With the warm weather on the horizon, you’re probably looking to get outside more with your furry friend. Dog parks are a great way for your furbaby to meet new friends, get some exercise, and enjoy the fresh air. With there being a handful of dog park locations around the city of Toronto you’ll definitely find one that’s close to you.
Here are dog parks in Toronto to take your pooch.
St. Andrew Playground Dog Park
Neighbourhood: Wellington Place
Address: 450 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1S9
Grange Park Dog Off Leash Area
Neighbourhood: Kensington-Chinatown
Address: Beverly Street &, McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1C3
Cherry Beach Off Leash Dog Park
Neighbourhood: South Riverdale
Address: 1 Cherry St, Toronto, ON M5A 0B7
Stanley Off Leash Dog Park
Neighbourhood: West Queen West
Address: 700 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1G7
Bickford Park Dog Park
Neighbourhood: Little Italy
Address: Harbord St & Grace St, Toronto, ON
Coronation Park Dog Park
Neighbourhood: Liberty Village
Address: 711 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON, M5V 3T7
High Park Dog Off Leash Area
Neighbourhood: High Park
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3
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One of the joys about summertime is that it’s actually pleasant to be outside, enjoying the weather with your significant other. Of course, a global pandemic makes dating a little more complicated, but that doesn’t mean that you need to be stuck hanging out on Zoom. There are plenty of safe and cheap date ideas that you can enjoy outdoors.
Grab your face mask and pencil in your date â we’ve got a list of ideas that you’ll love whether you’re just getting to know someone or are together longterm.
Here are 10 cheap summer date ideas in Toronto:
Take A Hike
If you’re itching to take in all the beauty that Ontario has to offer this summer, why not head out for a hike? There are so many gorgeous trails to visit that are easy to access and pretty cheap, if not free, too. Pack some of your favourite snacks and make a day of it! For the smallest crowds, we suggest visiting the trails during the week. Just be sure to check the official trail websites for new rules and hours of operation â some trails now require you to reserve time ahead of your visit.
Check Out The Zoo
Although the Toronto Zoo is pretty cool, it’s also pretty expensive so if you’re looking to cut down on spending but still see some cute animals, head to the High Park Zoo. There might not be those wild African animals at the High Park but there are the beloved capybaras that escaped all those years ago, plus some adorable Highland cows!
Cook Up A Storm With Restaurant-Quality Meal Kits
If you arenât comfortable with going to a restaurant or patio yet, you can still enjoy great food from your favourite restaurants at home. Grab your significant other and cook up a storm in your own kitchen. From restaurants like Eataly to more budget-friendly options like President’s Choice, there are choices for every price range and whatever you are craving.
Drive-In Movie
With various drive-in movies located around the GTA, grab your pillows and snacks and go back in time with this cute, retro, and cheap summer date. Be sure to check out the drive-in’s official website to see what’s this week, our top drive-in picks include Stardust Drive-In and Ontario Place but you can find additional locales via DriveinTO.
Explore The City On A DIY Photography Tour
For this idea, all you need is a partner, your phones, and a great pair of walking shoes. Toronto is full of interesting areas and attractions. From Grafitti Alley to Kensington Market and beyond, you can create a tour that’s full of the city’s most Instagrammable spots â planning together is half the excitement! Pack some snacks and stop by one of the city’s parks once you’re done. You’ll capture so many memories, it’s sure to be a picture-perfect date.
Grab your floaties and have a Beach Day
With the humidity in full force, there’s nothing better than cooling down in the lake. Luckily, there are plenty of beaches around Toronto â and most are completely free to visit, making it an ideal cheap summer date in Toronto! Like most attractions, we suggest visiting during the week to avoid peak crowds. Additionally, be sure to catch up on new protocols before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Host A Game Night
Whether you’ve been with your significant other for a long time or you’re just getting to know each other virtually, a game night is always great for a little competitive fun, laughs, and starting conversations. For a virtual date, we suggest using the app House Party, which is completely free! Or if you’d rather team up and compete with people from around the world, check out Sporcle â virtual trivia tickets are just $5 per device.
