BY MEGAN HONAN | Updated January 2024
Throughout the winter season, the days are shorter and the sun seems to disappear far too early. But in Waterloo Region, you never have to worry about running out of things to do–– even after dark. If there is one thing Canadians know best, it’s how to embrace all aspects of winter. From gliding down Chicopee Ski Hill under the moonlight, to dancing the night away at the latest Centre In The Square concert, or even enjoying a romantic date night at Babylon Sisters Wine Bar––there are countless options for fun after the sun sets.
Here are our seven favourite activities in the Waterloo Region to explore after dark:
For the Wine Connoisseur, Pop Into Babylon Sisters Wine Bar
Cozy up for an evening date night at Babylon Sisters Wine Bar, the perfect romantic retreat for the imported wine lover. With a focus on female wine producers, the bar carries almost exclusively consignment wines, as well as a small collection of natural wines. Stay late into the evening with snack boards on offer for grazing, including a selection of cheeses, apricots, nuts, fresh jam and chocolate. Plus, a new dinner menu promises even more reasons to visit again and again.
For the Board Game Master, School Your Friends at Games on Tap
For food, fun, drinks and board games, all in one place, look no further than Games on Tap. At just $6 a person, you’re guaranteed hours of fun, considering there are over 950 games to choose from. If you get hungry, saddle up to the bar for craft beer, wine and delicious desserts. Enjoy mixing and mingling with friends old and new at the weekly trivia night, hosted on both Sundays and Mondays, where you can put your general knowledge to the test.
For the Video Game Enthusiast, Get Competitive at AOK Craft Beer + Arcade
Step back in time and experience a retro arcade bar, located right in Downtown Kitchener. The AOK Craft Beer + Arcade offer the best of both worlds, 20+ vintage games and 12 rotating craft beers at all times. From classic Pinball, to Mortal Kombat, to Pac-Man, there’s nothing more nostalgic than battling it out with your best buds. Enjoy the best of the local brews with a curated selection of beers and ciders from the bar, than refuel your lifebar with a snack flight of three savoury dishes––gaurenteed to delight.
For Cult & Art-House Film Buffs, Binge the Classics at Apollo Cinema
Cozy up for a night at the cinema––an ideal after dark activity. But it should be noted the Apollo Cinema isn’t your regular Cineplex, it’s an independent theater with a focus on providing the best in contemporary, classic, and cult films. With a $24/month Film Circle Membership, film buffs can enjoy unlimited movies each month, along with special members-only screenings––every movie lover’s dream.
For the Craft Beer Bros, Hone Your Palate at Wave Maker Craft Brewery
Sometimes, there is no better late night activity than hitting up the bar. For a unique take on some classic brews, head to Wave Maker Craft Brewery. Here, the brewers believe in pushing boundaries and trying something new. While you can find plenty of their “standard” fare, you’ll also find lots of interesting one-off batches you won’t want to miss. If you want a peek behind the curtain, they also offer brewery tours to experience the creation process from start to finish.
For the Thrill Seeker, Hit the Chicopee Slopes at Night
After a long day at work, get the blood and adrenaline pumping with the thrill of a late night adventure! At Chicopee Ski Hill, hop on your board or skis and fly down the slopes under the starry sky. For those looking to advance their skills, consider trying a guided lesson from the pros and level up. Open until 9 p.m. every night, there is plenty of time to hop the moguls lit by moonlight––maybe even a few moments to spare towards an après ski beverage afterwards.
For the Music Lover, Belt Your Heart Out at Centre In The Square
Get your vocal cords ready for a night to remember at the Centre In The Square concert venue. With a rotating schedule of local favourites, along with big-name stars, there’s never a shortage of entertainment. By grabbing a CentreStage Membership, you can unlock early access to tickets and even relax in the members-only lounge for pre-show enjoyment.
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Megan Honan is a seasoned travel, food and lifestyle writer based in Waterloo Region. Megan currently holds bylines for Suitcase Magazine, NUVO, S/Magazine, Canadian Traveller, Days to Come, Swanky Retreats and more. She’s worked with some of the top travel companies across the globe to create content and help with overall brand strategy, including G Adventures and Cosmopolitan Hotels. To connect, please visit https://meganhonan.com.