Soak Up The Toronto Summer: The Ultimate Guide

Toronto, fondly dubbed as "The Queen City," offers an array of exciting experiences that cater to diverse preferences during the summer. It is a city alive with vibrant cultural festivals, mouth-watering food, rich heritage, breathtaking outdoor views, and thrilling entertainment options. Without further ado, here's your ultimate guide to the ultimate Toronto summer.

1. Indulge in Summerlicious

For food enthusiasts, Toronto's annual Summerlicious event should not be missed. The city’s finest restaurants offer specially designed three-course meals at reasonable prices. It's a great opportunity to experience Toronto’s rich culinary scene. Remember to book your tables in advance though, as the seats fill up quickly!

2. Visit the Toronto Island Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving it by hopping on a ferry to Toronto Island Park. Miles of parkland, great picnic spots, sandy beaches, charming cottages, and a spectacular view of the city's skyline make it a favorite summer destination for locals and tourists alike.

3. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum

The city isn't just about outdoor adventures; it also boasts some world-class museums. The Royal Ontario Museum, the largest in Canada, is home to a collection of over six million artefacts from various periods and civilizations. Take a stroll through the dinosaur exhibit or check out the galleries of Greek and Roman antiquities.

4. Embrace the Music Scene at Toronto's Summer Music Festivals

If you appreciate live music, Toronto's summer music festivals have got you covered. Events like the TD Toronto Jazz Festival, Field Trip, and the Beaches International Jazz Festival promise unforgettable performances from international and local artists. Time it right and you might get to see your favorite band!

5. Celebrate Pride Month

In June, Toronto's streets erupt in colour for Pride Month. The celebrations highlight the city's diverse LGBTQ+ community and culminate in the Toronto Pride Parade, one of the largest Pride events in the world. Participation is not just limited to the LGBTQ+ community - all are welcome to revel in the festivities.

6. Stroll the Kensington Market

Explore Toronto's multiculturalism at its finest in Kensington Market. With its unique blend of vintage shops, art spaces, eateries representing cuisines from around the world, you won't find another place in the city quite like it. Sundays in the summer are car-free and often feature live street performances.

7. Experience EdgeWalk at the CN Tower

For adrenaline junkies, the EdgeWalk at the CN Tower offers an exhilarating and unmatched view of the city below. Securely harnessed, daring visitors can walk on the edge of one of the world’s tallest towers – a must try for thrill-seekers.

8. Do a Brewery Tour

Toronto is home to a flourishing craft beer scene. Book a brewery tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at how these artisanal brews are crafted, and enjoy tastings of the finest ales, IPAs, and stouts that the city has to offer.

9. Enjoy a Movie Under the Stars

Summer nights in Toronto are perfect for an outdoor movie under the stars. Several parks throughout the city offer weekly movie screenings with genres ranging from family favorites to Hollywood blockbusters.

10. Be Cheered at Rogers Centre

No summer in Toronto would be complete without experiencing a baseball game. Marvel at the atmosphere at the Rogers Centre as you cheer on the city's beloved Blue Jays.

While this is by no means an exhaustive list, it embodies the spirit of Toronto and offers a slice of the myriad experiences the city provides during the summer. Pack your bags, apply some sunscreen, put on your shades, and get ready for some fun under the Toronto sun.