Take A Stroll Through The Distillery District
While it is known for the famous Christmas market, the Distillery District is still worth checking out in the summertime, especially for a cheap summer date in Toronto. It’s a prime spot for patios and there are tons of cute stores to check out, but if you’re looking to save money, we suggest grabbing a coffee and checking out The Word on the Street outdoor art exhibition by L.A.-based artist Scott Froschauer, which is up until October.
Visit Allan Gardens
For nature lovers, Allan Gardens is the perfect place for a date. This hidden paradise in the middle of the city will make you feel like you ventured off somewhere tropical. With beautiful plants throughout the space, you can soak it all in with your loved one, as well as get a nice pic for your Insta feed. Just remember to bring a face mask!
Check Out A Farmers’ Market
Right now, local businesses need our support more than ever, so visiting a farmers’ market is a great way to support the little guys and squeeze in an awesome date. There’s a market open almost every day of the week, so you’ve got tons of different options.
Featured Image: Instagram/@sakithranaweera
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It’s November and while the snow has already disappeared, that doesn’t mean you can’t take part in fun winter activities because after all, ’tis the season for ice skating and drinking a few glasses of mulled wine. We’ve rounded up our 11 favourite free places to get our skate on in Toronto to help narrow down your options. Bundle up, grab your friends or significant other, and visit one or all of these picturesque rinks. Winter has almost arrived, so we might as well suck it up and embrace the chillier temps. Now, go practice those triple axels you didn’t master last year.
Nathan Phillips Square
A unique fixture in Toronto is Nathan Phillips Square that’s right by City Hall. This popular spot offers an exceptional space to skate right in the heart of our city. Brightly lit and decorated for the holidays, this rink is totally Instagrammable, especially with that world recognized âTorontoâ sign. Skate rentals are $10 per adult for 2 hours and $5 for children 12 and under, plus snacks and washrooms are located on site.
Where: 100 Queen St. West
Date Opening: November 30th
Harbourfront Natrel Rink
Arguably one the best skating rinks in Toronto is the Natrel Rink at the Harbourfront that has fabulous views Lake Ontario and the CN Tower. Skating here is completely free, but skate rentals are $13/adult. Hot food and drinks are available rink-side at Boxcar Social, and heated indoor changing rooms are on site.
Where: 235 Queens Quay West
Date Opening: November 16th
High Park
High Park has free ice skating for everyone of all ages, as well as organized games for child hockey. There are separate hours for unsupervised public skating but unfortunately, no skate rentals available.
Where: 1873 Bloor St. West
Date Opening: November 30th
Greenwood Park
Greenwood Park is a great place for an evening skate if you’re out and about in the cityâs east end. While the rink is outdoors, it features a covered roof that provides some much needed shelter if it’s a snowy or rainy night. This park offers skating, hockey skills, and power skating classes for all ages. While no skate rentals are available, the rink is free to skate on.
Where: 150 Greenwood Ave
Date Opening: November 30th
Colonel Samuel Smith Park
Located along a stretch of wooded shoreline in the Kipling and Lakeshore area (next to the Power House Recreation Centre), this ice skating rink is more of a figure-eight trail than it is a rink. There may not be food vendors, change rooms, or skate rentals available on-site, but skating is free!
Where: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd West
Date Opening: November 30th
Christie Pits Park
Located in the city’s west end, free ice skating is available at Christie Pits Park 7 days a week. Varying hours for women-only, children-only, all ages, and adult-only skating. There is no skate rental at this rink but there are change rooms.
Where: 750 Bloor St W
Date Opening: November 30th
Trinity Bellwoods Park
Another west-end rink is the one at Trinity Bellwoods Park, but this one is located north east section of the park. Aside from public skating, the rink also shinny for kids and adults.
Where: 790 Queen St West
Date Opening: November 30th
Evergreen Brick Works
Evergreen Brick Works offers free public skating and skating lessons for all ages throughout the week with a rink that surrounds a small garden of evergreen trees. Skate rentals are available for $5 a pair and they even provide free helmets for skaters 18 and under. The rink was supposed to open on November 30 but because of the warmer weather, it’s slated to open December 7.
