With summer in full swing, it’s hard to think about the weather turning cooler, but when living in Toronto, the reality is, we have to take advantage of the summer sun while it hangs around. If you’re heading out for brunch, we recommend opting for a rooftop brunch spot with gorgeous views and mouth-watering menu options. So slather on some SPF and hit up these Toronto rooftop patios for brunch with a view.
Here are 16 super striking spots to indulge in delicious rooftop brunch in Toronto!
Arthurs Restaurant
Instagram/@arthursrestaurant
If it’s a brand spankin’ new patio you’re after, then head to Yonge & St. Clair to visit Arthur’s Restaurant. The newly opened rooftop terrace boasts fabulous city views and an even better (if you can believe it) menu to boot. You’ll have a hard time choosing your brunch entrees at this classic American-inspired spot with options ranging from french toast and smoothie bowls, to blintzes and pastrami hash.
K?st
Instagram/@rosia.chen
This gorgeous Baja Peninsula-inspired spot is located on the 44th floor of Toronto’s BISHA Hotel. Check out K?st’s Californian take on traditional brunch options, like coconut pancakes, served with agave syrup, fruit salsa and toasted coconut, or baked eggs, which come with green chorizo, grilled tortilla, and lime crema.
The One Eighty
Instagram/@the51stfloor
Sitting on the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre, at the corner of Bay and Bloor, is The One Eighty. Enjoy the restaurant’s bottomless brunch, which feature made-to-order waffles, skillet frittatas, and tasty granola, all while admiring the panoramic views of the Toronto skyline.
Hemingway’s
Instagram/@hemingways.to
For classic brunch options and $5 cocktails, head over to Yorkville hotspot Hemingway’s. Check out the resto’s take on mac n’ cheese, which feature a blend of old cheddar, gouda, and swiss cheese, topped with parmesan and panko bread crumbs. The brunch menu is available from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
Upper Deck by Fran’s
Instagram/@upperdeckbyfrans
For a more relaxed vibe, check out Upper Deck by Fran’s, located on the rooftop of the iconic Fran’s at Yonge and College. This all-season patio even misters to cool you down when the Toronto summer become especially muggy. The Upper Deck offers traditional brunch fare, including fluffy buttermilk pancakes and steak and eggs. Brunch is served on weekends, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Sky Yard at The Drake Hotel
Instagram/@aponeats
Named one of the 25 best rooftop patios in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Sky Yard at The Drake Hotel provides a dreamy backdrop as you tuck in to brunch favourites like a bacon butty, blueberry pancakes, or satisfying Drake Eggs Benny. Brunch is served here on weekends from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Hey Lucy
Instagram/@jrckp__
Stop by this King St. West staple to sip $5 mimosas or $6 bloody Caesars while deciding between ordering a veggie benny, tasty french toast, or one of Hey Lucy’s specialties, a mouth-watering wood-fired pizza. Brunch is available on weekends from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.
SOCO Kitchen + Bar
Instagram/@dianaleecs
Located near the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Ripley’s Aquarium, SOCO Kitchen + Bar serves up delicious takes on classic breakfast fare. Expect to fall for favourites like huevos Diana, strawberry shortcake stack, or shakshouka on a comfortable patio with gorgeous views of downtown Toronto.
The Porch
Instagram/@theporchto
Located above the Rock ‘N’ Horse Saloon in the Entertainment District is The Porch and it provides a spectacular view of the city while serving up all the cottage party vibes. Dig into a guacamole benny, grown-up fruit bowl, or manchego omelette all while soaking up the sun. Brunch is served every Sunday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
The Oxley
Instagram/@elita.mb
British gastro pub, The Oxley in Yorkville serves up delicious brunch offerings like walnut and cranberry French toast, fresh-baked quiche or go for the full English breakfast. For a healthier option, try the house-baked granola that’s served with yogurt and fresh berries.
The Mugshot Tavern
Instagram/@stephenamon_
Located at Keele and Bloor, the rooftop patio at The Mugshot Tavern has a dreamy feel, thanks to the twinkly lights strung up along the wooden beams. Enjoy the surroundings while digging in to chicken and waffles, a breakfast poutine, or five different varieties of eggs benedict.
