Welcome HOEM
The Ultimate Student Residence Awaits.
Toronto is calling now that summer is here!
We’ve put together the ultimate bucket list to make your summer amazing without ever leaving the city, whether you’re here for work, education, or just to hang out. These are the top things to do in Toronto this summer:
1. Take a Ferry to the Islands
For views of the sun, sand, and skyline, take a ferry to the Toronto Islands. Ideal for a solo rejuvenation, a beach day, or a picnic with friends.
Total Cost: $9.11
Pro Tip: Take a ride on the island pathways by renting a bike or bringing your own.
2. See a Film Outside
Catch a movie under the stars this summer — for free! Bring a blanket, snacks, and your best movie buddies.
Here are a few options:
- Christie Pits Film Festival
📅 Sundays from June 30 to August 25, 2025
📍 Christie Pits Park
🎬 More Info - Movies in Corktown Common
📅 Select Thursdays in July
📍 Corktown Common
🎬 Event Details
- Fort York Movie Nights
📅 August 2025 (dates TBA)
📍 Fort York National Historic Site
🎬 Check Fort York Events
3. Festivals for All
There’s a festival for every vibe in Toronto this summer. We’ve separated a few of the biggest ones below:
- Pride Toronto
📅 June 1–30, 2025 (Parade: June 30)
📍 Church-Wellesley Village & downtown core
🌈 Pride Toronto - Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana)
📅 July 4–August 3, 2025 (Grand Parade: August 2)
📍 Exhibition Place, Lakeshore Blvd
🥁 Caribana Info - Beaches International Jazz Festival
📅 July 4–28, 2025
📍 Queen Street East, Woodbine Park, and other locations
🎷 Jazz Festival Info - Afrofest
📅 July 5–6, 2025
📍 Woodbine Park
🪘 Afrofest Details - Taste of the Danforth
📅 TBD
📍 Danforth Avenue (Broadview to Jones)
🍴 Taste of the Danforth Info
Bonus: Most events have free entry and are great spots to enjoy food and support local businesses!
4. Parks Aplenty
Some of the city’s best green spaces:
- Trillium Park – By the waterfront with skyline views.
- Riverdale Park East – Epic sunset views over the city.
- High Park – A huge park with trails, a zoo, and more.
Pack a lunch, bring a Frisbee, and stay all day!
5. Patio Season is Upon Us
Whether you’re into rooftops, hipster vibes, or tucked-away gems:
- Queen West – Try Bellwoods Brewery or Bar Poet.
- Kensington Market – El Rey and Ronnie’s are local faves.
- Yorkville Rooftop – Hemingway’s has one of the best rooftop patios in the city.
6. Graffiti Alley Street Art
Take a walk through one of Toronto’s most famous photo locations to elevate your Instagram.
Bonus: It’s constantly evolving and totally free.
📍 Located between Queen St. W. and Richmond St. W., from Spadina Ave. to Portland St.
7. Polson Pier at Sunset
Wind down your day with a peaceful view of the skyline from Polson Pier.
📍 11 Polson St.
It’s serene, picturesque, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to stay all summer.
Let’s Hear it for Summer!
Don’t let summer pass you by! There are a ton of enjoyable, inexpensive, or free activities in Toronto. All you need is a spirit of adventure and a Presto card.