Where: 550 Bayview Ave
Date Opening: December 7th
Ontario Place
Ontario Place will be transformed into the Aurora Winter Festival that’s great fun for the whole family. In addition to skating, there’s a tube park, massive light displays, a Christmas Market, amusement rides, food, and much more. Skating on the frozen pond is no extra charge when you purchase a ticket, but skate rentals cost $7.
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
Date Opening: November 22nd
The Bentway Skating Trail
It’s back! The Bentway’s magical 220-meter skating trail will be open under the Gardiner Expressway. In addition to all the skating fun, The Bentway offers free skating lessons and rentals will also be abailable.
Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
Date Opening: December 20
Union Station
Head to Union Station on November 29 until January 4th to go for a skate. This is the first time that Union Stationâs Sir John A. McDonald Plaza on Front Street will be home to a free outdoor skating rink in Toronto, thatâs approximately half of the size of an NHL ice rink. Whatâs even better is that even skating lessons, skate rentals, and helmet rentals will also be offered by TD and Union for free.
Where: 65 Front Street West
Date Opening: November 29
With Father
With a new season comes new starts, and plenty of hidden gems to uncover. Whether you have a day of fun with your bestie or a romantic evening with your significant other, you’re in for a good time. There are plenty of activities to discover this spring in Toronto!
1. View the Cherry Blossoms at High Park
2. Go to a Toronto Blue Jays Game
If you’re looking for the best gear to rock to the game, look no further.
3. Eat Brunch at One of These Hidden Gems
4. Enjoy a Romantic Evening at ‘The Lights Fest’
5. Play Interactive Games at The REC Room
6. Take a Hike on One of These Magical Trails
7. Spend The Day at The Toronto Islands and Grab a Beer at Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co.
8. Check Out Ontarioâs Largest Beer & Rib Festival
9. Take a Road-Trip to One of These Five Spots in The USA
10. Culture Yourself at AGO First Thursday’s
Featured Image: Instagram/@rachcravenn
What are other fun activities to do with your s/o this spring? Let us know in the comments!
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Big news! There is a huge new community coming in the space between Toronto’s Bloordale, High Park, Junction Triangle and Roncesvalles neighbourhoods. If anyone remembers, it’s where the Zellers used to be.
The Project is located on a 10-acre site at the southeast corner of Dundas and Bloor and is expected to be HUGE. Get ready for even more condos (because we don’t have enough already) and retail shops. We’re hoping for more green spaces and gardens!
Given the current state of the strip mall, these plans look immediately promising and are sure to be an upgrade. Currently, the retail centre is anchored by a Loblaws grocery, LCBO, Kal-Tire, and Coffee Time.
Image via Choice Properties
Given the excellent transit options here, there’s also a desire to offer a significant amount of office space to go alongside with retail and residential buildings. Right now, the plan suggests that this community will have approximately 2,600 purpose built residential units ranging from 1-3 bedrooms, a portion of which will be dedicated to affordable housing.
Image via Choice Properties
More than 650,000 square feet of office and retail space will be spread across the site as well, making room for an expected 3,500 jobs and a variety of shops and services. Everything you could possibly need is going to be in one spot – LCBO, Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaws and plenty of small businesses (which haven’t been named yet.) Sounds like smart thinking to me!
Image via Choice Properties
“New renderings illustrate proposed pedestrian connections to the TTC, Go Train and UP Express, as well as green space elements including a pear tree grove, a cherry blossom bowl, and terraced winter gardens.”
If you want to learn more about the project, there is an open house at 2280 Dundas Street West on Saturday, April 21st.
Featured Image: Choice Properties
Source: Blogto.com
What do you think about the new neighbourhood? Let us know in the comments!
