Embrace the Chill: Indoor & Outdoor Toronto Winter Activities

Tighten your bootstraps and zip up your coat! The first snowfall transforms Toronto into a winter wonderland full of exciting indoor and outdoor activities. Boot prints line the snow-covered sidewalks and frost coats the lampposts and leafless trees. Once you have the right winter gear, there are a lot of things to do and places to visit during winter in Toronto. Check out our six favourites below!

1. Go Sledding at Riverdale Park

If you grew up in Canada, you probably have fond memories of sliding down a hill on a sled, friends at your side, wind at your back. If you’re a newcomer to Canada, this winter activity is a must. The best place to try it is Riverdale Park. 

Both Riverdale Park East and Riverdale Park West have their own hills. You will have to bring your own sled or toboggan though. The most affordable places to purchase a toboggan, sled, or sliding saucer are Walmart or Canadian Tire, the latter of which is located at Yonge & Dundas. From Yonge & Dundas, you can take the 505 Streetcar directly to Riverdale Park. 

2. Visit the Distillery District 

With holiday decorations and string lights aglow, the Distillery District becomes a beautiful spot for a stroll in the winter. Start your visit off with a hot beverage at the iconic Balzac’s Coffee Roasters. In 1895, this coffee shop was originally a pumphouse, and still retains much of its original Victorian architectural character.

3. Explore Queen Street 

There is no shortage of winter activities on Queen Street. Enjoy a warm cup of Black Sesame Hot Cocoa at Cacao 70 on 485 Queen Street West. Go skating at Nathan Philips Square. Shop for unique gifts on Queen Street West, Toronto’s fashion district.

4. Explore the Street Arts at Graffiti Alley

Found behind Queen Street West, Graffiti Alley is covered in some of Toronto’s best street art. You’ll experience 1000 feet of art in multiple styles, so bring your camera! The best spot to start your walk is at the intersection of Rush Lane and Augusta Ave。

5. Enjoy the Views from Toronto Island 

Most folks assume that Toronto Island is only a summer destination. However, in the winter, the island becomes a great place for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, and taking photos of the Toronto skyline and of icy Lake Ontario. Keep in mind that all the restaurants on the island close during the winter, so it can be a good idea to bring your own snacks or even a thermos full of hot chocolate!   

6. Catch a Concert

If live music’s your thing, there’s lots in the winter. Both the skating rinks at Union Station and Harbourfront had live DJs in 2021, and the same is expected this year. If you need to get out of the cold and into a warm venue, check out a complete listing of concerts on the city of Toronto’s website.  

 
To learn more about living in Canada, email info@flemingcollegetoronto.ca