Lavelle
Instagram/@thechewreview
If dishes like a wagyu beef burger, avocado toast, and vegan banana pancakes catch your fancy, then you’re going to love the brunch menu at Lavelle. As delicious as it is instagrammable, you can enjoy brunch on the swanky rooftop patio.
Queen and Beaver Public House
Instagram/@qbpub
What could be better than enjoying traditional English brunch on a gorgeous rooftop? At The Queen and Beaver Public House, you can have it all. Tuck into dishes like the full English, Welsh rarebit, smoked haddock kedgeree, and more! Brunch is served here on weekends from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Harvest Kitchen
Instagram/@sydneyalena
Offering up healthy brunch options like organic eggs bennies, steel cut coconut oats, and delicious elixirs and smoothies, Harvest Kitchen is one of the best places to get your brunch on. Sit out on the second-floor patio surrounded by lavish tree canopies and enjoy your time in the sun. If it’s a boozy brunch you’re after, pair your meal with a mimosa, caesar, or Florida sunrise.
Gusto 101
Instagram/@gusto101to
Gusto 101’s brunch menu is to die for, and it’s even better when enjoyed on the rooftop patio. Think: poached eggs with chick pea purèe (the Uova con Ceci), a field mushroom and truffle omelette, or a spinach sweet potato and goat cheese frittata with artichoke vinaigrette. If you’re more of a sweet tooth bruncher, there are also cocoa bowls, ricotta pancakes, and a Nutella brioche with marshmallows.
Pauper’s Pub
Instagram/@pauperspub
A retro spot on Bloor Street West, Pauper’s Pub has a delicious brunch menu that serves up classics like eggs benedict and a peameal sandwich, as well as twists on classics like the after party poutine and sunny side burger. Brunch is served here from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Instagram/@llandry__
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19 Of Our Go-To Summer Rooftop Patios In Toronto
Every year like clockwork, summer arrives and Toronto morphs into a patio obsessed city. Don’t get us wrong, we’re not complaining. Patios are the lifeblood of summer in the 6ix, because the warm weather comes and goes in the blink of an eye. While some prefer the people watching of a street patio, the true hidden gems of Toronto come in the form of a rooftop patio – where you get to feel like you’ve actually escaped the city.
Here are 19 of our favourite rooftop patios in Toronto
The Thompson Hotel
Instagram/@marnilokash
If fancy is you’re after, The Thompson Hotel rooftop delivers in spades. Drinks here are on the pricier side of things but the quality and spectacular views will ensure your money is well spent.
Gusto 101
Instagram/@gusto101to
Gusto 101 is always a favourite with its modern take on southern Italian classics and industrial-style setting. There’s always lots of seating too which makes it a popular place all summer long.
Paupers Pub
Instagram/@pauperspub
Low-key and hidden away in the Annex, the Paupers Pub rooftop patio is the perfect spot for a quick drink before catching a summer movie at Christie Pits Park!
The Broadview Hotel
Instagram/@broadviewhotel
The Broadview Hotel’s stunning rooftop patio is half indoors and half outdoors so it’s great when the weather is so-so. You can’t miss the amazing view of the city skyline from Toronto’s east end where you can enjoy drinks and yummy snacks.
The Porch
Instagram/@theporchto
The Porch is situated above busy King Street it offers some of the best views of the CN Tower you will find in the city. This means it might require some waiting time to get a table on a weekend, but once you’re up there with a drink in hand, you’ll be happy you waited.
Lavelle
Instagram/@penthousequeen
The exclusive Lavelle is a little on the pricier side but just wait until you see the view! It basically feels like you’re sitting on a beach in the sky. You can enjoy a cocktail by the pool at this rooftop patio.
Kasa Moto
Instagram/@baileyroseking
The easy-going Japanese restaurant, Kasa Moto, has a huge rooftop patio that’s glam and has fabulous views of Yorkville. Bring lots of friends, enjoy the large comfy chairs, and good vibes.
Sky Yard At The Drake Hotel
Instagram/@thedrake
Enjoy the most perfect aesthetic and dreamiest vibes on this rooftop patio at The Drake Hotel. This spot is the best places for after work drinks and snacks, plus there’s always amazing music, too!
