It’s going to be a cold one this weekend, Toronto, but that’s no excuse to spend your whole weekend buried in a pile of blankets (as tempting as it may be). Life’s too short to skip out on a few days of fun just because it’s a little chilly out there —okay, maybe “chilly” is an understatement. But, with so many fun things to do in Toronto this weekend and heated patios to keep you warm, you’ll hardly notice the weather. If you’ve got a few layers on, that is.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Toronto and all around the GTA this mid-January weekend.
GO FOR BRUNCH ON A PATIO
If there’s one thing Toronto does exceptionally well, it’s brunch. We locals can hardly go a weekend without our late-morning eggs benny and mimosas with friends. These heated patios in Toronto are serving brunch right through winter and have outfitted their outdoor spaces with fire pits, heaters, dreamy decor, and more. If you don’t want to wait for warmer days to enjoy your french toast in the great outdoors, these heated brunch patios in Toronto are where it’s at.
Where: See all the brunch patios in Toronto
SNOW MAGIC
Something magical has taken over Ontario Place and it’s like a snow globe come to life! Snow Magic is inviting you to “explore a wonder-filled adventure inspired by fire, ice, and light.” Drive your way through 1.7 km of magical sights, including 18 art installations, crystalline caverns, awe-inspiring creatures and “mysterious sights that only dreams are made of.”
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
When: Until January 23rd
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
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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
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
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
VISIT A FINNISH-INSPIRED NORDIC SPA
The Vettä Nordic Spa has finally opened in Oro-Medonte. The property is nestled in the highlands of Horseshoe Valley just an hour north of Toronto and an hour from Muskoka, making you feel as if you’ve truly escaped from the city without having to travel too far. At this time, the spa is operating at less than 25% of their capacity. As per the provincial mandate, only the outdoor pools are currently open and the remaining amenities will be closed until at least January 27.
Where: 3210 Line, 3 Line N, Oro-Medonte
TAKE A VIRTUAL WORKOUT CLASS
January is usually a month to start fitness routines, and the physical closures in Ontario for the next few weeks shouldn’t stop you. Many local Toronto studios and gyms are currently offering virtual classes, which is a great way to kick off that fitness goal while supporting a Toronto business.
Where: See Toronto gyms with online classes here
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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
CHECK OUT CANADA’S FIRST CARLO’S BAKERY
After months of anticipation, Buddy Valastro has finally opened the doors of his very first bakeshop in the north. Carlo’s Bakery is now up and running in Mississauga and it’s a must-visit for Cake Boss fans and pastry lovers alike.
With a spacious outdoor patio and a huge variety of mouthwatering eats straight from the Valastro family recipe book, Carlo’s Bakery is designed to be a neighbourhood staple where locals can get together and enjoy a leisurely lunch or a slice of cake in a vibrant outdoor atmosphere.
Where: 167 Lakeshore Rd W
When: Daily, 9 a.m. — 9 p.m.
There you have it! Ten things to do in Toronto this weekend. Make it a good one!