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Ahhh, Spring… The sun is shining, the weather is mild and the days are already growing longer. With that, youâre probably feeling antsy and ready to get out to enjoy some glorious vitamin D. While soaking up some much-needed sun is fine to do alone, itâs always better when itâs done with a pal or two, or better yet, the entire crew! Without further adieu, take a look at 11 spring adventures to have with friends in and around Toronto below:
Go see the Cherry Blossoms at High Park
If you live in the downtown core it may be hard to notice, but Spring is definitely in full bloom. Escape the concrete jungle for a hot moment and head over to High Park to see the cherry blossoms, a sight that makes âfull bloomâ seem like an understatement. Pack a picnic and some wine, take some time to relax and call it a day!
Image: Instagram/@jesskosphoto
Do the CN Tower Edge Walk
Yes, the CN Tower Edge Walk has been around for a while now, although being suspended 100 of feet high in the air is an experience that never loses itâs wow factor. Make things even more interesting and plan to book a time during a Jays Game – now thatâs what weâd call a spectacular view.
Visit a Waterfall Near Toronto
You may not be aware but there are a ton of waterfalls only within two hours of downtown Toronto. Ranging from small to spectacular, plan a mini road trip to one and stay for a while or make a bucket list and see how many you can hit up in one day. Â DO go chasing waterfalls – what does TLC know anyways? See a list of waterfalls nearby here.
Image: Instagram/@missjennyu
Snap a gram at One of the Most Instgrammable Places in Toronto
If youâre a true Torontonian, then itâs your duty to make sure you see all of these places. Ranging from epic murals and graffiti, luscious gardens, and even a pink park, round up the crew and make it a goal to see all 20 of the most Instagrammable places in Toronto. Your Instagram will thank you for it!
Rent Bikes on Toronto Island
Going for a lovely bike ride on the Toronto Islands has to be one of the cityâs favourite past times. Even if you’ve done it before, itâs always a nice way to get some exercise while taking in the city views. Plus, the island has a number of places that make great pit stops if you plan on staying for the entire day.
Image: Instagram/@slidbury
Have a park BBQ
Nothing says Spring or Summer like a good old BBQ!!! Lucky for you there are a number of parks in Toronto with outdoor BBQ pits. Gather up the crew, grab some wine and/or beer and spend the day hanging around outside. Get your grill on at these parks.
Go Hiking
If you’re looking for a Spring adventure that is going to give you a good dose of exercise too, then head out to one of the many trails in Toronto or the surrounding areas. All the greenery will help convince you and your friends that, yes, it’s finally Spring despite all the on-again, off-again rainy weather.
Image: Instagram/@conservationhalton
Go Glamping
While many adventures are to be had in the city, sometimes it’s good to get away from the hustle and bustle and see the great outdoors. Head over to Airbnb, and book a weekend of glamping.
Paddle the Don
May 7 is a paddlers paradise!!! The annual Manulife Paddle the Don event is back and it’s a great way to get out for a canoe ride if you’re not familiar with the river. If the Don River is your jam, then lead the crew on a paddle at any point in time this Spring.
Image: Facebook/@PaddleTheDon
Get Your Shop on in Parkdale
This one is for the urbanites and shoppers. If you’re in the mood for a city adventure, head over to Parkdale on May 13 and explore the Parkdale Sidewalk Festival. There will be lots of entertainment, free activities and more, plus they’re launching the Foodora Night Market this year, so it’s a good event for foodies too!
Explore some Ontario Caves
Ontario boasts a wide range of beautiful caves within driving distance of Toronto. If you’re looking to have a rugged, “get dirty” adventure, then this one is definitely for you and your crew! Collingwood has a pretty impressive array of caves and so do these places too.
Image: Instagram/@freespirittours
Which Spring adventures are you planning on having with friends?
Featured image: Instagram/@_jacs
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Things are heating up in the city and spring romance is calling!
Whether you’re in a committed relationship or single and ready to mingle, the warmer weather beckons us to break hibernation and explore all the city has to offer. This season, give your wallet a break and say no to bad dates. Take your significant other or potential lover out on the town without breaking the bank by using our list of the best cheap dates in Toronto.
Thank us later.
Get your bowl on
Most people aren’t aware that The Ballroom offers free bowling on Sunday nights after 5pm. While you still have to pay for shoe rental ($5 per pair), that’s a pretty low price to pay for a night of fun. Oh, and did we mention that bar rails are just $4, and caesars and wine are $5 all day on Sundays? You’re welcome.
