7 Toronto date ideas for spring that aren't just dinner and a movie and are sure to impress
Celebrate love this season. 💐 ❤️
BeaverTails at Canada's Wonderland. Right: Flowers from the Toronto Flower Market.
As the people in the city start heading out again after being cooped up for the winter, finding activities for date night in Toronto that aren't just your standard dinner and a movie might be tough to come up with.
Of course, there's absolutely nothing wrong with having a bite at one of the city's many delicious restaurants and then catching a flick at Revue Cinema, but sometimes it's nice to go on a different type of outing with your boo every once in a while.
Toronto is gorgeous in spring, and with the weather starting to warm up, there are so many fun things you can explore in the city now that you don't have to wear your winter coat and jacket anywhere — and yes, there's more to do than just seeing the cherry blossoms!
From free things to do in Toronto this spring to some experiences where you're sure to make special memories, here are a few ideas for your next date you'll want to add to your calendar.
Check out Doors Open Toronto
On May 25 and 26, the City of Toronto is hosting their annual Doors Open Event which allows people to explore the city's architectural, historical, cultural and socially significant buildings for free.
"This year’s theme is hidden histories," says the city. "Uncover untold stories from across the city through a variety of open house experiences, engaging tours and insightful talks."
Some of the sites participating in this year's event include Billy Bishop Airport, Black Creek Pioneer Village, CAMH, City of Toronto Archives, Evergreen Brick Works, Massey College, Steam Whistle Brewing and many more.
Head to Wonderland
Wonderland is opening back up for the season on May 3 and it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the spring weather while getting some thrills in with new rides and old favourites.
For 2024, a new attraction called Moosehorn Falls is opening up in June and it'll take riders down a "rushing river cascade of twists, turns and drops before being propelled to the summit of a zero-gravity, 13-metre wall (42 feet)."
"As rafters crest the vertical apex in a moment of weightlessness, the current will reverse and send them downstream to a crystal-clear pool where their journey on this water slide ends with a breathtaking splash," they say of the ride. Fun!
As well, classics like the Antique Carrousel, Behemoth, Leviathan and Mighty Canadian Minebuster will all be open for 2024.
Don't forget to grab a BeaverTails for a snack!
Visit High Park
Yes, the cherry blossoms in High Park might be the epitome of a Toronto tourist attraction, but they are extremely beautiful and beyond that, there are loads to do in High Park beyond admiring the blooms!
Whether it's having a picnic while people-watching on a sunny day or hitting the multiple trails or visiting the free zoo to admire the bison, deer, llamas, peacocks and highland cattle, there's loads to see and do in the park as it's over 300 acres in size.
You can also sign up for a spot in their garden allotment and plant a cute little garden or grow your own vegetables to enjoy in your meals.
Visit the Toronto Flower Market
The Toronto Flower Market is reopening for the season on May 11 and it adds some seriously dreamy vibes to Queen Street West.
"We celebrate and support Ontario grown flowers & plants, connecting growers and florists directly with the city," they say of the event.
You can wander the gorgeous blooms, pick up a bouquet for your date, or pick out individual flowers like ranunculus, peonies and other seasonal delights to craft your own bespoke creation.
If you don't catch the market in May, you can also visit it on June 15, July 13, August 17, September 14, and October 12, 2024.
See the art of Banksy
If you prefer a date that's indoors to avoid the chilly spring air, you can visit a display called The Art Of Banksy starting on May 29 at the Lighthouse Art Space.
"The Art of Banksy features more than 140 original and authenticated Banksy works," says the event. "These include prints, canvases, screenprints, sculptures, hand-drawn sketches, and limited-edition pieces, as well as video testimonials by a close associate of Banksy who worked on prints of iconic images with the artist."
So if you've ever wanted to see "Girl with Balloon," "Flower Thrower" and "Rude Copper" in real life, this is your chance!
Go up the CN Tower
If you live in Toronto, there's likely a chance you've been up the CN Tower while showing out-of-town visitors around the city, but it's actually a really sweet location to visit for a romantic date.
After a quick elevator to the top of the tower, you can take your time looking out at the city and point out the spots that you and your loved one have visited. They have a concession stand and seats on the Observation Deck that you can hang out in as well as cute decals on the glass walls that are perfect for snapping the perfect loved-up picture.
If you want to do the Edge Walk, that's entirely your prerogative — but perhaps a visit to the 360 Restaurant is a little more comfortable!
Grab some brunch
Going out for dinner as a date is a little played out, but brunch is always an exciting time!
OpenTable recently revealed the 100 best spots for brunch in Canada and 17 restaurants in Toronto made the list:
- AGO Bistro
- Allen's
- CLOCKWORK
- Cluny
- Holts Café Bloor
- HOTHOUSE
- Maison Selby
- Marked
- Mira Mira Diner
- O&B Canteen
- Old Mill Toronto
- Old School
- Parallel
- RH Courtyard Restaurant at RH Toronto
- Sassafraz
- The Good Son Restaurant- Don Mills
- The Toronto Beach Club
Don't forget that spring weather can be a little unsettled, so remember to take your umbrella if you're enjoying outdoor activities.
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.
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