36 Socially-Distanced Things To Do In Toronto This Summer

36 Socially-Distanced Things To Do In Toronto This Summer
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Summer is here and even though we’re all being socially distant, that doesn’t mean we can’t get out and enjoy some fun in the sun. Here are 36 fun activities, events, and spots to check out in Toronto this summer.

So, what are you waiting for? Go out and live your best summer life!

CityView Drive-In

Get outside this summer and experience events from the comfort of your own car at CityView Drive-In. This event series takes place in a parking lot on Polson Street and features concerts from Monster Truck, Allan Rayman, and A Tribe Called Red.

Sugar Beach 

toronto summer bucket list
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Relax under one of the iconic pink umbrellas of Sugar Beach with a good book for a beach getaway that you don’t have to leave the city for.

La Diperie

Is it even summer if you don’t Instagram a pic of an ice cream cone? I didn’t think so. The dipped creations at La Diperie are the dose of summer sweetness that your IG feed needs.

Toronto Zoo

Escape the concrete jungle of the city and go to the Toronto Zoo instead. With animals from all over the world from gorillas and beavers, to giraffes and tigers, it’s fun for the whole family!

Scarborough Bluffs

Hike the trails at the Scarborough Bluffs for a fantastic view of Lake Ontario!

The Porch

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This classic rooftop bar is known for its fun vibe and margarita towers, which makes it the perfect place for after work drinks. Hey, it’s five o’clock somewhere – right?

Cabana Waterfront Patio

Formerly known as Cabana Pool Bar, Cabana Waterfront Patio reopened as a restaurant on June 25. The 50,000 square foot space is the largest patio in the city and can safely accommodate over 400 guests.

Toronto Islands

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Spending time on the Toronto Islands is one of the best ways to spend a summer day!

St. Lawrence Market Farmers Market

Every Saturday, St. Lawrence Market transforms into a massive farmer’s market that’s full of fresh produce and delicious eats.

Ripley’s Aquarium

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Channel your inner Ariel for a day and take a trip under the sea at Ripley’s Aquarium.

The Slip

Patio drinks are pretty much synonymous with summer and harbourfront hotspot The Slip is the perfect place to enjoy a cold one with your BFFs.

CN Tower

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The iconic landmark is reopening this month after being closed since March. Tickets are available as of July 1 but unfortunately, its 360 Restaurant won’t be reopening yet.

Tommy Thompson Park

This hidden gem park is a perfect for nature lovers. What used to be a man-made trash site has now become known as Toronto’s urban wilderness!

Stackt Market

This uniquely built space that’s made out of shipping containers, opened earlier this year and houses a variety of food, beverage, and lifestyle vendors. Plus, there’s even a Belgian Moon brewery!

Toronto Botanical Gardens

toronto summer bucket list
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Visit the Toronto Botanical Gardens for a little escape into nature and spend the day amongst the flowers in the many gorgeous gardens.

The Rec Room

Head on over to The Rec Room for some patio hangs with your pals. While the joint is known for its super fun arcade games, right now in Toronto only its patio is open.

Kensington Market

While the Kensington Market’s Pedestrian Sundays won’t be taking place this year, that doesn’t mean you can’t shop, eat, and stroll around the iconic Toronto neighbourhood.

Trinity Bellwoods

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Grab a picnic blanket, a couple of friends, some snacks, and find yourselves a socially distanced circle at Trinity Bellwoods Park for a laid-back day soaking up the sun.

Black Lab Brewing 

Come to Black Lab Brewing to enjoy a beer with your best friend — aka your dog!

Milkcow

Head to Korean dessert cafe, Milkcow for unique summer treats like a watermelon ice cream sandwich!

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail

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Get a taste of the good old outdoors and walk, run, or bike the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail that goes all around the province!

Aga Khan Museum

Get a dose of culture when you visit the Aga Khan Museum. The museum is focused on Islamic and Persian art as well as Muslim culture houses more than 1,000 rare artifacts.

Art Gallery of Ontario

There’s nothing like spending the day oogling art at the AGO so we couldn’t be more excited that it’s reopening. The museum is opening to members and annual pass holders on July 2 and it will reopen to the public on July 23. 

Night SUP Adventure

toronto summer bucket list
Night SUP Adventure

Mix up your usual weekend night out and head to the water instead on a stand-up paddleboard through the waterways surrounding the Toronto Island.

Evergreen Brick Works Farmers Market

Love shopping for local produce? Head to the Evergreen Brick Works Farmers Market that takes place every Saturday from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The Rosé Picnic 

Most festivals are being cancelled but The Rosé Picnic is going virtual this year. Order in your Rosélicious Picnic Boxes from McEwan Catering and tune in for all the rosé fun!

Toronto Helicopter Tour

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Take your summer to new heights and view the city from above on a helicopter tour over Toronto!

Vegandale

Toronto’s food festival for vegans, Vegandale, happening on Saturday, August 8 and it brings together some of the best vegan eats and drinks the city has to offer.

Trinity Bellwoods Flea Market

Head to the Trinity Bellwoods Flea to search through the local vendors for some hidden treasure items.

The Wilderness Trip

This two-night getaway happening from August 28-30, and it’s a mix of traditional camping and luxurious glamping. During this experience, you’ll pitch a tent and do yoga on a stand-up paddleboard.

Royal Ontario Museum

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There’s nothing like spending a day at the Royal Ontario Museum that’s reopening to members and the general public in July.

Toronto International Film Festival

The 45th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is set to take place from September 10-19. Expect physical screenings and drive-ins, digital screenings, and virtual red carpets.

Taste of the Kingsway

Over 100 vendors will line Bloor Street West for Taste of the Kingsway that offers fun activations and entertainment. The event is currently still scheduled to take place on September 11-13.

The Distillery District

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On a beautiful day, is there anything better than strolling through The Distillery District? Enjoy a drink on restaurant patios after doing a little shopping.

Immersive Van Gogh

If you’re a fan of fine art, then don’t miss the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit that’s on from July 1-30 at the Toronto Star Building. Don’t worry, the event has implemented physical distancing circles will be on the ground so folks can stay apart.

JerkFest

While we won’t be able to enjoy the festival in person like previous years, this year’s JerkFest can be enjoyed from home. The event is on from August 8-9 and will feature live music performances, chef demos, and food that you can order via curbside pickup or delivery.

Featured Image: Instagram/@kathe_opitz

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