The weekend is nearly here and with it comes plenty of great things to do in and around Toronto. From winter activities to delicious bites, all the way to patio hops and date nights, here are some of the best things to do in and around Toronto this weekend.
THE BENTWAY SKATE TRAIL
While there are tons of places to go skating in and around the city, Toronto’s iconic skating trail under the Gardiner Expressway is only open for a couple more weeks. No matter your skill level, the 220-meter figure 8 loop has everything you need from skating lessons to rental and sharpening services. Not to mention, there are tons of special events and art installations throughout the season.
When: 250 Fort York Blvd
Where: Until February 21st
FESTIVAL OF COOL
While visiting the Harbourfont Centre this weekend, take a moment to experience Nordic culture and art. Featuring illuminating outdoor winter experiences, starting with the Nordic Lights, this festival will “connects us with the realm of the gods to our world of light and art” as you walk along the Bifrost, a dazzling rainbow bridge.
Where: 235 Queens Quay W
When: January 27th – February 13th
DINE ON A HEATED PATIO
Even though the temperature keeps on dropping, that’s not stopping people from dining and sipping cocktails on patios next to heaters and fire pits. With tons of gorgeous heated patios in Toronto, you’ll have everything you need to stay toasty all season long.
Patios are currently permitted to stay open throughout the month of January and there is plenty to check out around the city. You may want to give them a call in advance to confirm their operating hours and make a reservation.
Where: See Toronto’s winter patios here
HIT UP A TOBOGGANING HILL
When it snows in Toronto, it only means one thing: time to hit up one of Toronto’s many tobogganing hills. Whether you’re from the west or east end, or North York, there’s sure to be an epic hill near you. So, grab your sled and a few friends for some free outdoor fun.
Where: See Toronto’s best tobogganing hills
HAVE A ROMANTIC DATE NIGHT IN
With the weather how it is, there’s not much that will get us to leave the house. Thankfully, there’s actually a whole lot that we can do from home – some of which can be pretty romantic. If you’re in a relationship, are trying to woo someone special, or need something different to do, here are 10 indoor ‘date’ ideas for when it’s too cold to leave the house.
BISHA HOTELS’ WINTER CHALET & RINK
A new destination for dreamy winter fun has opened up in the city. Toronto’s Bisha Hotel has transformed its fourth-floor terrace into a private skating rink and cozy winter chalet where you can glide the afternoon away, then refuel and warm up with some treats. Guests at the Bisha can book the rink for a private two-hour skate, then enjoy hot beverages and fresh baked goods in the chalet.
Where: 80 Blue Jays Way
TAKE AN ALPACA FOR A WALK
There’s nothing more fluffy and soft than an alpaca in the winter! And with only an hour and a half drive from Toronto, who wouldn’t want to visit Harmony Meadows to hang out with tons of friendly alpacas?
Book your visit in advance and spend a peaceful afternoon strolling around with a four-legged companion and learn all about these special animals from their guides.
Where: 6185 Sixth Line, Belwood
CHECK OUT THE NEW CAKE BOSS BAKERY
After months of anticipation, Carlo’s Bakery is officially open in Mississauga. With a spacious outdoor patio and a huge variety of mouthwatering desserts straight from Buddy Valastro’s family recipe book, it’s a must-visit for Cake Boss and pastry lovers alike.
Where: 167 Lakeshore Rd W
HIT UP A WINTER WALKING TRAIL
Between working from home and very few places to go to in Toronto right now, we could use some time in the great outdoors. Thankfully, this city is filled with tons of peaceful nature trails that can be enjoyed all year round. Time to get back to basics and experience all the best trails the city has to offer.
Where: See Toronto’s best trails here
WINTERLIT
Just a couple of hours outside of the city, this special experience is a great excuse to enjoy the fresh air and nature. Take a dreamy winter stroll under the stars and the glow of twinkling lights and campfires. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to snap some Instagram-worthy photos of the art installations displayed along the trail, live performers, food and beverages, and of course, the breathtaking scenery.
When: Mountsberg Conservation Area, 2259 Milburough Line
Where: Until February 20th
