We’re all very aware that summer 2020 isn’t going to be like past ones. Due to COVID-19, we’ve been having to get creative with ways to keep busy and entertained. Luckily Toronto is a big city and there are lots of ways to have some fun while still being socially distanced and safe this summer and bonus — lots of them are even free!
Here are 10 fun summer activities to do in Toronto that are all free!
Cruise Kensington Market
There’s nothing like spending an afternoon roaming through Kensington Market. Whether you’re more into antiques, grocery shopping, or enjoying a picnic in the park, Kensington is the place.
Visit the historic Distillery District
Toronto’s Distillery District is so beautiful and charming that it almost feels like you’ve travelled to a small town in Europe. Between the restaurants and quaint stores, it’ll be easy to spend a few hours cruising around.
Shop St. Lawrence Market
Another place that’s wonderful for food shopping is St. Lawrence Market. The market is known for being a foodie destination in TO and it never disappoints. Tuck into tasty baked goods, grab fresh produce, and don’t forget to get yourself a famous peameal bacon sandwich, too!
Enjoy a day at the beach
This summer is a hot one so what better way to cool off than a day at the beach? There are lots of great beaches outside Toronto but the city’s Woodbine Beach is a great option and Sugar Beach is picturesque but doesn’t have water access. Regardless of where you go, just make sure you stay socially distant!
Catch a free flick
If you’ve missed the cinema, then why not enjoy a movie at the drive-in? This summer, Downsview Park is hosting free drive-in movie screenings every Friday night that are socially distanced, safe, and fun for the whole family.
Check out the AGO
We’re so excited that Toronto attractions have started to reopen. One that’s reopened and is giving back is the AGO. The museum is giving frontline workers the gift of free admission for a full year.
Head to the Gardiner Museum
Another Toronto attraction that’s reopened is the Gardiner Museum and you can visit for free every weekend all summer long.
Take in an outdoor art installation
Head to Union Station to enjoy the Union Boardwalk that’s on from August 10 until September 25. This free art installation is presented by TD and it’s all about bringing folks together and connecting your senses to art and nature. The installation will be located at Sir John A. Macdonald Plaza on Front Street.
Go on a hike
If you’re in need of a breath of fresh air, a hike is just the ticket. There are loads of trails in the GTA and even within the city that are not only beautiful but are sure to clear your head and have you feeling refreshed.
Spend the day at the ROM
The ROM offers free admission to all members and children under three. The museum also offers complimentary admission to the Daphne Cockwell Gallery which is dedicated to First Peoples art & culture. In addition, Wednesdays are free for post-secondary students. Indigenous people and attendants supporting folks with disabilities also receive free admission.
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Every park and patio is filled to the brim and there are off-the-shoulder tops as far as the eye can see. It can only mean one thing – it’s officially #summer18. Did you know that the summer months are some of the most expensive of the year?
According to a recent survey from savings destination RetailMeNot.ca, almost half of Canadians (41 per cent) spend more money in the summer months than other season, making the summer a perfect time to do a quick temperature check on spending habits in the first half of the year, to help us budget for the back half.
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t have fun! I’ve rounded up a few ways for you to still enjoy yourself this month without breaking the bank.
1. Check Out Cheap Entertainment
If you haven’t seen our article, Cineplex’s new deal will allow movie-goers to enjoy hit movies for $2.99!
Check out participating movie theatres in Toronto below:
- Cineplex Cinemas Fairview Mall
- Cineplex Odeon Eglinton Town Centre Cinemas
- Cineplex Cinemas Empress Walk
- Cineplex Cinemas Yonge-Eglinton and VIP
- Cineplex Cinemas Yorkdale
2. Shop Your Neighbourhood Flea Market
Need a present for a friend’s birthday? Or maybe you just want to spruce up your home with some unique finds? You could hit up one of the numerous boutiques Toronto has to offer, but if you’re looking for a dal, flea markets are where it’s at. The next Parkdale Flea Market is on July 14 and the Trinity Bellwoods Flea is on July 15. But if you’re not a west-ender, don’t worry. There are summer markets in Leslieville and many more Toronto neighbourhoods.
3. Take your Workout Routine Outdoors
Now that it’s summer, there’s no need to shell out your hard-earned cash on fancy indoor exercise classes. There are so many outdoor activities you can do that will help you work up a sweat for way less. You could join a running group, go on a hike in High Park, grab a friend for a round of tennis, the opportunities are endless!
Bonus tip: if you do have a gym membership, many places will let you pause it for a month or two so you can enjoy the summer sun this July and then return to the comfort of an air-conditioned workout studio in the fall.
4. Airbnb (or Sublet) Your Home
If you have a vacation coming up (lucky you!) and want to offset the costs of your trip, one option is to Airbnb or sublet your home while you’re away. Toronto is a popular destination for travellers in the summer so depending on your location, your pad could be in high demand. Of course, there’s always a bit of a risk opening up your place to a stranger and you’ll definitely want to get permission from your building management first but if you find a suitable guest, it could save you hundreds of dollars on rent and utilities. To start, try asking your friends and family if they know of any potential subletters, and then post in places like Bunz to get the word out.
5. Ride Your Bike to Work
This is a well-worn money saving tip but it’s an oldie-but-goodie for a reason. Especially in Toronto, with the ever-rising cost of the TTC and gridlock traffic, riding your bike can save you a ton of money and let you enjoy the summer weather at the same time. Plus, with the new bike lanes on Bloor Street/King Street, there’s never been a better time to dust off that helmet and two-wheeler and get pedalling.
6. Dine Al Fresco On Your Own Balcony
After a long work week, what better way to unwind than with a glass of wine on a sunny patio? Of course, in Toronto, there is no shortage of trendy restaurants to choose from, but if you’re looking to save money, these probably aren’t the best bet. Instead, if you’re lucky enough to have your own balcony, you can pick up a bottle of vino from your local Wine Rack and recreate the experience in your own home for a fraction of the cost. In fact, with the money you save, you could even splurge on some fairy lights and plants to make your outdoor space extra cozy.
Summer fun doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a little creativity, you can be well on your way to saving major bucks this month.
Featured Image: Instagram/@atumnjenkins
Have any other tips to save money in Toronto this July? Let us know in the comment section!
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