fbpx

WATERFRONT BIA

MORE THAN WATER
5 family-friendly things to do on the waterfront this Family Day

5 family-friendly things to do on the waterfront this Family Day

Family Day long weekend is finally here! If you’re at a loss for what to do this year, we’ve got you covered. To help you make the most of your time with your nearest and dearest, we compiled a list of some of the best things Toronto’s waterfront has to offer. From tough-to-top arts and culture events to eateries serving up drool-worthy fare, there’s plenty to see, do, and eat lakeside.

Experience Ice Breakers 

People interacting with Ice Breakers installation, Tweeta-GateWhat: Now in its third year, Ice Breakers presented by PortsToronto coaxes Torontonians out from underneath their warm, cozy blankets and onto the waterfront. Since opening last month, the public art exhibition has transformed Queens Quay West with its five larger-than life art installations scattered throughout the neighbourhood. The best part? The exhibition is completely interactive and super-Instagrammable! So, get your camera ready and make some memories with the fam.

Where: Queens Quay West. Click here to learn where to find each installation  

When: On now until February 24th

Cost: Free admission

Bonus: In honour of this year’s Ice Breakers, Loch & Quay is offering a cup of free Pilot Coffee when you dine-in. Aside from killer coffee and relaxed vibes, the waterfront restaurant also doles out delicious eats that both omnivores and herbivores are sure to enjoy. So, after checking out Ice Breakers, warm up with a cuppa joe and freshly-prepared bites from Loch & Quay.

Discover Winter Stations

Winter Stations hits the shore on Family Day! The annual art exhibition returns to the Beaches with a series of six massive art installations that help to brighten our bleak winter. Each installation reimagines utilitarian lifeguard stands into vibrant and whimsical art sculptures that create immersive experiences.

Where: Woodbine Beach

When: February 18th to April 1st

Cost: Free admission

Have a cultural experience 

Known as the go-to spot for all things arts and culture on the waterfront, the vast array of activities at Harbourfront Centre will encourage your family to broaden their horizons. All weekend-long you’ll find unique and engaging events, workshops, and art and photography exhibitions, including Kuumba (Toronto’s longest-running celebration of Black History Month) and DJ Skate Night.

Where: 235 Queens Quay West

When: See Harbourfront Centre’s events calendar

Cost: Free and ticketed activities/events. Visit their website for pricing details

Get brunching!

An assortment of plated food from the Goodman Pub and Kitchen brunch menu lays atop a wooden tableThere’s no feeling better than being surrounded by good company, great food — and a stellar view of the harbour. Wind-down the long weekend by enjoying a Family Day brunch feast at Pie Bar or The Goodman Pub and Kitchen. Pie Bar’s menu consists of rich Italian twists on brunch classics, like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, while The Goodman takes a pub-style approach to the beloved morning meal.

Where: Pie Bar and The Goodman Pub and Kitchen (located inside Queens Quay Terminal, (207 Queens Quay W)

When: Family Day, February 18th

Cost: Visit Pie Bar and The Goodman Pub and Kitchen’s websites for their brunch menu and prices  

Be a tourist in your own city

You don’t have to venture far to have an unforgettable long weekend adventure. Toronto’s waterfront is riddled with hidden gems that we, as locals, tend to overlook during the hustle and bustle of city life. Rediscover Toronto by exploring under-the-radar treasures like the Spadina Quay Wetland, travelling to Ward’s Island for a picturesque winter excursion, or strolling along Queens Quay admiring the beauty of Lake Ontario. 

Where: Queens Quay

When: Anytime!

Cost: Free, with the exception of Ward’s Island ferry tickets   

Want more? Visit our business directory to learn more about what’s happening on the waterfront year-round. 

Related Posts