10+ Best Things to Do in Winter in Toronto (Ontario)
When winter arrives in Toronto, the city transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, snowy streets, and cozy hideaways. Sure, the cold can be a shocker, but it also brings many fun, unique experiences that make you look forward to the season. You’ll love skating under the stars or sipping hot cocoa while exploring charming holiday markets. We’ve listed some of the best things to do in winter in Toronto – trust us, you won’t want to miss a thing.
1. Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Nathan Phillips Square is one of Toronto’s iconic winter spots. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights and the city skyline, making it the perfect place to glide around with friends or family. Plus, there’s nothing like warming up with a hot chocolate afterward.
- www.toronto.ca
- 100 Queen St W, Toronto
- +1 416-392-2489
2. Explore the Distillery Winter Village
The Distillery District transforms into a picturesque winter village during the holidays. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with charming shops, festive decorations, and artisan vendors.
- www.thedistillerywintervillage.com
- 51 Gristmill Lane, Toronto
- +1 647-693-4646
- wintervillage@thedistillerydistrict.com
3. Visit the Toronto Christmas Market
Speaking of festive cheer, the Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District is a must-visit. With live music, festive foods, holiday performances, fun shops, and stunning light displays, it’s among the best things to do in winter in Toronto to get into the holiday spirit.
- www.tochristmasmarket.com
- 55 Mill St, Toronto
- info@torontochristmasmarket.com
4. Hit the Slopes at Earl Bales Park
Who says you need to leave the city to go skiing or snowboarding? Earl Bales Park offers convenient slopes right in Toronto. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, it’s an excellent spot for some winter sports fun.
- www.toronto.ca
- 4169 Bathurst St, North York
- +1 416-392-2489
5. Tobogganing at Riverdale Park
Embrace your inner child and go tobogganing at Riverdale Park. It’s among the classic things to do in winter in Toronto for all ages. Grab a sled and race down the hill for some heart-pounding fun.
- www.toronto.ca
- 550 Broadview Ave, Toronto
- +1 416-392-2489
6. Warm Up at a Cozy Café
After a day in the cold, nothing beats warming up with a hot drink. At Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, you can relax with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate. But if you’re a certified iced coffee lover, you can stick to your favourites.
- www.balzacs.com
- 43 Hanna Ave #123, Toronto
- +1 416-534-7372
7. Celebrate Winterlicious
Winterlicious is Toronto’s premier culinary event, featuring special prix-fixe menus at some of the city’s top restaurants. It’s one of the top things to do in winter in Toronto and a perfect excuse to indulge in a gastronomic adventure without breaking the bank.
8. Join a Winter Hike in High Park
Embrace the crisp winter air with a hike in High Park. The park’s trails offer beautiful views of snow-covered trees and frozen ponds, providing a tranquil escape within the city.
- www.highparktoronto.com
- 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto
- +1 416-338-0338
9. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
If you want to escape the cold, spend a day exploring the Royal Ontario Museum. From natural history to world cultures, the ROM’s diverse exhibits will fascinate visitors of all ages.
- www.rom.on.ca
- 100 Queens Park, Toronto
- +1 416-586-8000
- info@rom.on.ca
10. Attend the Casa Loma Holiday Light Display
This Gothic Revival beauty, set in midtown, dazzles with a spectacular Christmas light display. Wander through the illuminated grounds on a self-guided tour, catch live performances, and pop into Santa’s workshop for extra festive fun.
- www.casaloma.ca
- 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
- +1 416-923-1171
- help@ticketweb.ca
11. Go Up the CN Tower
The CN Tower is Toronto’s ultimate icon, and exploring it in winter is among the best things to do in Toronto. Standing tall at 553 meters, it offers stunning views of a snowy cityscape and possibly a frozen Lake Ontario.
- www.cntower.ca
- 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
- +1 416-868-6937
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