Ring in the New Year with these fun, romantic, full-day date ideas in Toronto.
Toronto is the perfect backdrop for a magical New Year’s Eve savoured with your other half. Whether you’re party people, culture connoisseurs or wellness enthusiasts, here are three itineraries for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve in Toronto. Make it a whole day date and kick off 2024 with style.
New Year’s Eve for social butterflies
Kick off your epic December 31 adventure with an incredible bottomless brunch at MARKED Restaurant, where you can indulge in a delectable feast of all-you-can-handle South American-inspired small plates and mimosas. Join the dancefloor action with their live dancer and drummer, and maybe even start a conga line if you’re feeling confident.
Next, head on over to Nathan Phillips Square for an afternoon of ice skating at the iconic outdoor rink, which is especially lovely during the holiday season. No worries if you don’t have your own skates—rentals are available.
Skate hand-in-hand under the twinkling holiday lights, then warm up with a hot drink at HotBlack Coffee nearby, or if you’re craving a sweet treat, grab a tasty mochi donut from Isabella’s, where the donut menu changes up weekly.
For dinner, charge your social battery at a lively restaurant like Kinka Izakaya; its three locations serve up palate-pleasing Japanese tapas and craft cocktails. Then, keep the adventure going at one (or a few) of Toronto’s many buzzing nightlife spots.
Swing by the Entertainment District’s Petty Cash Social House and jam out to a live band and DJ, or sing your hearts out at the Taylor Swift NYE Party at Eastside’s The Opera House. From restaurants to live music bars to clubs, you’ll find a plethora of options in one of the best nightlife cities.
New Year’s Eve for lovers who love arts & culture
Start your artsy New Year’s Eve date on the edge of Chinatown with a caffeine fix at The Library Specialty Coffee. Sip on spectacular Aussie-inspired drinks like their Piccolo or go for a classic like cappuccino.
For lunch, set out on a global food adventure in the vibrant and eclectic Kensington Market neighbourhood. (It’s a short stroll away and the journey offers a plethora of cool photo ops.)
From authentic Mexican tacos to German-style doner kebabs to Jamaican patties, Kensington Market has a great selection of multicultural bites from around the world. If you or your sweetie love thrifting, the neighbourhood is also home to some of the best vintage shopping in Toronto.
Next, make your way over to the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) for an afternoon of art appreciation. Stroll through the gallery and be mesmerized by its eclectic permanent collection and current exhibitions, including Keith Haring: Art Is for Everybody (through March 17, 2024) and KAWS: Family (through March 31, 2024).
If you’re looking to fill your cup with even more art, head south to the Waterfront’s The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery for three current exhibits showcasing Canadian and international artists working in a variety of media.
Cap December 31 on a sophisticated note with a reservation at one of Toronto’s coveted MICHELIN-Starred restaurants, where you can toast future adventures in style with world-class dining and elevated craft cocktails. Head to the bustling waterfront to view the dazzling midnight fireworks as you kick off 2024.
New Year’s Eve for spiritual soulmates
Seekers of a relaxed, wellness-oriented start to the New Year should plan an escape to one of Toronto’s luxury spas for a morning of tranquillity.
Treat yourselves to a couple’s massage—and maybe even facials or mani-pedis if you’re feeling extra fancy. You can visit Miraj Hammam Spa for an experience inspired by ancient rituals of the Middle East or try a relaxing float experience together at H2O Float Studio.
Once you’ve both got your fill of R&R, indulge in a marvellous plant-based lunch at PLANTA Yorkville, where you’ll find a wide variety of internationally inspired bites. Save some room for a decadent smoothie from nutbar, an amazing superfood café offering a variety of organic and house-made snacks and drinks.
After you’ve got your treat in hand, go for a romantic winter stroll in David A. Balfour Park. Located in midtown, this hidden gem offers serene and peaceful views along a stunning ravine trail. Afterwards, wander the upscale Rosedale neighbourhood and check out its chic boutiques. Hit up The 889 Shop for yoga gear, natural body care and matching Eberjey PJs.
Finally, head down to Old Town’s Distillery Winter Village to browse the Distillery Historic District’s art galleries and lifestyle boutiques.
Of course, you’ll also have to take advantage of the neighbourhood’s cutest photo opportunities, including its famous Big Heart and Love Locks installations. If you’re ready for a serious commitment, consider matching permanent bracelets from crystal and jewelry purveyors Gemlet.
Ready for a romantic dinner? Try Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie for classic French fare or BOKU for Japanese comfort food. Finally, end the year—and set new intentions—with a joyous countdown amongst the crowd of excited voices in the glimmering lights of the Distillery District. Happy New Year!
