Things To Do In Toronto In Winter

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario. The city’s diverse population, vibrant culture, and unique attractions make it one of the most visited cities in North America. With its long, cold winters, Toronto offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors looking for something to do during the cold months. In this guide, we will discuss some of the best things to do in Toronto in the winter, including popular tours and attractions.

A General Overview of Toronto

Toronto is the fourth-largest city in North America and one of the most diverse cities in the world. It is home to over 2.9 million people and is a major center of business, culture, and entertainment. The city is divided into six boroughs, each with its own unique character and charm.

Toronto was founded in 1793 by John Graves Simcoe, who named it after the Iroquois word for “Meeting Place”. The city experienced rapid growth in the 19th century, becoming an important industrial center. Today, Toronto is home to a variety of industries including finance, entertainment, technology, and much more.

The city is renowned for its beautiful skyline, which features the iconic CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. Toronto also boasts many unique attractions such as the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Ontario Science Centre.

When it comes to entertainment, Toronto has something for everyone. From professional sports teams like the Raptors, Blue Jays, and Maple Leafs to world-class museums and galleries, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Things To Do In Toronto In Winter

Toronto is a great destination for winter activities and fun. Here are some of the best things to do in Toronto during the winter months:

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

Nathan Phillips Square is a popular public square located in downtown Toronto. It is home to one of the city’s most beloved attractions – an outdoor skating rink. The rink is open year-round and is free to use, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The rink offers skate rentals for those who don’t have their own skates and provides an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Exploring the Distillery District

The Distillery District is a historic neighborhood located in downtown Toronto. It was home to the Gooderham & Worts whiskey distillery for over a century until it closed in 1990. Today, the area has been transformed into a trendy enclave filled with boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. During the winter months, the area is transformed into a magical winter wonderland with festive lights and decorations. With its cobblestone streets and old-world charm, a visit to the Distillery District is sure to be a memorable experience.

Ice Fishing on Lake Ontario

Lake Ontario is one of the five Great Lakes that border Canada and the United States. During the winter months, it freezes over and becomes a popular destination for ice fishing enthusiasts. The lake offers a wide variety of fish including lake trout, steelhead trout, walleye, and panfish. If you’re looking for an adventurous winter activity, then ice fishing on Lake Ontario is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Skiing & Snowboarding at Blue Mountain Resort

Blue Mountain Resort is located just outside of Toronto and is one of the most popular ski resorts in Canada. The resort offers 42 ski runs ranging from beginner to expert difficulty levels as well as snowboarding terrain parks and jumps. With its spectacular views and wide variety of activities, Blue Mountain is an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Exploring Toronto’s Museums & Galleries

Toronto is home to many world-class museums and galleries that can be enjoyed year-round. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of Canada’s largest museums and features an extensive collection of artifacts from around the world. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has one of North America’s largest collections of Canadian art as well as works from around the world. Other popular museums include the Bata Shoe Museum, the Ontario Science Centre, and the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Popular Winter Tours in Toronto

In addition to all the great things to do in Toronto year-round, there are some unique winter tours that visitors can enjoy during their stay. Here are two popular winter tours that visitors should consider when visiting Toronto:

A Winter Wonderland After Dark Tour

This popular tour takes visitors on a journey through downtown Toronto after dark. The tour begins at Nathan Phillips Square where visitors will experience the city’s festive holiday lights before heading to other popular sites such as the Distillery District and Harbourfront Centre. Throughout the tour, visitors will have a chance to learn about Toronto’s rich history as well as its vibrant nightlife scene. This tour is a great way to experience Toronto’s beauty after dark and learn about its unique culture and attractions. Book a Winter Wonderland After Dark Tour here.

A Brew Tour of Winterlicious

This unique tour takes visitors on a journey through Toronto’s burgeoning craft beer scene during Winterlicious – Toronto’s annual culinary festival featuring over 200 restaurants offering special prix fixe menus. On this tour, visitors will visit some of Toronto’s most popular breweries where they will have a chance to sample some of their signature craft beers while learning about their brewing process and history. This tour is perfect for beer lovers who want to experience Toronto’s craft beer scene while also taking in some of its other attractions such as Kensington Market and Graffiti Alley. Book a Brew Tour of Winterlicious here.

Conclusion

Toronto is a great destination for winter activities and tours. From skating at Nathan Phillips Square to exploring downtown’s Distillery District or embarking on a winter brew tour, there are plenty of things to do in Toronto during the colder months. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or an adventurous outdoor activity, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.