8 Incredible Things To Do In & Around Toronto This Winter For $30 Or Less
From winter hikes to indoor experiences.
People on an upside-down subway. Right: Disney characters ice skating.
While it may be tempting to jet off to warmer climates during Toronto's winter months, there's no need to break the bank in order to enjoy yourself this season.
There are lots of cheap and fun things to do in and around Toronto this winter that will have you enjoying the snowy months to the fullest.
These activities cost $30 or less and offer both indoor and outdoor fun. Whether you're up for a magical winter hike or exciting indoor event, there's something budget-friendly for everyone to enjoy.
If you're ready for enchanting strolls, Taylor Swift-themed concerts and more this winter, check out these eight events in and around the city that cost $30 or less.
Snow tube down a giant slope
Price: $26 + per pass
Address: 1101 Horseshoe Valley Rd. W., Barrie, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for some winter thrills, you'll want to head to this resort near Toronto. Horseshoe Resort, located in Barrie, lets you speed down "Ontario's longest snow tubing hill" for a fun, cold-weather outing.
The slope reaches up to 800 meters in length depending on conditions and is unique way to enjoy the outdoors. You can even tube beneath the stars during the evenings.
It's about an hour and a half away from Toronto, so you could easily make a winter day trip out of it.
Wander through a glowing sugar bush
Price: $22 + per adult
When: Friday through Sunday evenings until February 19, 2024
Address: 2259 Milburough Line, Campbellville, ON
Why You Need To Go: Get ready for some winter magic! Winterlit is an enchanting experience that takes you along glowing trails in Mountsberg Conservation Area.
You can explore an illuminated sugar bush, see art installations, relax at fireside lounges and more. It's a magical spot to wander through with your loved one or to enjoy with your friends.
On February 10, there will be a special event featuring things like boozy drinks, fire performers.
Celebrate everything sweet
Price: Free admission
When: February 9 to 19, 2024
Address: 28 Bathurst St., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Craving something sweet? Stackt Market is hosting a drool-worthy Sweet City Fest and it's a dessert-lover's dream come true.
The event features workshops, performances, food and drink specials and over 100 vendors to shop from.
Admission is free, but you'll definitely want to spend a bit on a sweet treat or beverage while you're there. It makes for a cute Valentine's Day outing too!
Stackt website
Visit a frozen waterfall
Price: $11 parking
Address: 900 Wilson St. E., Hamilton, ON
Why You Need To Go: This winter adventure features a sparkling, snowy forest and picturesque waterfall. If you're looking to stretch your legs, you can head to the Tiffany Falls Conservation Area, situated just a short drive from Toronto, for a magical cold-weather experience.
As temperatures drop, the cascades at Tiffany Falls transform into a stunning icy masterpiece that's straight out of a fairy tale. From the lookout platform, you can enjoy the views of the glistening waterfall and unleash your inner Elsa.
The trail to the falls features a snowy forest and magical winter landscapes at every turn.
See Disney on Ice
Price: 30 + per ticket
When: February 15 to 18, 2024
Address: 99 Athol St., East Oshawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Who doesn't love a Disney-themed outing? Disney on Ice is coming to the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa and you can see your favourite characters gliding about the rink.
The show features appearances by Elsa, Moana, Rapunzel and more.
Tickets start at $30, but you may have to pay a bit more depending on where you want to sit.
Explore a unique museum
Price: $25.50 per adult
Address: 132 Front St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This museum in Toronto will blow your mind and it's a good way to escape the cold. The Museum of Illusions has a series of exhibits and installations that will have you questioning reality at every turn.
The illusion rooms include a tilted room, vortex tunnel and reverse room where you'll want to snap some mind-boggling photos. You can also explore installations like the cloning table or "head on a platter."
Have a feast at Winterlicious
Price: $20 + per meal
When: Until February 8, 2024
Address: Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Bring your appetite! Winterlicious is back in Toronto until February 8 and you can indulge in three-course prix fixe menus at more than 200 restaurants.
There are several different price points, including a $20 or $27 lunch and a $25 dinner. You can use the Winterlicious map to find which restaurants are serving meals under $30.
From Italian dishes to Indian cuisine, there are tons of options to choose from. Spots can fill up fast, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance.
Enjoy a magical candlelight concert
Price: $26 + per person
When: Multiple dates
Address: 115 Simpson Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy live music surrounded by the magical glow of candles in Toronto. Candlelight concerts have several events taking place this winter and you can get tickets for under $30.
If you're a Swiftie you'll want to check out A Tribute to Taylor Swift, which features iconic songs like Wildest Dreams, Love Story and Shake it Off.
Or, if you're feeling groovy, you can head to the ABBA-themed event and listen to hits like Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia.
The pieces are performed by a string quartet amidst the glow of endless candles. Whether you go with friends or a loved one, it's a magical way to spend a night.
From digging into multi-corse meals to enjoying a concert bathed in candlelight, there's so much to enjoy in and around Toronto this winter that won't break the bank.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
This article's right-hand cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.