TAKE A BREAK FROM NETFLIX AND ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS THIS WINTER SEASON
It may be tempting to stay inside all winter with a warm cup of tea and a cozy blanket, but you’d be missing out on everything Toronto has to offer outdoors. Did you know that you can go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing right here in the city?
Checkout our list of 10 things to do outside this winter to find out how.
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY AT A DJ SKATE NIGHT
Harbourfront hosts a DJ skate night every Saturday night from 8 to 11 p.m. until February 18. Described as “Toronto’s block party on ice,” each Saturday features a new DJ. Also, admission is completely FREE.
GET A GROUP TOGETHER FOR SHINNY
Toronto is crawling with outdoor ice rinks, and some of them even feature a designated spot for shinny. Alexandra Park, Christie Pitts Rink, Ramsden Park, Riverdale Park, and Hodgson Public School are among the best shinny rinks in the city, along with a few others. Know a great shinny spot in Toronto? Tell us in the comments section below!
DUST OFF YOUR TOBOGGAN
Strap on your boots and go for a ride down a toboggan hill. Some of the best places to go in the city include but are not limited to Christie Pitts Park, Lithuania Park, Centennial Park, and Riverdale Park East. Know a good spot? Leave a comment below.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKI ON THE TORONTO ISLANDS
The Toronto Islands are full of trails that are available to cross-country skiers. Breathe in the views of Toronto as it’s draped in snow and you might just forget about how much you wish it was summer.
TAKE A SHOT AT SNOWSHOEING
Did you know you can go snowshoeing right here in downtown Toronto? Coronation and Battery Park Trail offers spectacular views that will make you forget you’re still in the city. Other great spots are Morningside Park, High Park, Key Gardner Beltline Trail, and West Humber Parkland. Don’t have snowshoes? You can rent a pair at King Street’s Mountain Equipment Co-op.
GO FOR A POND SKATE ON WARD’S ISLAND
Skating on Ward’s Island has always been a popular winter activity among the island’s local community. This is a free activity that provides a nice change from your typical Toronto outdoor rink. Centre Island’s Long Pond is also another option. Keep in mind that the temperature outside is unpredictable, so make sure the pond is frozen enough before you go.
FAR ENOUGH FARM TORONTO ISLAND
Located on Centre Island, Far Enough Farm is open 365 days of the year, offering a unique opportunity to attend an outdoor petting zoo in the winter. With 40 different animals, including a collection of exotic birds, visiting this farm is a great excuse to visit the islands this winter. Best part? Admission is FREE.
GET SOME FRIENDS TOGETHER FOR CURLING
West Mall Rink (Etobicoke) and Harry Gairey Rink (Bathurst and Dundas) both offer free curling time slots. The Toronto Curling Association donated the necessary equipment to each rink, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own stuff. Check their websites for rink times, and if you’re interested in getting serious about the sport, lessons are available at both rinks as well.
BUNDLE UP AND GO BIRD WATCHING
The GTA hosts about 140 bird species between December and February, with 120 of those species found in Toronto. Some of the best parks for winter bird watching in the City are Tommy Thompson Park, Humber Bay Park, High Park, and anywhere along the waterfront. Bring along some hot cocoa and trail mix and you’re good to go.
GO ON A GOOD OLD ICE FISHING TRIP
You don’t have to travel far to go ice-fishing. Hamilton Harbour is among one of the most popular ice fishing destinations in southern Ontario, and is the closest location to Toronto. Hamilton Harbour encourages a DIY vibe so you kind of have to know what you’re doing, but it’s still a fun option for experienced ice fishers.
By danielle – Indi88