Scribble, scribble, scribble
Every Thursday from 5-11pm, Gladstone Hotel hosts free adult colouring nights. Set to the tune of hip hop beats, impress your date and get your scribble on with the free adult colouring book-style photos and pencil crayons on hand. Drinks aren’t included, but there are easy-on-the-wallet specials on offer.
Give back together
Do things a little differently for your next date and give back to the community. National Volunteer Week takes place April 23rd to 29th and there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Show some compassion and give a little piece of your heart to the community (and your date) – it’s the perfect way to really get to know one another! You can find a full list of volunteering opportunities in Toronto here.
Take in some live music at The Drake Hotel
Music junkies will love this springtime date idea. The Drake Hotel hosts a number of bands during the week in their lounge, and these shows are totally free to the public! Perk up your weeknights with free live performances from bands like Parkside Drive and The Digs, just make sure you leave room in your budget for a couple of drinks. See The Drake Hotel’s event listings here – they also have other free and equally intriguing events (think pie and coffee, and coffee cocktails) on deck for the season.
Celebrate our hometown heroes at Bleeding Blue
Does your date love the Toronto Blue Jays? Take ’em to the Bleeding Blue art exhibit at Steam Whistle Gallery, which is free to the public and open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm and Sunday from 11am to 5pm until April 30th. The exhibit features Blue Jays themed pieces by Canadian artist Samara Shuter. And if you have some extra dollars to spare, add in a brewery tour, which is only $12 per person – Steam Whistle samples included!
Laugh the night away at Yuk Yuk’s Amateur Night
Looking for a guaranteed good time? Yuk Yuk’s hosts Amateur Night every Tuesday which consists of two shows: one at 7:30 pm featuring students from Humber College School of Comedy and one at 9:30 pm featuring Yuk Yuk’s regular amateurs. Tickets are only $4 and will get you access to both shows. Our tip for the most cost effective evening? Opt to share a bottle of Chardonnay ($29) instead of ordering individual drinks, which can add up pretty quickly.
Take in Canada’s finest photography on an tour across the city
Get cultured and celebrate the 21st annual Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival, the world’s largest photography event of its kind. From May 1-31st, a range of Canadian artists will be showcased in free public installations and open exhibitions scattered throughout the Toronto. We suggest making a day of it, creating your own walking tour with stops across the city. Learn more about the festival here.
Check out the cherry blossoms in peak bloom at High Park
This year, High Park’s Nature Centre is predicting peak bloom to be sometime between May 3rd and 10th. Of course, this all depends on Mother Nature, but when it happens, we definitely suggest checking it out. Start your date off by grabbing a coffee or cheap bite on Roncesvalles (this guide will help you out!), and then stroll over to High Park and sneak a kiss under the blossoms. You’re sure to score some major romance points, and probably an Instagram photo or two, too. Oh, and if the date’s going well, prolong it and mosey on over to High Park Zoo.
Catch a Doc at Dusk
Take your date for a film under the stars and check out Hot Docs’ Docs at Dusk series. The first screening takes place on Thursday, May 4th at Innis Courtyard (weather permitting), premiering Give Me Future, a documentary about how Major Lazer became the first American performer to put on a show in Cuba. The event starts at 8pm and there will also be live music. Best part yet, it’s 100% free. Just remember to bring your own snacks and arrive early to ensure you get spots. Get full details about the event here.
Check out Pedestrian Sundays at Kensington Market
Make your date an all day event and head to Kensington Market on Pedestrian Sundays where cars are given the boot and pedestrians are given free range. The streets of Toronto’s most colourful neighbourhood will be flooded with food, performers, dancers, music and vendors. Best of all, it’s mostly free! You’ll just need a couple of bucks on hands for any extra noshing. Pedestrian Sundays return to Kensington Market on May 28th, and happen every Sunday onward from 12-7pm.
Did we miss any fun and cheap dates in Toronto? Share them with us in the comment section.
Featured Image: The Digs via TheDrake.ca
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