Summer in Canada is fleeting, and Torontonians know there’s only a few months to make the most of the warmer weather while we can!
As the city comes back alive from June through September, there are plenty of ways to get outdoors, from picnics in scenic parks to enjoying a cocktail on a rooftop patio.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are 12 fun outdoor activities to do in Toronto this summer:
1. Attend a summer street festival
There’s nothing like a Toronto street festival, and during the summer months, there seems to be one happening in the city every weekend! Be sure to catch Luminato, Do West Fest, and Lavazza IncluCity Festival in June, Beaches Jazz Festival and Toronto Fringe Festival in July, and Waterfront Night Market and Toronto Caribbean Carnival in August for food, music, and so much more.
2. Spend a day on Centre Island
A short ferry or water taxi ride from downtown, Centre Island is the perfect family day trip. Rent a quad bike, visit Centreville Amusement Park, relax on the beach, or simply take in the skyline from across the lake.
3. Picnic in a city park
Grab your blanket and picnic basket this summer and head to one of Toronto’s many parks for the afternoon! Trinity Bellwoods in the west-end is a local favourite, featuring plenty of trees for shade, tennis courts, and a large field for games and tossing a frisbee around. For a picnic with a view, head to Riverdale Park East, which features a large sloping hill and panoramic views, perfect to catch the sunset at.
4. Bike the Waterfront Trail
Stretching along Lake Ontario, the Martin Goodman Trail offers over 20 kilometres of bike-friendly paths. Rent a bike or bring your own to explore at your leisure, from Harbourfront to Tommy Thompson Park.
5. Catch a movie under the stars
Summer outdoor movie nights are a Toronto tradition, and better yet, they’re completely free at the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show! You can find them screening in a park near you, including Fort York, Christie Pits, and Corktown Common. Your blanket is all you need, as they’ll have food and drink vendors onsite.
6. Grab a bite on a waterfront restaurant patio
Dine al fresco this summer at one of the city’s many waterfront restaurants! Keep it casual at Boxcar Social Harbourfront or Amsterdam Brewhouse, or elevate your meal to great heights at Valerie in Hotel X Toronto. See our round-up of 12 great options here.
7. Roller skate at The Bentway
Get your groove on this summer and head to The Bentway beneath the Gardiner Expressway for an afternoon of roller skating and throwback tunes with Suso Skate. Skate rentals are available onsite, or you can bring your own and skate for free.
8. Sunbathe at a Toronto beach
Soak up the sun this summer at one of the city’s many public beaches! There’s a variety to choose from, like Cherry Beach which often achieves Blue Flag status, Bluffer’s Park surrounded by towering white cliffs, or Hanlan’s Point, the clothing optional beach on the Toronto Islands. See our round-up of 7 of the city’s best beaches here.
9. Dance at Cherry Beach’s Sunday parties
Every Sunday from mid-June through Labour Day, Promise transforms Cherry Beach into a lakeside dance floor from the afternoon until the stars come out. These open-air gatherings feature local and international DJs, a laid-back vibe, and sunset dancing right by the water.
10. Sip on a cocktail at a rooftop bar
Take in the city with a drink and a sky-high vantage point at a rooftop bar in Toronto. From Evangeline at The Ace Hotel to Lavelle’s King West poolside loungers, here are some of our favourite spots in the city to check out this summer.
11. See a concert at Budweiser Stage
Seeing a summer concert at Toronto’s iconic Budweiser Stage is a must. The seasonal open-air venue hosts some of the hottest artists each year, and is beloved for its intimate feel. This summer, Budweiser Stage will host musicians including Halsey, Mumford & Sons, Rüfüs Du Sol, and Neil Young. See the full schedule on their website here.
12. Explore the Scarborough Bluffs
For jaw-dropping views of Lake Ontario, head to the Scarborough Bluffs, located just 30 minutes east of downtown. You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked to a world far away from the hustle of Toronto, as the park has hiking trails, sandy beaches, turquoise water, and striking cliffs that reach 90 meters talls.
13. Paddle around the Toronto Islands
Get out on the water this summer and rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the calm waters around the Toronto Islands. You’ll be treated to unbeatable skyline views of the city and plenty of sandy beaches to stop at and cool off in. Toronto Island SUP or The Boat House offer rentals on the island.
14. Hike the Don Valley Trails
Nature lovers can hit the Don Valley trails for some fresh air and a quiet forested hike within city limits. Crothers Woods and the Lower Don Trail offer well-marked paths with plenty of greenery and scenic photo ops.
15. Stroll Through High Park
High Park is Toronto’s largest green space, home to everything from hiking trails and gardens to a free zoo. Open all year round, summer is an especially good time to visit, as the park is full of vibrant blooms, Shakespeare in the Park performances, and family-friendly festivals.