Winter in Toronto isn’t always the most forgiving, especially when in the midst of the longest cold snap in years – however, it’s all the more reason to get extra creative when it comes to planning a unique and memorable date.
From an intimate candlelit tribute to their favourite musician or a make-your-own-pasta class complete with wine, here are 15 romantic date ideas to try this winter in Toronto.
1. Cozy up with a Candlelight Concert
Surprise your date with a mesmerizing Candlelight Concert tribute to one of their favourite artists this winter. Set within a historic venue like Paradise Theatre or the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto, you’ll be in for an unforgettable night as a talented string quartet covers songs by some of the world’s most recognizable artists, including Fleetwood Mac, The Beatles, and ABBA.
2. Book a romantic staycation at a boutique hotel
Treat yourself and your partner to a romantic getaway this winter without leaving the city at one of Toronto’s many incredible boutique hotels. Consider spending the night at the Kimpton Saint George, a luxurious getaway tucked away steps away from Yorkville, or the iconic Ace Hotel, which features the works of over 40 local artists throughout the property and has three great dining options for choose from.
3. Indulge in a three-course meal at Winterlicious
Take your date out for lunch or dinner during this annual winter food event in the city. Every winter, restaurants across the city participate in Winterlicious by offering prix fixe lunch and dinner menus, usually showcasing their best dishes for a great price. This year, over 220 local restaurants are joining in on the fun, some offering meals for as low as $20. You can see the full list of restaurants and their menus on the City of Toronto website here. Winterlicious runs from January 31 through February 13.
4. Get hot and cold at a sauna and ice bath studio
See how long you can last in a freezing cold ice bath before warming up together afterwards in the sauna at one of Toronto’s hot and cold therapy destinations. Book Tonic Spa’s private four-person sauna and cold plunge suite, or take a breathwork class together at Othership, which now has two locations in Toronto.
5. Play games at an arcade
Play the good kind of games with your partner at an arcade bar in Toronto. Tilt Arcade Bar in Parkdale has a variety of retro arcade games and 90s consoles in a fun, retro-themed space. The Rec Room is also always a safe bet with its massive 40,000-square foot space, as well as FreePlay where you pay a cover for unlimited play, and you can sip on a craft beer between games.
6. Go roller skating indoors
If you’re not up for the outdoors but still up for a date revolving around physical activity, head to Union Station’s Roller Express for some indoor roller skating in a retro-themed environment. Union Station’s Roller Express is completely free, running until February 2.
7. Take a cooking class together at Eataly
If you love Italian food, Eataly Toronto has a bunch of great classes you can try together as a couple, from learning to make handmade gnocchi to tiramisu. You can find their full schedule of classes posted on their website, but book quick as they fill up fast and have limited seats.
8. Hit up a board game cafe
There’s nothing like some friendly competition to get sparks flying, and Toronto has tons of board game cafes for the occasion. Snakes & Lattes has a few locations around the city with thousands of board games to choose from, and an extensive food and drinks menu to keep you fueled up for all the fun. Another great spot is For The Win Cafe & Bar, where you can also get bar snacks, beer, cocktails and even bubble tea.
9. Make your own personalized candles
Take a sensory journey with your partner and craft your own scented candles at a candle making workshop. KANDL Artiste has a great class for beginners introducing them to fragrance selection and candle making. Other great options include Yummi Candles’ workshop in the Distillery District, or Let’s Make It in Richmond Hill.
10. Go ice skating at night
Engage in one of Canada’s favourite winter activities with a twirl on the ice illuminated by city lights! Choose from iconic skating spots like Nathan Phillips Square, the College Park skating trail, or the Bentway. For a more lively vibe, head to one of Hangar Skate or Harbourfront Centre’s DJ Skate Nights.
11. Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day
Get pampered from head to toe with your S/O at one of Toronto’s best spas! From the luxury queen or king facial at the Four Seasons Hotel to a couples’ day spa package at Elmwood, it’s the perfect way to get some much needed relaxation post-holiday season.
12. Explore the Allan Gardens Conservatory
If you or your partner have a green thumb or simply just want to escape the cold and imagine you’re in the tropics, the Allan Gardens Conservatory is the ideal destination. Open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., you could spend an afternoon wandering through the indoor botanical garden which features five greenhouses.
13. Salsa the night away at Lula Lounge
Couldn’t afford a winter getaway to Cuba? No problem – Lula Lounge has you covered. Every Friday and Saturday night, the restaurant and live music venue hosts Latin nights complete with a live salsa band and DJ. Bring your date for a night of dancing to salsa, bachata, reggaeton, and top 40 hits. If you aren’t a salsa dancing pro, they even have instructors offering lessons!
14. Take a cocktail making class together
No matter your skill level, a cocktail making class is a great way to bring you and your date closer during a fun night out! Consider Reid’s Cocktail Class at Reid’s Distillery, which lets you learn a variety of bartending skills while creating three unique cocktails. Love of Cocktails is another amazing option, with offerings like their All About Agave or Whisky Wonderland classes.
15. Experience ROM After Dark
Twice a month, the Royal Ontario Museum hosts its beloved ROM After Dark 19+ event series that features curated music, live performances, and distinctive food and drink. Often themed, the experience is a great date idea for art lovers as it includes access to all of the museum’s exhibitions.