Toronto is vibrant all year round, but there’s no question that summertime is when the city really comes alive. Between outdoor activities and rooftop patios and events, there are not enough days in the season to experience it all. That’s where we come in with a definitive list of incredible things to do in Toronto to make these glorious months count.
And as we welcome our favourite season, here are some things to do to kick off your 2022 summer right now, or plan ahead for some weekend activities.
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PEDAL PUB TORONTO
Just in time for summer, pedal-powered pubs have finally arrived in Toronto. Pedal Pub is essentially a mobile pub where fifteen people hop on a bike and pedal their way to three breweries and bars over the course of two hours. While some cities allow you to use the Pedal Pub for its original intended purpose (to drink on board), Toronto does not. That means absolutely no alcohol is allowed on board, but don’t worry, there will be no shortage of boozy fun on your tour.
Where: Departure destination provided upon booking
When: Starting on June 25, 2022
RENT A GLOWING SEE-THROUGH KAYAK
Toronto Kayaks is the city’s only transparent-LED-light-and-bluetooth-equipped-hybrid-kayak-canoe available. Whew, that was a mouthful! But every word in that multi-hyphenate is another perk this service offers. You’ll be straight vibing when you glide across the water in these glowing summer boats.
Where: Humber Bay Park & Humber Arch Bridge
When: All summer long
TORONTO WATER BIKES
Nothing beats being on the water on Toronto’s hot summer days. This year, you can check out a new experience on the lake by renting water bikes. Toronto Water Bikes will be open and available all summer to give you a new water sport experience! Think “cycling meets water”, and a fun exercise while adventuring around the lake. The best part is, you can get an individual bike or a tandem water bike for two.
Where: Book online
SKINNY DIP AT A NUDE BEACH
Sun’s out, buns out! If you really want to feel wild n’ free this summer, you should check out some of the official and unofficial nude beaches in Ontario. Whether you’re looking to stay in the city or are up for a little road trip, these clothing-optional beaches are all over the map. So go ahead and ditch your bathing suit, but not your sunscreen — we don’t want you burning in all the wrong places.
Where: See Ontario’s nude beaches here
QUADRICYCLE ON THE ISLANDS
Summer in the city means trips to the Islands, and no trip to the Toronto Islands is complete without a tandem cruise on a quadricycle. Sure, it may be the nerdiest contraption ever invented, but you’ll be laughing the whole time. If you can’t convince your friends, you can also opt for regular bikes that cost just $9.50 an hour to rent.
Where: Island Bicycle Rental
Cost: $36 per hour
WATCH MOVIES UNDER THE STARS
The season of movies under the stars is returning here in the city! The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show (TOPS) is making a comeback for the summer with a new series of programming called Curtains Up!. The films will pay tribute to all of the performing artists we’ve missed seeing live during the pandemic, from dancers to circus acts to musicians and more. Check out the full movie schedule right here.
Where: See locations
When: June 23-August 28, 2022
RETRO ROLLA ROLLER SKATE RENTALS
Skate your way through the city’s Bentway trail with a pair of retro four-wheel roller skates you can rent by the hour. The skates come in bright summer colours with matching protective gear. Spend an afternoon gliding around Fort York and snap some cute photos while you’re at it! Check out the theme nights while you’re there!
Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
When: Various times
CHECK OUT MUSIC ON THE RIVER
Boating, music, warm nights — put ’em all together and you have what might just be the coolest live concert experience Toronto has to offer. Music on the River is a concert series right on the Humber River and you’ll get to paddle your way to the show. Your ticket comes with a boat rental, paddle, lifejackets, access to the show, and a glowstick to wave along with the music.
Where: Humber River Paddling Centre, 9 Old Mill Rd
COOL OFF AT THIS INFLATABLE WATERPARK
Looking for a new summer, day-time adventure? Or perhaps a way to experience the lake in a new way? A new inflatable water park experience is opening right in the city this summer and it’s the largest of its kind in Ontario. According to the new waterpark, “you’ll be able to enjoy 2 full hours of water fun! You’ll have a blast trying everything from teeter-totters to frog stomps, large slides, orbits, and more.”
Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd West
When: Opens June 25
RETREAT TO AN URBAN OASIS AT HOTEL X
If you didn’t know, now you know – you can get a daycation package at Hotel X this summer. Enjoy the waterfront and city views while you take a dip in the heated rooftop pool, or just lay out on the sundeck. Relax and enjoy poolside food and drink… There is no need to leave the city for this daycation! Passes start at $129.
Where: Hotel X, 111 Princes’ Blvd.
When: Check the available times here
