With the sun shining and the official beginning of summer just days away, Torontonians are looking forward to this magical time in Toronto.
Summer in Toronto means hot days spent on the beach or in parks, fun adventures with the whole family, and relaxing evenings spent sipping a cold beer or homemade craft cocktail on the porch or balcony. It’s the time when Torontonians come out of hibernation and enjoy the feeling of the hot sun on their skin and the beautiful blooms and lush landscapes that are so prevalent in this beautiful city. Summertime just makes everything better.
This summer will be different compared to the past summers, with many attractions and events closed or cancelled due to COVID-19. Regardless, there’s plenty to see, do, and enjoy in Toronto this summer.
Here’s a Round-up of Our Five Favourite Things to Do This Summer in Toronto:
Explore a Park or Conservation Area
Ontario Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas are open during the day, although beaches within them aren’t open. All parks located within the City of Toronto are also open. A visit to the park is a great opportunity to get some fresh air, relax in nature, explore a new ravine or forested area, and take pleasure in the sunshine. Enjoy a walk, hike, bike ride, or afternoon spent bird-watching.
Head to the Beach (Safely!)
From Sunnyside Beach to Cherry Beach, Toronto has several beautiful stretches of sand on Lake Ontario. Although they’re all closed until at least the end of June to limit the spread of COVID-19, Toronto residents are still able to stroll along boardwalks and waterfront trails, provided that physical distancing can be maintained. So lace up your shoes or put on your sandals and head to Lake Ontario to enjoy the crisp waterfront air. Visit The Swim Guide for the latest updates on beach closures.
Go on an Epic Bike Ride
Toronto’s Waterfront Trail allows Torontonians to cruise across the city, from Etobicoke in the west, right through downtown Toronto and to Scarborough in the east. Between Woodbine Beach and Balmy Beach, there’s a beautiful asphalt pathway for cyclists and in-line skaters. The downtown section of the Waterfront Trail along Queen’s Quay is newly-constructed and user-friendly, with wide dedicated bike lanes. This scenic route is safe and offers gorgeous views of Lake Ontario. Other places for an epic bike ride include parks, conservation areas, or even your local neighbourhood.
Enjoy a Frozen Treat
Ice cream, popsicles, paletas, Thai ice cream rolls and churro ice cream cones – the variety of delicious, sugary frozen treats in Toronto is truly impressive. And what’s a hot summer day without a tasty frozen treat? Check out Summer’s Ice Cream in Yorkville, Punto Gelato in the Yonge and Eglinton neighbourhood, Sweet Jesus near Yonge and Sheppard, or D Spot Dessert Café near Victoria Park and Eglinton.
Create a New Summer Tradition
Your favourite summer activity may be cancelled this summer (such as a visit to the CNE or a music festival), so why not create a new tradition? Get creative and brainstorm with your partner or family members to create a new activity that you can enjoy for years to come. Backyard BBQs, picnics, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts projects, your own family Olympics, movie nights, book clubs, kitchen dance parties… the options are endless.
We wish you all a fun and sunny summer full of adventure!
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