an appearance, it was the best year for these spectacles in 20 years.

The good news is that this is likely to continue into 2025. Under the Aurora Oval, Churchill boasts over 300 nights a year of auroral activity, making it one of the best places on Earth to see the northern lights. Here, winter brings a rare stillness, where evenings are spent stargazing from a glass viewing dome or open-air platform, and days are filled with intimate local experiences: think snowshoeing the boreal forest, learning from Indigenous guides, and warming up with fireside storytelling.

Insider tip: There’s almost no light pollution just outside town, perfect for photography and uninterrupted viewing.

Wings of the Wilderness

Churchill transforms into a birder’s paradise in June, as more than 175 species return in full chorus. Expect to witness flocks of tundra swans gliding across meltwater pools, falcons soaring the cliffs, and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the elusive Ross’s gull. With long days and a burst of color on the tundra, spring in Churchill feels like an awakening.

Don’t miss: Guided outings across the boreal forest, tundra, and Hudson Bay coast offer rich biodiversity in every direction.

Whale you look at that?

Summer brings the belugas. Thousands of beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River estuary, making it the largest accessible population in the world. These playful, social creatures often swim right up to boats and kayaks, clicking and chirping as they go. This season, you will be spoiled for choice. Spend your days on water safaris, in zodiacs, kayaking alongside these gentle giants, or do it all.

Insider tip: Beluga boat safaris with hydrophones let you hear the whales communicate underwater—an unforgettable moment.

Inside joke: An Arctic Summer may still be warmer than one in San Francisco!

Welcome to bear season

This is Churchill’s crown jewel season. As Hudson Bay begins to freeze, hundreds of polar bears gather along the coast, waiting to hunt. Cozy up inside a heated tundra vehicle, complete with an outdoor viewing deck, and watch as polar bears spar, snooze, or stroll right past you. It’s undisturbed, wild, primal, breathtaking, and deeply humbling.

Bonus experiences: Helicopter rides over the ice, dog-sledding through the forest, and fine dining under the stars after a day in the wild.

Wildlife to watch for: Arctic foxes, snowy owls, and ptarmigans also make surprise appearances.

Ptarmigan

Every journey NEEDS a good cup of coffee. Here is where I recommend you grab a fresh brew and a buttery pastry to get started. Later in the day, come back for regionally inspired plates served with relaxed northern charm.

Features: Fully accessible by wheelchair. Healthy and vegetarian options are available.

Tundra Inn

A homey pub with an Arctic heart. Tundra Inn is where locals gather, swap stories, and comfort food gets a Canadian twist. Expect wild berry burgers (ask for vegan), seasonal curries, and cozy sides like vegan garlic bread.

Features: Vegan-labeled menu items, including coconut vegetable curry, salads with seeds and fruit, and vegan soup on select days.

Lazy Bear Cafe

From a land that looks frozen and sparse, Lazy Bear serves up richness: mushrooms, berries, and heart. The hand-built log interior sets the tone for one of Churchill’s most distinctive dining experiences.

Features: Vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options.