Terroni on Price Street
Instagram/@brittanyamark
Terroni on Price Street in Summerhill has an unbelievable rooftop bar and some of the most delicious Italian food in the city. With it being sangria season, this is the place to go for a pitcher.
Bar Hop
Instagram/@nadinemariesimard
Located in the heart of downtown at Queen and Peter Street, Bar Hop is the perfect spot if your looking for a relaxed atmosphere with lots of craft beer options. Catch some rays and try one (or more) of the 36 beers on tap.
The Tiki Bar
Instagram/@woman.meets.world
Don’t let the exterior fool you! Bovine Sex Club may look a little rough around the edges on the outside, but hidden above is The Tiki Bar. Escape the city to find a tropical oasis complete with a Tiki bar and torches.
Hemingway’s
Instagram/@hemingways.to
Hemingway’s is one of our favourite open-all-year-round rooftop patios, but it’s obviously incredible during the warmer months. Dine here if you’re looking for low key pub-style eats and a great view of Yorkville.
The Chase
Instagram/@_0.01a
The menu at The Chase, comprised of surf and turf offerings, will make you drool but so will the spectacular view. Located in the historic Dineen building on the 5th floor, this patio should be your first pick if your feeling like some fancy seafood.
Baro
Instagram/@chicchimmm
Baro’s patio is like the secret garden you want to escape to! Featuring lots of greenery and a calm, cool atmosphere, this trendy spot was made for cocktails as well as bites to share from their delicious snack menu.
Falcon SkyBar at Hotel X
Instagram/@bypeterandpauls
If you’re ever in the west end by Exhibition Place or the Budweiser Stage, make sure to stop by at Hotel X’s Falcon SkyBar. Warning: you may feel incredibly bougie as you sip your cocktail and look out over the stunning skyline.
Soco Kitchen on Lower Simcoe Street
Instagram/@dudko_iryna
The Lower Simcoe outpost of Soco Kitchen is a must-see this summer in Toronto. Located in the sleek Delta Hotel, this rooftop patio won’t leave any part of the Entertainment District to the imagination.
The One Eighty
Instagram/@desilvagihan
In terms of rooftop patios, the 51st floor is definitely high up and it’s where The One Eighty resides. Go here if you feel like treating yourself to some fine dining and cocktails, along with some upscale views.
Trattoria Nervosa
Instagram/@rach.dacosta
Craving pasta? Yorkville’s Nervosa offers delicious Italian fare that can be enjoyed on the beautiful rooftop patio. It also may be somewhere you want to bring your boo as reviews claim the spot to be pretty romantic too.
K?st
Instagram/@mercuryyuki
Kost is located on the 44th floor of the Bisha Hotel, so you no doubt are going to have amazing panoramic views. Specializing in flavours from the California coastline, this is a great spot for a fancy friend gathering or girls night out.
Featured Image: Instagram/@theporchto
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If you’re like me, you love the idea of travel but when the time comes to, you know, pack up and leave, you start to get anxious and panicky. If you need a break from your daily schedule, why not consider booking a staycation?Simply book in at a local downtown hotel, wrap up in a cozy robe, and get some old fashioned R&R all without hopping on a plane. Being in a big city like Toronto means we have our fair share of chic and trendy boutique hotels. Why stay at a basic hotel chain when you can tuck in for the weekend at one of these local gems that promise luxe amenities and all the relaxation?
If you’re looking for a staycation, stay at these 8 Toronto hotels!
The Drake Hotel
The Drake Hotel
A Toronto icon and hotel that really needs no introduction is The Drake Hotel. Located on West Queen West, this is the perfect spot for a staycation, if you ask me. If a re-charge is what you’re after, this is the place to get it. The rooms at The Drake are decorated so perfectly but you feel instantly refreshed just walking through the door. Amenities include complimentary spin and yoga classes so you can even turn your staycation into a mini wellness retreat, too!
