2018 Guide to Summer in TO
By Guest Editor: Natalie Dean
Summer is in full swing! If you haven’t taken advantage of the nice weather yet, you’ll be kicking yourself when fall arrives. So get outside; explore the city! Fresh out of ideas?! Here, are some of our favourite things to do in Toronto this summer!
Visit Europe without leaving the city at Café Artois
Take advantage of King Street’s extended patios this summer by visiting Café Artois. Café Artois is a picturesque European streetscape that takes up almost an entire city block at King and Brant. You can sip cold beer on a hot day, eat delicious snacks, put down your phone and savour the summer the way Europeans do.
Café Artois is located at CIBO Wine Bar (522 King Street West), Fynn’s of Temple Bar (489 King Street West), Spice Route (499 King Street West) and Bier Markt (600 King Street West).
Kick up your heels at the Manolo Blahnik exhibit
For those inevitable rainy days, check out the “Manolo Blahnik: Art of Shoes” exhibit at the Bata Shoe Museum. This is the only place in North America where you can get a glimpse of the famous shoe designer’s handy work. An air-conditioned museum is also the perfect way to beat the heat on those extra hot days.
Image © 2018 Bata Shoe Museum, Toronto (Photograph by George Pimentel)
Take in a Blue Jays game
We might not be the not the biggest baseball fans but a Blue Jays game is always a ton of fun for friends and families alike. We suggest grabbing a few tickets in the top level. It’s a great activity and when the dome is open and a wonderful way to enjoy hot summer days and cool summer evenings in the city.
Journey to Toronto Island
Just a short ferry ride from Queen’s Quay, Toronto Island is the perfect location if you’re looking to take a day trip without going too far. Stay at one of the adorable B&B’s for a fun girl’s weekend or a romantic getaway. We love renting bikes and touring around the island. Pack your swimsuits for a day at Ward’s Island Beach.
Stroll the shops in Yorkville
Have friends visiting? We love to stroll around Yorkville showing off all of the incredible fashions. As Toronto’s premier shopping destination, you can find something for everyone in this renowned neighbourhood. Even if you can’t afford everything it’s always fun to look.
Enjoy a rooftop pool
Rooftop pools are a fun way to spend a weekend with your friends, especially during a heat wave! Many pools are open to the public, but why now treat yourself to a staycation? Newly-opened Hotel X not only has a guests-only rooftop pool, but their city views are magnificent.
Image provided by Hotel X
Natalie Dean is a lifestyle writer specializing in home decor, travel and entertainment trends. Find her at www.nataliedean.com @nataliedean on Instagram and @natalie_dean on Twitter