Toronto, Canada’s largest metropolis and a cosmopolitan melting pot, is best visited in the summer. Toronto is a popular choice for anyone wishing to maximize their summer because of its energetic environment, pleasant climate, and countless activities. With so much to see and do, though, preparation and making the most of your time in the city is crucial. To help you make the most of your trip, let’s explore some of the top summertime destinations in Toronto with our knowledgeable team of local experts.
1. Journey to the Toronto Islands
A short ferry ride from the city is required to reach the group of 15 tiny islands known as the Toronto Islands. The rush and bustle of downtown Toronto can be left behind on these islands. They have a number of beaches, one of which is Hanlan’s Point Beach, famous for its no-clothing rule. The islands are a great place to go cycling, hiking, and picnics.
The trip to the islands by ferry, which takes around 15 minutes, may be made from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Although the island is accessible all year round, summer is the ideal season to travel there because the weather is pleasant and the beaches are open. The cost of the ferry is roughly $8 for adults, and there are additional admission costs for the amusement park and petting zoo.
2. Discover Rouge Park
North America’s largest urban park is Rouge National Urban Park. Anyone wishing to enjoy Toronto’s wonderful outdoors should make it a point to visit this location. The park provides camping, fishing, and birdwatching activities along with more than 50 kilometers of hiking paths. Over 270 different species of birds, as well as deer and foxes, can be seen in the park.
Although the park is accessible year-round, summer is the ideal season to visit because of the pleasant weather and dry trails. Visitors can spend a whole day exploring the park’s various hiking routes and recreational opportunities. Admission to the park is free. Public transportation on the TTC or GO Transit is a simple way to get there.
3. Travel to Scarborough Bluffs
A section of the beachfront in Scarborough, Ontario, provides stunning views of Lake Ontario. Swimming, tanning, and picnics are all common activities on the bluffs. Large sandy beaches can be found in a number of parks along the bluffs, including Bluffer’s Park. Along the bluffs, visitors can hike and take in the stunning scenery.
The Bluffs is a fantastic location for a barbecue or picnic while taking in a sunset. Visitors have access to a parking lot, and public transportation is available to get them there. Visitors can also get some food nearby at one of the many cafés and eateries.
4. At the CN Tower, try the EdgeWalk
For anyone interested in seeing the city’s skyline, the CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most recognizable monuments and a must-visit location. The tower’s observation deck, which is situated at a height of 346 meters (1,136 feet), provides breathtaking views of the city.
Additionally, guests can take the EdgeWalk, an exhilarating outdoor walkway that circles the tower’s edge. The EdgeWalk is available all year long. However, the temperate summer months are the best for going. EdgeWalk starts selling tickets for $199. Visitors can also eat at the 360 restaurants in the tower, which rotates and provides sweeping views of the city.
5. Check out High Park
An excellent place to spend a summer day is High Park, a sizable park in Toronto’s west end. Hiking, fishing, and swimming are just a few of the leisure activities available in the park. The park is also home to a zoo, gardens, a lake, playgrounds, sports fields, a pool, and a dog park.
Additionally, visitors are welcome to meander through the park’s gardens and admire the lovely flowers and plants. The greatest time to visit High Park is in the summer when the weather is moderate, and the gardens are in full bloom. High Park is open all year round.
6. Visit a botanical garden
The Allan Gardens Conservatory, which houses numerous exotic plants and flowers, is one of Toronto’s many lovely botanical gardens. The gardens are a nice area to unwind and take in the scenery, and people frequently have picnics there.
To understand more about the various plants and flowers on show, visitors can also join a guided tour of the gardens. The gardens are accessible throughout the year, although summer is the ideal season to go.
7. A Kayak Tour of the Lake
The best way to appreciate Toronto’s natural beauty is to go kayaking around Lake Ontario. Kayak rentals and guided excursions are available from a number of businesses, and they’re an excellent way to see the city’s skyline and shoreline.
A guided tour is another option for visitors to learn more about the lake’s past and ecosystem. Kayaking is a fantastic way to exercise, take in the fresh air, and observe the cityscape. Renting a kayak allows visitors to explore the lake at their own speed.
8. Distillery District
East of Toronto is where you’ll find the historic Distillery District. Numerous stores, eateries, and art galleries can be found in the area. The neighbourhood is a fantastic destination for culture and entertainment because it hosts numerous festivals and events all summer long.
Strolling through the neighbourhood allows visitors to take in the stunning architecture and local merchants’ gift offerings. The area is also fantastic for stopping for a bite and trying various regional cuisines.
9. Bus Travel
A hop-on, hop-off bus trip is a fantastic way to explore the city and visit all the many sights. If you want to see as much as you can but are short on time, this is a fantastic alternative. At several bus stops, passengers can board and exit the vehicle to view the sites that pique their interest.
A terrific way to learn about Toronto while taking in the sights is to take the bus tour, which offers commentary on the history and culture of the city. The bus trip offers a handy method to move around the city and covers all of its top attractions.
10. Sundays are pedestrian days in Kensington
The Kensington Market neighbourhood turns into a pedestrian-only zone on the last Sunday of the month during the summer. The neighbourhood’s lively environment and rich culture can be experienced during this event.
Street entertainers, live music, and food vendors can all be seen while strolling around the market. One of the best things to do in Toronto in the summer, it’s a great chance to explore the neighbourhood and find new local shops.
11. Royal Ontario Museum
One of Toronto’s most well-liked tourist destinations is the Royal Ontario Museum. The history and culture of the city can be discovered there. The museum houses numerous natural history, global cultures, and artistic exhibits.
Visitors can view modern art, ancient relics, and dinosaur fossils. It’s a terrific idea to spend a rainy day at the museum because it’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city.