The Hazelton Hotel
The Hazelton Hotel
If you’re looking to indulge in a little luxury for a weekend, head on up to The Hazelton Hotel in the heart of Yorkville. Voted the #1 hotel in Toronto by TripAdvisor means that this is obviously the place to go for supreme service, style, and comfort as no detail is spared. From the spa where only the best Valmont products are used (trust me, it’s worth it!), to even a private screening room for you to enjoy with up to 25 guests, you’ll want for nothing when you stay at The Hazelton. Don’t forget to snag a spot on the patio at One Restaurant too, it’s the best for people watching. Plus, you can even get in a little retail therapy at the goop MRKT pop-up that’s happening right next door, too!
The Beverley Hotel
The Beverley Hotel
One of TO’s newer hotels is The Beverley Hotel that’s located on Queen at Beverley. This darling 18-room establishment boasts an elegant and modern design that’s a juxtaposition of its more grunge Queen West neighbourhood. This hotel is on the smaller side so it’s possible you may have passed by without noticing but step inside and you’ll find not only top notch comfort, but also a retail shop, Carlotta Bar, and a rooftop patio. This is the perfect cozy spot to unwind!
The Annex Hotel
The Annex Hotel
If an NYC getaway is what you’re craving but aren’t into shelling out big bucks for a flight, check into The Annex Hotel. Situated at Bloor and Brunswick is this 24-room boutique hotel that’s got all the chic and minimal New York vibes without paying steep Manhattan prices. The Annex is doing things the modern way as there isn’t even a front desk as everything is done the high tech way here. On the date of your booking, you’ll receive a text with a key access code. If you need anything like extra pillows or recommendations simply text that number and it’ll be taken care of.
Gladstone Hotel
Gladstone Hotel
Located even further than The Drake on Queen West, almost in Parkdale, is Gladstone Hotel. Known as a boutique art hotel, this abode prides itself on how it pulls you into an arts, culture, and dining adventure as soon as you walk through the historic doors. What’s unique about this hotel is that each room is completely different than the next as they’re all designed by different artists. If you’re looking for a good time, check out the art exhibitions, party at age at one of its legendary queer parties, or break out into song at the weekly karaoke night!
The Anndore House
The Anndore House
Even if you’ve lived in Toronto your whole life, staying at The Anndore House allows for you to experience your city in a whole new way. Located on Charles Street just south of Bloor, this historic hotel once had a shadier past but is known as one of TO’s prized gems. The Anndore’s doors opened just last year and notoriety sure has grown with how it marries art and culture with its modern yet cozy decor. Plus, one of the best restaurants in the city, Constantine, is within its walls, too!
Windsor Arms Hotel
Weekend plans, the #WindsorArms way. Indulge in our #AfternoonTea after your #SpaDay on our rooftop terrace. #WindsorArms ?: @lailakharouba ??? pic.twitter.com/0LQTwBXMan
— Windsor Arms Hotel (@windsorarms) August 18, 2018
If classic elegance is what you’re craving, then the Windsor Arms Hotel is just the place to go. This historic hotel has played home to visiting royalty, dignitaries, and various film stars, so it’s definitely good enough for your luxe staycation! Originally built in 1927 and rebuilt in 1999, the Windsor Arms is a Toronto icon for good reason as it encompasses the glamour, comfort, and luxury of past eras. Don’t forget to book in for the hotels notable Afternoon High Tea!
The Broadview Hotel
The Broadview Hotel
You might never guess that this gorgeous boutique hotel used to have a storied past but The Broadview Hotel used to be quite the place back in the day. With 58 rooms, this establishment provides a graceful home away from home but with better views. Located in Toronto’s East End, take in views of the hustle & bustle Queen and Broadview or soak in the peaceful landscape over Riverdale and up the Don Valley River. Because you’ll get hungry at some point, don’t skimp on a delicious meal at The Civic or indulging in cocktails at the bar!
Featured Image: Gladstone Hotel
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Looking for something fun and cheap to do in Toronto? I know it seems almost impossible not to spend money these days. That’s why we’ve rounded up some different but exciting activities for you to check out. The best part is, it won’t cost you more than $10 – I swear (that’s not including TTC, of course)!
