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Summary

8 Free Things To Do In Toronto If You’ve Already Blown Your Summer Budget

Leave your wallet behind!
Lead Writer, Travel

Toronto has so many fun things to see and do, but they can take a toll on your wallet. If the thought of looking at your Visa bill has you sweating, then it's time to plan some trips to these spots. There's no need to miss out on summer just to save some money, and the city has lots of places to visit that won't cost you a dime. Let your wallet chill at home while you chill at Toronto's free summer activities.

The big city can get expensive, but you don't have to sit inside all season in order to save money.

There are lots of free things to do around Toronto that will make you and your bank account happy.

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The Distillery District is always a must-see, and right now you can explore an immersive new exhibit of positive street signs for free.

You can also relax on a new European-style patio that's popped up for the summer.

Several museums are offering free admission on certain days, so you can explore the artsy side of the city without stressing about costs.

Since drive-in theatres are all the rage this summer, hop in your car and head to one of DriveInTO's free movies.

You can also splash around in city pools which offer free admission.

Stop spending money and start having fun!

Distillery Open Air Exhibit

Price: Free

Address: Distillery District, ON

Why You Need To Go: The Distillery District's historic streets have filled with new, positive signs from "The Word On The Street" art collection. You can explore street-signs that have had their negative words replaced with positive ones.  

Gardiner Museum 

Price: Free

When: Weekends

Address: 111 Queens Park, Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Explore the exhibits for free every weekend this summer.

Sugar Beach

Price: Free

Address: 11 Dockside Dr., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Take yourself on a tropical vacation for free by lounging under pink umbrellas at this picturesque beach.

Picnic In High Park

Price: Free

Address: High Park, Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Relax under the trees with some delicious treats at this expansive city park.

Aga Khan Museum

Price: Pay what you can

When: Until September 7*

Address: 77 Wynford Dr., North York, ON

Why You Need To Go: Explore the world of Muslim art and culture at this museum for free during designated hours.

Toronto Botanical Gardens

Price: Free

Address: 777 Lawrence Ave. E., North York, ON

Why You Need To Go: Escape the bustle of the city and explore nearly four acres of flowers and plants at this free garden.

DriveInTO

Price: Free

When: Various dates

Address: Various locations

Why You Need To Go: Enjoy a retro night at the movies by visiting one of these drive-in theatres for free.

Take A Dip In A Pool

Price: Free

Address: Various locations

Why You Need To Go: Cool off without bringing your wallet along at one of Toronto's outdoor pools this summer.

We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.

*This article has been updated. 

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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