Affordable Summer Fun in Downtown Toronto

As Toronto basks in the all-too-fleeting summer heat, here are some affordable activities you can do around downtown to make the most out of summer.

Visit the Toronto Islands

From the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at 11 Queens Quay West, you are 15 minutes and $9.57 (for adults) away from an exciting day spent at the Toronto Islands. 

There are three islands open to the public: 

1. Centre Island
2. Hanlan’s Point
3. Ward’s Island

You can bike, spend time at the beach, rent a kayak, and soak in some amazing views of the downtown skyline. A perfect day would include renting bikes or using Bike Share Toronto from Ward’s Island and biking to Hanlan’s Point, soaking in the city views along the way, visiting Far Enough Farm on Centre Island, and stopping at one of the cafés to refresh yourself. 

Some favourite eating spots include:

• Islands Café and The Riviera + Runaway Café on Ward’s Island
• The Upper Deck on Centre Island.

📍 Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, 11 Queens Quay Wes
🚇 Union Station (Lines 1 and 2), then a short walk south

Explore Toronto’s Lively Neighbourhoods 

1. Kensington Market

Best For: A colourful, artsy, and hip vibe. 

There are many vintage stores to pop into, including:

• Courage My Love – 14 Kensington Ave
• Urban Catwalk – 10 Kensington Ave
• Exile – 60 Kensington Ave

If you need to refresh with a snack, Kensington has an amazing collection of cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating, such as:

• Pamenar – 307 Augusta Ave
• FIKA Café – 28 Kensington Ave

📍 Spadina and Dundas
🚇 Spadina Station (Line 2) or 506 Carlton streetcar to Augusta Avenue

2. The Distillery District

Best For: A historic and slow-paced experience.

Here’s what I would do:

1. Grab a snack at Arvo Coffee – 17 Gristmill Lane
2. Walk through the Victorian-era buildings and cobblestone lanes
3. Take a seat at Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie – 35 Tank House Lane

📍 Distillery District: 55 Mill Street
🚇 Distillery District: 504 King streetcar to the Distillery Loop

Parks for Every Mood

Toronto has an amazing mix of parks. Go alone or with friends, bring a book or a picnic: the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of my favourite Toronto green spaces:

1. High Park

Best For: Nature-filled trails and a zoo. 

Start by exploring the Grenadier Pond trails and make your way to the zoo, which has llamas, bison, capybaras, and peacocks. If you need a break, grab a snack at the Grenadier Café – 200 Parkside Dr.

🚇 High Park Station (Line 2)

2. Trinity Bellwoods

Best For: Social, picnic-heavy afternoons. 

Start by walking the tree-lined paths and set up your picnic blanket on the central lawn. There are often pop-ups, vendors, and activities at the park.

🚇 501 Queen streetcar

3. Allan Gardens

Best For: A tropical escape thanks to its lush conservatory. And have no fear – admission is free!

🚇 College Station (Line 1)

4. Riverdale Park

Best For: An amazing view of the downtown skyline. 

Here are some ideas on how to spend the day:

• Bring a picnic blanket to lay on the hill as you watch the sunset.
• If you like tennis, there are seven outdoor hard surface courts nearby.
• Head over to Riverdale Farm – 201 Winchester St.
• Stroll around the neighbourhood to end your day.

🚇 506 Carlton streetcar to Sumach Street

It’s time to pack your picnic baskets and head out to these amazing spots for a memorable Toronto Summer!