1. Discover The Unique Urban Oasis Of Cloud Gardens
Step into a tropical-like cloud forest nestled between the office towers of Toronto’s busy downtown core. It’s completely free.
2. Take a Leisurely Bike Ride on The Toronto Islands
Grab your bike and take the ferry across to Centre Island for a beautiful and secluded ride with stunning views. There is also a bike rental service once you arrive.
Ferry Ticket
Adult: $7.50
Students/Seniors: $5.00
Junior: $3.65
3. Battle It Out Board Game Style At Snakes & Lattes
Grab a coffee or beer and spend the day here – AND it’s only $5 to play any board game you can possibly imagine!
4. Grab A Snack At The Historic St Lawrence Market
Bring your appetite and find the best variety of fresh food at this incredible market. Some noteworthy spots are Carousel Bakery, Buster’s Sea Cove, St. Urbain Bagel, Churrasco of St. Clair and so many others. Prices vary but you can easily spend under $10.
5. Take a Free Walking Tour Around The City
You can learn all about history, graffiti, ghosts, death, disease, and destruction in Toronto for free! Make sure to leave a tip for the wonderful guides (the average tip is around $10).
6. Wander Around The Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library
DID YOU KNOW: The Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library is the largest repository of publicly accessible rare books and manuscripts in Canada? It’s also free!
7. Get An Insta-Worthy Pic In Graffiti Alley
There’s about a kilometre’s worth of wall space of varying graffiti on Queen Street West.
8. Peruse Through Vintage Clothing In Kensington Market
Make sure to check out stores like Exile, Vintage Depot, Bungalow, Courage My Love and so many more amazing places. Don’t overlook what the street vendors have to offer as you might be pleasantly surprised at what you find. If you’re a vintage fanatic who’s always looking for unique pieces that will add one-of-a-kind flair to your wardrobe, then you’ll definitely want to take a stroll around Kensington Market (especially on Pedestrian Sundays).
9. Take It Back To The 90’s At Tilt Arcade Bar
Entry to Tilt Arcade Bar is ONLY $5 per person which allows access to over 50 classic arcade and pinball machines. Monday’s they offer a 2 for 1 entry, “Toonie Tuesday” entry is only $2! Not bad.
10. Test Your Trivia Knowledge At The Drake Hotel
Spice up your Wednesday evenings at The Drake Hotel where you can participate in Trivia Night. It’s only $2 to participate – the winning table gets a $50 Drake Gift Card and the runner-up gets $30. You can leave with more money than you even came with! Find out all the rules on the official Facebook page.
With millennials leaning away from the traditional wedding format, this pop-up style is a novel, unexpected solution. It’s the perfect way for people looking to get married to do it in an amazing environment but also at the right price point. For $1999 + tax, couples get to enjoy a full wedding experience without extravagant expenses or sweating the details.
After the recent success of the two pop-up wedding chapels at The Drake Hotel, The Drake will be bringing the experience to the stunning Prince Edward County in partnership with Love by Lynzie. On July 12th, Drake Devonshire will become the perfect backdrop for rebellious hearts to officially make things official. If you’ve ever seen it before, you know it’s the ideal place to read your vows.
This pop-up will embrace a warm, rustic feeling through its vendors and aesthetics, including fresh lavender, lemonade stands, homemade pies, lawn games and an outdoor ceremony on our beautiful grounds. There will be a photo-booth, a backdrop with a two-person bicycle and our fabulous roster of local vendors.
Here’s what you can expect from the full package:
+ Ceremony venue & de?cor, styled by Love by Lynzie
+ A legal officiant
+ Photography of ceremony and a 45-minute portrait session + Bouquet and Boutonnie?re (or two of each)
+ A toast and treats for up to 20 guests
+ Live Ceremony Music
+ A personal Wedding Coordinator
On top of that, a minimum of $350 from the total chapel cost from each couple is donated to charity. Each chapel is partnered with a charity of choice. So far, we’ve raised over $9,000 on our first two chapels.
If you’re interested in reserving a spot email: office@lovebylynzie.com
Featured Image: Instagram/@thedrake
Would you be interested in having a pop-up style wedding at the Drake Devonshire? Let us know in the comments.
