Weekend Activities #atthewaterfront
Escape the city without leaving the city. Toronto summers are hot and what better place to spend it, than by the water. There is plenty of space and nature to sprawl out in and something for everyone – and it’s all just a hop, skip and jump from the downtown core.
Here are a few ways to take advantage of what the waterfront has to offer:
Get on the water and paddle your way around the lake on a canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard. Rentals are available at Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre at the waterfront or on Toronto Island at Toronto Island SUP. If you’ve never tried, they also offer lessons.
Sail away on morning and sunset harbour cruises with City Experiences by Hornblower, Tall Ship Kajama, Toronto Harbour Tours or you can book your own private boat and enjoy the views of the harbour with some food and drinks with Gone Sailing Adventures.
There is lots to explore on Toronto Island. Start by taking the ferry or one of the water taxis over, have a picnic in one of the parks or grab lunch at The Riviera, chill at one of the many beaches, catch a sunset stand-up paddleboard and then head home.
Who else thinks picnics are underrated? There are lots of takeout options on the waterfront and even more spaces to enjoy said take out. Check out Little Norway Park, Toronto Music Garden, HTO Park, Harbour Square Park, Sugar Beach and Sherbourne Common for some open, lakeside greenery.
If you’re looking to get in some exercise, there’s a dedicated 56 km long, paved trail along the waterfront for all your cardio needs. Starting in Humber Bay and ending at The Beaches, you can run, walk, bike, skateboard, scoot, rollerskate or rollerblade the whole way.
Grab a seat on one of the many patio restaurants and cafes for some lakeside eats, drinks and views. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian at Pie Bar, fried chicken at Joe Bird, global infusions at Against the Grain, coffee at Boxcar Social, happy hour cocktails at The Slip (seasonal) or burgers and beers at The Goodman Pub or Amsterdam Brewhouse, there’s something for everyone’s appetite.
While the waterfront is already full of beautiful nature, there is also lots of art to see. Take an art walk to Harbourfront Centre to see Ola Volo’s mural, then head inside to watch artists bring their work to life. The Power Plant next door is a free contemporary art gallery with rotating artist exhibits. Check out the giant whales mural on the front of the Redpath Sugar Plant and then stroll past Bayside Gallery in the East side to see an exterior, local artist display.
