We’ve almost reached the end of January and that means spring is around the corner, right? Well, maybe not yet, but it does mean that we’re just days away from gyms, bars, and restaurants reopening and we’ll take that as a win. As much as we love working out in our living rooms and shivering on a patio in the middle of winter, we’re pretty excited to get back to our normal routines. Until then, there are plenty of activities and events around the city to check out and keep us entertained.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Toronto this week!
NORDIC LIGHTS
Something magical is coming to the Harbourfront Centre. An immersive light experience straight from Scandinavia will light up the waterfront starting this week, with six glowing displays for you to explore. The free interactive exhibition, called Nordic Lights, will feature six interactive light works from artists from Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark.
Where: 235 Queens Quay W
When: January 27th — February 13th
DINE ON A HEATED PATIO
No city does patio season quite like Toronto. Even on frosty nights, you’ll still catch people dining and sipping their cocktails on patios next to heaters and fire pits. If the last couple of years have given you a new appreciation for outdoor dining, you’ll be happy to know that there are tons of gorgeous heated patios in Toronto equipped with everything you need to stay toasty all season long.
Patios are currently permitted to stay open throughout the month of January and there are 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
THE BENTWAY SKATE TRAIL
Toronto’s iconic skating trail under the Gardiner Expressway is open for the winter season. The 220 metre, figure 8 loop has skating lessons, rentals, sharpening services, special events, and art installations throughout the season. You can also warm up with a free hot chocolate every Thursday evening, but drinks are available for purchase on-site every day of the week.
Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
When: Until February 21st
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HIT UP A WINTER WALKING TRAIL
We may have fewer places to go in Toronto right now, but one thing we can always enjoy is the great outdoors. Thankfully, this city is full of peaceful nature trails that are enjoyed by locals all year round, even in the colder months. We Ontarians aren’t deterred by a little wind chill — just throw on a few extra layers, grab a thermos full of hot chocolate, and you’re good to go.
It’s time to get back to the basics and appreciate the small things in life, like a sunny day, gently falling snow, and a few leisurely hours to slow down and soak up your surroundings.
Where: See Toronto’s best trails here
SKATE BY THE WATERFRONT
The Harbourfront Centre’s revamped rink is now open and it’s one of the city’s most picturesque spots for an outdoor skate. The rink is free to visit but rentals are available on-site for a small fee. The new rink is nestled along the Lake Ontario shoreline, along with an ice loop in the South Orchard that connects to the rest of the rink. And once you’re done, you can warm up with a hot drink from Boxcar Social right next door.
When: Until Sunday, March 6th
Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W
FAIRWAY OF LIGHTS
Take a stroll on a sparkling trail through the woods this January at the Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham. Pets are invited to enjoy the 1 km trail every Sunday this month. The walk takes about 45 minutes to complete, so be sure to dress warmly. There are plenty of spots to snap photos along the trail too. If you didn’t get enough twinkling lights and magical vibes in December, this is definitely the place to go!
Where: 10080 Kennedy Rd
When: Until January 30th
HIT UP A TOBOGGANING HILL
Make the most of all the snow and hit up one of Toronto’s many tobogganing hills. Whether you’re in the west end, the east end or North York, there’s sure to be an epic hill near you. Just grab your sled and a few friends for some free outdoor fun.
Where: See Toronto’s best tobogganing hills here
GET A SWEET BURGER DEAL
Toronto just got a new burger spot on Bloor Street West, and it has a meal deal for $10 every day of the week. Burger Tribe is located near Bathurst and Bloor and has five burgers on its menu, as well as chicken and a plant-based option. It also has an “everyday special” meal deal for $10 which includes a cheese burger, fries, and a pop.
Where: 490 Bloor Street West
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WINTERLIT
Take a dreamy winter stroll under the stars and the glow of twinkling lights and campfires. This special experience is a great excuse to enjoy the fresh air and nature and snap some adorable photos while you’re at it. Enjoy the art installations displayed along the trail, live performers, food and beverages, and of course, breathtaking scenery.
Where: Mountsberg Conservation Area, 2259 Milburough Line
When: Until February 20th
HAVE A ROMANTIC DATE NIGHT IN
It’s been freaking chilly and on the worst days, there’s nothing that’ll get us motivated enough to leave the house – but alas, life goes on! Luckily, no thanks to the pandemic, there’s actually a whole 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 are looking for something new to do with your roommates, here are 10 indoor ‘date’ ideas for when it’s too darn cold outside – that isn’t just ‘watch Netflix.’