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We get it – sometimes the bills stack high and budgeting gets tough. Toronto may be an expensive place to live but a big city has its perks! There always seems to be a number of fun things going on that won’t cost you. With that in mind ditch the FOMO and don’t let Spring pass you by without hitting up some these awesome activities. Take a look at the top ten free events in Toronto and the GTA below:
Spring to the Beach (May 5 & 6)
Kick off summer and head to The Beach Village on Queen St. East (located between Lockwood and Neville Park) for Spring to the Beach. Browse local vendors during the sidewalk sale, grab some local eats at the newly renovated Kew Gardens Park, and top it off with some live music at the Mill Street Beer Garden. The event is free to attend so if you can’t afford much shopping, go for the atmosphere – you’re guaranteed to have fun.
Image: Instagram/@thebeachvillage
Kite Fest 2017 (May 6)
Remember the days when the only things necessary for a good time were your friends, a kite, and some sun? Scoop up the chance to feel like a kid again at Kite Fest 2017 in Earlscourt park on May 6 from 12 pm to 2 pm. Even if you don’t own a kite, grab a picnic blanket, lie back, relax and watch a bunch of kites take flight.
Blossom and Bloom Mother’s Day Market (May 12 – 14)
What mother doesn’t appreciate flowers? If you still have no idea what to do on Mother’s Day, head out to the Blossom and Bloom Mother’s Day Market at Union Station. As always the market is free to attend, so spend some chill time with mom and explore over 25 of the cities best artisans and florists, art installations, and interactive workshops.
Image: Instagram/@blossomandbloomshow
Bonobo Flow Yoga (May 13)
The Drake Underground will be hosting a PWYC Bonobo Flow Yoga class on May 13. Bring yourself, your mat and a friend and let the smooth electronic beats get you into a good flow. As the Drake puts it, “chill-wave, chill rave!” Not to mention, if you work up an appetite, post-yoga brunch will be 15% off.
Gladstone Flea: Mother’s Day Edition (May 13)
You can always count on the Gladstone Hotel to throw a free event. Don’t miss the Gladstone Flea: Mother’s Day Edition on May 13. Take the women of honour herself or scrounge some couch money to buy her something unique from a number of local artisans and vendors.
Image: Instagram/@gladstonehotel
Canada Job Expo (May 18)
If you’re looking at free event listings because you have no cash, you should probably go to this one. The Canada Job Expo is taking place on May 18 at North York Memorial Hall and is the most attended job and career expo in the GTA. Apple Canada, CIBC, Rogers, and Labatt Breweries are just several of the companies who have been vendors in the past. If you plan on attending all you need to do is register online.
Artfest (May 20 -22)
Distillery District’s area-wide arts and crafts festival, Artfest, returns on May 20 to 22. Wander down the cobblestones and through one of the city’s most historic sites – it will be filled with artist vendors, installations, performances, and local food and drink. There’s definitely bound to be a good photo op or two.
Image: Artfest
Waterfront Artisan Market (Starts May 20)
The Waterfront Artisan Market is back starting on May 20 and will be taking place every Saturday, well into the fall. The unique open-air market will feature a carefully curated mix of 75 local, up-and-coming artisans, crafters, chefs and bakers. And, of course, don’t forget the spectacular views of Lake Ontario!
Trinity Bellwoods Bed In (May 21)
Is hanging out in parks your jam? Then this public event is definitely for you. Make your way to Trinity Bellwoods Park on May 21 for the 4th BED IN for PEACE. Inspired by John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s arrival in Toronto in 1969, and their one-night Bed In at the King Edward Hotel that followed, the park will be transformed into a sea of blankets with live performers and musicians.
Image: Facebook/@JohnErb
Barbados on the Water Festival (May 26 -28)
Get your fix of island vibes at the Harbourfront Centre on May 26 to 28 during the Barbados on the Water festival – the largest celebration of Barbadian culture in Canada! The festival will feature fashion shows, literary events, children’s activities, rum tasting and plenty of music. Who knows? Maybe it will inspire an actual trip to the Islands!
Did we miss any of the top free events in Toronto and the GTA?
Featured Image: Instagram/@kaligirl805
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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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